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CALIAGUA, INC.
Family-Owned and Operated Construction
Firm Providing Water and Wastewater
Infrastructure Solutions Since 1978
SORACCO, INC.
Completes Emergency Sewer Pipe Repair/ Replacement Project at Alexandria Place and Lincoln Road Intersection for the City of Stockton
SKANSKA
Celebrating Bridge Day: A Look at California's Bridges With a Focus on Skanka’s Contributions Over The Years
SUNSTATE EQUIPMENT CO.
Sunstate Paves The Way To Success For Caltrans SR-78 Project
PUBLISHER: Kerry Hoover khoover@calcontractor.com
EDITOR: Brian Hoover, Senior Editor
ART DIRECTOR /GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Aldo Myftari
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Gerald De Guzman
(909) 772-3121
Family-Owned and Operated Construction
Firm
Providing Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Solutions Since 1978
For nearly 47 years, Caliagua has been a family-run business, providing water solutions to Southern California. It was founded by Oscar Bruner, who had been a pilot for an Argentine airline before pivoting to engineering and working for Brown and Caldwell in Pasadena. It was there that he gained valuable experience in water projects.
Oscar’s career progressed at Brown & Caldwell until Pylon Engineering recruited Oscar to join the team. Pylon was a
general engineering contractor building water and wastewater pumping and treatment plants, and constructing launch pads at Vandenberg Air Force Base. In 1978, Caliagua was born out of a partnership between Oscar and two former colleagues, John and Floyd Doty. In 1984, Oscar acquired full ownership of Caliagua, positioning the company to bid on more projects by qualifying as a minority contractor while maintaining the Doty partnership for property development.
Throughout the 1980s, Caliagua focused on the water treatment industry, securing major clients like Rancho California Water District and Irvine Ranch Water District. By 1985, with the business expanding, Oscar brought his sons into the company. Andy joined first, bringing his civil engineering background, followed by Gus, whose expertise in accounting and project management was instrumental in advancing the company’s operations. Together, they divided responsibilities—
Cotino is the first planned community from Storyliving by Disney, and a dynamic, creative oasis set within the stunning landscape of Palm Springs (Rancho Mirage).
By Brian Hoover, Senior Editor / Photos contributed by Caliagua, Inc.
Andy focused on public works projects, while Gus cultivated relationships with major clients like Turner Construction.
During the 1990s, Caliagua evolved by incorporating new technologies, including computerized accounting and project management software. This helped the company streamline its processes and remain competitive, leading to consistent growth. A major milestone was the relocation of the business to its own offices in Chino, on land purchased by the Bruner/Doty partnership.
However, like many businesses, Caliagua was hit hard by the economic downturn in 2008-09, exacerbated by the housing crisis. By 2013, financial difficulties led to the sale of the company’s assets, and Gus had to take another job while still overseeing Caliagua’s remaining backlog. It appeared
that the company’s story might come to an end, but in a twist of fate, a developer contacted Gus in 2014 regarding a delayed project in Chino Hills. This project provided a lifeline, and Caliagua was reborn.
Cory Wolfrom, Gus’s stepson and a recent graduate from UC San Diego, joined the company in late 2014, learning the ropes of project management and marking the start of the third generation in Caliagua’s leadership. With Cory’s help, Caliagua continued to grow, securing new contracts and expanding its project management team. Over the past decade, the company has built a strong construction crew and completed numerous successful projects, while maintaining longstanding client relationships.
In 2023, Caliagua celebrated its 45th anniversary, continuing
to specialize in water and wastewater treatment projects. The company focuses on delivering sustainable, cost-effective solutions for municipalities and private clients, ensuring reliable water management through the construction of water recycling plants, pump stations, and treatment plants. The Bruner family remains dedicated to the same values of discipline, organization, and quality that have driven the business from its inception.
Today, Caliagua, Inc. specializes in constructing water and wastewater treatment facilities, along with related infrastructure projects. The company focuses on providing innovative solutions for the design, construction, and management of systems that support water purification, distribution, and
Above: Caliagua, Inc. close to completion on their water infrastructure work for new 24-acre lagoon at The Cotino, Storyliving by Disney project in Rancho Mirage.
Right: Caliagua, Inc. installing intake vaults to service the Cotino Lagoon in Rancho Mirage.
Far Right: Backfilling 16-inch HDPE pipe at Cotino Lagoon in Rancho Mirage.
treatment processes. Their projects often include building water recycling plants, portable water and storm drain pump stations, sewer lift stations, water and wastewater treatment plants and pipelines, ensuring communities have access to clean, safe water. Caliagua, Inc. is known for collaborating with municipalities and private entities to deliver sustainable and costeffective water management systems. The following two job stories illustrate just a small part of the water infrastructure services Caliagua is capable of performing.
Cotino Lagoon Project - Ryan Ricard, Project Manager, Caliagua, Inc.
The Cotino, Storyliving by Disney project in Rancho Mirage, California, is a master-planned residential community featuring innovative construction and infrastructure solutions, with Disney’s creative influence shaping the design and experience. The project represents a significant undertaking in terms of land development, engineering, and sustainable building practices, integrating modern construction techniques with the area's resortlike aesthetics.
The residential construction includes a mix of single-family homes, condominiums, and 55+ neighborhoods, each with its own set of structural requirements. Building in the Coachella Valley’s desert climate necessitates the use of advanced materials to ensure energy efficiency, such as high-performance insulation and glazing to reduce heat gain. The homes will likely incorporate sustainable design features, including solar power systems, smart home technologies, and energy-efficient HVAC systems, aligning with California’s stringent building energy codes.
