Sep/Oct 2023

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5

$5.99 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023 SERVING CONTRACTING FIRMS AND THE ARIZONA COMMUNITY. . . THEN & NOW

THE FLAME: DOWNTOWN PHOENIX’S HOTTEST DINING DESTINATION SATISFYING YOUR SWEET TOOTH: CARNATION’S ICE CREAM RESTAURANT COPPER BELLE: THE RIVERBOAT RESTAURANT THAT DOCKED IN PHOENIX TORTILLA FLAT: THE STAGECOACH STOP THAT FUELED PHOENIX’S FUTURE THE HENRY C. BECK COMPANY TAKES PHOENIX TO NEW HEIGHTS

Arizona’s Timeless Magazine Arizona’s Timeless Magazine

“NAVIGATING” AN EXCEPTIONAL CONSTRUCTION CAREER: ROY A. KITE JR.

DURANT’S BEFORE JACK TOOK OVER: THE LEGEND OF WAYNE’S MIDWAY INN

FUNNEL CAKES THIS FALL THANKSPAGE TO PRIMAVERA PAVING

MCCARTHY GOES SPACE AGE AT UofA RESEARCH BUILDING

TOOLS FOR CONTRACTORS TO AVOID CLAIMS

OKLAND CONSTRUCTION STARTS KIMSEY REDEVELOPMENT

NEXT LEVEL STEEL

CHANGES CONSTRUCTION SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

PAGE

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

HYDRAULIC REPAIR AND MACHINING

CNC Machining

Heavy Equipment Repair

Welding MIG/TIG/Stick

Machining

7314 N. 110th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85307

www.CliffCoRepair.com

FOR LEASE (480) 620-8555 COMING SOON FLAGSTAFF, AZ 2022

602-442-6913

10,000 SF WAREHOUSE ON 2 OR 4 ACRES • Brand New Construction • Large Grade Level Doors

• West Flagstaff Location • Zoned For Outside Storage 5524 DARK SKY RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 Parcel No. (APN): 116-04-013F Land Use: INDUSTRIAL Building Area: 6090 sqft Lot Area: 43,560.00 sqft (1 ACRES) Owner: ARC 5524 LLC

5582 DARK SKY RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 Parcel No. (APN): 116-04-013E Land Use: VACANT LAND Lot Area: 87,120.00 sqft (2 ACRES) Owner: FLAGSTAFF RANCH SELF STORAGE LLC

Parcel No. (APN) 116-04-022 Land Use: VACANT LAND Lot Area: 96,268.00 sqft (2.21 ACRES) Owner: HITESMAN, DAVID L

Ø80.00'

DARK SKY DR

30.00'

50.00' (ROW)

R40.00'

50.00' (ROW)

Hydraulic Cylinder Rebuilds

CliffCo Heavy Equipment Repair is dedicated to providing fast, quality service on all makes of equipment. We also provide preventative maintenance to reduce repairs and ensure increased machine uptime. CliffCo is committed to providing elite and dependable services, helping our customers conduct their business in the most efficient manner.

10.00'

Authorized Service & Parts Dealer

FULL SERVICE MACHINE SHOP AND EQUIPMENT REPAIR

10.00'

R40.00' PROPERTY LINE

30.50'

19.50'

PROPERTY LINE

N90° 00' 00"E 322.27 FT

R10.00'

30.50'

30.50'

S89° 58' 33"E 131.31 FT R10.00'

136.50'

R=20.00' L=15.50'

ACCESS 30.00'

R10.00'

336.50'

R10.00'

31.00'

31.00'

R=50.00' L=85.12' DRIVEWAY

2.00' 17.50'

503.00'

9.00'

9.00'

9.00'

9.00'

9.00'

18.00'

9.00'

18.00'

9.00'

8.00'

8.50'

2.00'

13.00'

396.50'

CURB & GUTTER

18.00' 2.00'

427.00'

280.50'

9.00'

DARK SKY RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 Parcel No. (APN) 116-04-021 Land Use: VACANT LAND Lot Area: 183,823.00 sqft (4.22 ACRES) Owner: JDW I LLC

PROPERTY LINE

100.00'

PARKING

9.00'

(10,000 sqft)

WALKWAY

9.00'

9.00'

GRAVEL STORAGE AREA

511 S FLAGSTAFF RANCH RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 Parcel No. (APN): 116-04-014 Land Use: INDUSTRIAL Building Area: 3640 sqft Lot Area: 87,120.00 sqft (2 ACRES) Owner: BHB INVESTMENT PROPERTIES LLC

9.00'

PROPOSED BUILDING

9.00'

201.50'

N00° 08' 22"E 340.01 FT

9.00'

PROPERTY LINE

339.94 FT S00° 00' 00"E

6.00'

9.00'

50.00'

9.00'

50.00'

9.00'

9.00'

2.00'

9.00'

50.00' 20.00'

OFFICE AREA 2,500 sqft

100.00'

DRIVEWAY

50.00'

6.00'

2.00'

18.00'

427.00'

20.00'

6.00'

9.00'

9.00'

20.00'

9.00'

9.00'

9.00'

WAREHOUSE 5,000 sqft

6.00' 29.50'

20.00'

15.00'

14.00'

18.00' 2.00'

26.00'

447.00'

50.00'

50.00'

50.00'

ARIZCC.COM

6.00'

9.00'

20.50'

20.00'

Jeff Woudenberg Designated Broker jeff@wprops.com

12.00'

COVERED WORK AREA 2,500 sqft

50.00'

HEAVY INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE

50.00'

12.00'

20.00'

Woudenberg Properties

WALKWAY

2.00'

9.00'

2.00'

9.00'

2.00'

61.00'

PARKING

2.00' 17.50'

543.39 FT N90° 00' 00"W PROPERTY LINE

N

2508 S FLAGSTAFF RANCH RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 Parcel No. (APN): 116-04-003T Land Use: COMMERCIAL Building Area: 3835 sqft Lot Area: 802,375.00 sqft (18.42 ACRES) Owner: WASTE MANAGEMENT OF ARIZONA INC

woudenbergprops.com

E

W

S

0

30

60

1 1 2" 4" 0 1" SCALE=1":60'

120

180 ft

2"

3"

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

23

PUBLIC ONLINE AUCTIONS HELD MONTHLY PREVIEW EVERY MONDAY - FRIDAY 7AM-4PM CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME Western Sales Management 1616 S 67th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85043

ARIZCC.COM

623-936-3300 wsmauctioneers.com info@wsmauctioneers.com

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

YOUR TRUSTED EXPERTS IN ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

HAVE AN EMERGENCY? CALL 1-888-4-SPILL-4

24/7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE REMEDIATION • DEMOLITION EMERGENCYENV.COM • 480-809-4687 • SALES@EMERGENCYENV.COM

SIX

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Committed to superior quality and results

Ready Mix Concrete Delivery and concrete Pumping Services Arizona trusted company

FREE ESTIMATES PLEASE CALL - 602-503-9391 ORDERS - DISPATCH@BAJAREADYMIX.COM

BAJAREADYMIX.COM A+ accredited business by the better business bureau

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

www.gentechusa.com

7901 N. 70th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85303 \ 800-625-8324

Dispatch: 602-278-7777 Main Office: 602-278-4444 EIGHT

rizona Materials

Locally Owned and Operated arizonamaterials.net SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

RELIABLE... BECAUSE WE ARE

PHOENIX METRO PORTABLE BATHROOM RENTAL SERVICES GET IN TOUCH TODAY! 602-601-2222 INFO@RPBAZ.COM 3014 E MOHAWK LN. PHX, AZ 85050 RELIABLEPORTABLEBATHROOMS.COM

ARIZCC.COM

At reliable portable bathrooms. We are committed to changing the perception of portable bathrooms. Our mission is to shatter the notion that they are dirty and gross. We take pride in our superior cleaning processes, ensuring that every unit we rent is delivered on time and in an immaculate, brand new condition.

Our dedication to cleanliness means that our bathrooms are free of tar, graffiti, urine stains, and any unpleasant odors.

Don’t just take our word for it – explore the glowing reviews from our satisfied customers.

Their testimonials speak volumes about the quality and satisfaction they have experienced with our facilities.

Join us in embracing a new standard of excellence in portable bathrooms. Experience the difference for yourself, and let us exceed your expectations.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Mexican

Authentic Italian Food Because It Feels Like Home

CONTACT US (602)817-6929

www.calportland.com

EXPECT MORE ... WE DELIVER!

FAVORITE CUISINE?

Editor Douglas Towne douglas@arizcc.com

Fresh Seafood, Especially Sushi

PROUDLY SERVING ARIZONA!

Publisher Billy Horner billy@arizcc.com

®

Contributors Gianna Agostinelli Venetian John Bueker Michelle Dodds A Multi-Course Classic Italian…

Brian Imwalle Italian Meal with Always and Forever Omar Kaywan Lively Conversation Luke M. Snell Mediterranean Doug Sydnor Hawaiian Pizza

Production Manager Laura Horner Homemade Italian Pasta laura@arizcc.com In Memoriam Charles “Chuck” Runbeck 1928 - 2020

NEVER MISS A NEWS UPDATE GET YOUR NAME ON THE LIST ARIZCC.COM/NEWS AZDESERTSWEEP.COM OFFICE (480) 279-4433 AZDESERTSWEEPING@GMAIL.COM

Advertising 602-931-0069 arizcc.com/advertise Subscriptions: Online at arizcc.com Serving Contracting Firms and the Arizona Community… Then & Now

KEEPING THE VALLEY CLEAN SINCE 1993 TEN

Arizona Contractor & Community (ACC) magazine is published bi-monthly (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec). ACC is a professional publication designed for the contracting industry, engineers, architects, equipment rentals, suppliers, and others interested in Arizona and its history.

Content including text, photographs or illustrations may not be reproduced without the written permission from the publisher. The publisher does not assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions.

ACC reserves the right to reject any editorial and advertising material and reserves the right to edit all submitted content material.

Arizona Contractor & Community Copyright © 2023 All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

BUILDING OUR FUTURES

Serving all of Arizona KE&G CONSTRUCTION, INC.

SIERRA VISTA: 1601 Paseo San Luis # 202  Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635  520.458.9594  www.kegtus.com TUCSON: 3949 East Irvington Road  Tucson, Arizona 85714  520.748.0188

SPECIALTY COMPANIES GROUP

UTILITY ADJUSTMENTS

There Is Nothing We Can’t Do. There Is No Place We Won’t Go. Contact us anytime!

SPECIALTYCOMPANIESGROUP.COM

ARIZCC.COM

623-582-2385

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Contents

“TELL US WHAT YOU NEED AND WE WILL WORK WITH YOU TO MAKE IT HAPPEN”

39

YEARS IN BUSINESS SINCE 1984

480-641-3500

BELLY DUMP-SUPER 16-END DUMP-LOW BOY SIDE DUMP-EXCAVATOR-LOADER-GRADER

14

Contributors - John Bueker & Brian Imwalle

16

From The Editor: Twin Barrels Station: A Phoenix Love Story with Delicious Roots - Douglas Towne

19

Construction Around Arizona: Projects • People • Practices

47

Back When: Phoenix’s Riverboat Restaurant John Bueker

48

Durant’s Before Jack Took Over: The Legend of Wayne’s Midway Inn - Douglas Towne

54

Durant’s: Savoring Stories of an Iconic Phoenix Restaurant Michelle Dodds

60

The Flame: Downtown Phoenix’s Hottest Dining Destination - Douglas Towne

64

Tortilla Flat: A Historic Roadside Oasis on Scenic Apache Trail - Douglas Towne

68

“Navigating” an Exceptional Construction Career: Roy A. Kite Jr. - Billy Horner

72

Saluting Arizona’s Builders: David H. Murdock

76

Old School Equipment: Concrete Machinery’s Autovator Top Loader - Billy Horner

80

Building on the Past - 1950: Carnation Plant and Restaurant - Billy Horner

84

Architect’s Perspective - Adaptive Reuse with Restaurants Doug Sydnor, FAIA

88

Digging Through the Archives: Michael Greenberg’s Recollections of The Henry C. Beck Company - Billy Horner

92

Bid Results

94

Advertising Index

Front Cover Wayne’s Midway Inn, mid-1940s.

Article on page 48 Image Courtesy of Dane Christensen

TWELVE

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

REUTER

fabrication inc.

3816 W Lower Buckeye Rd. PO Box 19042 Phoenix, AZ 85005-9042

CONSOLIDATED ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTORS, INC. 1717 E RAIRDAN LANE

PHOENIX, ARIZONA, 85034

Reuter Fabrication provides custom metal fabrication services.

We have sixty years’ experience in the metal fabrication industry.

Let our qualified personal bid and build your special job.

This state of the art facility is equipped to fabricate numerous projects, i.e. conveyors, silos, metal forming, shearing, chassis, platforms, walkways, access ladders & machining.

Phone:602-437-4200 Fax: 602-437-0773 E-Mail: conorq@cedphx.com Website: www.cedphx.com

Est. 1994

GRADING/ PAVING CONCRETE UNDERGROUND UTILITIES

CONTACT US

11535 E. Germann Road, Chandler, AZ 85286 | 480.732.9238 www.dcscontracting.com

For Information Contact: Brent Reuter (623) 695-1204 • brentr@rec-reuter.com www.reuterequipment.com

PROUDLY CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS! COMING SOON CONCRETE READY-MIX NEW LOCATION IN PEORIA! CURRENT LOCATIONS: Avondale Plant #17 & #18 SWC Southern & El Mirage 30 trucks (safely can deliver 250cy/hr.)

Ross 10 yd. Batch Plant Con-E-Co LO PRO 12 yd. Batch Plant SWC Southern & El Mirage Available Products for FOB Sales: #57 Aggregate, 3/8” Chips and Clean Top Soil (Fill Dirt) Inert Landfill: Concrete, Rock, Dirt only. No trash, Organic or Petroleum Products

DISPATCH – 623-925-4743 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED DIAMONDBACKMATERIALS.COM 11435 W. BUCKEYE RD SUITE #104-276 AVONDALE, AZ 85323 O (623) 925-8966 | F (623) 925-1072 E INFO@AZDBM.COM

Travis Williams - General Manager

Jim Latto - Business Development

Donavon Stewart - Operations Manager

Over 28 Years of experience in the Ready Mix Industry travis@azdbm.com | (602) 292-1224

Over 40 Years of Ready Mix and related Business Experience jim@azdbm.com | (602) 696-4139

Over 24 Years of experience in the Ready Mix Industry donavon@azdbm.com | (623) 271-5042

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

CONTRIBUTORS

SAVE UP TO $1.99 AN ISSUE OFF COVER PRICE

1 YEAR, 6 ISSUES FOR $30, OR 2 YEARS, 12 ISSUES FOR ONLY $48!

NAME ADDRESS CITY

STATE

ZIP

EMAIL PHONE

CUT OUT, COMPLETE & MAIL CHECK TO: ACC, LLC. PO BOX 6912, GLENDALE, AZ 85312 FOR FASTER SERVICE, GO TO WWW.ARIZCC.COM AND SUBSCRIBE ONLINE FOURTEEN

JOHN BUEKER ARTICLE ON PAGE 47

BRIAN IMWALLE ARTICLE ON PAGE 41

J

A

ohn joined the Arizona Contractor and Community team as an original staff writer in 2012. He specializes in wistful recollections of vintage Phoenix shopping centers, restaurants, amusement parks, and the like. In this issue, he revisits Copper Belle, the vanished mid-century Phoenix steamboat restaurant that long ago ascended to the realm of local legend.

John enjoys dabbling with his various Phoenix history websites, which include an award-winning 55-year-old local street newspaper called the Joan De Arc Crusader. He is also recognized as the pre-eminent authority on the erstwhile amusement park Legend City, which is observing its 60th anniversary. John created and maintains a popular Legend City website and published a book on the park in 2014.

He was a principal organizer for the Legend City 50th Anniversary celebration that was held at Tempe’s Arizona Historical Society Museum in 2013. The sold-out event was attended by a rich variety of Legend City celebrities, such as park founder Louis Crandall and his family, entertainers Vonda Kay Van Dyke and Sandy Gibbons, and beloved kid’s show host Wallace.

John resides in Glendale with his remarkably tolerant wife, Sue, and a menagerie of furry companions. Sue pursues a variety of artistic endeavors, including oil painting, and she produced the portrait of the writer seen here.

30-year veteran of the insurance industry, Brian operates in an executive sales capacity with a focus on commercial property and casualty insurance for construction, manufacturing, and professional services.

After a 19-year stint with Lovitt & Touché, Brian went into partnership with CREST Insurance. The Arizona-based company offers all lines of insurance coverage, as well as risk management services and training.

Brian is a 1992 graduate of the University of Arizona and attended on a football scholarship—Go Cats! He lives in Scottsdale with his two teenage children. Cameron is a freshman at the University of Arizona, following in his father’s footsteps by pledging Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and studying business. Isabella attends Notre Dame Prep as a sophomore and excels in softball and academics.

An avid golfer, Brian is a member of both the Arizona and White Mountain country clubs. An Oregon native, he had a brief stop in Los Angeles but has mostly lived in Tucson.

The Valley of the Sun has been home since 1996, with Pinetop being his summer retreat.

Brian says he “truly enjoys helping my clients and connecting on a social level with them outside of work; it makes work more enjoyable and is one of the perks of the insurance industry.”

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

we have expanded our rv service and repair servicing Arizona’s construction industry since 1996!

We have also expanded our RV service and repair business.

Competitive rates ($140/hour service+labor) and Factory Trained and Certified Technicians Services Offered: Problem Diagnosis • Oil Changes/Service • Insurance Repairs & Claims • Chassis Inspection • Rubber Roof Cleaning & Coating • Parts & Accessories • Aftermarket Parts Sales & Installations • Custom Modifications Mobile service availabile As a get acquainted offer, mention this ad and we will give you a 10% discount on all services rendered at that time.

