The Louisiana Department of Transportation (LaDOTD) worked long and hard to get a traffic management plan approved so they could proceed with reconstruction work on a 3.5mi. section of Interstate 20 through Bossier City. They knew traffic was going to be a problem and even with their best efforts, envisioned backups stretching miles and miles. As it turned out, two months into the project, they discovered the dreaded miles-long queues weren’t the issue, but rather a glitch no one had foreseen and one with the potential to be dangerous, even deadly.
By Lucy Perry CEG CORRESPONDENT
8 LIEBHERR INVESTS $230M FOR NEW LOGISTICS CENTER IN TUPELO
Committed
Liebherr is building a logistics center
that
streamline the
of parts and components, ensuring timely delivery and improved availability.
12 ASCENDUM HELPS GA. CONTRACTOR INCREASE QUALITY OF WORK
The size and scope of construction companies ranges widely in the United States, from the massive, multinational firms to the much smaller outfits that employ a dozen or so people.
20 HERC COMPLETES ITS ACQUISITION OF H&E EQUIPMENT
Herc Holdings Inc. announced that it has completed its acquisition of H&E Equipment Services Inc. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Herc Rentals acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of H&E’s common stock.
22
SUPERIOR-DE MOYA JV RECONNECTS SANIBEL ISLAND COMMUNITY
The Superior-de Moya JV team has substantially completed the $328 million Sanibel Causeway restoration project between Sanibel Island and mainland Florida that was devastated by Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2022.
24
IRON WORKERS PARTNER WITH CREDIBLEMIND TO COMBAT SUICIDE
The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (IW) and its 4,000 partner contractors have launched a partnership with CredibleMind, an innovative digital mental health platform.
26 CAROLINA CAT HOSTS GLOBAL OPERATOR CHALLENGE COMPETITION
Welcoming more than 30 operators and 75 attendees, the event brought together equipment operators and industry professionals for hands-on experience and competition.
28 CHILDREN OF FALLEN
CONSTRUCTION WORKERS TO RECEIVE COLLEGE AID
Seven children of transportation construction workers killed on the job will receive post-high school financial assistance for the 2025-26 school year due to the ARTBA Foundation scholarship initiative.
IN THIS ISSUE
30
SOUTHEAST EDITION
MDOT’S ROAD WORK IN FULL SWING AT 15 SITES IN STATE
Mississippi Transportation Commission Chair Willie Simmons recently announced updates to several state Department of Transportation projects in the state’s western counties.
32
DRIVING DEVELOPMENT: RIPA & ASSOCIATES SEES SUCCESS
RIPA & Associates, a cornerstone in west Central Florida site contracting, was founded in 1998 by Frank Ripa and has grown from a small startup with 10 employees to a workforce of 1,250 today.
36
MAJOR RAIL PROJECT ON TRACK IN VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin broke ground April 24, 2025, on the highly anticipated New River Valley Rail Project in the town of Christiansburg, located southwest of Roanoke, Va.
36 DEUTZ ANNOUNCES RELOCATION TO NEW FACILITY IN WEST PALM BEACH
DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South has relocated to a new facility at 5786 Premier Park Drive in West Palm Beach, Fla. This new location is approximately 8 mi. from the Power Center’s former home at 475 Cleary Road.
Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) announced that Nikki Haley will be the featured keynote speaker at the 2026 AED Summit in Dallas, Texas, Jan. 19-21, 2026. Haley will be joined by a lineup of additional keynote speakers.
40 INDUSTRY LEADERS TAKE PART IN ARTBA LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Thirty-one leaders in the transportation design and construction industry completed an introduction to federal legislative and regulatory issues May 6-8, 2025, during the ARTBA Foundation’s Industry Leader Development Program.
66 AMH CELEBRATES 22 YEARS OF CUSTOMER-FOCUSED EXCELLENCE
All Material Handling Inc. marks 22 years of commitment to customers, quality products and expert service. Founded in Chicago by Peter Brettner, AMH was built on a simple principle: success comes from putting the customer first.
78 ISUZU DIESEL ENGINES CELEBRATE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY IN 2025
For half a century, Isuzu industrial engines have powered productivity across the United States. Isuzu diesel engines are known throughout the off-road equipment market for their reputation for reliability, durability and long-term value.
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Liebherr Invests $230M for New Logistics Center in Tupelo
By Cindy Riley CEG CORRESPONDENT
Committed to maintaining high service standards, Liebherr is building a logistics center in Tupelo, Miss., that will streamline the distribution of parts and components, ensuring timely delivery and improved availability. The new facility will incorporate the latest technologies and sustainable design elements, in an effort to meet changing customer requirements.
The planned investment sum for the whole campus development is up to $230 million. In the long term, Liebherr is planning to create more than 300 new jobs on the campus. These expansions and services will enable Liebherr to make long-term partnerships.