At the heart of the development is a 24-acre man-made lagoon, which presents a major technical challenge in terms of excavation, water management, and filtration systems. The lagoon will serve as both a recreational feature and a key element in the community’s design, requiring specialized civil engineering and construction expertise to ensure water quality and environmental impact control. Shoreline stabilization, grading, and utilities for water features are essential components of this aspect of the project. Overall, the Cotino project embodies a high level of coordination between architects,
engineers, and contractors to deliver Disney’s vision while meeting the technical demands of large-scale construction in Rancho Mirage.
Caliagua began its work on the Cotino Lagoon Project in October 2023 and plans to complete it by the end of 2024. Ryan Ricard, project manager, is overseeing Caliagua's work on the project. "We were contracted to install 35,000 linear feet of 2-inch to 16-inch HDPE pipe, perform all pipe connections, and install the aboveground PVC pipe connections to the equipment," Ricard says. "We were also responsible for constructing two machine rooms that will house various pump skids, filters, and chemical treatment equipment. Additionally, we installed two intake vaults and three bottomcleaning vaults that house pumps connected to six-footwide vacuums, which keep the bottom of the lagoon free from dirt and debris."
In total, Caliagua is installing 22 pump and filter skids, three air compressors, four chemical tanks, two reverse osmosis units, and four metering pump skids. "The pump rooms are several hundred feet away from { Continued on page 10 }
Above Left: Preparing and staging 35,000 linear feet of 2-inch to 16-inch HDPE pipe.
the lagoon, and pool-grade water is continuously being cleaned, filtered, and circulated throughout the 24.67-acre lagoon," Ricard says. "We are pushing to have most of our pipe and system installations completed by the end of October so they can begin filling the lagoon. It is estimated it will take approximately three months to fill the lagoon using on-site wells."
According to Ricard, the HDPE pipe is buried and wraps around the entire lagoon perimeter. The work included some excavating as needed on a time-and-material basis. "We have several support machines on the job site, including excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, and two fusion welding machines," Ricard says. "The challenges include working around numerous other trades building the homes and infrastructure. The hot, 115-degree weather and desert climate have also been challenging, but our crew has endured and performed wonderfully."
City of Tustin PFAS Water Treatment Project for Orange County Water District - Cory Wolfrom, COO & Project Manager and Kari Mares, Assistant PM/PE, Caliagua, Inc. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), often referred to as "forever chemicals," have emerged as a significant environmental concern in California due to their persistence in water sources.
PFAS are a group of thousands of chemicals used to make carpets, clothing, fabrics for furniture, food packaging, cookware, and other materials non-stick and/or resistant to water, oil, and stains. They are also used in several industrial processes and firefighting activities. These synthetic chemicals, used in various industries for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, do not break down easily, posing long-term risks to both human health and ecosystems. PFAS contamination has been detected in numerous drinking water systems across California. In response, California has implemented stringent regulations aimed at reducing PFAS exposure.
Far Left: Tightening up connections for the Nitrate IX vessels.
Left: Caliagua subcontracted approximately 13,000 linear feet of roadway pipeline work to Ferreira Construction Co., Inc.
In 2023, the state began advancing a plan to establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for PFAS, which would require water districts to take action when levels exceed the limit.
The Orange County Water District and other agencies across California are closely monitoring these chemicals in groundwater and have begun taking measures to treat the contaminated water sources. The Tustin PFAS Project was awarded to Caliagua, Inc. (Caliagua), with construction beginning in February 2023 and scheduled for completion in March 2025. The project involves the demolition of an existing reverse osmosis and ion exchange treatment plant and the installation of a new ion exchange treatment system, new sodium hypochlorite storage and disinfection system, booster station pump and pipe removal and replacement. Additionally, the plans include reinforced structural concrete, above- and belowgrade waterlines, sewer and storm drain improvements, new
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electrical service, motor control centers (MCCs), variable frequency drives (VFDs), automatic transfer switches (ATS), instrumentation and control upgrades, and improvements to the City of Tustin’s existing SCADA system.
As the prime contractor, Caliagua and its subcontractors are also tasked with connecting and installing nearly three miles of influent pipeline from four offsite wells to the new treatment system, including asphalt removal and replacement, striping, and traffic control. Cory Wolfrom the project manager, and Kari Mares assistant PM for Caliagua, oversee the Tustin PFAS project. The approximately $25 million project for the Orange County Water District involves constructing a PFAS treatment plant and associated on-site conveyance piping. “There is a significant pipeline component to this project, which is being performed by our subcontractor, Ferreira Construction Co., Inc., while Caliagua focuses on the main plant site. This is where the
pipeline is drawing water from existing wells throughout the city and bringing it to the main plant site for PFAS treatment,” says Mares. “Before placing the eight new massive ion exchange (IX) vessels to treat the city’s wells, our crews had to pour an 80-foot by 32.5-foot, 48-inch-thick concrete slab. New pipelines are also being installed to convey water from the well sites to the new PFAS treatment plant. Additionally, a new section of distribution piping from the main plant will be installed, along with the replacement of an existing nitrate treatment system and upgraded booster pumps to handle the additional flows.”
Mares says that approximately 13,000 linear feet of pipeline work was subcontracted to Ferreira Construction Co., Inc. “Ferreira is performing the right-of-way work at the street level, where they are installing 12-inch to 24-inch C-900 pipe. Jack and bore operations were implemented under culverts, and a significant amount of work is being done at night to accommodate residents and businesses,” continues
Above: Pacific Boring handled the boring and jacking operations for waterline installations under existing culverts.
