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CONTENTS 2025 Compact Equipment
Rooted in the Field - Luis Huerta, Inc. Builds a Legacy with John Deere and Coastline Equipment
Preparedness with Purpose: The Story Behind Red Mountain Land Management
Moving Earth and Demolishing Structures with Purpose: Davcas, Inc.’s Commitment to Cleanup and Community
PUBLISHER: Kerry Hoover khoover@calcontractor.com
EDITOR: Brian Hoover, Senior Editor
Aldo Myftari
GRAPHIC
Dave Villafañe
Gerald De Guzman
Tutor Perini Completes LA’s Purple Line Phase 2 Project With Support From Trench Shoring Company
Quinn Rental Services Expands Service Area with New Locations in San Juan Capistrano and Carson
Coastline
to
Rooted in the Field
Luis Huerta, Inc. Builds a Legacy with John Deere and Coastline Equipment
By Brian Hoover / Photos provided by Luis Huerta, Inc.
For Luis Huerta, success has always been grounded in his love for working outdoors.
“I never liked being indoors,” said Huerta, owner and CEO of a thriving landscaping and hardscaping company based in Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley. “I enjoy being out in the field, getting my hands dirty and seeing the transformation happen in real time.”
Huerta’s journey began in 2003 when he started his business as a sole proprietor. He officially incorporated a few years later and hasn’t looked back since. Before launching his own operation, he worked for Design Associates in Santa Barbara under an architect who sparked his passion for landscape design. That early exposure laid the foundation for
what has become a full-service landscape and hardscape company with 30 employees and a steady stream of residential development work.
FROM PLANTING TO PATHWAYS
In the beginning, Huerta took on smaller jobs, mostly irrigation and planting. Today, his company tackles complex projects that include everything from tree
Above: Huerta crew member uses a John Deere 310SG backhoe to complete palm tree planting.
Luis Huerta, owner (left), with Luis Huerta, Jr. and Lydia Huerta.
Above: Luis Huerta, Jr. gives a thumbs up while showcasing their new John Deere 333 P-Tier compact track loader.
installation and trenching to masonry and drainage systems.
“We still do all the planting and irrigation,” he said. “But now we also install drainage systems for when it rains, build retaining walls and pathways, and do all types of masonry work.”
One of Huerta’s most extensive ongoing projects is located on an avocado ranch in Carpinteria, where he’s assisting a general contractor with the development of three homes. His role includes trenching for utilities, building pathways, creating access roads, handling drainage, and completing both the landscaping and hardscaping.
“I first worked on this ranch back in 2006,” he said. “They brought me back when they started building the next phase. That tells me we did something right.”
Huerta said he’s been on the current phase of the project for about two years and expects another two to three years of work ahead.
POWERED BY JOHN DEERE
To keep up with the demands of large-scale residential work, Huerta relies heavily on compact construction equipment, specifically, John Deere machines purchased through Coastline Equipment.
“I have four compact excavators and four compact track loaders, all John Deere,” he said. “I also have two John Deere Gators that I use for getting around the jobsite.”
His most recent purchases include a 2024 John Deere 60 P-Tier compact excavator and two new compact track loaders, a 333 and a 325, both acquired earlier this year.
Huerta uses the 60 P-Tier for trenching and digging around trees or through rocky soil. “It’s powerful enough to handle tough ground,” he said. “It works great for long drainage trenches too.”
The skid steers, he said, are essential for hauling materials. “We use them to move gravel, decomposed granite, planter mix, even trees when they get delivered.
The forks help us move those around without damaging them.”
WHY JOHN DEERE?
Huerta originally started out using whatever used equipment he could find, regardless of brand. “I’d buy anything that was cheap,” he said. “But that also meant constant breakdowns, oil leaks, and delays.”
He knew he needed more reliable equipment. A friend recommended Coastline Equipment, and in 2014, Huerta reached out to Coastline’s Albert Fernandez.
“The 0% financing got my attention, but it was Albert’s customer service that really sold me,” Huerta said. “He always answers when I call, and if he’s busy, he texts me right back. That means a lot.”
Huerta also had previous experience with John Deere equipment while working for other companies. “I knew I could trust the brand,” he said.