Come to Us or Let Us Come To You Lonnie cell: 602-376-1448 Roy cell: 602-292-5283 5626 S 43rd Ave, Phoenix AZ 85041 dynamicdieselrepairinc.com

Office: 602-237-3377 • Fax: 602-237-3944 • Cell: 602-376-1448

BRANTLEY GALLIMORE TRAFFIC CONTROL SERVICES

WWW.SUNLANDASPHALT.COM 22640 North 21st Ave Phoenix, AZ 85027

602.323.2800

O. (623) 879-0610 I F. (623) 879-0611 E. BRANTLEY@METROTRAFFICCONTROL.NET

FEEDBACK One Impressive Resume FYI, Wheeler Construction bought out the CMX underground division. If your dates are correct, Phil Berger worked at Wheeler for around 15 years. When we closed Wheeler in 2010, Phil went to work for Markham. Just want to make sure you get the true story.

George M. Ernst III, Vice President Rummel Construction, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona Thanks for the correction, George! When we ran the original story by Phil in 2017, he gave it the thumbs up. I guess when you have such a long and distinguished construction career as Mr. Berger, it’s a challenge to recall every place you’ve worked.

ARIZCC.COM

CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES » CRACK SEALING » SEALCOATING » ASPHALT REPAIRS » CHIP SEAL » MILLING/PULVERIZING

» PAVING & OVERLAYS » EARTHWORK & GRADING » UNDERGROUND UTILITIES » CONCRETE STRUCTURES/ FLATWORK

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Image Courtesy of Bill Baker

FROM THE EDITOR:

TWIN BARRELS STATION: A PHOENIX LOVE STORY WITH DELICIOUS ROOTS Douglas Towne

O

ur recent March/April issue spotlighting vintage restaurants was such a hit that the magazine decided to return for a second helping. As in life, there are so many places to choose from; how do you determine where to eat, or in my case, which restaurants to write about?

Image Courtesy of Bill Baker

SIXTEEN

It was an easy decision for me after Bill Baker sent me a fantastic photo of the place his parents met. As drive-ins go, it’s tough to top the sudsy ambiance of Twin Barrels Station, which offered the “Largest, Coldest, Creamiest Root Beer” at 1838 West Madison Street on the east side of 19th Avenue between Washington and Jefferson streets.

Customers could order from the open counter, behind which were two huge Triple XXX Root Beer vats. But most diners preferred to lounge in their vehicles, or maybe atop their horses, and order from the female carhops, who brought them their menu items.

“One Toot and We’re Out” and “Park—Drink— Eat,” the drive-in advertised. And honk, they did, probably as much to chat with carhops as to get lunch and dinner. “Attractive experienced curb girls. Apply Twin Barrels,” a 1940 employment advertisement admonished in The Arizona Republic.

But the drive-in’s most prominent feature was an open barrel atop the restaurant that served as a stage for a five-piece country western band. This is

lic

Image Courtesy of The Arizona Repub

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

how Baker’s parents first encountered one another in 1931.

Baker says his father was born in Indiana but grew up in the South. “After his mother and brother died of diabetes, my father, William H. “Jerry” Baker Sr., left home at 15 and came to Phoenix,” Baker says. “Along the way, he played the ukulele for hula dancers in a carnival sideshow and arrived in the city known as ‘Banjo Billy.’”

“My dad and Uncle Buck were working at the drive-in,” Baker says. “My father is the banjo player (in the top right of the photo), and the band was the Triple XXX Punchers. Uncle Buck (second from the right on the bottom level in the photo) was a cook and introduced his sister, Iva C. Harris, who worked for the telephone company, to Baker.”

Baker says Pop and Mom Kerns (#2 and #7 in the photo) owned the Twin Barrels.

“Hamburgers and hotdogs were 10 cents, 15 cents with cheese or lettuce and tomatoes, and nothing was more than 25 cents in 1931,” he says. The drive-in also featured malted milk (15 cents), pork barbecue (20 cents), and its hallmark Triple XXX Root Beer (5 cents), among other offerings.

Triple XXX Root Beer is a Texas soft drink that was developed by the Galveston Brewing Company around 1908, according to the website txarchives.org. “The XXX represents a rating system, similar to three stars, with the XXX indicating excellence. In the 1920s, Triple XXX Root Beer had nationwide distribution, and about 100 “Triple XXX Thirst Stations” were built. Some early locations featured giant barrels as part of the building design.”

Twin Barrels opened in 1929 but faded after World War II. The drive-in was still offering mugs of tasty root beer in 1947 when the Republic featured a photo of its then-owner, Sam Omar, who had a prosthetic arm. Twin Barrels’ last appearance in the Phoenix City Directory was in 1952.

That goes along with Baker’s memories. “Twin Barrels was still there on 19th Avenue in the 1950s because that’s when I started driving, and I used to see it.” For those curious about the soft drink that “Makes Thirst a Joy,” Triple XXX Root Beer is available at store.triplexxxfamilyrestaurant.com/root-beer.

I hope that’s a delectable enough appetizer to encourage you to read the rest of the issue. I guarantee you can’t beat the meal prices inside—or the memories!

Equipment that works for you

Aggregate Machinery Inc. is now a stocking dealer in Arizona for Eagle Iron Works Parts & Equipment.

CALL TODAY FOR A QUOTE! (480) 730-1212

Top left: Twin Barrels Station, 1931.

Bottom left: William H. “Jerry” Baker Sr. of the Triple XXX Punchers, 1928.

Bottom middle: Twin Barrels Station ad, 1929.

Bottom right: Triple XXX Root Beer thermometer.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

MAXIMIZE YOUR PERFORMANCE AND RETURN ON INVESTMENT

WITH DITCH WITCH EQUIPMENT ®

Also, an authorized dealer of Doosan ® Air Compressors.

IS NOW Ditch Witch West is proud to announce we are now your authorized dealer. With locations across the west, we look forward to meeting you, serving your needs and are committed to your uptime. Learn more at ditchwitchwest.com 4028 S. 36th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040 O:602-437-0351 | F:602-437-1544 PAGE

6975 N. Camino Martin, Tuscon, AZ 85741 O:520-579-0261SEPTEMBER | F:520-579-0268 OCTOBER 2023

Projects . PEOPLE . PRACTICES

FALL PREDICTIONS FOR HEAT, BASEBALL, AND PROGRESS ON THE INTERSTATE 10 BROADWAY CURVE Douglas Towne

A

s autumn looms on the horizon, many Valley residents have begun to ponder three significant questions: • When will the triple-digit temperatures end?

• Can the surprising Diamondbacks do some damage in the playoffs?

• Will construction on the I-10 Broadway Curve ever finish?

Others can speculate about the first two inquiries, but as for the Broadway Curve, here’s the latest skinny about ADOT’s largest urban freeway reconstruction ARIZCC.COM

project. “The project is nearing its completion of Phase 2 of 4 phases and will move into Phase 3 of construction work by late 2023,” says Amy Ritz, ADOT project manager. “The completion date for the project remains late 2024.”

Ritz adds that during the first half of 2023, the I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project reached several significant milestones, including: • Opening of the new 48th Street and Broadway Road bridges over I-10 and the removal of the existing ones, • Construction and opening of the new westbound U.S. 60 to westbound I-10 ramp,

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA

Images Courtesy of ADOT

• Starting construction of two new multiuse bridges that will span I-10 between Baseline and Broadway roads, and • Construction of new piers for the new I-10 and State Route 143 flyover HOV ramps has begun, which makes that interchange look significantly different.

Above: Installation of the Alameda truss.

Right: Evening image of the Broadway Curve.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

602-586-5909 1-800-208-8913 Take the guesswork out of your pour!

Ready Mix Concrete on Demand!

• on-site concrete mix control • No minimum order • Save time and money • Quantity control and cost savings • Perfect for remote locations • Mixed on-site / eliminate waste

CONCRETENOWAZ.COM

Trucking Services We want to be your Premier Delivery Company!

• Hauling • Import • Export Supply And Delivery Of Dirt • Sand • Rock Agregates • Landscape Material Call today to schedule your delivery!

Serving All of Phoenix and Surrounding Areas Since 2020

ask about our READY-MADE SAND BAGS Product Specs: Pre-Filled Barricade Bags.

Uses for sandbags: • 14’’x26’’ woven poly bag (heavy duty) • Traffic control • 4,000 UV Hours / 2 yrs.

• Flood control • Sewn shut for repeated use.

• Erosion control • Palletized in bundles of 50 or 100.

• Water diversion • Filled with 30 lbs of sand.

• Pipeline Construction • 40 lb - 50 lb bags available.

• Ballistic Barrier • Empty bags and sand available for purchase.

• Volume discounts available.

• Bags available in different colors and material to fit your needs.

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

they do occasionally shift by a few feet.

These lane shifts move the work zone and travel lanes closer to the median or shoulder, depending on what’s needed for construction. In these temporary configurations, raised pavement markers are used to help motorists see the lane lines. The final lane configuration will include black contrast lines to help the markings stand out on the concrete pavement.

The I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project runs along 11 miles of I-10 between Loop 202 and I-17 near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Approximately 300,000 vehicles pass through the Broadway Curve between Baseline Road and 40th Street on an average weekday, according to ADOT Community Outreach Project Manager Marcy McMacken. “This number is projected to increase 25 percent by 2040,” she says.

The Broadway Curve project is being delivered as a Public-Private Partnership (P3) and Design-Build (D.B.). Unlike traditional design-bid-build projects, D.B. projects are delivered by teams with one contract with ADOT for design and construction services.

For this project, the D.B. team is known as the Developer. The Developer is a joint venture of Pulice Construction Inc., FNF Construction Inc., and Flatiron Constructors, Inc., known as Broadway Curve Constructors. The project designers are T.Y. Lin International Group, Stanley Consultants, and Aztec Engineering.

Images Courtesy of ADOT

There’s good news for non-motorists too. “Crews with the project are also nearing the completion of the construction of the newly widened Guadalupe Road bridge over I-10, improving the Sun Circle Trail that hikers, cyclists, and equestrians often use,” Ritz says.

While some drivers might grumble that this seems slow going for the freeway section, a closer inspection of what is involved makes it an impressive timeline.

Especially noteworthy is the extensive utility work involved in the project. “To date, 12 utility companies have worked on the project, over 650 utility-related meetings have been held, and over $42 million has

ARIZCC.COM

been spent on utility relocation costs,” says Julie Gadsby, ADOT construction manager.

Some new sustainable practices have helped speed up work. “The project is reusing and recycling some of the concrete that is removed from areas within the project by using it as part of the subbase and base in some of the project’s new construction as approved by ADOT,” Gadsby says. “This helps reduce the project’s environmental impact by reducing the amount of material needed and reducing the need to haul off the concrete.”

Commuters might also notice that although the number of lanes on I-10 hasn’t changed throughout construction,

Above: Construction on the Broadway Curve.

Left: Widening of the Guadalupe Bridge.

Bottom left: Work on State Route 143.

Below: Smoothing the concrete pour on the Broadway Road bridge.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Arizona Con mag ad Sept 2023 v1.pdf

1

8/3/23

10:15 AM

CONTROL THE JOB SITE

TEAM-UP

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

At Sonsray, we take pride in offering industry-leading heavy equipment that is built to last. Our machines are designed to meet the toughest demands of any worksite, and we stand behind their performance with superior service and parts.

hablamos español

TWENTY TWO

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

PRIMAVERA PAVES THE WAY FOR FRIED TWINKIES AND FUNNEL CAKES AT THE STATE FAIR

P

rimavera Grading & Paving raced the start of the monsoon season in Phoenix with their $1.275 million project reconstructing the parking lot at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. “Getting the project completed against their [the Fairgrounds] compressed timeline while ensuring everything was closed and ready for the monsoons was the most challenging part of the job,” says Robert Bonura, Primavera’s general manager.

The company had a three-week timespan to reconstruct the State Fairground’s parking lot. “We completed a mill and pave section, pulverized, established new grades, water flow lines, and then paved,” Bonura says. “The final section was a maintenance project with a crack seal and seal coat. Then all areas were re-striped at the end.”

Primavera was aided in the project by their subcontractors, Asphalt Busters, Gonzalez Asphalt, and Total Striping Solutions (TSS), while Solterra Materials provided the hot mix asphalt.

The project went along smoothly until Primavera hit several stumbling blocks, literally, while establishing new grades on the State Fairgrounds’ north parking lots. “We ran into large concrete blocks hidden under the asphalt,” Bonura says. “We ended up needing an excavator to remove them all.”

The State Fairgrounds include Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, which has hosted concerts by Elvis Presley, The Monkees, The Rolling Stones, and Nirvana. But one of the Coliseum’s best performances was by contractor Bailey Sanner before the venue opened in 1965.

Images Courtesy of Primavera Grading & Paving

Above: Primavera Grading & Paving working at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, 2023.

Sanner Contracting paved 7,000 parking spaces within a tight 30-day window.

The job included the north and south parking lots and the right-of-way along the east and west sides of the Coliseum. Sanner’s crew worked six 10-hour days to meet the deadline using two Caterpillar 12E blades, two Tampo pneumatic (rubber tire) rollers, and a water truck.

It’s unlikely Sanner and his employees ever received an ovation for making their deadline. Still, their efforts deserved one, much like the Primavera crew’s recent blacktop performance in beating the summer storms.

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Right: Sanner Contracting paving the Coliseum’s south parking lot, 1965.

Below: Two pneumatic rollers and a Caterpillar No. 12 grader in front of the Coliseum, 1965.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

ALL THE GEAR YOU NEED P: 928 567-6585 E: btippett@networxcs.com. www.networxCS.com

Hercrentals.com Call for rates and reservations Gilbert: 480-507-1680 Phoenix: 602-269-5931 Peoria: 623-760-0631 Tucson: 520-573-1344

GRADING • PAVING •SEALCOATING DEMOLITION • CONCRETE & MORE

(602) 992-2201 | SHANESPAVING.COM ROC #255891 A-5 & #38635 A-14 21801 N. 16TH ST., BOX 5, PHOENIX, AZ 85024

TWENTY FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

L

aunching a business during the COVID-19 pandemic would seem to be a recipe for failure. But Brandon Bell, a second-generation steel fabricator, made lemonade out of lemons when he launched Next Level Steel during the chaotic period. The new steel fabrication company in Mesa quickly discovered its niche.

“During COVID, there was a surge in warehouse building, but we previously didn’t focus on that business because traditionally, most commercial warehouses/ light industrial spaces in Arizona are built with wooden roofs and use little structural steel except for the steel joists,” Bell says. “But because of COVID, the price for roof-building joists tripled as manufacturers struggled with supply chain issues and could not keep up with demand.”

Next Level Steel launched its Castellated Structural Group (CSG) in 2020 to offer this innovative structural steel as an alternative roofing support material to meet this growing need. With support from Jack Koehler and the engineers at PK Associates, CSG constructed a small castellated beam fabrication line using proprietary technology at their Mesa facility at 522 West McKellips Road.

High-tech castellated steel beams are stronger, faster to erect, and span further distances than traditional steel beams. CSG starts by slicing and splitting apart steel I-beams before they are precisely welded

back together. The “teeth” carved in the beams are offset, creating a series of precise hexagonal holes that help make the steel beam stronger. The beams require less lead time than traditional roofing structures.

“With the refinements in our manufacturing processes and our new facility’s higher volumes, we can compete with traditional roof joist companies even if their prices and lead times stabilize,” Bell says.

Next Level Steel provides design, fabrication, and steel erection services for clients ranging from the upcoming TSMC semiconductor factory to the completed dining hall at the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. Local general contractors who use their products include Whiting-Turner, Layton, and AR Mays.

Bell started Next Level Steel with six employees but plans to have more than a hundred soon with the opening of its second steelyard. The company is constructing a state-of-the-art dedicated castellated

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

CASTELLATED STEEL BEAMS SUPPORT ARIZONA’S FASTEST-GROWING STEEL FABRICATOR

beam plant in Goodyear and hiring 40 highly-skilled steelworkers. CSG’s new facility will more than double capacity up to 1 million square feet per month to keep up with the booming demand.

The steel fabricating company is forecast to generate $100 million in revenue this year as it prepares to expand across the Western U.S. To help steer the company’s growth, they’ve recently hired a new Vice-President for Business Development, Lauren Fisher.

Born and raised in Yuma, Bell previously helped build his family’s ornamental fence company in Phoenix into the state’s second-largest fabricator of structural steel. Bell split from the family business in 2018, and after his two-year non-compete clause expired, he purchased a small structural steel shop and formed Next Level Steel and Castellated Structural Group, which are projected to have completed 8 million square feet of projects by the end of 2023.

Images Courtesy of Next Level Steel

Top left: Castellated steel beams.

Top right: Brandon Bell.

Right: Next Level Steel executive team (l-r): Brandon Bell; Karen Ragains, Controller; Nick Wooten, Chief Estimator; Lauren Fisher, VP of Business Development; and Phil Clark, COO. ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

SHANES HAULING A Division of Shanes Grading & Paving

(602) 992-2201 | SHANESPAVING.COM | 21801 N. 16TH ST. BOX 5, PHX, AZ 85024 ROC #255891 A-5 & #38635 A-14

TWENTY SIX

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

MULTIPURPOSE SPACES AND THE RISE OF ADAPTIVE REUSE CONVERSIONS IN ARIZONA Gianna Agostinelli

T

he traditional work model has undergone significant changes over the past few years, accelerated by the pandemic.

Many companies have embraced remote work, and even those with physical offices are adopting a hybrid approach. As a result, the demand for flexible, multi-purpose spaces is rising. This trend has increased the popularity of mixed-use developments and adaptive reuse conversions that combine office spaces, hospitality, retail, and residential spaces.

The newest mixed-development project in the Old Pueblo, The Leo Kent, Tucson: A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is an excellent example of this trend and is an optimal solution for individuals on business travel who need a conference space or other amenities beyond their hotel room. The hotel debuted in May 2023 and will serve as a hub for local transportation, nightlife, and metropolitan ambiance, adding to the ongoing economic development of the city.

The Rio Nuevo District Board and the City of Tucson authorized the adaptive reuse conversion of the bottom nine floors of the One South Church building, the largest and most recognizable edifice in Tucson, to become a southwestern Old Pueblo-inspired Portfolio hotel accompanied by its existing office space on the top floors.

In collaboration with Canyon Construction, an award-winning nationwide full-service commercial general contractor headquartered in Tucson, hotel guest rooms, hallways, gym, elevators, lobby, meeting rooms, and restaurant were meticulously renovated.