Mares. “The worksite is in Old Town Tustin, a heavily traveled live/work area that needed to remain open to public access. This required extensive coordination on our part to ensure we were building safely and efficiently without causing disruptions.”
According to Mares, the project required substantial underground work, and during excavation, Caliagua encountered bad soil conditions that required extensive over excavation. “We over excavated to depths of 15 feet in some areas. Once we had a stable subgrade, we poured a monolithic, 350-yard slab with T-shaped trenches to accommodate the underground piping that enters the side of the slab. The trenches are open at the top of the slab to provide access to the butterfly valves,
Left: Ferreira installs the tee that will connect offsite wells to the main plant site.
Far Left: A birds-eye view of the Main Street plant in Tustin. The pre-filters and IX vessels used to treat PFAS in the water supply are shown towards the bottom of the image.
Left: Backfilling around the meter and valve vaults. Each vault weighed approximately 37,000 lbs and were set with an 80 Ton RT crane.
and the influent line exits the trench and enters the valve trees before entering the vessels. The effluent line carrying the treated water then re-enters the trench where it is conveyed into an existing underground reservoir. The PFAS-contaminated water is treated first with pre-filters before the PFAS treatment occurs inside the IX vessels,” explains Mares.
“One large 24-inch line brings all of the contaminated water from well sites around the city, and this pipe reduces down to 12 inches before entering the vessels and filter systems. Our crews used large and small excavators during excavation and an 80-ton roughterrain crane to set the vessels, which weigh approximately 20,000 pounds each. We are now close to wrapping up our self-performing operations and look forward to delivering this important project to the Orange County Water District before the scheduled deadline.”
Caliagua’s success is a reflection of the excellent team they have assembled. Throughout their organization, you will find the
same integrity and commitment to professionalism and the quality of their product. The company is proud to be a union shop. Their highly skilled tradespeople possess a wealth of experience and expertise in the water and wastewater treatment industry and have undergone the rigorous training and certification programs required for union membership. This results in an excellent safety record and consistently reliable work that comes from precision, attention to detail and the highest standards. An overview of Caliagua's operations reveals that every phase of each project— from site preparation and piping systems to structural fabrication and the installation of mechanical equipment—demonstrates a consistent level of excellence and professionalism.
Gus Bruner, Caliagua’s President and Project Executive said, “The expertise and dedication of our tradesmen are indispensable to the successful completion of our projects. Their skilled craftsmanship and adherence to industry standards ensure that our water infrastructure is constructed and maintained to the highest quality standards, providing a reliable and sustainable water supply for our community.”
Likewise, Caliagua only subcontracts with companies that share these same ideals. From pipeline, electrical, masonry, rebar, AC paving & other
specialties, Caliagua’s subcontractors work to the high standards the company sets for every project.
Mr. Bruner also added that, “It’s true that union companies may not always be the lowestcost option. But what some people forget to account for is that we often outpace the nonunion companies productivity and it’s things like standardized work practices, training programs, and a more stable workforce that gives us this advantage. Our productivity advantage can often offset some of the higher labor costs. Also, by investing in a union company, we believe we are investing in a skilled, experienced, and dedicated workforce that delivers exceptional results. Our owners really benefit from this!”
Caliagua is a general engineering contractor specializing in water and wastewaster treatment infrastructure. The company primarily serves water districts and private industry throughout all of Southern California. For more information and assistance on your next waste or wastewaterrelated project, please contact Gus Bruner (gusbruner@caliagua. net), Cory Wolfrom (cwolfrom@ caliagua.net), and Ryan Ricard (rricard@caliagua.net). Also feel free to visit their website at www.caliagua.net or call their Anaheim headquarters at (866) 416-4214. Cc
Soracco, Inc. Completes Emergency Sewer Pipe Repair/Replacement Project at Alexandria Place and Lincoln Road Intersection for the City of Stockton
By Brian Hoover, Senior Editor / Photos contributed by Soracco, Inc.
Richard Soracco Jr. has maintained a fascination with the heavy civil general engineering construction industry for as far back as he can remember. His father harvested timber as a logging contractor for several years before joining the Operating Engineers Local 3, and then eventually starting his own water and dump truck business. Soracco’s stepfather also worked
in the construction business, specifically for the Plumbers & Steamfitters Local Union 342 out of the Bay Area. He, too, started his own company, offering steel fabrication and welding services. This was the extent of Soracco’s exposure to the construction industry, but it was enough to set the hook and start the wheels turning even as a young child. “It seems that I was always around
some sort of construction work when I was a young man. While still in high school and into college, I began working on B-license-type jobs for contractors doing subdivision work on single and multiple-family type structures. I also worked for a builder out of South Lake Tahoe who lived in the town of Jackson where I grew up,” says Soracco. “After my time at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo,
Below: Soracco, Inc.'s Alexandria sewer crew, pictured here with three team members absent, celebrating project completion.
Richard A. Soracco Jr., President, Soracco, Inc.
I eventually got my B contractor’s license and began working for various generals before moving almost exclusively into the public works sector.”
Soracco worked as a sole proprietor from 2011 to 2017, when he decided to incorporate under the name, Soracco, Inc. It did not take Soracco long to figure out that working with a B license within the public works sector was going to be a tough row to hoe. “I was just 25 years old with no real financial backing other than a credit card. I also had a very limited bonding capacity, and I was forced to re-evaluate my situation,” says Soracco. “In 2013, I decided to do the work and get my A license, and I have not performed a B license job since. All of our work moved exclusively to heavy civil underground pipeline work and that is where I really found my footing and began to grow the business. I have made a lot of mistakes along the way, but I believe that the strength of this company comes from these errors and the experience gained over a broad range of construction projects.”