Below and Right: Huerta team members use a John Deere 60 P-Tier compact excavator for drainage excavation and trenching. Their John Deere 333 P-Tier CTL plays a vital role in moving and hauling materials on the jobsite.
FAMILY BUSINESS AT HEART
Huerta’s company is more than just a business it’s a family affair. His wife, Lydia, manages the books and administrative duties. “My wife takes care of everything in the office and she does it well,” says Huerta. “There is a lot to keeping a company like ours going, including bookkeeping, payroll and all of the changes in laws and regulations.”
Huerta’s 21-year-old son, Luis Jr., recently joined the company full-time after finishing college. “He actually started learning how to run equipment when he was 12,” Huerta said proudly. Even his two stepsons, Carlos and Jose, are involved. They handle power washing and general equipment cleanup on jobsites and around the yard.
STAYING BUSY AND PLANNING AHEAD
Business is steady, and Huerta is eyeing future John Deere purchases and plans to continue working with Coastline Equipment for all his equipment needs.
“We are busy and I’ll probably need to hire more operators soon,
as well as adding a few more John Deere skid steers,” says Huerta. “The quality of the machines and the support from Albert and the Coastline team have made a huge difference. When you’re working on high-end properties, the last thing you want is equipment failure. If you spill oil on a driveway in Montecito, you’re paying for it.”
INVESTING IN RELIABILITY
For Huerta, having dependable equipment isn’t just a convenience, it’s critical to his bottom line.
“I rely on compact equipment every day,” he said. “When I was using older machines, I’d lose time and money on repairs. With John Deere, I don’t have to worry.”
That reliability, combined with strong customer service and financing options, is why Huerta remains loyal to both John Deere and Coastline Equipment.
“I’ve built my business with these machines,” he said. “And I plan to keep growing with them.”
With a steadfast commitment to excellence and sustainability, Luis Huerta Inc. continues to transform outdoor spaces into vibrant, functional extensions of the home. Their detailed craftsmanship, thoughtful plant selections, and custom hardscape solutions beautifully capture the harmony between local influence and artistic innovation. Whether enhancing curb appeal, creating inviting outdoor living areas, or implementing water-conscious irrigation systems, Luis Huerta Inc. remains the trusted choice for landscaping that elevates both beauty and functionality. For more information, please visit www.luishuertainc.com or call their Santa Barbara headquarters at (805) 331-3808. Cc
Above: Huerta employees operate their John Deere 17G and 26G compact excavators to dig through rocky hillside soil along California’s Central Coast.
Right: The new John Deere 333 P-Tier compact track loader hauls and places gravel on the jobsite with ease.
By Brian
When Michael Fila and Connor Decuir decided to launch Red Mountain Land Management in January 2022, they combined their expertise, passion, and a clear vision to tackle wildland fire mitigation, grading, and land management throughout Southern California. Their journey is one marked by resilience, strategic decisionmaking, and dedication to quality service.
Michael Fila is the company's President and one of its founders. Growing up in New York, he was a Fire Explorer with Brewster Southeast Fire Department, an experience that sparked his early interest in emergency services. After serving in the Marine Corps as a military police officer, he transitioned into a civilian role as a dispatcher at Camp Pendleton. Fila's background as a Fire Explorer, MP, and dispatcher gave him deep insight and meaningful connections within the first responder community. His passion for photography eventually led him to document firefighting efforts, where he crossed paths with Connor Decuir.
Connor Decuir, vice president and co-founder of Red Mountain Land Management, brings a wealth
PREPAREDNESS WITH PURPOSE: The Story Behind Red Mountain Land Management
Red Mountain isn’t just a business — it’s our commitment to the land, our clients, and the future.” – Connor Decuir, VP and Co-Founder of Red Mountain Land Management
of experience from the trucking, grading, and contract firefighting industries. His knowledge of heavy equipment and its applications in earth-moving and wildfire mitigation has been instrumental to the company’s success.