In keeping with the adaptive efforts to preserve the city’s natural edifices, the interior of the property will encapsulate

the history of the area and expand on the culture. The hotel’s architect and interior designers helped accentuate Tucson’s unique history and soul through modern, classical, Southwestern design featuring a robust collection of material and finish selections, the inclusion of indoor plants, and art inspired by local animals and landscapes. The hotel will feature art by Tucson native Jane Barton, which is inspired by the Sonoran Desert.

Mixed-use developments like The Leo Kent offer a variety of benefits to investors: • They provide multiple revenue streams, making them more financially stable than developments with a single purpose.

• They can attract a broader customer base, increasing the profit potential.

Above: Canyon Construction during the adaptive reuse conversion of The Leo Kent, 2023.

Left: The Leo Kent building, 2023.

Below: Tyler Kent, 2023.

ARIZCC.COM

Images Courtesy of The Leo Kent

• Mixed-use developments can contribute to the overall economic growth of a city, creating jobs and attracting new businesses.

Opwest Partners, a company specializing in the investment and development of real estate and lifestyle assets, adopted the design and pre-engineering process of The Leo Kent in 2020. Tyler Kent, founder and managing principal of Opwest Partners and owner of The Leo Kent, has 20 years of experience as a business executive specializing in hospitality, mixed-use, commercial, and residential properties.

The principals of Opwest have invested in and developed projects for various assets, with a total value of more than $4 billion.

The rise of adaptive reuse conversions in Arizona’s development landscape trans-forms how we think about urban planning and revitalizing cities. Developers and investors are recognizing the potential of repurposing older buildings for new uses, driven by factors such as the scarcity of land for new development, the desire to preserve historic architecture, and the economic benefits of reusing existing structures.

The demand for flexible, multipurpose spaces is rising, and mixed-use developments like The Leo Kent are leading the way. The hotel will provide a new standard of hospitality, offering a blend of history, culture, and modernity unique to Tucson.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

www.camsaz.com

602-331-5455

22035 N. BLACK CANYON HWY #B PHOENIX, AZ 85027

OUR BUSINESS IS TO KEEP YOUR BUSINESS COOL! ROC #111880

Tuscon Sierra Vista Globe Yuma Phoenix

(520) 682-2158 (520) 378-2321 (928) 425-5775 (928) 343-4150 (602) 416-2652

Flagstaff (928) 526-5250 Prescott (928) 443-9207 Camp Verde (928) 567-0893 Bullhead (928) 763-1022 TWENTY EIGHT

A GLOBAL READY-MIX, AGGREGATE, ASPHALT & CEMENT SUPPLIER

WWW.CEMEXUSA.COM SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

S

ometimes what goes into the building is as important as the structure itself.

Such is the case of the University of Arizona’s new $85 million, four-story Applied Research Building (ARB). Its main component is the thermal vacuum (TV) chamber, which weighs 33.5 tons and is the largest in any university worldwide. Researchers utilize the machine to simulate environmental conditions in space.

“Early on, McCarthy Building Companies had confidence in their procedures and quality to set this irreplaceable piece of equipment at the center of the construction operation without issue – a high-level

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

MCCARTHY GOES SPACE AGE AT UofA APPLIED RESEARCH BUILDING

risk many competitors would shy away from,” Mike Lee, McCarthy’s project director, says. “After originally being left out of the scope of the project, McCarthy was able to locate and hire an engineer capable of taking on the task of installation.”

Lee says that the project team ultimately featured two design engineers – one for the TV chamber and one for the rest of the project. In addition to putting UofA on the map, the TV chamber will also attract outside organizations that want to use the unique technology for testing and research, generating revenue for the university.

The one-of-a-kind advanced research facility further solidifies the UofA’s reputation as a global leader in space research.

Located in Tucson at the southeast corner

Images Courtesy of McCarthy

of Helen Street and the Highland Corridor, ARB is the first in the country to house all research spaces related to the fabrication and testing of satellites in one integrated facility.

The ARB is the new home of applied physical sciences and engineering, connecting faculty across four colleges and eight departments. This cross-collaboration enables cutting-edge space science and exploration, advanced manufacturing, and imaging technology research essential to storied missions like the Giant Magellan Telescope and Mars Exploration Rover.

Above: The University of Arizona Applied Research Building.

Below: Construction of the University of Arizona Applied Research Building.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Jesus Ruiz, Mechanical/ Plumbing/Electrical Sr. Project Engineer Experience: 3 years with McCarthy Building Companies.

Favorite job task: Using the BIM 3D model to coordinate field installation procedures and work sequencing.

Toughest job task: Making sure subcontractors coordinate with each other to succeed in the overall scope of work.

Most memorable day at work: Setting up the Air Handler Units after one year of extensive coordination and procurement; it was a huge milestone on the project!

Favorite off-job task: Playing soccer and the saxophone.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

SHARP CREEK CONTRACTING

YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR GRADING, PAVING, AND WET UTILITY SOLUTIONS

1968 - RoBil Contacting, Co. was founded by Roman Candelaria and Bill Sudbrack.

2004 - RoBil Contracting passes the torch to the second generation and Sharp Creek Contracting, Inc. is formed carrying on the tradition of quality site prep and grading.

2021 - Sharp Creek adds a Wet Utility Division offering a more rounded scope for their customers.

2023 - Sharp Creek adds a full-service Asphalt Paving Division to control quality and costs.

GRADING, PAVING, AND WET UTILITIES EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE. REACH OUT TODAY

(602) 437-3040 • Fax (602) 437-3041 WWW.SHARPCREEK.COM/GRADING-PAVING PAGE

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

ARIZCC.COM

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

A progressive design-build partnership between general contractor McCarthy and integrated design firm SmithGroup created ARB. “Befitting the cutting-edge work occurring within, the new ARB is a spaceage marvel,” says Mark Kranz, design director at SmithGroup. “Radical in design, the building itself is a highly calibrated machine, uniquely suited to house complex and sensitive research demands with optimal performance in its desert environment.”

The thermal vacuum chamber is displayed like a jewel in the glassy volume of the building’s two-story lobby. Space science influenced the building’s design and its response to the desert climate. Its crinkled metal skin takes cues from the solar array of the International Space Station, with textured vertical fins, a breathable rain screen, and an integrated frit that mitigates the intensity of the Sonoran sun.

All water is recaptured on site, stored below grade, and filtered through bioswales and rain gardens. While the ARB’s research requires sophisticated air and exhaust systems for safety, its mechanical systems are designed 30 percent more efficiently than the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers’ baseline for this building type.

The design-build project is pursuing LEED Silver certification through the U.S. Green Building Council.

The ARB’s team began the progressive design-build process in Fall 2019, and groundbreaking occurred in June 2021. Lee says that when construction was starting, the supply chain was heading into a frenzy, and the team convinced the owner to move forward and lock in pricing, ultimately helping to keep work on schedule and within budget. By obtaining Conex boxes on-site to store materials, the team could procure materials early to avoid rising costs – a significant cost saving.

McCarthy self-performed various aspects of the project, which helped to maintain the schedule, mainly since much of the work on the project occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. SmithGroup provided integrated design services, including architecture, fire protection, life safety engineering, interiors, lab planning, landscape architecture, lighting design, MEP engineering, and programming. Other project trade partners include Sturgeon Electric, Comfort Systems, Dibble Corporation, Magnum Paving, Martin, White & Griffis Structural Engineers, Sextant, Colin Gordon, and Speedy and Associates.

Lee says that with the complexity of the spaces and building, one of the project’s biggest challenges – but also what made it so successful – is the collaboration of all necessary parties. “The coordination with respective professionals from the

Images Courtesy of McCarthy

Above: Installing the thermal vacuum chamber in the Applied Research Building.

Bottom left: The thermal vacuum chamber in the Applied Research Building.

Below: Applied Research Building’s anechoic chamber broad angle with a McCarthy employee inside.

university and future users has been essential throughout construction and ensured the project team made the right decisions for the benefit of the building and its end users,” he says.

He adds that the project would not have been successful without the University of Arizona Planning, Design and Construction team. “The ability to create a positive project culture and foster innovation while driving processes is special,” Lee says.

“Their mantra of ‘crossing the finish line together’ is a true testament to the team’s collaboration and achievements.”

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

POWERSCREEN WESTERN

WEESSTATBLRISHOEDC199L4LC

GL A DIATOR

Gladiator PT400 Jaw Crusher

Gladiator TP320SR Closed-circuit Impact Crusher

Gladiator MT1150 Open-circuit Cone Crusher

Gladiator MT1150SR Closed-circuit Cone Crusher

• PRECISION FINE GRADING • ABC PLACEMENT AND FINISHING • EARTHWORK , ALL PHASES • MATERIAL IMPORT/EXPORT HANDLING • DRAINAGE EXCAVATION • FULL TOPCON OR TRIMBLE CAPABILITIES

CONTACT TAYLOR WESTHOFF

480-550-1815

PTWESTHOFF@WESTROCLLC.COM Gladiator MT1300 Open Circuit Cone Crusher

Gladiator H6203 Horizontal Screen

Garrett 602-541-0554 Jon 602-541-5971 greerparts@hotmail.com Gladiator H8203 Horizontal Screen

QUALITY HEAVY EQUIPMENT PARTS REASONABLY PRICED

NEW, USED, AND REBUILT

E M AD IN TH

E USA

Gerald McCarthy 602-772-1419 Adam Barber 480-321-9185 POWERSCREENWESTERN.COM

THIRTY TWO

KEYSTONECONCRETELLC.COM O: 480-835-1579 SITE CONCRETE DEVELOPMENT BIDS@KEYSTONECONCRETELLC.COM SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

BUILDING ON RALPH HAVER’S LEGACY: THE KIMSEY IN OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE Douglas B. Sydnor, FAIA

T

he heart of Old Town Scottsdale is poised to welcome a high-quality mixed-use infill redevelopment that promises to spark a revitalization of the adjacent specialty retail and historic districts. The Kimsey, developed by PEG Companies, is located at the southern end of the Fifth Avenue District and just east of the Scottsdale Arts District. The 3.3-acre property extends an entire block from Third Avenue south to Indian School Road.

This 500,000-square-foot mixed-use development includes a Marriott AC Brand Hotel with 168 rooms, 190 luxury residential units, and a parking garage. The sixstory hotel’s amenities include a restaurant with al fresco patio dining, bar, rooftop fitness center, swimming pool, and lounges.

The five-story residential amenities include a clubhouse with a demonstration kitchen, fitness and yoga studio, covered parking, an oasis courtyard, patios, balconies, landscaped terraces, a swimming pool, and a pet washing station.

This community-minded project builds upon a structure designed by Ralph Haver, AIA, one of the most influential and creative Arizona architects of the 20th century who was active locally from 1946 into the 1980s.

In 1962, Ralph Haver Associates designed the Triangle Building, now called the Kimsey, at 7110 East Indian School Road. This project was one of 15 projects Haver’s firm completed in Scottsdale. David Friedman of Butler Home Builders, Inc developed the 11,000-square-foot, twostory building, which is being renovated and integrated into the project.

ARIZCC.COM

The Kimsey Building expresses Haver’s wood post and beam construction skill, which evolved from earlier 1950s designs such as the Feltman Building in Scottsdale and the Entz-White Lumber Co. in Phoenix.

The structure has a strong street presence given the fronts’ complete transparency, full-height glazing, and the symmetrical, low-pitched prominent roof form. The building’s former uses include Scottsdale’s City Hall from 1963-1968.

The new uses for Haver’s creation include enhancing the luxury residential units with an inviting open entry, lounge, clubhouse, fitness, mailroom, and leasing offices. These uses will not alter the building’s historic and exterior character-defining features. The project will be

Image Courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society

an opportunity to preserve Haver’s legacy, and there will be a rotating exhibition of his architecture in the building.

The Kimsey architectural design team, led by Gensler + Sydnor, intends to have this mixed-use project move this retail and historic area into the future by supporting a walkable and sustainable downtown. The team accomplishes this by reinforcing vital connections for preexisting pedestrian, vehicular, and public transportation networks. The project intends to integrate one Above: Triangle Building, 1962.

Below: The Kimsey viewed from Indian School Road.

Bottom right: The Kimsey Hotel viewed from Third Avenue.

Images Courtesy of Gensler

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

S OA K IN T H E R E L AXAT I O N

FINISH BLADE RENTAL WITH OPERATOR EXCAVATING | UNDERGROUND UTILITIES | CONCRETE STRUCTURES

castlehotsprings.com | 844.276.8052 | Morristown, Arizona

THIRTY FOUR

BUDDY@EANDECOMPANIES.COM LICENSED | BONDED | INSURED

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Projects

outdoor spaces, and shade public areas and windows. Additionally, first-level breezeways provide natural convective cooling by pulling heat out of the courtyard.

Old Town Scottsdale has evolved over 120 years, and some properties have experienced half a dozen structures. It is extraordinary that the Kimsey family has owned the project parcel that initially was a citrus orchard for over 100 years. We intend to celebrate their legacy, particularly with two citrus-themed public art installations.

Jason Kelly Johnson and Nataly Gattegno of Futureforms in San Francisco propose the “Kimsey Grove” piece on Third Avenue.

Brian Brush of Bozeman, Montana, proposes “Luminal” on Indian School Road.

The Kimsey Building will become an essential centerpiece in the infill mixed-use development of residential units and a boutique hotel, with its midcentury modern spirit and aesthetic influencing the design.

The team successfully placed the building on the Scottsdale Historic Register. Ryden Architects, Inc. was the historic preservation architect supported by Donna Reiner’s historical research. The team includes Berry Riddell, Technical Solutions, Inc., Lokahi, Sustainability Engineering Group, and Energy Systems Design.

The city is permitting the project, and two existing structures, the Rodeway Inn and The Venue, have been razed. Okland Construction broke ground this summer on the hotel, and residential construction and the building’s adaptive reuse improvements will follow. After three years, the team is pleased to reach this stage in the project.

Image Courtesy of Brian Brush

of the most valuable features in Old Town Scottsdale, shaded walkways built in the 1950s.

Along the Third Avenue frontage will be a covered arcade, and behind it, the hotel will activate the streetscape with its lobby, lounge, bar, and restaurant with outdoor al fresco dining. Additional shaded walkways are planned for the Indian School Road frontage.

To mitigate the new building’s size and height, there are setbacks and inclined step-back planes at the upper levels, along with upper exterior terraces that step down toward Indian School Road. Numerous outside corners of the residential blocks will

provide exterior wrap-around balconies to soften otherwise hard edges. Construction will include using warm-colored and durable exposed concrete masonry, concrete, metal wall panels, and plaster. A dusty green color is proposed as an accent element and a visual reference to the Sonoran Desert landscape.

Colwell Shelor Landscape Architecture improvements feature permeable hardscapes to reduce off-site drainage, drought-resistant landscape for minimal water consumption, bioswales to capture on-site drainage, and public seating. Landscape concepts will reinforce plans to minimize heat gain, create cool microclimate

Images Courtesy of Author

Above: “Luminal” public art by Brian Brush on Indian School Road.

Right: Construction site after the demolition of two buildings.

Below: The Kimsey Building in the background after the demolition of the Rodeway Inn and The Venue.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

The Leader in

Hydraulic Shoring

Hablamos Español Hydraulic Shores Trench Boxes Trench Plates Slide Rail We Deliver World Class Customer Service

Confined Space Equipment Competent Person Training

PHOENIX

(866) 270-9960

TUCSON

SAN BERNARDINO

(520) 352-3311

Proud Founding Member of

EL PASO

(915) 885-7100

TrenchShoreRentals.com

LOS ANGELES

(602) 253-3311

• Industrial Hose • Hydraulic Hose • Silicone Hose • Power Steering Hose • A/C Hose • DOT Fittings And Tubing • Hydraulic Adapters • Fuel And Lubrication

(909) 381-0244

SAN DIEGO

(800) 321-5285

Scan For Phoenix Store Tel: 602-795-0606

Scan For Bloomington Store Tel: 909-879-0141

Scan For Perris Store Tel: 951-928-0011

Scan For Indio Store Tel: 760-342-0020

WWW.AIRANDHOSESOURCE.COM THIRTY SIX

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA People

ED GORMAN: TECHIE TURNED MODUS COMPANIES NET ZERO ENERGY DEVELOPER Douglas Towne

S

ometimes success can breed its own issues, but that’s a good problem when you’re a developer holding a grand opening of your first project. “We had never hosted an event before, yet had 90 RSVPs to attend,” MODUS companies founder Ed Gorman recalls. “Ten minutes after opening the gates, there were over 150 people there. That number soon exceeded 600 people who came to see what this modern, sustainable project was about.”

At that point, the police showed up to shut down the grand opening. “We sorted that out after giving the officer a tour of our model,” Gorman says with a smile.

Gorman formed MODUS, based in Scottsdale, in 2003 to create homes focusing on design and technology in prime locations. But unlike many in the construction industry, he didn’t realize his passion as a toddler pushing Tonka trucks around a sandbox. Gorman grew up on the East Coast, went to college in South Carolina, and spent nearly 20 years in the technology industry.

Still, the handwriting was on the wall for his future endeavor. “In high school, my first three part-time jobs were working for architects,” Gorman says. “I was always passionate about creating things and excelled in math and art.”

Then a life-changing moment caused Gorman to reevaluate his career. “While in the hospital recovering from a motorcycle crash, I resolved to follow my dream of creating modern, energy-efficient homes,” he says. “I purchased my first piece of land before I could walk again. I knew construction/development was a great career for me as it allowed me to create things that impact how people live.”

Initially, Gorman was a one-person show, which he believed was beneficial to his company. “It was such a great learning experience to experience every role in development.”

Over the past two decades, MODUS has finished many projects, each of which has been a favorite in some way for Gorman. He lists their names and notable attributes.

“The first project, The Galleries at Turney, was the first LEED for Homes project in Arizona and the first LEED-H multifamily project in the U.S.,” he says. “The next project was in San Diego, so learning how to expand geographically was special. MZ was Arizona’s first Net Zero Energy Ready multifamily project and had a very modern (some say MODUS) design. Dusk was the nation’s first 100 percent Net Zero Energy apartment project. It proved that solar technology was profitable and allowed it to prove scale.”