Soracco, Inc. self-performs most of their work with their own in-house crews and equipment.
Their job-related competencies include underground utilities, concrete, pump stations, site development and other general building practices. “Our core workload comes from the commercial sector, primarily in public works, but also for private industry. I believe that our success is due to putting the best people in positions that enable them to use their talents to move everything forward. We did not get to where we are overnight. It has all been slow, responsible, sustainable growth,” continues Soracco.
“Right now, half of our company’s workforce is signatory to the Union, while the other half is non-union. Having said this, today, around 98%of our work is for Public Works projects, and we are moving to 100 percent signatory in November to make things simpler.”
According to Soracco, his company works throughout most of Northern California from the Sierra mountains, up to Marysville, over to the East Bay, and then south to Merced. “As a heavy civil public infrastructure contractor, the bulk of our work includes wet utilities, pump and lift stations, and other civil scopes like grading, paving, concrete, demolition, and
Left: A Cat 420F backhoe loader and Cat 335 excavator remove asphalt, preparing the site for trench excavation.
structures when necessary. Most of the time, we are working as a GC, but we also work as a subcontractor for a few select clients, like a fleet shop subgrade stabilization project we recently completed for Branco Construction, Inc.,” says Soracco. “We are also lucky and blessed to have been trusted with a five-year emergency on-call contract with the City of Stockton. This contract keeps two of our crews busy year-round with mostly sewer and other wet utility work.”
Camera inspections by the City of Stockton revealed that a sewer pipe trunkline had failed on Alexandria Place at the Lincoln Road intersection. “The sewer pipe had been slowly failing at this busy intersection in Stockton near Lincoln High School and eventually formed a sinkhole. We were called in to replace the failed 36-inch reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) sewer line with new, upsized 42-inch Vylon pipe. We were tasked to replace approximately 100 linear feet of the pipeline manhole to manhole section. We arrived onsite on September 28 and had everything wrapped up and opened to traffic by October 4, 3 days before the City’s deadline. In addition to being near an active high school, the intersection was also adjacent to a creek, so dewatering of the groundwater was necessary,” says Soracco. “We excavated a 10-foot by 10-foot pit around 30 yards
upstream to bypass the sewer line so that we could begin work at the intersection. After we dug the pit and installed the shoring, we cut open the existing 36-inch pipe and inserted our suction lines for the bypass. The bypass flow rate was 5½ millions of gallons per day (MGD), and we subcontracted that work to Rain for Rent who let the system run all Sunday night to
Above: A Cat 315 excavator carefully lowers the mini excavator into position to begin demolition.
Left: A Cat 301.7 works in the trench, removing a section of the old poured-in-place manhole to make way for the new upsized 42” pipe.
ensure that there were no leaks.”
The next job at hand was to open the street at the Alexandria Place and Lincoln Road Intersection and install the shoring provided by United Rentals out of Turlock.
“We excavated down 17 feet and installed two 10-foot by 7-foot, 20-foot-long shores with two more 6-foot by 7-foot, 20-foot-long steel shores on top. We ran into and had to go under some fiber optic lines. This called for some creativity where we used plywood and jack shores, along with an aluminum box shoring to go over each of the existing manholes, continues Soracco.
“Once everything was in place, we began removing the 36” RCP and installed the new 42-inch Vylon. Everything went smoothly except for a few wandering cars
and pedestrians. The plastic, water-filled barriers kept most of the traffic out of our work area.”
Soracco says that in addition to the challenging bypass work, they also dealt with the congestion and traffic conditions that come with working within a busy intersection near an active high school. “The students were on break from Sept. 28 to Oct. 7 and that is where the timetable came from. We originally thought we would be working 24 hours a day, but the City of Stockton opted for a 12-hour workday from 7 am to 7 pm,” says Soracco. “I think what sets us apart from similar construction firms is that we are very motivated and eager to take on any sized project, under any conditions. We shine on these complex projects and have already built a reputation for that type of work.”
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Soracco insists that it is his team of hardworking individuals that make the difference. “My younger brother, Gustavo, has worked for the company since he graduated from college. We are just so fortunate to have him working here as he makes such a difference every day and is so important to our operations,” says Soracco. “I also want to recognize Clint Aboussleman who has been with the company almost from the beginning. Clint is part of our upper
management team and serves as lead project manager. I wish I could mention every employee by name because they all work so hard and make a difference every day.”
In addition to great operators, laborers, superintendents, foremen, and project managers, there is the need for strong, reliable equipment. “We purchase and rent most of our heavy equipment from our local Cat dealer, Holt of California. We used our Cat 335 and 315 to excavate the bypass pit and the section of roadway at the intersection. We also utilized our Cat 301.5 mini excavator down in the trench to demo out the pipe around the manholes,” explains Soracco. “We own and operate a nice sustainable fleet of Cat equipment, including backhoes, excavators, wheel
loaders, skid steer loaders and skip loaders. With around 25 heavy pieces of equipment in our fleet, we find that when we need the really big stuff, we give Holt of California a call and they have whatever we need, on time and ready to work.”
Soracco, Inc. is busy on several infrastructure projects right now, including a 6-month long, $3.5 million waterline project that runs right through a public golf course. The Port of Stockton continues to keep them busy each day, along with large and small projects from Caltrans and other agencies. Soracco is located in Lodi with a laydown yard at the Port of Stockton and a shop in Jackson. For more information on Soracco, Inc., please visit www.soraccoinc.com or call (209) 267-4030. Cc
Above: Rain for Rent sets up three DV200C SD SA bypass pumps, each equipped with 12” suction lines.