Beginning in 2018, Connor and Michael began to recognize the increasing need for a more aggressive and enhanced approach to land management. After spending nearly two months working on the Dixie Fire in 2021,
Hoover / Photos provided by Red Mountain Land Management
Above: Michael Fila (left) and Connor Decuir, Red Mountain Land Management, standing in front of their Cat 259D3 Compact Track Loader purchased from Hawthorne Cat.
it became apparent to both men that traditional mitigation methods were no longer sufficient. They believed homeowners needed to take proactive steps to protect their properties before disaster struck. This belief laid the foundation for the launch of Red Mountain Land Management.
Fila’s role as president and CEO leverages his broad public service experience. His comprehensive background includes volunteer firefighting and military police work, roles that shaped his understanding of emergency response and discipline. Although his career path was altered by a medical diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, it opened doors to new pursuits. He remains actively engaged in the company’s operations, overseeing logistics, managing contracts, and coordinating equipment
maintenance. Despite health challenges, he has channeled his efforts into ensuring Red Mountain's growth and reputation.
Decuir, meanwhile, had built his career through hands-on experience operating heavy machinery. He held key roles in Temecula wine country, constructing vineyards, wineries, and custom house pads, and he participated in fire response operations across California and New Mexico. Working with firms such as Nilson Development, Harper Construction, and Perrault Corporation, he gained valuable field experience that laid the groundwork for his leadership role at Red Mountain.
Initially, both men maintained full-time jobs while developing their business on nights and weekends. Fila continued at Camp
Pendleton, and Decuir remained employed by a grading company. Their early projects were modest, driveway repairs, light grading, and brush clearing, but their ambition was anything but small.
“We started by borrowing equipment from friends and family, fixing it as payment, and taking small jobs wherever we could,” Fila explained. “We wanted to build our reputation slowly but steadily, based on trust and quality.”
Their journey took a major turn when Fila sold his condo in 2022, using the proceeds to help fund the company’s expansion. He earned his Class A license through the GI Bill, enabling them to haul equipment legally and bid on larger, more profitable projects. With this new capability, they transitioned from weekend jobs to full-time operations.
Above & Top Right: Red Mountain Land Management's Cat D6R Crawler Dozer on a fire in Ramona.
Middle & Bottom Right: Red Mountain Land Management's Cat D6K Crawler Dozer on the Dixie Fire.
A major milestone in the company’s growth came with the purchase of a Cat® 259D3 Compact Track Loader from Hawthorne Cat. Prompted by an extended project in Del Mar, the decision to buy instead of rent proved financially sound. “The payment on a new Cat machine was significantly lower than rental costs, and the timing was right,” continues Fila. “Matt Higgins (Hawthorne Cat’s Machine Sales Representative) is great, he puts up with all my questions, and last-minute requests. I’ll text him about a grapple or a rock bucket, and he always comes through. Even though we’re a small company, Hawthorne treats us like we’re their biggest customer. Everyone there has been exceptional.
That kind of support makes it easy to stay loyal.”
Red Mountain now owns and leases a range of heavy equipment to serve its Cal Fire and U.S. Forest Service contracts, including two Cat D6 dozers and a Cat 325 Medium Excavator with a masticator head. The company supports active fire suppression, emergency coverage, and proactive land management across California and beyond.
“We fill critical operational gaps,” Fila said. “Recently, our dozers provided backup for Cal Fire during the Dale Fire near Anza, freeing up state resources for frontline firefighting.”
Red Mountain’s services extend far beyond fire mitigation. From
demolition and excavation to road building and land clearing, the company’s capabilities are broad. One of their most complex projects involved a two-month demolition job at Camp Pendleton that included structure removal, flat work, and debris sorting.
Their success is rooted in consistent quality, integrity, and word-of-mouth referrals. “When we show up, we aim to exceed expectations,” Decuir said. “We build trust with every project.”
Looking ahead, the partners envision slow, sustainable growth. A Cat 306 Mini Excavator is likely their next purchase, and their long-term plan involves building a small, high-performance team { Continued on page 14 }
Top Left: Cat 259D3 Compact Track Loader w/ Cat GB124 Smart Grader Blade attachment and lasers.
Top Right: Cat 259D3 Compact Track Loader performing brush clearing in Pala Mesa.