Gorman focuses on creating Net Zero Energy Build-to-Rent communities, which he believes often needs to be understood.

Images Courtesy of MODUS companies

“Most people don’t realize that net-zero energy communities are more profitable,” he says. “We have significantly higher retention rates due to lower utility bills and ultimately can charge higher rents as tenants are less likely to move out. The projects have a higher net operating income since we sell power to tenants and produce our own power for the common areas.”

The only factor that has changed in MODUS’s playbook over the last two decades is the scale of the projects. “The first project was eight homes; now our communities have 150 – 200 units,” Gorman says. “We envision the model to grow with more design and amenity options for residents.”

Gorman says that initially, the market was similar in product style and amenities, and most projects didn’t have homes with garages or many amenities other than a pool and leasing office. “We see the model evolving toward more like single-family homes with amenities like a Class A apartment project and more homes with direct access garages. The market is so huge that Above: Ed Gorman.

Below: MZ3 condos/townhomes under construction, Scottsdale.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

THIRTY EIGHT

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Above: OZ 70 condos/townhomes, Scottsdale.

Below: Arcadia Views condos/townhomes, Phoenix.

there’s room for all product types. We will continue to have a modern design aesthetic and build all of the projects as Net Zero Energy Ready.”

According to Gorman, Net Zero Energy is a substantial factor in attracting residents. “But it’s a bigger factor in retaining residents as our homes typically have utility bills that are 50-70 percent less than standard construction,” he says. “It’s often the design and location that attract the residents, but they don’t leave once they see their low utility bills.”

“The younger clientele is attracted to Net Zero Energy, and more budget constrained for housing—however, all age groups like paying less for utilities. In the future, we look to incorporate microgrids for solar and add batteries,” Gorman says.

“Costs for power generation and storage continue to improve while utility prices continue to increase.”

Gorman believes construction has changed over the years as more energy-efficient products have become more readily available and with prefabrication.

“When we started building LEED and Net Zero Energy, many products like LED lights, spray foam insulation, and Low-E windows had a significant cost premium. Now that

ARIZCC.COM

demand has increased, and building codes have changed, many of these items have become mainstream and, therefore, more cost-effective. Prefabrication is an area where we see significant improvement. We used to prefabricate trusses, and now we prefabricate entire wall systems in some of our projects.”

Gorman believes that coming into the industry as an outsider from the tech world has been beneficial. “I took a fresh look at how things were being designed and constructed,” he says. “We are always looking at things the same way today. Our team always asks if we are doing things the best way possible.”

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA People

Images Courtesy of MODUS companies

Gorman has found his calling, and although he enjoys travel, boating, and fitness, he’s absorbed by his current career.

“I enjoy what I do, so I spend a lot of time doing it,” he says. “I’m constantly learning by meeting with others and reading. I spend a lot of time finding ways to improve our designs and technology.”

This perspective dovetails into his advice to younger people entering the construction industry or any field. “I would tell them that there is no one way to do things,” Gorman says. “I would recommend finding people doing things that appeal to you and learning from them.”

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

BRANDON GALLIMORE THE LEADER IN PROVIDING TEMPORARY POWER GENERATION SYSTEMS IN THE GREATER PHOENIX AREA

Land Surveying Services Construction Staking

7777 N 70TH AVE GLENDALE, AZ 85303

O. 623.466.6640 I F. 623.879.0611 C. 623.707.7067 I E. BRANDON@METROAZ.NET

Landco Rentals offers: • Emergency 24-hour response and service • Rugged DOT approved trailers with Portable generator set’s ranging from 20kw-2000kw • Ultra silent Generators • Standby generator capabilities that are Bio diesel capable • Onsite powered light towers along with electric light tower options • Fuel containment for generators • On site fueling • Cable’s for all applications • Electrical Distribution panels and transformers 480-788-1333 info@landcorentals.com 222 S. 52nd St, Suite 2 Tempe AZ 85281

FORTY

DBE/SBE Certified Contractor

Jeff Martinez

(602) 622-6789

Jeff.martinez@rtunderground.com

AZROC 306671 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Practices

NEW TOOLS AVAILABLE TO CONTRACTORS TO HELP AVOID COSTLY CLAIMS Brian Imwalle

L

ike all industries, insurance is constantly changing and adapting. These changes can benefit our client if properly used and emphasized.

The traditional view of commercial insurance is that of a necessary evil and a line item to operating expenses in business.

A premium is paid for an annual policy, which is in place to “protect” the company from the threat of loss. While that premise is generally sound, we all know that claims can go unpaid and uncovered.

However, a company can employ many business practices to help ensure coverage will respond in its favor! Maximizing your loss control position is essential to help ensure the insurance policy will respond to your needs. As insurance brokers, we can help our clients maximize their potential to avoid costly claims by taking advantage of available technology and services.

Commercial insurance buyers need to utilize all safety and loss control services available. Many insurance companies and brokers offer programs and tools to supplement and fortify their customers’ risk management positions, and most are free.

These programs add valuable services to the business and help protect the insurance company’s financial interest.

Think about it; if a carrier spends a little time, money, and effort to help their customer avoid claims, they will likely have a better chance to profit from the business relationship. If this position bears fruit, the customer then positions themselves to negotiate lower rates at renewal.

Many insurance firms have service personnel to aid and assist their client base with staying in front of potential claim Images Courtesy of Author

ARIZCC.COM

issues. For example, use it if your broker offers OSHA training and loss prevention personnel. These services are often free of charge and are in place to help your company stay compliant and avoid costly claims.

The better our clients perform, with few or no claims, the better our relationship will be with insurance carriers. Simply put, if our clients perform well, we, as brokers, also perform well and are better positioned to negotiate lower rates and help our clients.

OSHA training is vital because it helps employees properly work within the parameters of their job and the limitations of their physical abilities. It maximizes the attention to correctly doing a job and avoids shortcuts and problematic practices that could lead to costly claims and injuries.

It also assures that the company is compliant with government regulations.

Besides services, the advent of technology and tools is essential to fortifying

Above: Dashcam.

Below: Camera systems for a bus.

your company’s risk management stance.

An example of a relatively new tool available to insurance buyers is using video camera technology for vehicles. This technology is paying huge dividends because it has erased much of the grey area in claims that persisted because of the lack of concrete evidence and facts surrounding accidents.

Vendors who sell this technology have multiplied in recent years, with cell phone providers to security firms offering these products. Costs continue to decline. The cameras are custom-fit to provide forward-facing video documentation, as well as rear and driver views. Should an incident occur, real-time information is recorded and available for replay and accident assessment. This data includes the time of day, driver speed, video footage of the vehicles around the customer’s vehicle, the driver, and what was happening in the cab or driver’s seat.

This information is pertinent because it can definitively answer who was at fault in an accident. For example, video can document the cause of the accident, such as if a driver was texting or was cut off by another vehicle. These important details can lead to recovery of damages and cut the time to process a claim. As a result, most carriers will offer discounts or credits for installing and using this technology.

In summary, make a point to ask your insurance professional these questions.

They are there to help and have your best interests in mind. Ultimately, it’s a team effort, and the results you achieve are consistent with your focus on your risk management program.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

LOOP 202

LOOP 101

PRICE

3RD ST.

SMITH

McCLINTOCK

RIO SALADO

UNIVERSITY

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL TOOL NEEDS •Tools and Accessories •Tool Repair •Family Owned and Operated 480-968-0123 www.FisherTools.com

16+ LOCATIONS & NOW OPEN IN CHANDLER

197 E WARNER RD. CHANDLER, AZ

DELAWARE

COUNTRY CLUB DR.

WARNER RD.

FEATURING: » » » » »

15+ premium brands Huge inventory of top-quality equipment 24-hour emergency service Complimentary operator training Easy app to call-off & manage all rentals

1-800-RENT-CAT | CatRentalStore.com/Empire FORTY TWO

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Practices

IMPORTANCE OF VERIFICATION IN CONSTRUCTION Luke M. Snell, P.E.

S

ophisticated equipment and its associated software require training and practical experience for accurate output. Let’s examine case studies that illustrate how to ensure valid results.

Case Study #1 During a concrete certification program in Saudi Arabia, I was asked by the owner’s consulting engineer to visit a construction project. The project was a large multi-story concrete building suspected to have issues that might require extensive repairs. One potential problem was internal voids in the concrete. The owner had hired a local testing laboratory to investigate to determine their existence and, if so, to map their location.

This issue was new territory for the testing laboratory, which needed specialized equipment and training for the investigation. They hired a European company to provide the equipment and sent their engineer to be trained on it. After a week of instruction, the engineer returned and located several internal voids in the concrete. The testing laboratory then produced a report that contained a map of their locations.

The owner’s consulting engineer and I met on the job site to review the report and were joined by the contractor and the engineer from the testing laboratory. My first question to the testing lab’s engineer was whether he examined any areas where his equipment identified a void to verify if that were true. Unfortunately, they had not and had assumed that the equipment had accurately located voids.

I suggested investigating some areas where voids were indicated by removing the surface concrete to expose the gap. The contractor used a concrete impact hammer and checked several places thought to have voids. In each case, there were no gaps. In a few areas, surface honeycombing was Images Courtesy of Author

visible but was shallow, less than 2 inches deep. The report and map of the internal voids in the concrete were incorrect and of no value.

Lesson to be Learned When using new equipment, software, or a technique, it is crucial to verify the results. Check whether the answers are logical and if the procedure, software, or equipment gives reliable results. Do not assume the results are correct just because you followed what you learned in a class or someone else’s instructions. For example, in Case #1, the entire investigation was useless because they needed to take the time to determine if the equipment was accurately locating the internal voids.

Case Study #2 During a project with an Ethiopian university, Zircon donated several inexpensive handheld metal locators that are used to locate reinforcements in concrete. The company wanted to determine how easy it was for people to learn how to use the equipment from their instructions. The Ethiopian students were ideal since English is their second language, and they weren’t familiar with U.S. construction or testing equipment.

I demonstrated the equipment to them, showing them how to locate

reinforcement and metals in concrete.

Then, I gave them the equipment without further discussion and told them there was a DVD and written instructions. No one read the instructions; however, they watched the DVD several times before using the equipment. This outcome should not be surprising as most people only read instructions as a last resort.

We prepared several concrete beams with different sizes of reinforcements embedded in them. They could see where the steel was, so when using the equipment, they could gain confidence that they were locating the reinforcement both visually and with the metal locators.

After practicing using the equipment, the students examined columns in their laboratory building. The reinforcement for columns is placed in the corners, which the students knew. With metal locators, they could confirm that the steel was placed where it should be and that they could find it. Zircon used this information, expanded its visual instructions, and ultimately put its instructions online.

Lesson to be Learned People are most comfortable learning by visual and hands-on methods rather than by reading instructions. The students initially used caution with the equipment as they tried to mimic the techniques they saw on the DVD. They also needed to do some hands-on experiments where they could verify that the equipment found the reinforcement. This background gave them the confidence to find the reinforcement in a concrete structure.

Above: Ethiopian students locating steel reinforcements in the building’s concrete columns.

Far left: Ethiopian students viewing the instructional Zircon DVD. Left: Ethiopian students using a Zircon instrument on a concrete column with exposed metal beams.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

FORTY FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Omar Kaywan, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer at Goose Insurance

C

onstruction positions are among the most dangerous and potentially fatal jobs. There are roughly 150,000 construction injuries annually, and 1 in 5 deaths among U.S. workers are in our industry.

But despite bulky safety gear and protocols meant to keep construction workers safe, they’re still prone to accidents that could cause serious injuries or even be fatal. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the job and keep your family safe while working in the industry: Utilize safety gear and equipment Suiting up is one of the most important steps before beginning a job. Safety gloves, hard hats, goggles, earplugs, and other necessities should always be worn. Take a few extra minutes to ensure you have on injury-preventing gear to keep yourself safe.

Be sure to utilize safety technology as well.

The clothes you wear can also be part of your gear. Wear durable garments that can protect your body from potential hazards. Reflective vests can ensure you’re visible if you’re working at night or on the side of the road, and long-sleeved shirts and long pants that cover every inch of your body can protect you from cuts and scrapes, etc. Don’t just protect the obvious areas of your body (eyes, head, hands) but keep your entire body safe from danger.

Update your gear Tools are used daily by construction workers, and after constant use, they’re likely to need replacing. Be sure to recognize what tools are worn and which aren’t working as they should be and get them replaced. Not only can this make the job

go more smoothly, but it can also decrease your risk of potential injury. Take the time at the beginning or end of the day to assess the condition of your tools and update them when necessary.

Take your time, don’t take shortcuts While your end goal might be to move on to the next job, rushing can not only mean you do a botched job and end up having to come back later but can also put you at risk. Taking shortcuts can lead to accidents that can put you in a dangerous situation, expose you to hazards, and hurt you. Take a few extra minutes to be sure the job is done right and safely – you’ll end up thanking yourself later.

With experience and wisdom often come ways to save time and still achieve quality work; however, sometimes, shortcuts are dangerous regarding safety. Stick to the fundamentals. So, climbing a ladder as you were taught early on or using a harness when working at higher heights can significantly affect safety. Following the basics is tried and true.

CONSTRUCTION AROUND ARIZONA Practices

TIPS FOR CONSTRUCTION SAFETY

hazards such as slippery surfaces, exposure to dangerous chemicals or wires, temperature changes, etc. Rushing to get into a job to get it done can put you at risk and give you more work to do in the end. Inspect the entire area, such as cords, equipment, etc., to notice any defects that may be a hazard.

By taking a look at what the job requires, Recognize fatigue you can avoid dangers and will be able to It’s important to recognize when to determine what gear you’ll need. step back from the job when working in places with no controlled temperature for Get AD+D insurance coverage AD+D coverage, or Accidental Death + hours. Take a minute or two away from the Dismemberment insurance, is vital to projob to cool yourself down (or warm yourself tect your family financially if something up). Staying hydrated and fueled throughhappens to you.

If you’re the only person out the day can ensure you’re in the best physical condition to handle a job. You know working in your household, this is especially yourself best, and if you feel light-headed, important for your family to be able to pay overheated, or tired, remove yourself from bills and cover medical costs and other a potentially dangerous situation until you expenses. Whether your accident is fatal or you’re stuck in bed recovering for months, feel better. the right AD+D insurance can give you and Assess before beginning your family peace of mind. Tip: When shopNot all jobs are the same, so evaluat- ping for AD+D coverage, read the policies ing the situation before beginning can save carefully because they vary in what acciyou trouble in the long run. Take a few min- dents they cover. utes to assess the work area for potential

Images Courtesy of Goose Insurance

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

NEVER MISS A NEWS UPDATE GET YOUR NAME ON THE LIST

ARIZCC.COM/NEWS

602-276-2040

PROVIDING RENTALS AND SERVICE IN AZ, SINCE 1998 Frank Alvarez

Dixie Chavarria

franka@eccoequipment.com

dixiec@eccoequipment.com

Operations Manager O: 602-276-2040 C: 602-769-6725

FORTY SIX

Inside Sales O: 602-276-2040 C: 602-722-7930

Jeff Hightower

Outside Sales O: 602-276-2040 C: 602-725-1123

jeffh@eccoequipment.com

Paul Kannapel

Outside Sales O: 602-276-2040 C: 602-647-5816

paulk@eccoequipment.com

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Back When

PHOENIX’S RIVERBOAT RESTAURANT John Bueker

“T

he only riverboat on the corner of 16th Avenue and Camelback” was the whimsical advertising slogan introducing Phoenix to Copper Belle. This extraordinary mid-century Valley dining establishment was indeed the only object remotely resembling a riverboat on this or any other corner in town.

Copper Belle belonged to an era of the city’s restaurant history characterized by fanciful thematic conceptualizations, with Green Gables, Neptune’s Table, Alpine Village, and The Islands being other prominent examples.

Built by Homes & Son Construction Co. and opened in the spring of 1961, Copper

Image Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Belle was inspired by the stern-paddle steamboats that navigated the Colorado River, supplying Yuma and military outposts starting in the early 1850s. The restaurant’s structure was ingeniously designed and decorated to resemble one of these historic river-going vessels.

The distinctive layer cake steamboat design was crowned by a captain’s bridge at the top of the building and complemented with a large, red paddle wheel at the “stern,” which turned through a small pool of water. The walkway surrounding the front of the building was contrived to resemble a docking pier complete with gangplank and scattered wooden-piling pier posts to add authenticity to the nautical tableau. The unique atmosphere and fine Southern food made Copper Belle

a trendy Phoenix dining destination until its closing in 1978.

Remarkably, the Copper Belle building still stands at 1534 West Camelback Road, and the old riverboat architecture’s original outlines and support beams remain discernable. In recent years the building has housed a series of Asian food establishments and is currently home to a Filipino eatery called Flaming Pig. This latest occupant of the historic structure opened its doors in 2021, precisely 60 years after the elegant Copper Belle made her first graceful docking at that fateful corner.

Below: A couple at the Copper Belle, 1963.

DURANT’S BEFORE JACK TOOK OVER: THE LEGEND OF WAYNE’S MIDWAY INN Douglas Towne

W

hen Phoenicians want to experience mid-century dining, Durant’s is about as old school as it gets. The legendary restaurant and its proprietor, Jack Durant, have been the subject of books, a movie, and a play. As the familiar story goes, an uneducated youth FORTY EIGHT

from Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains came to Las Vegas, hooked up with the mob, and moved to Phoenix to operate the now iconic restaurant.

What’s little known is that the nightspot was a happening place with plenty of intrigue long before Jack Durant slapped

his name on the building in 1950.

Since it first opened during the Great Depression, the combo restaurant/nightclub had a wild side and a reputation as the setting for clandestine business and political deals. Here’s the little-known story of pre-Durant’s roadhouse days, a tale that vacillates between fine dining and dancing to orchestras to tax evasion and extortion.

Eating, drinking, and dancing had gone on at 2611 North Central Avenue, then on the city’s north side, as far back as 1934.