Left: Soracco installs the final lift of asphalt, preparing the surface for new striping.
Celebrating Bridge Day: A Look at California's Bridges With a Focus on Skanka’s Contributions Over The Years
October 19 marks Bridge Day, a celebration of engineering marvels that connect us across vast landscapes. While the day is traditionally centered on the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the iconic bridges that shape our lives across the United States, and particularly in California.
California is home to some of the world’s most famous bridges, which serve as vital arteries for transportation, cultural landmarks, and architectural triumphs. The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco stands as a global symbol of engineering excellence. Completed in 1937, its red-orange towers stretch across the Pacific Ocean, enduring as a feat of ingenuity and a beloved icon of the state.
In addition to the Golden Gate Bridge, California boasts numerous other impressive structures. The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, often overshadowed by its neighbor, is one of the longest and
From the start of the bidding process, clients want to know who is leading the construction of the bridge. We lean on the expertise of our people to establish trust before the project even starts.”
– Jeff Smith, Senior Project Manager
busiest bridges in the world. Its reconstruction following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake set a new standard for seismic safety in bridge design. The eastern span, completed in 2013, combines state-of-the-art engineering with elegant design, reflecting California’s commitment to resilience and beauty.
The San Mateo Bridge spans a total length of seven miles. This makes it not only the longest bridge in the San Francisco area, but the longest bridge in all of California. It is made up of six lanes and exists as part of State Route 92.
Further south, the Vincent Thomas Bridge connects the city of San Pedro to Terminal Island in Los Angeles. It’s the fourth-longest suspension bridge in California
and serves as a vital transportation link in the bustling port area. Other important bridges like the Bixby Creek Bridge along California’s scenic Highway 1 provide breathtaking views, blending utility with the state’s natural beauty.
Skanska – Premier Bridge Building Experts
Skanska, one of the world’s leading construction and development companies, has earned a strong reputation for its expertise in bridge building. Known for delivering complex infrastructure projects, Skanska combines innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence in its bridge construction. The company’s bridge-building capabilities are showcased through its work on iconic structures such as the
Left: Skanska completed the iconic Sixth Street Viaduct, known as the "Ribbon of Light," a modern interpretation of the original 1932 bridge, blending architectural homage with cutting-edge design.
Right: Current photo of the Vincent Thomas Bridge in Los Angeles. Skanska is involved in a $130 million project to reconfigure the interchange at State Route 47 at the Port of Los Angeles. Set for completion in 2026, the project aims to enhance traffic flow and improve safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
New NY Bridge (Tappan Zee Bridge replacement), the I-4 Ultimate project in Florida, and numerous other large-scale infrastructure developments worldwide.
Skanska is adept at handling all phases of bridge construction, from design and planning to execution and long-term maintenance. Its expertise spans different types of bridges, including suspension, cable-stayed, and concrete and steel girder bridges. The company is particularly committed to using state-of-the-art technology, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and prefabricated components, to ensure precision and efficiency.
Sustainability is a core value in Skanska’s bridge projects. The company prioritizes reducing environmental impact, using environmentally friendly materials, and implementing construction methods that minimize disruption to local ecosystems. In addition to its technical proficiency, Skanska is known for its emphasis on safety, ensuring that all projects adhere to the highest safety standards for workers and the surrounding community.
Vincent Thomas Bridge Deck Replacement Project
Skanska is currently involved in a major project at the Vincent Thomas Bridge, part of a $130 million effort to reconfigure the interchange at State Route 47, located at the Port of Los Angeles. The project, expected to be completed by 2026, aims to improve traffic flow and safety for both motorists and pedestrians. It involves significant changes, such as replacing the existing southbound SR-47 off-ramp, modifying on- and off-ramps to the northbound Harbor Freeway, and upgrading the surrounding streets with enhanced curbs, storm drains, lighting, bike lanes, and ADAcompliant features. This work is crucial for improving access to key port facilities, including Terminal Island, and will also support the Port of LA's ongoing growth by accommodating increasing truck traffic and improving the movement of goods through the area Skanska was selected for this vital project due to its track record of delivering complex transportation infrastructure projects with precision and safety. As the general
contractor, Skanska is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the construction process, from removing and replacing the bridge deck to implementing structural upgrades and seismic reinforcements. In collaboration with state and local agencies, Skanska has developed a phased construction plan that strategically schedules work during nighttime and off-peak hours to limit the impact on commuters and port operations.
Jeff Smith is the Senior Project Manager for Skanska overseeing the Vincent Thomas Bridge Deck Replacement Project. “When I got the call to work with Caltrans on the Vincent Thomas Bridge, I only saw opportunity. This is a very unique bridge that means a lot to the people of Los Angeles,” says Smith. “As someone with a lot of experience building bridges, I was excited that the bridge type, cable stay suspension bridge, was something that Skanska has a reputation for being good at. This would allow me to fully utilize the CMGC delivery method to build an even better bridge than I could imagine.”
Right: The $588 million Sixth Street Viaduct project is the largest bridge construction in Los Angeles history, highlighting Skanska's expertise in combining advanced engineering with environmental sustainability and community-focused development.
Sixth Street Viaduct
Skanska's work on the Sixth Street Viaduct in Los Angeles highlights the company's expertise in delivering complex infrastructure projects. The iconic structure, replacing the original 1932 bridge, connects downtown L.A. with the Boyle Heights neighborhood. Skanska, in partnership with Stacy and Witbeck, took on the challenge of rebuilding this vital link, which is known for its distinctive arches and significant cultural value.