Above Left & Right: Red Mountain Land Management utilizing their Cat D6K and D6R Crawler Dozers on Dixie Fire.
of four. This will help maintain quality while allowing for personal balance and scalability.
“Right now, it's just the two of us with occasional support,” Decuir noted. “Eventually, we want to bring in trusted operators who share our values.”
Their company name and logo pay homage to Fallbrook’s iconic Red Mountain, once home to a fire lookout station. “The lookout represents vigilance and preparedness,” Fila said. “It perfectly fits our mission.”
improvements and grading to commercial site prep and utility work. By branding themselves as a "land management" firm, they avoid the limitations of narrow industry labels.
“We didn’t want to be known as just a grading or forestry company,” Decuir explained. “We handle all aspects of land development, management, and wildfire mitigation.”
community-first mindset, Decuir and Fila are not only growing a successful business but also providing an invaluable service to the region.
For more information on Red Mountain Land Management, please visit www.redmtnland.com or call Mike at (845) 612-1309 and Connor at (760) 468-9995. Cc { Continued from page 12 }
Today, Red Mountain Land Management handles a wide array of jobs, from residential drainage
Red Mountain’s future is built on the lessons of the past, from the frontline experiences of the Dixie Fire to the realization that communities must be proactive in their defense against wildfire. With dedication, technical skill, and a
"From fires to grading to comprehensive land management, we genuinely love our work," Fila concluded. "Red Mountain isn't just our business; it's our commitment to the community, the environment, and a purposeful way of life."
Above & Top Right: Red Mountain Land Management's Cat 325 Medium Excavator on the Park Fire.
Right: Red Mountain Land Management's Cat 325 Medium Excavator on the Grove Fire.
rich@redhaulexp.com www.redhaulexp.com
By
Founded in 1994, Davcas, Inc. has grown from a modest cleanup and hauling operation into one of Southern California’s trusted names in demolition, deconstruction, grading, and excavation. With a recently launched sister company, Davcas Engineering, Inc., the company is now positioned to take on largerscale infrastructure and public works projects.
At the center of the company’s day-to-day operations is Josue Davila, office manager and the
next generation of leadership within the family-owned business.
“Officially, I started eight years ago,” said Davila. “But I’ve been involved my entire life. It’s a family business, and I grew up around it.”
BUILDING A LEGACY
The roots of Davcas, Inc. trace back to founder Francisco Davila, who started the company alongside his brother Leonardo after learning the trades under their father, Fernando. Initially focused on cleanup and debris hauling, the
business evolved into a full-service demolition firm. By 2008, the company incorporated under its current name, and Leonardo branched off to launch his own company.
Francisco remained at the helm until earlier this year, when he stepped back from daily operations. Today, Josue manages the office while working closely with two key team members, Diego Suarez, head of marketing and estimates, and Manuel Castillo, who oversees day-to-day field operations.
Brian Hoover / Photos provided by Davcas Inc.
Left: Davcas Inc. crew member operates a Cat 325 excavator to perform demolition cleanup, efficiently clearing debris from the site.
Moving Earth and Demolishing Structures with Purpose: Davcas, Inc.’s Commitment to Cleanup and Community
DEMOLITION, GRADING AND BEYOND
Davcas, Inc. specializes in complete and selective demolition for both residential and commercial clients. The company has also steadily expanded its grading and excavation services.
“Our bread and butter is demolition, but we’ve been doing grading and excavation for a while,” said Davila. “Now we’re really leaning into that side of the business.”
From Oxnard to San Diego, and as far east as Riverside, Davcas, Inc. serves a wide swath of Southern California. The team handles everything from foundation removals and trenching to utility prep and final grading with precise elevation settings.
A GROWING FLEET OF COMPACT EQUIPMENT
To meet the demands of their varied projects, Davcas, Inc. relies heavily on compact and mid-size heavy equipment. The company currently owns eight machines, including compact track loaders and excavators.
The latest additions to their fleet are three Caterpillar machines acquired through Quinn Company Cat. These additions include a Cat 255 and a 249 compact track loader, and a Cat 308 compact excavator, all 2025 models.
“We use a combination of large and compact machines,” Davila explained. “The big excavators
handle structure tear-downs, while the compact equipment helps crush debris, load trucks, and perform detailed grading work.”