The nightspot was described in these terms

by M.R. Leo in her 1996 book, The Saga of Jack Durant.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

“Once a frame shack whose living room was turned into a bar known as the Midway B-B-Q Lunch in the early 1930s, where a man could drink until asked, ‘How many have you had?’ and be charged 25 cents for each drink he owned up to, 2611 North Central had become well known. Its reputation for being frequented by criminal elements only served to draw people, making the restaurant [Durant’s], in its own way, respectable.”

According to Leo, the bar was outside Phoenix city limits at the time, with a Chinese grocery store located next door. She described it as “…a hodgepodge of four

ARIZCC.COM

Images Courtesy of Dane Christensen

Top left: Wayne’s Midway Inn, mid-1940s.

Top right: Wayne and Mae Wainscott at Wayne’s Midway Inn. Above: Leo Carroro (bartender in white shirt) with Sammy Crow and His Orchestra.

Right: An ad for Sammy Crow and His Orchestra appearing at Wayne’s Midway Inn, 1946.

buildings unsuccessfully pretending to be one. A narrow strip of faded and white vinyl fringe struggled to draw attention to signs scattered about boldly announcing ‘Midway Inn,’ ‘Cocktails & Dancing,’ ‘Free Parking,’ ‘Keep Driveway Clear,’ ‘Wayne’s Italian Dinners,’ and ‘Schlitz on Draft.’”

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Images Courtesy of Dane Christensen

Above: Wayne’s Midway Inn, mid-1940s.

Left: Leo Carroro (top) and Jack Clayton (bottom) bartending at Wayne’s Midway Inn, mid-1940s.

Below: An ad for C.W. Wainscott’s two restaurants, 1946.

FIFTY

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

The Phoenix City Directory lists Dolly’s Inn as the first roadhouse at that location, and in 1935, the entry changed to H.C. Cummings, a restauranteur. In 1939, the business was listed as Midway BBQ and the Midway Inn the following year. In 1942, it was Blackie’s Italian Villa. Then, from 194243, it was advertised in The Arizona Republic as Blackie’s Midway Inn, operated by Harry Wyatt and Blackie Jones.

According to Leo’s book, Jack Durant first entered what would become his future restaurant in the mid-1930s and described its interior as “an ordinary parlor, with small tables set up in the center of the room. A couple of well-worn couches leaned against the walls. Several scruffy-looking men were drinking beer and whiskey as they wolfed down sandwiches dripping with a thick red sauce.”

Around this time, Claude Woodrow “Wayne” Wainscott married Mae Smith.

Wayne was born in 1913, graduated from Phoenix Union High School, and initially worked recapping tires during World War ARIZCC.COM

II. Mae was born in Plainview, Texas, in 1912, one of six kids. Her father, Harvey Pearson, died when she was 5-years old, according to her stepson, 80-year-old Dane Christensen, long-time owner of the Phoenix business, Christy Signs.

“Her mom married a nice guy named Smith, and they moved to Arizona in two Model Ts with everything they owned tied on the side in 1919,” Christensen says. “The oldest boy was 12 and was driving one of the cars; the couple and babies were in the other car, they got separated for a week, but both made it to Glendale. Mae’s brothers were named Lester, Sylvester, Augustus, and Jimmy.”

Smith worked in the Glendale school system and lived at 11th Street and Indian School Road back when it was in the country. “They had a sixth kid together, a daughter who had Down’s Syndrome, whom they put in a home in Skull Valley with ranchers who had two Down’s children,” he says.

“The rancher had turned it into a home for them. The family visited her frequently,

and she died when she was 55, which was old for someone with that condition.”

In 1944, Wayne and Mae purchased the nightspot on Central Avenue and renamed it Wayne’s Midway Inn. Their frequent ads in the Republic touted “Dancing Every Night to Real Dance Music” and “Spaghetti, Ravioli, Steak, and Southern Fried Chicken Dinners. Always something good to eat at Wayne’s. Complete Bar Service. P.S. Closed every Monday until further notice.”

Another ad proclaimed, “Italian Dinners prepared by Chef ‘Blackie’ streamlined as no one else can,” suggesting that the Wainscotts had retained the former chef. However, later that year, the couple brought in Cora Cooley as chef. The bands included “Cappy” Clay’s Versatile Orchestra, Dolph Roth and his Orchestra, “Wee Willie” at the piano with his Whispering Rhythm, and Sammy Crow and His Orchestra.

The Wainscotts had been in the Phoenix restaurant and lounge scene since at ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Above: Blackie’s Midway Inn restaurant ad, 1943.

Left: Blackie Jones, chef.

least October 1942, when they purchased Jack’s & Lill’s, a restaurant at 902 West Van Buren Street. “Meet Mae and Wayne at Jack’s & Lill’s,” announced a Republic ad in 1945.

In December 1945, Wayne’s Midway Inn reopened after an expansion by a local homebuilder and general contractor, Alfred Andersen. “Spacious New Bar,” “Booths for your Convenience,” and “Plenty of Parking Space” were among the new amenities.

“Thanks for waiting,” the ad in the Republic read. “Your reward is a new, better Midway Inn with Cora Cooley still serving the same delicious food for which she is famous. Now you can enjoy dancing in a much more spacious and comfortable atmosphere. This is your invitation to c’mon out and see us.”

Christensen recalls Mae telling him it was quite a political gathering place with many deals made in the back room.

By 1946, the couple’s two restaurants FIFTY TWO

Image Courtesy of Dane Christensen

shared an ad titled, “C.W. Wainscott’s Two Fine Restaurants are TOPS with Phoenix Gourmets.”

Another ad touted, “Cocktails – mixed as you like them, with a generous touch.”

Still, another ad in 1947 cited wartime rationing, “Here are meals that will bring back memories of the days before the war… and reasonably priced.” By this time, Curtis Ramsey was in the kitchen, Sammy Crow and his Orchestra provided the music, Leo Carroro mixed the cocktails, and “Genial” Phil Morgan was the general manager.

Wayne’s Midway Inn even had a 10-minute show on KPHO radio at 9:45 pm.

“My stepmother, Mae, and her former husband, Wayne, took it over during the last part of World War II and ran it until 1948 or so,” Christensen says of the nightspot. “Mae told me she was rolling in money and bought a 1947 Cadillac. They divorced in 1948. Mae bailed with her

Cadillac and ran as a single woman, Jack’s & Lill’s, which she renamed the 902 Club in 1948.”

Advertising for Wayne’s Midway Inn in the Republic had ceased by 1949. “The government shut down Wayne’s Midway Inn for back taxes,” Christensen says. Wainscott filed for bankruptcy in April 1950 with debts of $60,673 and owed taxes of $26,302 to the federal government and $2,651 to the state, according to an article in the Republic. As a result, Wayne’s Midway Inn was placed in receivership. “Wainscott was a scallywag who wound up in prison for four or five years for extortion afterward,” Christensen says. He later moved to Kingman and passed away in 1976.

“Wayne was also in the tire business on Grand Avenue and had a shop at the Ninth Avenue intersection. He and Mae had a daughter, Beverly Titgen. My father, C.L. “Chris” Christensen, did some sign work for Wayne’s tire store and had met Mae at Wayne’s Midway Inn, and ended up marrying his ex-wife.”

Mae became a Christensen in Salome, Arizona, in October 1949. “Chris was going to Yuma to work, and they were cutting across the desert. They went through Salome and thought, ‘Why don’t we just get married here?’ They were together for 30 years until my father died in October 1979. Mae got Chris to start his own business, Christy Signs. He had the talent, but she was savvy business-wise,” Christensen says. Mae passed away when she was 90 in 2004.

Meanwhile, Jack Durant purchased Wainscott’s closed restaurant, helped by “Influential friends, wealthy friends, supplied the means for purchase at a tax sale,” according to Leo’s book. “It was a gift, a payback.” Durant’s would become a dining showplace of Phoenix, its mobster reputation only matched by the personality of its owner.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

PREMIER LUBRICANT & FUEL DISTRIBUTOR SERVING ARIZONA & SOUTHERN NEVADA

USED OIL RECOVERY SERVICES

602-759-5559 | NEWWESTOIL.COM ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

FIFTY FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

DURANT’S: SAVORING STORIES OF AN ICONIC PHOENIX RESTAURANT Michelle Dodds

S

o, what initially stands out about the windowless building at 2611 North Central Avenue? The flamingo pink color of the building, the maroon awnings over the doors, or the greenish/turquoise lettering on the front wall sign? It could be the roof sign, with the individual red letters on yellow boxes spaced out on a metal frame hovering over the restaurant.

The rooftop advertisement was part of an expansion and remodeling designed by prominent local architect Ralph Haver in 1956.

Most customers use the rear kitchen entrance. Seating options are the main dining room, south dining room, and cocktail lounge, with about 20 stools at the bar.

Each section features red and black carpeting and is lined with red vinyl button-tufted booths, red flocked wallpaper, and walnut wood panels. The classy ambiance is accented by seasonal bouquets from Flowers by Joe Gregory. In an analog throwback, there are two payphones, one in the ladies’ room and one outside the restrooms. But wherever you sit, drink, or talk, it will be a memorable experience.

Jack Durant, formerly a pit boss at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, and Jack “Swede” McElroy, who excelled with cattle, horses, and in business, became partners and opened Durant’s in 1950. McElroy was the silent half, while Durant orchestrated the décor and directed the restaurant staff.

He set the tone and any errant customers straight as well. Their 37-year partnership ended in 1987, with Durant’s death at 82.

McElroy passed away in 1992.

Durant’s history is evidenced in the photographs on the walls and mementos scattered throughout every room, including ephemera such as matchbooks and postcards. At the hostess counter are Ernie Canez’s bronzed shoes, a cook who worked at the restaurant from 1960 until Left: Durant’s, 1950.

Image Courtesy of Durant’s

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Image Courtesy of Durant’s

Above: Jack Durant seated at the bar.

Left & Below: Durant’s bar, 2023.

his retirement in 2012. Since 1995, hungry diners have also been recognized by their name on a plaque if they consume an entire 48-ounce porterhouse steak. Today, 2,352 people, including an eight-year-old girl, are in the Porterhouse Club.

The story of Durant’s life may never have been told if Mable Leo hadn’t stepped FIFTY SIX

into the picture. She wrote three books about the elusive restaurateur. Her first book, published in 1996, The Saga of Jack Durant, tells his life story. In 2005, Leo’s second book, Jack’s World, featured the recollections of others, including Arizona State Historian Marshall Trimble, who frequented Durant’s after he graduated from

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

college in 1961. The last of the trilogy, Mob Mole: The Continued Saga of Jack Durant, was published in 2011 and was written as if Durant was speaking to the reader himself.

The biography caught the attention of playwright Terry Earp, who wrote In My Humble Opinion. Earp’s script features Durant as a ghost telling a drunk SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Images Courtesy of Durant’s

Above: A watercolor of Jack McElroy, 2023.

Left: Jack Durant with his English bulldog, Humble.

Below: Jack Durant, center.

Below left: Durant’s, 2023.

customer at the bar his life’s exploits. The play debuted at The Space Theatre at 4700 North Central and ran for a month in 2005.

Ernie’s shoes were bronzed after he played the silent role of the drunk at the bar.

Travis Mills’ movie Durant’s Never Closes starred Tom Sizemore in the lead role in 2016. The film hinted at Durant’s ARIZCC.COM

alleged ties to the Mafia. If you believe in stereotypes, the only sure thing is that someone with the Mob would most likely enjoy eating at Durant’s.

Carol Bornmann has many wonderful memories of eating at Durant’s with her parents and sister, Joana. In 1963, she became a McElroy when she married Jack

Matthew McElroy, the son of the co-owner.

Carol McElroy graduated from ASU in education, her husband graduated from veterinarian school, and the couple moved out of state. Carol McElroy was teaching at Santa Clara University in California when she returned to Phoenix to help with Durant’s in 1999, and she’s still there today. Russell ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Left: A waiter seasons a salad with an oversized pepper mill at Durant’s.

Above: Durant’s 1995 Porterhouse Club plaque.

Bottom left: Ernie Canez’s bronzed shoes that he wore in Terry Earp’s play, 2023.

Below: Carol McElroy with kitchen staff, including Chef Ken Giordano (far right), 2023.

Image Courtesy of Durant’s

Hoag, who had been managing Durant’s since the 1970s, helped her until he passed away in 2020, but his portrait hangs in the cocktail lounge.

Carol McElroy believes that the employees are gems, and she knows high-quality service is one of the main reasons generations of customers return to Durant’s for special occasions. A favorite memory for her is when a wife announced to her husband that they were having their Image Courtesy of Author

FIFTY EIGHT

first child. Many famous people have frequented the restaurant over the years, but Carol McElroy says everyone who enters the door is special.

One longtime regular of Durant’s was John Williams, a Phoenix native who farmed locally and spent 44 years on the Salt River Project board. Williams often conducted business at the restaurant with bankers, insurance agents, and cotton buyers. He loved patronizing the restaurant

but wasn’t so thrilled when his son, Les Williams, followed his trend.

Les Williams says the first time he was in Durant’s was when he was still in his mother’s belly. As a child, his parents would drop their four kids off at the Palms Theatre across Central Avenue to see a movie and then enjoy a meal at Durant’s.

When the kids were older, they dressed their best and dined at the restaurant for special occasions.

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

PacWest RENTALS

HEAVY EQUIPMENT RENTALS AND SALES Locally Owned & Operated

Out of college, Williams would go to Durant’s on Wednesdays for their roast beef and potato pancake special. Then Durant would call him “kid” and tell him he was old enough to charge drinks for convenience and would send a bill once a month.

But his statements went to his father, who soon cut off his son’s charging rights.

Later, when Les Williams was married with two children, he still frequented Durant’s. He worked in real estate and often met bankers at the north end of the bar. He was eventually allowed to reserve the middle booth across from the bar. Regulars have their special booths at Durant’s.

“The bartenders know you and what you drink,” he says. “There is never a need to order a drink; it is just ready for you. My mother always liked hot tea, and Ernie would have it ready for her.”

Another regular, Joel Contreras, is a fourth-generation Phoenician who works in real estate. His early mentor, Walter Hall, introduced him to Durant’s in 2005. Hall illuminated him about the history of the restaurant—and Phoenix.

Contreras’s next mentor was Robert “Bob” Frankeberger, a local architect whose initial visit to Durant’s was when he worked for Ralph Haver. “Ralph explained how they had moved the north wall once the 18-foot alley was eliminated,” Frankeberger says.

When he opened Frankeberger Associates Inc. in the late 1960s, the architect had staff meetings at the restaurant.

Frankeberger later met Contreras for lunch every week at Durant’s for about five years until the pandemic ended their meetings. More recently, Contreras has been bringing his young son, Brody, to Durant’s, working to create a bridge to the new generation of those who will appreciate great midcentury gems like Durant’s.

In 2025, Durant’s will celebrate their 75th year in business. What other restaurant can match that record in Phoenix?

ARIZCC.COM

Articulated Dump Trucks · Dozers · Excavators · Scrapers Motor Graders (grade control available) · Wheel Loaders Water Wagons · Water Trucks · Fuel & Lube Trucks Mechanics Trucks · Stand Tanks · Water Pumps · Compactors

James Bagshaw

Rental Account Manager jbagshaw@pacwestrentals.com

602-723-6838

Justin Peterson

Rental Account Manager jpeterson@pacwestrentals.com

Tyler Denton

480-737-4885

President tdenton@pacwestrentals.com

Mike Rayala

602-541-3633

Field / Shop Supervisor mrayala@pacwetrentals.com

480-710-9358

Bill Masters

Director of Service bmasters@pacwetrentals.com

480-684-4470

1339 West San Pedro Street, Gilbert AZ 85233

www.pacwestrentals.com Phone: 480-832-0855

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

THE FLAME: DOWNTOWN PHOENIX’S HOTTEST DINING DESTINATION Douglas Towne

F

or over 40 years, 34 West Adams Street near Central Avenue in Downtown Phoenix was one of the city’s most popular dining locations. Four restaurants occupied the Balke Building over the years, but it took the final eatery, The Flame, to light up the city. Its signature dish featured a chicken on a sword and set ablaze at your table.

“The meal cost $2.50, but keep in mind minimum wage back then was about 50 cents an hour, so it was the equivalent of more than $50 today,” says Phoenix native William Linsenmeyer. The accompanying Jungle Bar was a lush tropical paradise with an unofficial host: Yum Yum III, a Capuchin monkey. The Flame was the place to eat and imbibe until its memorable 14-year run ended under mysterious circumstances.

The story of fine dining at the downtown address dates to 1916, when Milton

Stamatis arrived from Stockton, California, and opened the St. Francis Café. Stamatis was one of several Greeks who operated many of the city’s restaurants at the time,

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

including the Busy Bee Café and the Saratoga Café. The St. Francis Café was open for four years until a fire caused its closure. In 1920, Stamatis launched The Grand Café at the same location, which featured a dining room, dance floor, and coffee shop. Tom Weatherford, a general contractor, did the remodeling.

The Grand Café’s grand opening offered free Rainier beer to all patrons and featured Donofrio’s ice cream, baked goods from Barker’s Bakery and the Phoenix Bakery, and meats from the Phoenix Wholesale

Above: The Flame, 1953.

Right: Nadine Jansen Quartet at The Flame, 1959.

SIXTY

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Above: Grand Café ephemera, 1920s.

Right: The Grand, 1941.

Bottom left: The Flame postcard, 1949.

Bottom right: The Flame matchcover, 1949.

Meat Company. The 250-seat restaurant, furnished by Barrows Furniture Company, included a private room accommodating 50 people.

Articles in The Arizona Republican touted the restaurant’s efficiency, including “The electric dishwasher, which they have installed, is probably the only one of its kind ever imported here.” A special opening night dinner for $1.50 was offered, with music by the Grand Café Orchestra.

“They had floor shows, an orchestra, dining, and dancing,” Stamatis’s then 95-year-old daughter, Helen Stamatis Glitsos, said in 2010. “My father loved violin music, and, as a girl, I had a crush on the violinist, Eddie King, who often played at the café.”

Stamatis expanded the business in 1924, but a more significant change occurred in 1941 when he renovated and renamed the restaurant The Grand.

Images Courtesy of Author

ARIZCC.COM

Lescher & Mahoney were the architects, and Hugh Meadows was the general contractor on the $12,000 project. The restaurant still featured dancing to orchestras and a “streamlined” cocktail lounge that was “…a little breathless from the indirect neon lighting to the full-length nude who holds constant pose in her own specially-lighted panel,” according to a Republic article.