The new viaduct, which spans the L.A. River, incorporates state-of-the-art engineering and construction techniques to enhance durability and seismic resilience. The Sixth Street Viaduct is a tied arch bridge referred to as the “Ribbon of Light,” and pays homage in its design to the 1932 bridge. The new bridge employs a series of 20 pairs of sculptural arches with the tallest pairs placed adjacent to and framing the LA River where the original arches stood, and another taller pair that span US 101 as a gateway on the east.
The new bridge design includes dedicated bike lanes, widened sidewalks, and public spaces beneath the bridge, transforming the viaduct into a community hub. The new Sixth Street Viaduct is
One of my favorite parts about bridge projects is the challenge of preserving the look and feel of the bridge as well as additional complex architectural engineering components. My previous project, the Sixth St. Viaduct, is an iconic structure in the heart of Los Angeles, both historically and as it is today, and my current work on the Portage Bay Bridge in Seattle, Washington, will connect communities and enhance much needed regional mobility.”
– Geraldo (Jerry) Iniguez, VP Operations Skanska
the largest bridge project in the history of Los Angeles, with a cost of $588 million, and underscores Skanska's ability to blend cuttingedge engineering with a focus on environmental and community needs.
Geraldo (Jerry) Iniguez serves as the VP of Operations for Skanska and he oversaw the construction of the Sixth Street Viaduct. “One of the main drivers of reconstructing the (Sixth St.) bridge was the need for structural rehabilitation and seismic safety. Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) from initial construction was causing the bridge to deteriorate over time, leading to a significant risk of collapse in the event of an earthquake. Our team had to develop a plan to provide protection from anticipated future earthquakes,” says Iniguez. “We landed on using seismic isolation. The new Sixth Street Viaduct was built on Friction Triple PendulumTM bearing isolators and used continuous post tensioning
couplers, which have previously never been used in the United States. The pendulum bearing incorporated three pendulums in one bearing, each with properties that optimize the structure’s response for different earthquake strengths and frequencies. Having never been used in the US, our team developed a scale model and full-scale testing to guide the team through the process and minimize complications.”
Jeff Smith was the Senior Project Manager on the Sixth Street Viaduct project for Skanska. “The toughest, yet incredibly most rewarding job I ever did was the construction of the Sixth St. Viaduct in Los Angeles,” says Smith. “The bridge type had never been done before, and the structure was so complex that we had to use self-consolidating concrete – not a common material used on projects of this scale.”
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Right: Rendering of Skanska’s
Portage Bay Bridge Replacement project in Seattle, WA. This challenging endeavor operates within a unique environmental setting, demanding a highly technical and specialized approach.
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Portage Bay Bridge
Although Skanska's work on the Portage Bay Bridge is in Seattle and not California, it does serve to exemplify the company’s use of advanced construction techniques. The new bridge will replace the aging structure with a wider, modernized version that includes two general-purpose lanes, an HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) lane in each direction, and a dedicated bicycle and pedestrian path that runs the length of the bridge.
One of the critical construction details involves Skanska’s use of deep foundation systems. They are installing large-diameter drilled shafts that anchor the bridge’s piers deep into the lakebed, ensuring seismic stability. These foundations are designed to withstand the significant lateral forces generated during an earthquake, addressing the area’s seismic activity.
“The Portage Bay Bridge Replacement Project as a whole is going to be very challenging. The project takes place in a unique environment that requires an advanced technical scope as well as environmental and community considerations. The construction requires installing foundations within active landslide areas, installing a temporary work bridge to maintain access to the Portage Bay Bridges
On every project, I tell my teams, ‘we are going in with a project first mindset, so check your egos at the door.’ Because of this, we were able to address a systemic structural problem before it unraveled beyond our control.”
– Jeff Smith, Senior Project Manager
and additional challenges when building engineering and architecturally complex bridges,” says Iniguez. “Like many of the bridge projects I have worked on, the Portage Bay Bridge Replacement Project is a key piece to connecting communities east of Lake Washington and ensuring seismically resilient structures by replacing existing ones.”
Skanska is also using state-ofthe-art precast concrete segments for the bridge’s superstructure. These segments are fabricated off-site and transported to the site, reducing the need for on-site formwork and minimizing disruption to traffic and local communities.
The use of precast elements accelerates construction, improves quality control, and enhances durability.
In addition to the seismic upgrades, Skanska is incorporating noise-mitigation measures. The bridge will feature noise-absorbing materials and designs to reduce the impact of traffic on nearby neighborhoods. The integration of stormwater management systems, including biofiltration swales and
drainage systems, ensures that runoff from the bridge will be treated before it reaches local waterways, helping to protect Puget Sound’s water quality.
Overall, Skanska’s construction approach on the Portage Bay Bridge reflects a balance between technical precision, environmental responsibility, and community impact, ensuring the project meets the region’s future transportation needs while maintaining high safety and sustainability standards.
Through these projects and others, Skanska has cemented its position as a trusted partner in California bridge construction, blending innovation, sustainability, and safety into each structure it builds. As we celebrate Bridge Day, it’s a time to recognize the role that bridges play in linking communities, supporting economies, and symbolizing the resilience of human achievement. In California, these bridges stand not only as marvels of engineering but also as testaments to the creativity and determination of the engineers, workers, and designers who built them. Cc
By
Sunstate Paves The Way To Success For Caltrans SR-78 Project
As California forges ahead with its robust infrastructure improvement plans, synthesizing cutting-edge construction technology and deep-seated expertise remains crucial to meeting project deadlines and upholding safety standards.