The compact equipment also plays a key role in breaking up concrete and assisting in the final phases of cleanup. While larger excavators, ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 pounds, are rented as needed, the smaller machines have become indispensable to their operations.
WHY CATERPILLAR?
When asked why the company recently chose Caterpillar for its new equipment, Davila emphasized reliability and logistics.
“We wanted to go with an American company. It just makes repairs and parts availability so much easier,” he said. “Waiting for components from overseas slows
everything down. With Cat, repairs and maintenance are quicker and more efficient.”
Davila also spoke highly of Quinn Company Cat and their sales representative, Froy Araujo. “Froy has been great, very attentive. Quinn Company Cat even offered operator training on all three of our new machines, which was a huge help to our operators out on the jobsites.”
ON THE FRONT LINES OF WILDFIRE RECOVERY
While demolition projects are routine for Davcas, Inc., one of the company’s most impactful efforts involved helping Southern California communities recover from devastating wildfires.
Following the destructive fires in Pacific Palisades and Eaton, the company took on more than
Left: Diego Suarez (left), Manuel Castillo, Francisco Davila and Josue Davila, Davcas, Inc.
30 cleanup projects, working directly with homeowners and contractors.
“It was a whole new process with safety and procedures in a hazardous area,” said Davila. “We bought the new Cat machines specifically to help with that cleanup effort and speed up recovery.”
The work involved clearing lots, demolishing damaged foundations, and backfilling swimming pools, followed by rough and final grading to prepare sites for rebuilding.
“Our goal is to help these neighborhoods get back on their feet as quickly as possible,” he added.
LAUNCHING DAVCAS ENGINEERING, INC.
As the company looked toward larger and more complex public works and infrastructure projects, the team decided it was time to expand into new areas of interest and additional licensing.
In 2024, Davcas Engineering was formed as a separate but affiliated entity, owned by Josue Davila. The new company holds a general engineering (A), general building (B), and hazardous materials contractor license, opening the door for future work in shoring, drilling, utility infrastructure, and city-level concrete construction.
Left: Cat 325 excavator tears into a residential structure in Santa Monica, efficiently handling demolition duties with precision and power.
Below: Cat 255 compact track loader carefully loads debris into a waiting truck for transport off-site, streamlining cleanup and keeping the job moving efficiently.
“The long-term plan is for Davcas Engineering to act as the prime contractor on projects, with Davcas, Inc. serving as a subcontractor for demolition, grading, or excavation work.”
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Davila envisions steady, strategic growth for both companies. Plans include hiring additional personnel, expanding the equipment fleet, and deepening their footprint in largescale excavation and grading.
“We’re especially focused on helping with rebuilding efforts in wildfire-impacted areas like the Palisades and Eaton,” Davila said. “That’s where we feel we can make a real difference as California continues to struggle with emergency events annually.”
With 10 operators and 40 employees, Davcas, Inc. remains a tight-knit yet capable team. The company’s home base is located in Jurupa Valley, Riverside County, positioning it well for access to both inland and coastal project sites.
FAMILY VALUES MEET PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
For Davila, the balance of tradition, innovation, and genuine care and concern is at the heart of what makes the company special.
{ Continued on page 22 }
Own Less, Make More
Sunbelt Rentals is now a proud Trimble Rental Partner
“We’re a small family business, but we operate with professional standards. We care about quality, safety, and delivering results, not just because it’s our reputation, but because we’re part of the communities we serve,” says Davila.
salvaged as much as possible to donate to The ReUse People of America, rather than being completely trashed and sent to a landfill or recycling center.
For more information on Davcas, Inc. and Davcas Engineering, please visit www.davcas.com or call their Jurupa Valley offices at (951) 934-3760. Cc { Continued from page 20 }
Davcas, Inc. is the Southern California regional representative for “Deconstruction,” a lesserknown process that is being encouraged, in which a home is
“We are also currently partnered with The ReUse People of America, to do our part to reduce the solid waste stream and help change the way a built environment is renewed by salvaging materials and making them available for reuse,” continues Davila.