The Grand was a beautiful nightclub in the 1940s,” says Kay Butler. “My aunt, Montrose Steele, was a young big band singer there during World War II. After the war, she married Johnny Hendel and had nine children who attended schools in Scottsdale.”

Stamatis, who later opened another famed Phoenix restaurant, Milton’s Skylark, eventually sold the Grand in 1942 to new owners, who again resold it in 1946. In 1949, a Duluth restauranteur, James Oreck, acquired the eatery.

Image Courtesy of McCulloch Brothers Inc.

Oreck spent $200,000 renovating, transforming the restaurant into a likeness of The Flame, a supper club he had operated in Duluth since 1930. The Wes Meyer Construction Company of Phoenix did the work according to plans created by Lescher & Mahoney.

“The front of the dining room will feature a 70-foot S-shape bar with 34 stools and 14 bar table seats. Behind the bar will be a rock flower garden with a waterfall and miniature brook. African mahogany will be used for trim in the dining room, and sound-proof fiberglass for the ceiling.

The executive office and employees’ rooms will be located on the mezzanine floor,” stated an article in Arizona Building & Contractor in 1949.

The Flame’s opening featured dancing nightly to Joe de Salvo and his Orchestra brought in from the Duluth operation that closed during the winter. The upscale restaurant featured twin dining rooms that could seat 194 and 125 people and a curving two-level bar with a sunken pit, where bartenders stood at eye level with the seated customers. Behind the Rooster Bar was a waterfall with rocks, ferns, moss, tropical birds, and the monkey, Yum Yum III.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

The Flame’s extensive menu included “Fish Flown in from Lake Superior,” served on a plank, and many entrees now long out of fashion: Frog Legs on Toast, Canape of Caviar, Canape Filet of Anchovies, Chopped Chicken Liver, Calf Liver Steak, Veal Sweetbreads, Cube Steak, Club Steak, Steamed Finnan Haddie, and Herring in Sour Cream.

Few, like Deborah Barr, can claim to have been to both locations. “I celebrated my eighth birthday at The Flame in Duluth,” she says. “We moved to Phoenix just before my tenth birthday, and I ate at The Flame in Phoenix in my teens once. The two restaurants in both locations were quite nice.”

The Flame was the place to go for the wealthy and connected; other folks celebrated special occasions there. The restaurant and bar developed a reputation as a hangout for attorneys, who awaited jury verdicts in the nearby courthouse. Telephone operators also knew of The Flame.

“If anyone started to work at the nearby telephone company at long distance or information in the 1950s, on the first day, you would tour all the departments, then be taken to lunch at The Flame,” says Carol Penberthy. “I recall the monkey in there.”

In 1957, a fire on the block damaged several businesses, including The Flame.

Yum Yum III escaped during the fire-fighting and fled to the building’s rafters. For several days, rescuers unsuccessfully tried to coax him down through a hole in the ceiling. Finally, one rescuer tossed the monkey some fruit, which “He caught like a ballplayer.”

The Flame reopened but was sold several times over the next few years. In 1963, a suspicious late-night fire closed the restaurant once again. According to a Republic article, Internal Revenue agents had seized its liquor and cash registers for nonpayment of $20,000 in taxes. The owner of The Flame soon declared bankruptcy, and the restaurant never reopened.

The Rooster Bar, facing First Avenue, soldiered on for a few years and later moved to 3708 North 16th Street as the Flaming Rooster Bar. It later became Angelo’s Lounge, a gay bar that is now called Bar One. Almost 60 years later, the memory of The Flame remains bright to persons of a certain age. “It was an elegant, dimly lighted, comfortable lunch spot that featured cloth napkins and uniformed male wait staff,” recalls Bernard Dougherty, a retired Maricopa Superior Court Judge who later lived next door to Helen Stamatis Glitsos. “As high school freshmen, William Linsenmeyer and I would save our quarters and occasionally splurge there. It was quite pricey for us but a great experience.”

Valley resident Aaron Kimberlin says out loud what many think about when recalling The Flame. “My dream is to bring this restaurant back from the dead.”

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Above: The Flame dining room, 1954.

Right: Playboy bunnies with members of the Junior Ad Club at The Flame, 1963.

Below: The Flame matchcover, 1949.

Image Courtesy of Author

SIXTY TWO

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

TORTILLA FLAT:

A HISTORIC ROADSIDE OASIS ON SCENIC APACHE TRAIL Douglas Towne

T

ortilla Flat is one of those rare places that can boast they’ve served passengers arriving in stagecoaches and the latest Teslas. For more than a century, the roadside oasis has provided meals, drinks, and provisions to travelers on the rugged dirt road known as the Apache Trail. With a population of only six residents, it’s Arizona’s smallest place to have both a U.S. Post Office and a voting precinct.

Tortilla Flat owes its existence to arguably Arizona’s most important construction project: Roosevelt Dam on the Salt River.

“Our stagecoach stop assisted haulers who supplied the materials used to build Roosevelt Dam, which provided the water for the Phoenix area to develop,” says Tortilla Flat owner Katie Ellering. “Before the Grand Canyon was a tourist destination, the Apache Trail boasted awe-inspiring views for travelers.” This is the backstory of the picturesque community and its vital role in Arizona.

The U.S. government authorized what was initially called the Tonto Dam under the Newlands Reclamation Act of 1902.

The dam site was at Box Canyon, near the confluence of Tonto Creek and the Salt River. Construction started on one of the

world’s largest masonry dams in 1906, and materials had to be hauled from Phoenix to the remote location. But there was a major hitch: no road or railway linked the city with the construction site.

In 1903, construction started on what was initially called Government Road and later became known as the Apache Trail.

Two road crews on opposite ends worked towards each other. One headed east from Government Wells near the present town of Apache Junction, and the other went west from Roosevelt, a community near the dam site connected to Globe via what later became Arizona Highway 188.

Head engineer Louis C. Hill supervised the project; laborers, including numerous Pima and Apache tribal members, worked in rugged conditions. In 1904, crews from Government Wells reached Tortilla Flat, which became a freight camp because of its dependable water supply.

“A windmill was installed in Tortilla Creek where the Government Road crosses it. The mill will force water into a cement tank built above the road to furnish water for the dry camps along the road during the summer. Tanks placed on wagons will drive under the cement tank to be filled and

Image Courtesy of Good Housekeepin

g Magazine

hauled to camps,” noted an article in The Arizona Republican.

Apache Trail, the 64-mile road from Mesa to Roosevelt, was completed in 1905 for $551,000. It was an engineering marvel, described in the Arizona Good Roads Association tour book as “one of the best and most delightfully scenic routes in the whole of the mountain regions of the United States.”

Mule teams of up to 20 animals hauled up to 1.5 million pounds of supplies monthly to the dam, including its large electrical generators. But Apache Trail had

Top right: Ad for Southern Pacific Railroad’s Apache Trail motor trips, 1915.

Right: Apache Auto Stage on the Apache Trail, 1917.

Below: Mule-drawn freight wagon hauling supplies on Apache Trail to Roosevelt Dam, 1905.

Images Courtesy of McCulloch Bros.

SIXTY FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Image Courtesy of Tortilla Flat

become popular with motorists, causing dangerous congestion on the narrow road.

Construction traffic ebbed after 1911 when President Theodore Roosevelt dedicated the dam and described the Apache Trail as “one of the most spectacular, best-worthseeing sights in the world.”

Above: Tortilla Flat, 1940s.

Below: Apache Trail Auto Stage Co. office in Phoenix, 1917.

ARIZCC.COM

The Apache Trail’s popularity continued and featured tourists riding in parlor cars, a modified autobus, such as the “Apache” used by Arizona Tours, Inc. The Southern Pacific Railroad also provided tours along the Apache Trail starting in 1915. The railroad had passengers disembark at Globe, and since their tracks did not extend to Phoenix, their parlor cars would go along the scenic road to the city. In Phoenix, passengers could reboard trains for destinations further west.

Traffic on the Apache Trail decreased in 1922 when what became U.S. Highway 60 opened as a faster route from Phoenix to Miami and Globe. The road suffered another setback when Horse Mesa Dam was completed in 1927. The dam created Apache Lake, downstream from Roosevelt Lake, which flooded a portion of the Apache Trail. The railroad ferried passengers around the flooded segment until a new alignment reopened later that year.

Meanwhile, Tortilla Flat, on land leased from the Tonto National Forest, continued to thrive as a famous motorist stop and hangout for desert rats searching for the Lost Dutchman Mine. The community even boasted a one-room schoolhouse for children whose parents were employed at Horse Mesa Dam and Canyon Lake.

Tortilla Flat was awarded a post office in 1927, even though its residents, many of

whom lived in shacks and tents, numbered less than 100. The community did have a mini-zoo, which at various times housed wolves, coyotes, mountain lions, snakes, bobcats, javelina, and a bear named “Flossy,” who was kept on a chain in front of the general store.

All this was swept away in a flash flood in 1943. Another flood hit in 1970, and a fire in 1987. A succession of resourceful owners rebuilt. For example, in the early 1950s, when the Tortilla Flat Motel was constructed, the structure’s cement bricks were made from sand from nearby Tortilla Creek. Visitors included the cast from Lust for Gold, a movie starring Ida Lupino and Glen Ford, which was filmed there in 1951.

The community has had to get creative in marketing itself. Since the mid-1970s, Tortilla Flat has sported a Wild West façade to appeal to tourists. The store features copies of John Steinbeck’s famous novel, Tortilla Flat, which unfortunately has no connection to the Arizona town.

Tortilla Flat fits the ambiance of the Apache Trail, which became Arizona’s first state-designated historic road in 1986.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, the highway was intended for “historic, scenic, recreational and tourist-related purposes and not designed for excessive loads or vehicles longer than 40 feet, as the primary intent is to preserve

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Top left: Construction worker at Tortilla Flat, late 1940s.

Top middle: Joe Grondick and Virgil Phelps (l-r), former owners of Tortilla Flat, late 1940s.

Above: Mixing concrete for Tortilla Flat Motel, 1950s.

Left: Tortilla Flat truck, 1949.

Below: Katie Ellering and Chris Field, current owners of Tortilla Flat, 2023.

Their enthusiasm for Tortilla Flat is unabated despite Mother Nature’s vagaries and the unexpected construction duties.

“We’re a historic outpost and continue to survive these challenges while serving an excellent burger,” Ellering says. “A good surprise is how many visitors make the journey from all over the world to visit this attractive place, aka ‘Our Slice of Heaven.’” the historic nature and character of the route, not develop it into a superhighway.”

There’s no threat of that at present, as a 7-mile section of Apache Trail has been closed since 2019 by a rockfall caused by flooding at Fish Creek Hill east of Tortilla Flat. Still, the town’s current owners are optimistic about their enterprise. “There have been many surprises along the way, and it certainly feels like the mountain doesn’t want us here,” says Ellering, who purchased Tortilla Flat with her partner Chris Field in 2019. “We’ve maintained our caretaking of the town through several natural disasters, including major floods that affected our buildings, along with fires so close that the firefighters used our parking lot as their home base.”

The couple had previously operated a restaurant group employing nearly 350 employees, but they now enjoy the more laid-back vibe at Tortilla Flat, though they’ve had to learn some new skills. “One of the craziest experiences we’ve had has been renovating a property with four generations of different infrastructure,” Ellering says. “Once we started opening up floors and walls, it was interesting to see the evidence of previous fixes and when some individuals completely abandoned lines.”

SIXTY SIX

Images Courtesy of Tortilla Flat

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Simply better than the best

480.940.0100 | INSEARCHCORP.COM 8845 S HARDY DR. TEMPE, AZ 85284

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

“NAVIGATING” AN EXCEPTIONAL CONSTRUCTION CAREER:

ROY A. KITE JR. Billy Horner

A

stiff cocktail has sealed more than one construction deal, but a few too many have splintered powerhouse contractor teams. Such was the case with Roy A. Kite Jr., a young up-and-coming buck in the industry, and Farnell Blair, a legendary contractor in Georgia. “Farnell really liked Kite and wanted to teach him everything he could,” says Kite’s son, Bob Kite.

“Blair sent him all over the U.S., mentored Dad, and held him in high regard.”

The two didn’t see eye to eye due to Blair’s drinking, which Kite had a low tolerance for as he grew up in that environment. Then, Kite met Joe Hutchison, who worked for the Henry C. Beck Company, Blair’s biggest high-rise construction competitor. Hutchison constantly teased Kite to come work for Beck. When a fall-out occurred with Blair, Kite finally went to work for Beck. However, Kite had stipulations and wanted his own division. Kite got his demand and later relocated to Phoenix, a move that changed the city’s skyline with his projects.

Roy Kite Jr. was born in Pennsylvania in 1921. His family soon moved to Marietta, Georgia, located outside Atlanta, where his father found work. “His dad was very strict and hard on Roy and his family when

he was growing up,” Bob Kite says. “Roy’s father was in construction but frequently moved between jobs.”

Kite worked with his father briefly, but as an early teen, he took a job with a local contractor, Farnell Blair Co. “From that point on, Roy was pretty much the family’s breadwinner,” Bob Kite says. “Most of his construction training came from Farnell Blair as he gained many skills. But then, during World War II, he got the bug to join the Army Air Corps and enlisted.”

Kite trained stateside and, in early 1944, was stationed at Tortorella Airfield in Foggia, Italy, with the 99th Bomb Group, according to William Hunnewell, the group’s historian. “Roy flew with my grandfather Bill Hunnewell and completed 50 missions as a navigator, flying B-17F and G series bombers,” he says. “Roy and the rest of the crew named the plane Weary Willie after my grandpa Lt. William A Hunnewell.”

Kite’s missions included the famous raid on the Polesti oil fields in Romania.

“Dad loved being a navigator; that way, he could always figure out where he was going,” chuckled Bob Kite. After Kite’s European tour, the military sent him back to the U.S. to train recruits on bombers in Florida. “Ironically, while flying stateside in

Image Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

a B-24 during training, it was the only plane he had to bail out of over Florida,” Bob Kite says. “Dad said it was a rickety old plane, and he was glad to be out of it.”

Kite’s military career finished with a unique assignment, according to a 41-page account in his diary, dated July 14 - October 20, 1945. Kite visited Washington D.C. for an interview with John Reagan “Tex” McCrary Jr. for a mission to navigate a B-17 radio ship that war correspondents used to broadcast worldwide. “We will fly missions with B-29s in the Pacific,” wrote Kite, but he flew to multiple locations and noted a lot of downtime and boredom due to weather, plane maintenance, and crew members failing to meet rendezvous times.

After the war, Kite returned to Georgia to continue working as a civil engineer with Farnell Blair until he left for a job with Henry C. Beck. Now married, Kite moved his family to Beck’s headquarters in Dallas,

Images Courtesy of William Hunnewell

Above: Roy Kite working for the Henry C. Beck Company, 1970.

Left: Kite (back, holding on to .50 caliber machine gun), with the B-17G crew of the Weary Willie, 1944.

Below: DeAlton Booth, the bombardier, and Kite, the navigator (l-r) in Foggia, Italy, 1944.

SIXTY EIGHT

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

running their Texas operations and a project in the Chicago area. While Kite worked in Chicago, Beck brought his young son on board to become the company’s “heir apparent.”

According to Bob Kite, his father was not pleased and told them there were too many “Becks” in Dallas, and he would go work for another company building skyscrapers in New York. Not wanting to lose Kite, Beck expanded to the west, promoting him to division manager over the Southwest.

In 1959, Kite opened the Henry C. Beck Phoenix branch while his family still lived in Texas. After locating a house near Seventh Street and Winter Drive, he brought his family to Phoenix. Kite’s next-door neighbor was T.C. “Bud” Basham, who later became president of Continental Bank.

Kite, unfamiliar with flood irrigation, received a rude awakening in his new home when he forgot to open his valves for his share of the water. As a result, the extra water flooded Basham’s backyard, submerging the pool and everything else.

Basham angrily stormed over to Kite’s house, but once he saw how big Kite was standing in the doorway, he was polite, and the two became friends.

Meanwhile, Beck’s Phoenix division scored several accounts with developer David Murdock. Kite relied on his top supervisors, Frank Chandler, J.D. Cook, and Frank Maroney, to execute the work efficiently.

All three men worked with Kite before his move to Phoenix, and they opted to move their families to work for him out of loyalty.

One of Kite’s proudest accomplishments was constructing buildings in Phoenix for three business rivals: Valley Bank, Arizona Bank, and First National Bank.

During the 1960s, Arizona had a prestigious group called The Arizona Club, where Kite became friends with Murdock. “The two decided to start their own ‘prestigious’ organization, called The Cloud Club, out of

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Top right: Kite with David Murdock (l-r) in front of the Guaranty Bank Building, 1960.

Right: Henry C. Beck Co. constructing the Guaranty Building in California, 1965.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Image Courtesy of Bob Kite

Above: Bill Kite, Roy Kite Jr., Bob Kite, an unknown kid, and Roy Kite III. (l-r) on vacation, early 1970s.

Left: Kite (on left) with a group promoting a Henry C. Beck Company construction project in Phoenix, 1971.

Below left: Members of the Henry C. Beck Company and others at the grand opening of First National Bank Plaza, Downtown Phoenix, 1971.

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

SEVENTY

pure spite,” Bob Kite says. Murdock’s member number was #1, and Kite’s was #5.

Kite’s construction office was in Murdock’s new Guaranty Bank building, Henry C. Beck’s first Arizona contract they built in just nine months. It became the state’s tallest structure at 20 stories in 1960. Kite favored numbers with fives, so his office was on the 15th floor. In the same building, The Cloud Club had a floor dedicated to its own spa called The Health Hogan. The Cloud Club became a hit, having a cocktail bar and hosting several high rollers, celebrities, and politicians, including Dick Van Dyke and Carl Hayden.

Kite oversaw the entire Western region and often traveled to California and Nebraska to manage the expanded Beck branches. He was also on the board of Continental Bank with Basham and Bankers Life of Nebraska.