The $22 million Caltrans State Route 78 Culvert and Road Rehabilitation Project is a testament to this pressing imperative. Tasked with renovating 35 deteriorating drainage systems along SR-78, from the I-5 in Oceanside to the I-15 in Escondido, the project aims to directly address the root causes of hazardous wet pavement conditions that often lead to accidents.
The importance of this effort becomes even more pronounced in light of a staggering statistic: Nearly 5,700 people are killed and more than 544,700 injured annually in crashes on wet pavement across the nation.1
With Hazard Construction Company of Lakeside spearheading the mission to replace all culverts and conduct invert paving, a partnership with Phoenix's Sunstate Equipment Company is proving invaluable. Sunstate's competency in determining the most appropriate trench shoring systems for various
excavation situations is critical to the project's progress.
Hazard's Senior Project Manager, Chris Farano, emphasizes the scope and necessity of their work. "A failed storm drain system could lead to catastrophic consequences. The new storm drain systems will improve drainage in areas to minimize standing or slow draining water on the freeway," he explains, hinting at the broader objective of enhancing road safety and thus potentially reducing the harrowing accident statistics previously mentioned.
Farano continues, "Our collaboration with Sunstate is orchestrated around the distinct features of each drainage system—its width, depth, and the window of operation allotted to us—all while prioritizing the safety of our workers and the efficiency of our workflow."
Critical for public safety, this project transcends basic infrastructure work; it's a preventative measure promising to safeguard Californian motorists from the all-too-common and often deadly perils of wet pavementrelated accidents. Through endeavors like this, California is taking actionable steps toward reducing the grim statistics of roadway tragedies.
Roadway work will also include electric improvements such as wiring and lighting, new landscaping, and resurfacing pavement at the El Camino Real overcrossing and on SR-78 between the eastbound Plaza Drive onramp and Emerald Drive off/on ramps. Crews will repair or replace median concrete barriers, guard railing, fencing,
signs, pavement delineation, and markings.
At the conclusion of the work, expected by mid-2025, motorists will see and feel an improvement in ride quality and benefit from the increased service life of the drainage and roadway.
DIG SAFE
In addition to using proper shoring systems for drainage unit excavations,the Caltrans State Route 78 Culvert and Road Rehabilitation Project drainage repairs include two innovative
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solutions that eliminate the need for open excavation and reduce public impact.
One solution is cured-in-place pipe liners (CIPP), or refrigerated, resin-coated fabric liners in the shape of tubes rolled into the host pipe with positive pressure. The liner expands and conforms to the inside cavity and is cured by applying hot air, leaving behind a clean, seamless "Pipe-within-aPipe."
Pipe invert paving with concrete is another solution. One of the most effective ways to rehabilitate corroded and severely deteriorated inverts of Corrugated Metal Pipe (CMP) large enough for human entry (with equipment) is by paving them with reinforced concrete shotcrete or authorized cementitious material. Studs are welded along the bottom (invert) of the pipe, wire mesh is tied to the studs, and concrete is placed and finished.
GETTING EQUIPPED FOR SUCCESS
Farano said safety is Hazard's number one concern on all projects, and proper shoring systems are essential with the amount of drainage unit excavations on the SR-78 project.
Working with Sunstate Trench Safety was a natural choice because of its commitment to providing safe jobsite management solutions to its rental partners. While it had carved out a prominent position in the construction equipment rental industry, Sunstate's strategic expansion into the underground rental space six years ago significantly bolstered its existing Trench Safety Rentals division. It demonstrated a robust
commitment to advancement in the field.
Today, Sunstate's Trench Safety Rentals offers trench shoring, safety equipment, and training for any size project, depth, or soil type. For the SR-78 project, Hazard Construction utilized Sunstate's speed shores and several trench boxes at drainage inlets. Trench shields also were used for deeper excavations.
During Hazard's annual Safety Stand-Down Day, Sunstate led a trench shoring training class for speed shore installation.
To keep crews safe below ground, Sunstate has also developed an innovative Competent Person for Excavation Safety training program utilizing interactive technology. This program provides any participant with an immersive and memorable training experience. Computerized simulations allow students to "see" the risks without learning through real-life tragedy.
Competent Person for Excavation Safety Training is appropriate for all project participants, from engineers and superintendents to on-the-ground workers and machine operators. Topics covered include cave-in prevention, OSHA excavation standards, compliance guidelines
for shoring, sloping, shielding, soil analysis, and more.
GROUNDBREAKING SERVICE AND SUPPORT
"Customers count on Sunstate for reliable, safe equipment and dependable people. We ensure only the best quality equipment arrives on the jobsite — clean, well-maintained, and ready to use," says Dana Fredette, Sunstate Sales Manager in El Cajon. All rental equipment arrives preassembled or is assembled on-site by customers for ready-touse convenience. Sunstate also provides crane truck delivery and pickup with on-time scheduling.
"Fundamentally, we partnered with Sunstate Trench Safety because of service. Their crew answered every call and met every need so we could meet our schedules," Farano says. To learn about Sunstate's Trench Safety rentals or on-site Competent Person and Confined Space Awareness training, contact (866) 823.3319. Or visit SunstateEquip.com Cc
1 U.S. Department of Transportation https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/weather_events/ rain_flooding.htm#:~:text=Nearly%205%2C700%20 people%20are%20killed,preventing%20access%20 to%20submerged%20lanes.
Right: Hazard Construction utilized Sunstate's trench boxes on the SR-78 project.