A project of this scale not only represents a major investment in Mississippi’s economic future but also positions the Tupelo region as a critical logistics hub in the southeastern United States. Based on Liebherr’s groundbreaking press release, this project will generate hundreds of construction and longterm operational jobs, strengthen regional supply chain capabilities and attract further industrial development. This kind of strategic infrastructure sets the stage for sustained growth, increased tax revenues and enhanced competitiveness for both the local community and the state.
The first phase involves an investment of $176 million. The facility will initially support the distribution of products from the multinational equipment manufacturer’s earthmoving, tower cranes, concrete technology, mobile and crawler cranes and maritime cranes, as well as components. Additional product segments are expected to
The planned investment sum for the whole campus development
create more than 300 new jobs on the campus.
be integrated shortly after operations commence.
Hive Business Park is considered an ideal setting for Liebherr's new facility, as it combines strategic location, robust infrastructure and strong community backing. The central location facilitates efficient distribution and reduces transit times. The park is equipped with modern infrastructure that supports
large-scale logistics operations, including warehousing, distribution, pre-assembly, packaging and customs services.
Noted in Liebherr’s press release, this facility will greatly enhance Liebherr's operational efficiency across the Americas and the United States by streamlining the distribution of parts and components, reducing delivery times and improving the availability
of critical supplies. This strategic investment will bolster Liebherr's supply chain infrastructure, ensuring that customers receive timely support and parts availability. According to Liebherr’s recent news release regarding updated information on this large scale project, it is expected to create numerous job opportunities, with an see LIEBHERR page 57
Liebherr USA Co. photo
The Liebherr 38XXT and 47XXT truck-mounted concrete pumps deliver concrete to hard-toreach areas like deep footings, slab pours or upper floors.
Liebherr USA Co. photo
is up to $230 million. In the long term, Liebherr is planning to
Liebherr USA Co. photo
Evans General Contractors has been selected as the contractor for Liebherr’s new logistics center in Tupelo, Miss.
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ASCENDUM Helps Ga. Contractor Increase Quality of Work
By Eric Olson CEG CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
The size and scope of construction companies ranges widely in the United States, from the massive, multinational firms to the much smaller outfits that employ a dozen or so people.
But there are also very small companies within the construction industry where fewer than a half-dozen people work hard to prepare raw land for larger firms to build upon. How long those businesses thrive and succeed depends on multiple factors, including the caliber of their work, their reputation, and with whom they choose to associate in the business.
The latter category includes one North Georgia company that has managed to succeed for 25 years with only a two-man crew.
The firm, McGhee Grading & Excavating, located in the town of Chatsworth, southeast of Chattanooga, Tenn., was formed in April 2000 by Justus McGhee, before his brother, Shane, joined him around 2004. Besides grading and excavating, their business also handles demolition projects from time to time.
The McGhee brothers grew up around this type of work thanks to their late father J.C., who at one time had his own company, J&S Excavating, in Gordon County, Ga.
“I got involved in clearing and dirt work after learning from my dad when I was a kid,” Justus said. “He taught me a lot, and I’d ride on the dozer with him all day long behind his seat. By the time I was a teenager, I was already operating equipment myself.”
In the early days of McGhee Grading & Excavating, Justus performed all the work himself before Shane came aboard. In addition, their uncle S.T. McGhee, who has since passed away, also lent a hand during the company’s formative years.
Over the next quarter-century, the company began building a stellar reputation among larger contractors in the North Georgia area because of the detailed work it does in creating home sites, digging basements, ponds, and lakes, working on driveways and building large commercial pads.
A whopping total of 31 machines make up the company’s rolling stock today, which, Justus admitted, is an unusually high number for only two guys.
“Well, some of them are just older pieces,” he said, “including dozers that I just like to have around. Shane and I operate everything we have ourselves. It’s like my name says, ‘Just us.’”
On a recent warm and sunny spring day, the McGhees could be found working on a beautiful, 635-acre property in the hill country near Adairsville, Ga.
“This project has been going on for two years now,” said McGhee. “The owners have had more and more added to it as we’ve worked. They are building a new home, and we have redone the 75-year-old lake here.
“It had been leaking and wouldn’t stay full, so we dug the mud out with the Volvo A25G articulated haul truck we bought. We actually excavated a little deeper because the lake was shallow on one end; now, though, it holds about five to six feet of water.”
In all, he added, the McGhees have moved approximately 50,000-cu.yds. of dirt from the work site.
“And I wouldn’t have been able to do the job without that Volvo articulated truck,” Justus said. “It was a game changer for me. If I had known about this machine years ago I would have bought one sooner because of how well it worked right after it rains. And in this part of the world where we get a lot of wet weather, that’s a huge thing. We hauled hundreds of loads of muck out of here with that Volvo.”
The A25G artic truck being used in Adairsville is just one more Volvo model that McGhee Grading & Excavating has purchased and, each time, Justus has called on the ASCENDUM Machinery branch locations in Chattanooga and Buford, Ga., just northeast of metro Atlanta. see MCGHEE page 68
(L-R): Shane McGhee and his brother, Justus McGhee of McGhee Grading & Excavating based in Chatsworth, Ga., meet with their ASCENDUM sales representative, Mitchell Gross at a job site in North Georgia.