With Beck’s expansion to California, Kite built seven mid-rise buildings for California Mart, a large clothing factory. “Dad was requested to build all seven buildings without a contract under the direction of Cal-Mart’s owner, Harvey Morse,” Bob Kite says. During this time, Kite oversaw three San Francisco buildings for Beck, all highrises for Embarcadero, a California property management company.

“Kite retired in 1973 but still hung around the jobs for a few years,” Bob Kite says. “The following year, Kite suffered a heart attack due to exhaustion. His health deteriorated, his memory was fading, and his protegees were in positions to carry on the division. Beck would move the Western division from Phoenix to Los Angeles out of respect for Dad once he retired,” Bob Kite says.

Roy A. Kite was 89 years old when he died in Dallas in 2010.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

TACKLE THE BIG JOBS

KNOCK OUT THE LITTLE ONES Whatever the job, we’ve got the tools, equipment and service for it. In fact, we’ve been helping our customers increase job site efficiency by providing easy and fast access to top quality, well-maintained and ready-to-use equipment since 1977.

Sunstate brings you a better rental experience from start to finish, no matter how big or small the job.

( 888 ) 456-4560 | SunstateEquip.com ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

SALUTING ARIZONA’S BUILDERS: DAVID H. MURDOCK

B

illionaire David H. Murdock recently celebrated his 100th birthday, and the plant-based diet advocate has publicly claimed his eating regime will allow him 25 more years of living. His diet features smoothies that include pulverized banana peels and ground-up orange rinds, which most would shy away from having in their meal plans.

But this Wayne, Ohio native, who was a high school dropout, has found success in many other ventures, including his legacy of creating some of Phoenix’s most iconic midcentury buildings. Like so many others, Murdock’s arrival in Arizona’s capital came about because of some balmy winter weather.

SEVENTY TWO

After serving in World War II, Murdock was headed to California in late 1946 when he and his wife stopped for some sunny days in Phoenix. The couple enjoyed their stay so much that they relocated to the city. The housing supply was tight, however, which influenced him to launch Murdock Construction Company in 1947.

Murdock’s unreliable business partners eventually left him responsible for some partially completed homes.

With little construction experience,

Murdock finished the houses himself, which impressed the Valley National Bank, where he did his business banking.

Over the next decade, Murdock went from constructing humble residential and commercial buildings to developing highrises along North Central Avenue. His Phoenix career hit new heights with the completion of the Guaranty Bank Building, now the 3550 Tower, a 20-story skyscraper that became the tallest building between Fort Worth and Los Angeles in 1961.

Lower in height but higher in aesthetics was a masterpiece of midcentury design called the Financial Center, also on North Central Avenue. Murdock hired famed architect W.A. Sarmiento to design a financial complex that initially included two banks and Sperry Rand’s Univac Data Processing Center.

Nicknamed the “Punch Card Building,” its 10-story south tower, which was later expanded to 18 stories, resembled a computer

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

card. The tower and two rotundas built around reflecting pools were completed by the end of 1964, but an economic recession curtailed additional construction. The Financial Center’s north tower was never built.

Murdock avoided bankruptcy during the economic downturn but struggled financially and had to sell assets. In 1965, he divorced his wife and started a new life in Los Angeles. He bounced back dramatically, his business acumen intact. He acquired International Mining, Occidental Petroleum, and Dole Foods and gained a reputation as a corporate raider. He owned Lana’i, Hawaii’s sixth-largest island, before selling it in 2012.

He was worth an estimated $2.6 billion by 2016.

Despite all his buildings, companies, and real estate, Murdock might be most proud of something any worker can relate to. “I never had a boss in my whole life,” he told the New York Times in 2011. “I’ve totally destroyed anybody’s ability to tell me what to do.”

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Left: Murdock with Guaranty Bank in the background, 1962.

Top right: Republican Presidential candidate Richard Nixon shaking hands with home builder Ralph Staggs at Sky Harbor Airport, with Murdock behind them, 1960.

Right: Murdock, with Walter Caughram of Humble Oil Co., and James Simmons, Guaranty Bank president, at a ceremony for the new bank garage, 1963.

Below: Community Bank Building groundbreaking ad in San Jose, California, 1963.

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

JOBSITE TECHNOLOGY ASK US ABOUT › Trimble Grade Control Systems › Paving Solutions › GPS & Total Stations

› Site Hardware › UAV › Support, Repair & Training

SITECH SOUTHWEST 602-691-7501 | sitechsw.com 1835 S. MACDONALD DR. STE 101 | MESA, AZ 85210

535 N 51ST AVE PHOENIX, AZ 85043

PARTS - SALES - SERVICE

FULL SERVICE SHOP PARKING AND STORAGE TRAILER SALES PARTS AND REPAIR

SEVENTY FOUR

(602)415-0222 Superstition Trailers in Phoenix, AZ, have mechanics specializing in heavy and light trucks, trailers, and semi equipment.

We are trained to handle everything from oil changes and engine rebuilds to delicate aluminum welding.

Our shop is open late and on Saturdays.

We are your one-stop truck and trailer shop!

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Sales@korfab.us 602.309.2009 www.KorFab.us 23724 N. Central AVE

HAVE AN IDEA FOR A CONSTRUCTION OR HISTORY ARTICLE? CONTACT US: BILLY HORNER, PUBLISHER: BILLY@ARIZCC.COM DOUGLAS TOWNE, EDITOR: DOUGLAS@ARIZCC.COM VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.ARIZCC.COM ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

OLD SCHOOL EQUIPMENT:

CONCRETE MACHINERY’S AUTOVATOR TOP LOADER Billy Horner

I

n 1972, the Los Angeles office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $7.1 million contract to build the Tat Momolikot Dam across Santa Rosa Wash on the Tohono O’odham Nation, 20 miles south of Casa Grande.

Two Arizona contractors, New Pueblo Constructors of Tucson and Western Constructors of Phoenix, partnered in a joint venture to construct the impoundment.

The contractors needed more than 3.85 million cubic yards of fill to build the large earthen dam. New Pueblo provided earthmoving with B-70-ton Euclid wagons acquired from Lake Shore Equipment.

“I dealt directly with the Lake Shore representative to make the deal happen, knowing we would use them on future SEVENTY SIX

projects,” says New Pueblo’s president Karl Ronstadt. Western Constructors contributed five Caterpillar 660 scrapers.

Concrete Machinery Inc. demoed a new machine at the dam site, the CMI Autovator 1000. The continuous excavator was like other top loaders the magazine has featured in recent Old School Equipment columns, but even larger. The Autovator weighed 250,000 pounds with an excavation capacity of 6,000 cubic-yard-per-hour and was used to provide material from a borrow pit downstream from the dam.

“Out of all the means of moving dirt, I still think top loading, whether into scrapers or trucks, is the most efficient way to go,” Ronstadt says. “CMI offered us their prototype machine, and we provided the

operator and the maintenance while it was on rental. We had the machine for roughly six months on the project, and it would cut a six-foot depth off the bank each pass. The dam was a mile and a quarter long and 100 feet high from ground level.”

Ronstadt says they built the dam in three zones and utilized each piece of machinery for certain portions of the fill.

“To get the dam built correctly, three different types of fill material were used, and riprap was used on the up and downstream portions. The Army Corps of Engineers heavily monitored the project.”

Tat Momolikot Dam continues to provide flood control protection to portions of Tohono O’odham tribal lands, the towns of Stanfield and Maricopa, and many acres of farmland.

Above: New Pueblo crew with the Autovator top loader during Tat Momolikot Dam construction, 1973.

Top right: Autovator loading Euclid bottom-dump wagons, 1973.

Right: New Pueblo’s B-70 Euclid bottom-dump wagon being loaded by the Autovator, 1973.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Leaders In The Aggregate Industry www.goodfellowcorp.com EQUIPMENT SALES

RENTALS

PARTS

SERVICE

#1 Dealer In USA RANKED BY SALES, SERVICE AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

ARIZONA OFFICE 12639 W Butler Dr. El Mirage, AZ | (623) 594-5401 PSSR: Parts Manager: Mike Welch John Stanton Bolivarria@goodfellowcorp.com Jstanton@goodfellowcorp.com Mwelch@goodfellowcorp.com (602) 620-4477 (702)-672-8429 (623) 633-2771 General Manager: Billy Olivarria

Service Manager: Jeremy Rogers

Jrogers@goodfellowcorp.com

(480) 490-3364

Outside Sales-Aggregates: Neal Doucette

Ndoucette@goodfellowcorp.com

(623) 606-2676

Sales Manager: Blake Anderson

Outside Sales-Aggregates: Stuart Bentley Banderson@goodfellowcorp.com Sbentley@goodfellowcorp.com (480) 848-0207 (602)-499-3834

CONSTRUCTION AND LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT RENTAL SPECIALISTS EARTH MOVERS Backhoes, Mini Excavators, Excavators, Wheel Loaders, Skip Loaders, Skid Steers, Motor Graders, Trenchers AERIAL EQUIPMENT Telehandlers, Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts WATER EQUIPMENT Water Towers, 500 Gallon Water Wagons, 2000 Gallon Water Trucks, Hurricane Pumps TRAILERS Dump Trailers, Equipment Trailers

FORREST EQUIPMENT RENTALS BRIAN COLLINS

Vice President of Sales 602-620-2383

bcollins@forrestequipmentrentals.com

MANNY UCHIDA

Branch Manager 602-831-8000

info@forrestequipmentrentals.com

16835 W OLIVE AVE, WADDELL, AZ 85355 | SEVENTY EIGHT

MAINTENANCE Chippers, Sod Cutters, Stump Grinders, Backpack Blowers CONSTRUCTION Compressors, Jumping Jack’s, Plate Tampers, Concrete Saws, Rollers ELECTRICAL Generators, Light Towers

FORRESTEQUIPMENTRENTALS.COM SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Building on the Past 1950: Carnation Plant and Restaurant BILLY HORNER

I

n 1950, J.R. Porter Construction Company won the contract to build a $600,000 milk processing plant at the northwest corner of Central Avenue and Indian School Road for the Carnation Company. But there was a slight problem. “He had to drive the cows off the land to start the initial construction,” says Marilyn Porter, the second wife of J.R. Porter.

That wasn’t unusual for the time. In 1950, when Carnation bought the dairy from Central Avenue Dairy, it still used horse-drawn wagons, but these were soon retired for delivery trucks.

Lescher & Mahoney, a local architecture firm, designed the two-story building, making extensive use of Roman red brick and an art deco slanted glass front. Porter

PAGE

completed the construction, and the milk processing plant opened in July 1951.

The plant was located 120 feet west of Central Avenue, allowing the construction of the Carnation Ice Cream Restaurant along the street, which opened in October 1951. Additional work was done on the site, including the installation of a new restaurant sign in the late 1960s.

“The restaurant wasn’t too big, but it was very comfortable inside, and the food was good,” Marilyn says. “One time, J.R. and I went in for a meal, and he ordered something sensible while I ordered a banana split. When the waitress asked him what he wanted for dessert, he ordered something, and I told her I would take a chocolate cake. I knew she walked away

thinking, ‘All you’ve been eating, lady, was dessert!’”

Porter’s stepson, Arthur Case, who also worked for J.R. Porter, recalls that during the early 1980s, their company built a plastic extrusion plant to make milk jugs at the Carnation milk processing plant. “I was in the plant one day when they were making Dreamsicles,” he says. “As they were getting packaged, some would fall off the conveyer. I asked what happened to them, and they said they had to throw them away, so I asked if I could bring my kids down to scrounge. They said sure, so I brought my kids down one day, and they picked up all they could off the floor. It was a bonanza for them.”

Carnation sold the milk processing plant to Nestle in 1992, and the buildings were demolished to make way for condominiums in 1997. “It really made him feel old when the Carnation plant he built was torn down to make room for new buildings,” Marilyn recalls.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Left: Carnation milk processing plant and restaurant (l-r), 1964.

Above: Carnation waitress serving a banana split, 1960.

Top right: Carnation Ice Cream Restaurant sign added along Central Avenue, 1971.

Right: Carnation Ice Cream Restaurant, early 1960s.

Bottom right: J.R. Porter Company building the Carnation milk processing plant, 1951.

ARIZCC.COM

Image Courtesy of Robert Porter

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

EIGHTY TWO

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

ASPHALT BUSTERS

Asphalt Pulverizing

Setting the standard for soil stabilization and asphalt pulverization Experienced—over 30 years as a leader in our industry.

Lime Slurry Soil Stabilization Focused—soil stabilization and asphalt pulverizing are our only business.

Cost Effective—our knowledge of the specialized requirements of our region ensure the best possible job at the fairest price.

Cement Soil Stabilization

For a bid on your next project, call Kim Crenshaw at 623-936-8800. Visit us online at asphaltbusters.com.

AZ ROC 327820 A

QUALITY, RELIABILITY, AND DURABILITY

• Telehandlers

• Rough Terrain Lifts

• Scissor Lifts

For Rent and Sale Locally Owned, Family Operated... Since 1960 East Valley 1313 E Baseline Rd, Gilbert 480-539-8700

ARIZCC.COM

North Valley 15634 N 32nd St, Phoenix 602-992-1150

West Valley 803 E Van Buren St, Avondale 623-925-0200

a-zequipment.com

Central Phoenix 4050 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix 602-955-5100

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

H

undreds of structures and a significant architectural heritage have been lost to demolition. These buildings may have deteriorated to a stage where they could not be rehabilitated or meet the ever-changing codes or have been on property that was being redeveloped.

Adaptive reuse is a viable option often proven effective at accommodating a new use while saving the original structure.

Such structures may not always be architectural jewels, but almost every structure has some redeeming value that can be exploited. If such buildings have good bones and no serious structural issues, they are strong candidates for new uses.

Many property owners and developers have discovered that holding onto an existing structure can be one of the most economical strategies for a new project, especially compared to the ever-escalating costs of new construction.

Let’s look at three examples: a residence, a hair salon, and a branch bank that

Architect’s Perspective: Adaptive Reuse with Restaurants Doug Sydnor, FAIA

Doug_sydnor@outlook.com were saved and given a new life as popular restaurants. Phoenicians like to eat out, and a growing contingent of “foodies” search for and relish the next culinary delight.

Arizona restaurants are responding to this trend and offering a fantastic array of fine foods in unique, repurposed buildings.

Los Sombreros at 2534 North Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale salvaged a charming 1925 residence, which featured load-bearing brick walls and a woodframed gable roof. The structure was transformed by retaining the exterior and

interior character-defining features while selectively exposing original finishes and adding an al fresco dining option. Their mission was to offer an Oaxaca-inspired experience from a place known as Mexico’s culinary capital. This project focused on a “rustic, Mexican-cantina style” ambiance and a creative menu offered by Chef Jeff Smedstad.

In recent decades restaurants have been providing more outdoor dining courtyards and patios and stretching the shoulder seasons into the colder and hotter months with space heaters, big fans, and misting systems. Such spaces are an appealing addition to existing structures.

Providing the required restaurant technical systems within a preexisting building envelope can be challenging. This restaurant is an excellent example of blending the new functional, spatial, and technical requirements while respecting and celebrating the existing architecture. Such a strategy extends the life of this humble structure as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2025.

Another well-received restaurant is The Parlor at 1916 East Camelback Road in Phoenix. Located in the neighborhood of my youth, it was once the Salon de Venus, with the original structure built around 1956. A relatively anonymous building with a breeze-block grill facing Camelback, it underwent a significant renovation. Additions include a landscaped entry and an intimate patio with a fireplace. The interior exposed the wood roof framing, sandblasted masonry walls, and integrated natural wood at counters and tables.

The Parlor is known for its thin-fired pizza, linguini, and salads. The concept was to capture a “rustic, Italian eatery” and offer handmade kinds of pasta, loaves of bread, and pastries. Having consumed some of these fine dishes, it is well worth visiting.

The Genuine resides in an award-winning building initially constructed for The Arizona Bank in 1961 at 6015 North 16th Street in Phoenix. Designed by Ralph Haver Associates, the bank has a rectangular footprint rotated with the street and strikes a dramatic pose with motorists.

Left: Los Sombreros, 2023.

EIGHTY FOUR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Images Courtesy of Author

The structure is unusual as it has precast concrete tees with cantilevered ends as the roof structure, supported by a pair of concrete beams atop glazed brick walls.

Within such walls are vertical windows and colored glass inserts that provide ample interior lighting.

The bank was sold and readapted for the Vig Restaurant. The interiors respect the original building finishes and details, such as retaining the custom scalloped masonry units at the bank vault. A small exterior patio was added as an outdoor dining option. The restaurant was known for its burgers, sandwiches, and salads, and

I can attest to their quality. Recently, The Vig left, and since February 2022, The Genuine has occupied it. Their concept is new menu offerings monthly, so there is something different to enjoy.

These are just a few examples of adapting the existing building inventory for new uses and saving worthy architecture.

This approach is one of the most sustainable construction strategies by not using more natural resources to build new structures and minimizing construction waste in landfills. Each building candidate for a new use can be given a “Building Conditions Report” to understand better the benefits and

drawbacks of its potential adaptive reuse.

Many of these buildings are smaller in scale and can lead to more intimate and pleasant environments. Postino’s and Fox Restaurants are other eateries known for adaptively reusing local historic buildings.

Douglas B. Sydnor, FAIA: is Principal at Douglas Sydnor Architect + Associates, Inc. and author of three architecture books.

Above: The Parlor, 2023.

Below: The Genuine, 2023.

Bottom right: The Arizona Bank, 1961.