As Davcas, Inc. continues to evolve and Davcas Engineering takes root, the company is poised to remain a leader in Southern California’s construction and demolition sector, one project, one neighborhood, and one rebuild at a time.
From teardown to cleanup, Davcas Inc.’s powerful fleet stands out on job sites, delivering precision, performance, and reliability every step of the way.
Small Machines, Big Impact Compact Construction Equipment in California
By Brian Hoover
From the congested corridors of Los Angeles to the rolling vineyards of Napa, compact construction equipment is reshaping how California contractors get the job done. These machines, mini excavators, compact track loaders, skid steers, and beyond, have evolved from niche tools into essential jobsite performers across nearly every sector of the Golden State’s economy.
Driven by California’s strict emissions regulations, increasingly dense urban environments, and a booming demand for infrastructure upgrades, compact machines are not only surviving, they’re thriving.
BUILT FOR CALIFORNIA’S TIGHTEST SPACES
As California cities grow vertically and public infrastructure projects move closer to residential and commercial areas, working room is at a premium. Compact machines excel where larger equipment can't go.
Tight quarters, traffic control constraints, and jobsite noise ordinances make compact machines the obvious choice. And it's not just the big cities—contractors in smaller towns like Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara are using compact equipment to handle backyard grading, utility installation, and emergency cleanup after mudslides or wildfires.
CALIFORNIA’S PUSH TOWARD ELECTRIC
No state has embraced emissions regulations quite like California. With the California Air Resources Board (CARB) continuing to implement new rules for off-road diesel equipment, the demand for electric compact equipment is rising fast.
Major OEMs like Bobcat, Takeuchi, Volvo, and Komatsu are responding with battery-powered models specifically designed for urban and indoor environments. These units are now working on everything from Caltrans highway jobs to school modernization
projects and even seismic retrofits in historic downtowns.
Beyond compliance, there’s a performance story to tell. This includes quieter operation, reduced maintenance, and instant torque make electric machines increasingly attractive, particularly on night shifts and hospitaladjacent sites.
VERSATILITY FOR CALIFORNIA’S DIVERSE TERRAIN
From desert landscapes in Palm Springs to coastal bluff communities in San Diego, no two California jobsites are alike. Compact machines, with their wide range of attachments and application flexibility, offer an ideal solution for the state’s topographical and environmental variability.
Landscape contractors, solar installers, and general contractors alike are embracing the “Swiss Army knife” capabilities of compact equipment. Hydraulic thumbs, grapples, trenchers, post-pounders, and laser-guided
Above: John Deere recently debuted five new P-Tier Skid Steer Loaders and Compact Track Loaders.
Above: Case T100 Mini Track Loader offers more than 40 attachments to get your jobs done faster.
Above: Cat Mini Excavators are packed with industry-first features, and productivity-boosting technology.
TOP TRENDS IN COMPACT CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
Electrification: More OEMs are offering electric mini excavators, loaders, and skid steers for low-noise, low-emission jobsites.
Attachment Expansion: From mowers to breakers to concrete mixers, the right attachment can expand a compact machine’s value dramatically.
grading boxes are just a few of the tools that are helping compact machines punch above their weight class.
SMART TECH COMES TO THE JOBSITE
California’s skilled labor shortage has been well documented, and anything that boosts operator productivity is getting attention. That’s why the infusion of smart technology into compact machines is such a game-changer.
Newer models are now equipped with user-friendly digital interfaces, multiple work modes, load-sensing hydraulics, and even semiautonomous features like grade assist or return-to-dig.
Telematics is also becoming standard, even in compact fleets. California contractors are using GPS and machine data not just for theft prevention and logistics, but to track idle time, monitor fuel consumption, and schedule proactive maintenance.
CALIFORNIA’S HOT RENTAL MARKET
With the rising cost of ownership, California’s rental market, especially for compact equipment, is booming. According to rental companies from Redding to Riverside, demand is highest for Tier 4 Final and electric compact
machines, as well as specialized attachments.
Rentals give contractors the flexibility to scale with projects, avoid capital expenditures, and ensure they’re always using compliant, well-maintained equipment. It’s also a key strategy for small and mid-size businesses who need premium equipment without the long-term burden.
LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD
Compact construction equipment is helping to level the playing field for new and small contractors across California. With lower acquisition costs, easier transport and user-friendly controls, these machines empower smaller firms to compete for bigger jobs.
This accessibility is critical in a state that is increasingly supporting small, diverse, and disadvantaged businesses through local contracting opportunities. With the right compact equipment, these businesses can bid on Caltrans projects, PG&E fire mitigation contracts, and local city improvement jobs with confidence.
LOOKING AHEAD: MORE THAN JUST SMALL MACHINES
As California continues to invest in infrastructure, green energy, wildfire prevention, and
Urban Adaptability: Compact machines are ideal for tight spaces, low-clearance areas, and sensitive environments.
Technology Integration: Telematics, grade assist, lift assist, and customizable operating modes are now standard in many compact machines.
Rental Demand: Rental companies are rapidly expanding their compact fleets to meet growing demand, particularly for specialty units. Entry-Level Friendly: Compact machines offer a lower barrier to entry for small business owners and newer contractors.
affordable housing, the demand for compact construction equipment will only grow. The machines themselves are evolving faster, cleaner, smarter, and more powerful. But it’s their adaptability to California’s diverse challenges that will continue to make them indispensable.
From zero-emissions construction zones in downtown L.A. to wildland fire corridors in the Sierra foothills, compact equipment is no longer a sideline player. In California, it’s leading the charge. Cc
Above Left: Kubota Compact Excavators are manufactured to allow the operator to tackle any job, big or small with high productivity and comfort.
Above Right: Volvo offers one of the industry’s largest lineups of electric compact and full-size equipment.
Tutor Perini Completes LA’s Purple Line Phase 2 Project With Support From Trench Shoring Company
A
complex, multi-faceted project to extend Phase 2 of the Purple line LA Metro Expansion was completed two days ahead of an aggressive 21- day target date set in April, due to an all-hands-on-deck effort between Trench Shoring Company (TSC) and the project contractor, Tutor Perini (TPOG). Although Tutor Perini had initially received approval for a 21-day closure, the 24-hour, 7 days/week schedule made the 19-day completion possible with zero recordables or lost time incidents.
The Wilshire/Rodeo Road Station is constructed under the footprint of Willshire Blvd., a main thoroughfare through downtown Los Angeles. The project necessitated closure of a busy four- block stretch of Wilshire, between El Camino and Crescent Drives, and involved deck removal and restoration, as well as moving and restoring water and utility lines.
In order to support and maintain the high traffic patterns during construction, a temporary decking system was built to span the Support of Excavation on the width of Wilshire Blvd. This was accomplished with precast concrete panels which were placed to span deck beam to deck beam, thus providing a safe driving surface for traffic while excavation and construction of the station went on below the surface.
Once the station roof was complete, backfill of the station began, simultaneously with utility restoration. When backfill reached the height of the temporary decking system, full closure of
Wilshire allowed for removal of the temporary decking, completion of utilities and roadway restoration.
This was a monumental effort involving removal of 90-72 foot. long deck beams, over 500 concrete mats, and 49 Capbeam/ wales, then import 15,000 CY of backfill, place and compact 7000T of crushed aggregate base and place 3500 Tons of asphalt.
To minimize the work inside of the closure window, Tutor Perini removed the slurry backfill, tagging and prepping miscellaneous structural elements for removal ahead of the closure.
Trench Shoring Company supported TPOG throughout the project, delivering roughly 1500LF of speed shores and street plates to provide an 8-foot- deep excavation around the station. This created access to the deck beam
ends ahead of the closure. During the closure TSC provided a series of 10-foot-wide shields to protect the Tutor Perini craftsmen from removing the bearing seat (cap beam) for the temporary decking system and the soldier piles. Equally important, TSC equipment deliveries took place on a 24-hour and weekend delivery schedule to keep the project moving.
Both companies agree that a large part of the success of this project was the countless hours of planning spent ahead of the work, including buy-in and responsiveness from both subcontractors and suppliers as well as Trench Shoring Company’s support throughout the closure, delivering and picking up speed shores, trench plates, constructing and dismantling shields. This relationship speaks
Aerial view of cap beam removal, backfill and utility installation at Wilshire Blvd. & Beverly Dr. Inset Photo: Final paving.