New Product Review
Caterpillar Launches Eight New Next Generation Cat ® Skid Steer Loaders & Compact Track Loaders With More Power, Performance And Comfort
Caterpillar introduces eight new next generation Cat® Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models. Four new Cat SSLs – the Cat 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE – mark the introduction of the next generation design to the SSL line. Meanwhile, the new Cat 275, 275 XE, 285 and 285 XE mark the expansion of the next generation design for the CTL line, joining the 255 and 265 announced in late 2023. The largest CTLs ever produced by Caterpillar, the new Cat 285 and 285 XE compete in a new class size with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces.
Maintaining the DNA of what made the Cat D3 series a leader, the next generation SSL and CTL models are a ground-up redesign that improves on the features that made the previous series popular. High performance is the standard for these next generation machines, elevating Caterpillar’s loader reputation through upgrades in engine power and torque, lift and
tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort, and technology.
The new SSL and CTL models carry on Caterpillar’s new machine nomenclature with the elimination of the series letter designation. All next generation Cat SSLs are now identified by an ending model number of 0, while all CTLs have a model number ending in 5. Simplifying nomenclature, the middle number represents machine size with a larger number designating a larger machine.
“We are excited to launch the next generation design for our skid steer loader line and expand the performance capabilities to more compact track loader models,” comments Trevor Chase, senior product consultant and new product introduction lead for Caterpillar. “Their increased power, lift height, breakout forces, rated operating capacity (ROC) and multiple high-flow auxiliary hydraulic system options give customers a flexible, high-
performance machine to get the job done.”
A New Performance Benchmark
All next generation Cat SSL and CTL models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads throughout all aspects of the work cycles. Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards, the four new CTL models are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs are powered by the Cat C2.8T and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. These new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series and boast significant torque increases – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285 – for improved working performance.
With a vertical lift design, these new next generation machines feature significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and ROC to elevate loader flexibility and performance.
Their new closed-center auxiliary hydraulic system allows these machines to operate all Cat Smart Attachments with the standard hydraulics provided. Standard hydraulic system pressure increases 5% to 3,500 psi (24130 kPa) in the next generation models. Cat 250, 260, 270 and 275 machines equipped with standard
hydraulic flow are shipped from the factory outfitted as “High Flow ready.” High Flow functionality is activated simply via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 30 gal/ min (113 l/min) for the 250, 260, and 270 models and 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 275 at standard hydraulic system pressure.
Also available, the High Flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi (28000 kPa) for the 250, 260, 270, 275 and 285 next generation models. Along with this, hydraulic flow is increased to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) on the 250, while flow increases to 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 260, 270, 275 and 285 models. Equipping the 250 with the High Flow XPS option gives customers auxiliary hydraulic performance not available before in a mid-size chassis SSL. Equipped for maximum hydraulic capability, the High Flow option for 270 XE, 275 XE and 285 XE loaders increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,496 psi (31000 kPa) and hydraulic flow to 40 gal/min (150 l/min).
The four next generation CTL models feature a new E-bar (equalizer bar) undercarriage that provides increased stability for grading and handling heavier loads. The E-bar undercarriage harnesses Caterpillar’s heritage and leadership with track type tractors to provide a hybrid undercarriage solution. It delivers the benefits of a rigid-style undercarriage design when lifting
heavy loads or using heavy attachments like mulchers and dozer and grader blades, while simultaneously providing the benefits of an oscillating undercarriage when encountering uneven terrain or obstacles.
Upgraded operator comfort
All next generation Cat SSLs and CTLs feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With a 2.75-in (70-mm) increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 in (46 mm) and allows for an additional 1.5 in (40 mm) of hip room and 1.1 in (28 mm) more width between the joysticks to improve operator comfort.
Next generation loaders are equipped with either a 5-in (127mm) standard LCD monitor or an 8-in (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the selected technology package. Like the advanced display on the D3 series, the standard monitor features Bluetooth connectivity and supports functionality for rearview camera feed, creep, job clock, maintenance reminders and 32 languages. The advanced touchscreen monitor provides a higher level of control over standard monitor functionality, offers advanced radio control, and supports side cameras and 32 language choices. The new advanced joysticks enable integrated control of the advanced touchscreen monitor, so all machine function control and adjustments
can be made without the operator removing their hands from the controls.
A range of new mechanical and air-ride suspension seat options are available for these next generation machines, including a high-comfort seat that is both ventilated and heated. New auto temperature control plus vent outlet positioning above the operator help the new HVAC system to quickly cool the cab’s interior.
Technology advancements
These new SSLs and CTLs offer the next level of integrating machine and technology. Both standard and advanced monitors provide the ability to run Cat Smart Attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. Attachment operation is integrated into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognizes the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.
Available Cat Product Link™ Elite tracks machine hours, location, and asset utilization, provides fault code details, and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health with data remotely accessible via VisionLink®. Additionally, Product Link Elite provides Remote Flash and Remote Troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.
For more information about the new Cat Skid Steer Loaders and Compact Track Loaders, contact a Cat dealer or visit: www.cat.com. Cc
The Terramac® RT7R features a 360-degree rotating frame that can dump up to 7 tons at any position which improves ef ciencies on the job site while minimizing environmental damage. Ideal for a variety of projects including tight spaces and sensitive areas.
Get power and ef ciency in a big package with a hybrid excavator designed to reduce fuel consumption while driving performance. When swinging, all available hydraulic power is sent to the boom, arm and bucket for improved cycle time and increased production. All hybrid components are covered by a 7-year/15,000 hour fully transferable warranty.
The
At Sonsray Machinery, our CASE Compact Track Loader offers versatility with radial or vertical lift configurations, and optional high-flow hydraulics for running powerful attachments. The 8-inch LCD display gives you vital machine stats, maintenance data, and control settings at your fingertips.