Image Courtesy of Alison King

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Groundbreaking Technology KX033-4

SSV75

• 24.8 Gross HP† Kubota Diesel Engine • Optional Hydraulic Angle Blade

• 74.3 Gross HP,† 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Kubota Diesel Engine

0 DOWN 0% INTEREST 36 MONTHS ON SELECT KUBOTA equipment*

$

BinghamEquipment.com BUCKEYE 710 N. 195th Ave. (623) 853-1000 PHOENIX 21828 N. 7th St. (623) 850-6000

CASA GRANDE COTTONWOOD LAKESIDE MESA PARKER 815 W. Gila Bend Hwy. 2694 S. Union Drive 5819 Hwy. 260 1655 S. Country Club Dr. 1320 Geronimo (520) 836-8700 (928) 646-5388 (928) 251-0403 (480) 969-5516 (928) 669-9271 PRESCOTT VALLEY TUCSON TUCSON YUMA 10123 AZ-69 5225 N. Casa Grande Hwy. 4350 S. Palo Verde Rd. 3214 E. Gila Ridge Rd. #1 (928) 350-4295 (520) 887-7799 (520) 316-8139 (928) 726-4701

*$0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 36 months on purchases of select new Kubota KX and SVL Series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 36 monthly payments of $27.78 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 09/30/23. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety and product information see dealer or KubotaUSA.com. † For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer and the product operator’s manual. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. K1090-24-148562-3

EIGHTY SIX

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

ASPHALT PAVING SUPPORT SERVICES IN ARIZONA

Trucking & Material Hauling We have a fleet of Super 16's ready to haul for you. On time and ready to meet your schedule for all your hauling needs!

Saw Cutting & Coring When precision and efficiency matter, turn to the professionals at Ben’s Express for coring and cutting services near you.

Asphalt Tack Spreading We understand the importance of proper application of tack coat in asphalt paving projects, and we take every precaution to ensure that the tack coat is applied evenly and with the right thickness.

Asphalt Milling Ben’s Express offers professional asphalt milling services to efficiently remove worn, damaged, or unusable layers of asphalt.

Equipment Transportation At Ben’s Express, we proudly offer reliable and efficient paving equipment transportation services ARIZCC.COM

SPECIALTY PAVING SERVICES Why do contractors trust us?

When it comes to hauling, milling, saw cutting, and equipment transportation in Arizona, enlist the help of the company that more paving contractors trust than anyone else– Ben’s Express!

02

01 EXPERIENCED CONTRACTORS The team at Ben’s Express is made up of seasoned professionals that have been in the paving industry for years.

SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT Don't make do with the equipment you have. We have a machine for nearly every application to improve your performance and efficiency.

03

04

UNMATCHED RESULTS At Ben’s Express, we deliver exceptional results 100% of the time. Your crew will be impressed by our experience and dedication.

DEPENDABILITY When we partner with fellow Arizona paving contractors, we consider ourselves part of your team. Count on us to get the job done on time and on budget.

CONTACT US INFO@BENSEXPRESS.COM

877-4-BEN-EXP

WWW.BENSEXPRESS.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

Left: Electricians bending pipe for the Henry C. Beck Company during construction of the Bank of Douglas in Downtown Phoenix, 1961.

Above: A Christmas tree atop the Guaranty Bank Building at 3550 North Central Avenue during construction, 1960.

Below: Expansion of the Phoenix Financial Center on Central Avenue, 1969.

DIGGING THROUGH THE ARCHIVES:

Polacek designed the building, which sat on land Murdock leased for 100 years from the Amber Doyle family.

Roy A. Kite Jr. oversaw operations in Arizona as Beck’s general manager of Western operations. “Roy was THE MAN,” well-established general contrac- awarded its first contract for Murdock’s Greenburg says. “His word was his word, tor moved to Phoenix in the late new $5.1 million Guaranty Bank at 3500 and he controlled everything west of the 1950s, whose work helped change North Central Avenue. Architect Charles G. Mississippi.” the commercial landscape Downtown and Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community along Central Avenue. The Henry C. Beck Company, which ceased working in Arizona decades ago, was remembered by Arthur Case, president of Low Mountain Construction, and his friend, Mike Greenberg.

“Mike, it’s Art,” Case said on an office landline phone. “I’ve got a guy in my office that publishes a magazine on old contractors; do you remember Roy Kite?”

Greenberg responded, “Of course, Roy was my mentor at the Henry C. Beck Company, but how old is the guy in your office?

That was 50 years ago!” As the two conversed, it prompted Greenberg to provide memories of the company and his short time with them.

In 1912, Henry C. Beck founded the Central Contracting Company in Houston, Texas. In 1946, the company expanded, changing its name to the Henry C. Beck Company, and it eventually opened a Phoenix branch in 1958.

Beck began a relationship with ambitious developer David Murdock, and was

MICHAEL GREENBERG’S RECOLLECTIONS OF THE HENRY C. BECK COMPANY Billy Horner

A

EIGHTY EIGHT

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

Arizona Sand & Rock Co. was subcontracted by Beck for the building’s 10,000yard excavation in January 1959. The company worked with James Bond Trucking for the shovel and hard caliche removal, according to Greenberg.

By September 1960, the foundation of the 20-story structure had started 30 feet below grade, utilizing No. 18 gauge reinforcing bars. Two months later, Beck’s crew had topped the building with a Christmas tree and colored lights. The 231-foot tower was completed in early 1961, becoming the tallest building between Fort Worth and Los Angeles.

East and west non-load bearing walls were curtained with precast stone and porcelain enamel spandrels, with the north and south walls furnished with glass and porcelain spandrels.

Murdock’s next project was a facelift and additions for the Bank of Douglas located downtown at First Avenue and Monroe Street, along with the nearby Security Building Annex. For both projects, Murdock employed Beck under Kite’s management.

In 1963, Murdock teamed with Beck to construct the Phoenix Financial Center. The south tower looked like a giant computer punch card. The 10-story tower opened in 1964, with nine additional stories completed by 1972.

“I studied architecture, graduating from ASU in 1964,” Greenberg says. “I was better at construction than architecture and took a job with national builder C.H. Leavell.” Greenberg worked around the country until deciding to return to Phoenix. “I interviewed with Roy in his office on the 15th floor of the Guaranty Building in

ARIZCC.COM

1968,” Greenberg says. “I was hired and went to work on the Phoenix Financial Center.”

“The project was already well underway, and I got there on the punch card addition and parking garage,” he says.

Greenberg recalled that Kite’s office faced directly across from the construction site.

“That poor superintendent felt Roy’s eyes on him the entire length of the project,”

Images Courtesy of Arizona Contractor & Community

Above & below: Henry C. Beck Company employees working on Valley Center, 1971.

Greenberg says. Greenberg later traveled back and forth to California as a project manager under Kite to oversee Beck’s Union Bank project in Pasadena.

While at Beck, Greenberg received his contractor’s license and left the company to start his own firm in 1970. However, he and Kite remained friends. Greenberg’s uncle loaned him $3,000 for 90 days to get started, and he landed a few small building projects.

With Beck’s crews busy on the Phoenix Financial Center, the firm didn’t start a significant Phoenix project again until 1970, when they built the First National Bank at First and Washington Streets. Its grand opening occurred in October 1971, but by then, Beck had already started constructing Arizona’s tallest skyscraper, Valley Center.

Commonly known as the Chase Tower, the 40-story building at the southeast corner of Van Buren and Central is currently vacant.

Beck later constructed two more buildings in Downtown Phoenix: The Mountain Bell building at Second Avenue and Monroe Street and a parking garage structure at First Street and Adams Street. The Henry C. Beck Company left Arizona in the mid1970s. The company moved its headquarters to California and remains a major player in construction nationwide.

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

TUC (520) 822-8333

PHX (602) 368-8797

TUCSON & PHOENIX LONG DISTANCE & LOCAL

P: 623-847-3594 F: 623-931-3693 W: newwesternrentals.com 7909 W. Glendale Ave. Glendale, AZ 85303 Operators available upon request, small jobs such as jobsite prep, grading & Cleanup Light Towers Generators Earthmoving Equipment Aerial Equipment Track-Out Shakers Water Trucks Water towers & Backflows NINETY

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

602.282.4007 Marrsconstruction.com

Utilities Private / Municipal

Earth Work / Excavation

Paving

Marrsconstruction.com ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

BID RESULTS JUN JUL 2023

SEP-OCT 1953

Nikolaus McNeil Acres Improvement Western Grade $1,066,297 7/6/23

New 1 25 Million Gallon Water Storage Tank Yuma Valley Contractors $2,634,486 7/14/23

Pavement Preservation Lakes Neighborhood Nesbitt $7,151,852 8/1/23

Wallac & Wallace, Phoenix $325,406 5 Mil of New HWY Alignment SR 69 near Humboldt

Andy Devine ADA Improvements Standard Construction Co. Inc. $1,298,236 7/6/23

Wickenburg Sycamore Creek Fann Contracting $1,820,137 7/14/23

Chip Seal Fall FY 23 24 Cactus Asphalt $2,065,692 8/3/23

Fisher Contracting, Phoenix $370,778 4 Mil of New Construction US 66 in Winslow

Heber Holbrook Forest Service Cactus Asphalt $1,699,955 7/7/23

Indian Bend Wash Path Chaparral Road Achen Gardner Construction $3,954,954 7/18/23

Overlay Fall FY 23 24 Asphalt Paving & Supply $1,486,857 8/3/23

Davis & Davis, Phoenix $18,448 10 Mil of New HWY Fence Near Show Low

Industrial Park Dr Pavement Replacement KE&G Construction $1,321,469 7/7/23

La Castellana Dr Water Main Replacement Hunter Contracting Co. $1,081,507 7/20/23

Garden Western Sewer Roadway CLM Earthmovers $1,480,248 8/3/23

Martin Construction, Tucson $153,485 3 Concrete Slab Bridges SR 84 West of Casa Grande

Avenue 5E Water Sewer 37th St 40th St DPE Construction Don Peterson Engineers $2,310,000 7/11/23

Western Ave Water Main Replacement Innova Environmental Engineering $2,898,458 7/20/23

Bowie Safford SR 266 Sunland Asphalt $7,993,933 8/4/23

Arizona Sand & Rock Co., Phoenix $433,846 4.4 Mil of New HWY Construction Grand Canal and 25th Ave

Wickenburg Airport Reconstruct Apron Desert Services International $1,700,000 7/11/23

Payson SR 87 Clints Well FNF Construction $5,572,043 7/21/23

Chui ChuCockleburr Water System Intertie Granite Construction $2,909,769 8/4/23

W.J. Henson, Prescott $280,723 5 Mil of New Alignment US 60-70 Near Quartzite

University Dr Higley Rd Power Rd AJP Electric $3,717,460 7/13/23

Kingman Wickenburg Gunsite FNF Construction $4,303,624 7/21/23

Sand Volleyball Courts The BLVD Chasse Building Team $2,406,686 8/7/23

Royden Construction, Phoenix $27,674 1.25 Mil of Road Construction US 666 and SR 75

Maricopa Road SR 347 Combs Construction Co. $5,615,683 7/14/23

Bike Pedestrian ASU Research Park Bridge Low Mountain Pro Low $6,718,952 7/25/23

Home Depot Rita Ranch Tucson Robinson Construction Co $17,000,000 8/8/23

Pioneer Constructors, Tucson $57,158 1 Mil of Road Construction US 70 in Duncan

Pavement Maintenance Projects 2023 2024 VSS International $3,700,000 7/14/23

Mulberry WWTP Kinney Construction Services $1,297,964 7/26/23

Palo Verde Boulevard Pavement Pioneer Earthmovers Inc $1,462,816 8/9/23

Vinnell Construction, Phoenix $114,881 7 Mil of Bituminous Surfacing US 66 East of Flagstaff

GIFT A SUBSCRIPTION & PUT A SMILE ON SOMEONE’S FACE

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT ARIZCC.COM/SUBSCRIBE NINETY TWO

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

&3 CAT CAT

328DL L CR 321DL CR

73,000 lb 54,000 lb

Options: Thumb, Hammer, Wheel

CAT CAT

631E 627K

34 yd 24 yd

Trimble-GPS available for certain models

ARIZCC.COM

ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX PLEASE PATRONIZE OUR ADVERTISERS, THEY MAKE THIS PUBLICATION POSSIBLE! A to Z Rentals 480-558-0063 a-zequipment.com

P. 83

DitchWitch 602-437-0351 ditchwitchwest.com

P. 18

Lang & Klain 480-534-4900 lang-klain.com

P. 17

Solterra Materials 602-531-0454 solterramaterials.com

P. 82

Air and Hose Source 602-795-0606 airandhosesource.com

P. 36

Dynamic Diesel 602-376-1448 dynamicdieselrepair.com

P. 15

Marrs Construction 602-282-4007 marrsconstruction.com

P. 91

Sonsray Machinery 844-sonsray sonsraymachinery.com

P. 22

Arizona Desert Sweeping P. 10 480-279-4433 arizonadesertsweepingbrooms.com

E&E Companies 480-251-8929

P. 34

MDI Rock 602-569-8722 mdirock.com

P. 34

Southwest Asphalt 480-730-1033 fisherind.com

P. 14

Arizona Materials 602-278-4444 arizonamaterials.com

P. 8

Earnhardt 480-926-4000 nobullfleet.com

P. 38

Metro Engineering & Survey 623-466-6640 metroaz.net

P. 40

Specialty Companies Group 623-582-2385 specialtycompaniesgroup.com

P. 11

Asphalt Busters 623-936-8800 asphaltbusters.com

P. 83

ECCO Equipment 602-276-2040 eccoequipment.com

P. 46

Metro Traffic Control 623-879-0610 metrotrafficcontrol.net

P. 15

Statewide T&T 602-368-8797

P. 90

Baja Ready Mix 602-503-9391 readymixconcreteaz.com

P. 7

EES 480-809-4687 emergencyenv.com

P. 6

NCS 928-567-6585 networxcs.com

P. 24

STS Materials 602-586-5909 stsmaterials.com

P. 20

Ben’s Express 877-4-BEN-EXP bensexpress.com

P. 87

Eagle Iron Works 480-730-1212 eagleironworks.com

P. 17

NECA 602-263-0111 azneca.org

P. 26

Sunland Asphalt 602-323-2800 sunlandasphalt.com

P. 15

BidJudge 602-456-BIDZ bidjudge.com

P. 42

Elite Sports 602-899-9200 elitesportsbuilders.com

P. 7

New West Oil 602-759-5559 newwestoil.com

P. 53

Sunstate Equipment 888-456-4560 sunstateequip.com

P. 71

Bingham 623-850-6000 binghamequipment.com

P. 86

Empire Sales Center 520-582-2050 empirecat.com/eloy

P. 42

New Western Rentals 623-847-3594 newwesternrentals.com

P. 90

Superstition Trailers 602-415-0222 stlaz.com

P. 74

Blueline Grizzly 928-308-1901 bluelinerockgrizzly.com

P. 75

Fisher’s Tools 800-390-4063 fishertools.com

P. 42

Otto Trucking 480-641-3500 ottotrucking.com

P. 12

Trench-Ade 833-384-1176 trench-ade.com

P. IBC

Branco Machinery 480-892-5657 brancomachinery.com

P. IFC

Forrest Rents 602-620-2383 forrestequipmentrentals.com

P. 78

Pacwest Rentals 480-832-0855 pacwesttrading.com

P. 59

TSR 602-253-3311 tsraz.com

P. 36

Buesing Corp 602-233-3339 buesingcorp.com

P. 4

GenTech 800-625-8324 gentechusa.com

P. 8

Powerscreen 602-772-1419 powerscreenwestern.com

P. 32

Vermeer Mountain West 480-785-4800 vermeermountainwest.com

P. 40

CalPortland 602-817-6929 calportland.com

P. 10

GoodFellow 623-594-5401 goodfellowcorp.com

P. 78

Preach Building Supply 602-944-4594 preachbuildingsupply.com

P. 67

Westroc 480-550-1815

P. 32

CAMS 602-331-5455 cams-az.com

P. 28

Greer Aftermarket Parts 602-541-0554 602-541-5971

P. 32

Reliable Portable Bathrooms 602-601-2222 reliableportablebathrooms.com

P. 9

WillScot 800-782-1500 willscot.com

P. 44

Castle Hot Springs 844-276-8052 castlehotsprings.com

P. 34

Herc Rentals 602-269-5931 hercrentals.com

P. 24

Reuter Fabrication 602-415-0449 reuterequipment.com

P. 13

Woudenberg Properties 480-620-8555 woudenbergprops.com

P. 3

CED 602-437-4200 cedphx.com

P. 13

Insearch Corp 480-940-0100 insearchcorp.com

P. 67

RT Underground 602-622-6789

P. 40

WSM 623-936-3300 wsmauctioneers.com

P. 5

Cemex 602-416-2652 cemexusa.com

P. 28

Insurica 602-273-1625 insurica.com

P. 86

S&S Paving 602-437-0818 sspaving.com

P. 44

Wyman 480-695-4636 wymanexcavating.com

P. 46

Cliffco 602-442-6913 cliffcorepair.com

P. 3

JS Cole 602-633-0990 jscole.com

P. 93, BC

Salt River Materials Group 480-850-5757 srmaterials.com

P. 63

Curry Fluid Power 602-661-6596 curryfluidpower.com

P. 7

KE&G 520-748-0188 kegtus.com

P. 11

Shanes Grading & Paving 602-992-2201 shanespaving.com

P. 24

Custom Truck 602-527-4088 customtruck.com

P. 79

Keystone Concrete 480-835-1579 keystoneconcretellc.com

P. 32

Shanes Hauling 602-992-2201 shanespaving.com

P. 26

DCS 480-732-9238 dcscontracting.com

P. 13

Korfab 602-309-2009 korfab.us

P. 75

Sharp Creek Contracting 602-437-3040 sharpcreek.com

P. 30

Diamondback Materials 623-925-8966 diamonondbackmaterials.com

P.13

Landco Power 480-788-1333 landcorental.com

P. 40

Sitech Southwest 602-691-7501 sitechsw.com

P. 74

NINETY FOUR

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT BILLY HORNER 602-931-0069 BILLY@ARIZCC.COM

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2023

HIRING ALL POSITIONS

Aluminum Hydraulic Shoring | Aluminum Hydraulic Multi-Shores | Aluminum Build-A-Box | Steel Framed Aluminum Shields Aluminum End Shores | Trench Shields | Manhole Boxes | Trench Box Accessories | Steel Crossing Plates | Concrete Barrier Wall Blowers and Sifter Screens | Confined Space and Pipe Testing Equipment | Crane Truck or Flatbed Delivery Available

LEADING THE WAY IN TRENCH SAFETY, SERVICE, AND TRAINING ARIZCC.COM

Phoenix, Tucson and Prescott

trench-ade.com

(833) 384-1176 ARIZONA CONTRACTOR & COMMUNITY

PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Permit #1662 Phoenix, AZ