Trench Shoring Company shield installation for cap beam and pile removal.
to Trench Shoring Company’s commitment to both responsiveness and safety in the field.
This construction project was yet another phase of the $10 billion D (Purple) Line Subway Extension project which has been underway since 2014. Once completed, this section of the LA Metro expansion will connect downtown LA to West LA. In 25 minutes, a nearly impossible commute by car. This is one of the key transit projects scheduled for completion before the 2028 Olympics in LA all of which will ultimately transform the way people are able to move throughout the City.
For decades, the California and Nevada construction industry has counted on Trench Shoring Company for their extensive construction knowledge, and complete inventory. They know time is money so they produce same-day service from their 12 locations across Southern California, the San Joaquin Valley, the Bay Area, the Sacramento Valley, and Southern Nevada.
Whether it’s for a current project, or your next project, Trench Shoring Company is there to serve your needs. Trench Shoring Company has consistently handled their customers’ toughest jobs and most challenging job requirements with safety, service, and customer satisfaction since their inception in 1973. Cc
Quinn Rental Services Expands Service
Area with New Locations in San Juan Capistrano and Carson
uinn Rental Services, a division of Quinn Company and a leading provider of equipment rentals, is announces the opening of two new locations in San Juan Capistrano, CA and Carson, CA.
This expansion marks a continued investment in supporting contractors, builders, and trades professionals across Southern and Central California. With broader coverage, quicker turnaround, and a wide range of equipment from 70+ top-tier brands— including Cat®, Genie, and Allmand—Quinn Rental Services is equipped to meet the demands of job sites large and small.
“We’re committed to being where our customers are,” said Jim Sands, Senior Vice President at Quinn Company. “These new locations reflect our mission to deliver reliable equipment and responsive support across the region.”
For more information or to request equipment, visit www.quinncompany.com/rental.
Quinn and Quinn Rental Services are registered trademarks of Quinn Group, Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Cc
NEW LOCATION INFORMATION:
DIG DEEPER. WORK SMARTER.
Komatsu Compact Excavators Deliver Big Performance in Tight Spaces. PC30MR-5 E1
Crane Division
Coastline Equipment Welcomes Scott Dighans to Crane Division Team
Coastline Equipment is proud to welcome seasoned crane industry professional Scott Dighans to its Crane Division. With over 25 years of experience in crane sales, rentals, and dealership management across North America, Dighans brings a proven track record of leadership, growth, and strong customer partnerships.
Most recently, from 2023 to 2025, Dighans served as National Account Manager for Mardian Equipment in Phoenix, Arizona. Prior to that, he was Western North America Sales Manager for SANY America’s Crane Division, where he oversaw dealer development and crane operations across a wide territory. His impressive career also includes a 12-year tenure with Link-Belt Cranes, as well as key sales roles with King Crane Service (a division of Bigge Crane & Rigging), Terex Cranes North America, Coast Crane Company, Maxim Crane Works, and Bigge Crane & Rigging Co.
“Joining Coastline Crane is an exciting next step,” said Dighans. “I’m looking forward to leveraging my long-standing customer relationships and deep product knowledge to help expand Coastline’s presence and deliver unmatched service to crane customers throughout the region.”
With his depth of industry expertise and strong contractor
and dealer connections, Dighans is poised to make an immediate impact in Northern California and beyond.
Coastline Equipment Crane Division is your trusted West Coast partner for crane sales, rentals, parts, and service— backed by leading brands and a commitment to excellence. As
an authorized dealer and rental provider for Tadano,Tadano Mantis, Manitex, Elliott, ShuttleLift & Broderson Coastline Crane serves customers across California, Nevada, and Idaho. Cc
Scott.dighans@coastlineequipment. com (925) 858-3624.
M ASS I V E MU SC L E S
Maneuver in tight places without compromising power.
Improve your earthmoving and material handling operations.
• Intuitive operator interface
• More operator control
• More horsepower & More torque
• Powerful auxiliary hydraulics
• Industry leading visibility, and lift geometries
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