Herc Holdings Inc. announced that it has completed its acquisition of H&E Equipment Services Inc.
“The acquisition of H&E accelerates Herc’s proven strategy and strengthens our position as a premier rental company in North America,” said Larry Silber, Herc Rentals’ president and CEO. “The addition of H&E’s network and capabilities provides Herc with a leading presence in 11 of the top 20 rental regions, a larger fleet that provides our customers with a range of specialty and general rental products and a talented team who shares our focus on excellence in customer service and safety. We are excited to realize the substantial upside ahead for industry leading growth and superior value creation.”
Under the terms of the merger agreement, Herc Rentals acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of H&E’s common stock for, on a per share basis, $78.75 in cash and 0.1287 shares of Herc Rentals common stock. With the completion of the transaction, shares of H&E common stock have ceased trading and will no longer be listed on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit HercRentals.com
Herc Rentals logo
Superior-de Moya JV Reconnects Sanibel Island Community
The Superior-de Moya Joint Venture (JV) team has substantially completed the $328 million Sanibel Causeway restoration project, re-establishing and fortifying the critical 3-mi. lifeline between Sanibel Island and mainland Florida that was devastated by Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2022.
“What makes this project special is that we’ve given this community infrastructure they can rely on through whatever comes next,” said Toby Mazzoni, project manager of Superior Construction. “We build for the long haul, especially when communities are counting on us most.”
When Hurricane Ian destroyed the causeway in 2022, Sanibel and Captiva Islands were completely cut off, paralyzing the tourism-dependent economy and leaving residents stranded. The emergency response team restored temporary access in just 15 days, enabling first responders to reach the islands and allowing residents to begin recovery efforts.
The project marked the Florida Department of Transportation’s first phased design-build contract and highlighted the JV team’s innovative approach, enabling emergency and permanent repairs to start while the design was still in development. The JV team successfully navigated complex logistics while maintaining traffic flow throughout construction.
“The Joint Venture team overcame this project’s logistical challenges with tenacity,” said Superior Construction CEO Nick Largura. “Building five seawalls during the hurricane season, railing in high-quality armor stone materials from Alabama and Georgia quarries and improving resilience, while collaborating with multiple stakeholders on a first-of-its-kind phased design-build contract, is a monumental feat. I’m incredibly proud of this team.”
At peak construction, the JV team coordinated multiple specialized crews simultaneously: three for pile-driving, four for earthwork, two for storm drainage, six for rebar tying, eight for concrete placement and three for asphalt paving, all while keeping two lanes of traffic open for island residents and visitors.
The rebuilt causeway now features dramatically enhanced storm resilience, including:
● Steel sheet pile wall systems: nearly 750,000 sq. ft. (26,200,750 lbs), including a king pile wall system, with lengths varying from 20 to 70 ft.;
● concrete caps: approximately 19,750 linear ft. total: 4,930 ft. of retaining wall concrete caps; 8,460 ft. of island wall concrete caps; and 6,360 ft. of sea wall concrete caps.
● 127,996 tons of strategically placed armor stone;
● elevated seawalls from 5 ft. to 8 ft.;
● advanced stormwater drainage systems throughout the causeway;
● 19,500 tons of asphalt pavement placed;
● innovative scour prevention system using 25,225 sq. yds. of gabion marine mattress and 79,000 tons of coastal rip rap and bedding stone.
● 6,900 linear ft. of various permanent roadway concrete barriers; and
● 25,000 sq. ft. of fractured fin concrete fascia.
The project’s resilience was put to the test during construction in 2024 when Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton struck Florida. Completed sections withstood these storms intact, while unfinished areas experienced washouts, providing real-world validation of the JV team’s engineering approach.
The causeway’s completion marks a significant milestone in Sanibel Island’s recov-
ery from Hurricane Ian and strengthens the community’s defense against future storms.
With this critical infrastructure restored, emergency services can now reliably reach
the island, residents have secure mainland access, and tourism-dependent businesses can fully resume operations, revitalizing the island community for generations to come.
Superior Construction photo
A photo of the damage caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022.
Superior Construction photo
An aerial photo of the completed causeway, 2025.
Superior Construction photo
When Hurricane Ian destroyed the causeway in 2022, Sanibel and Captiva Islands were completely cut off, paralyzing the tourism-dependent economy and leaving residents stranded. Superior
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Iron Workers Partner With CredibleMind to Combat Suicide
In response to the growing mental health crisis affecting workers across the nation, the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (IW) and its 4,000 partner contractors have launched a partner ship with CredibleMind, an innovative digital mental health platform.
This bold initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing mental health challenges in the construction trades, which have some of the highest suicide rates of any profession.
Ironworkers face a disproportionate burden when it comes to mental health, ranking among the top professions affected by suicide, trailing only behind first responders and veterans. IW’s new collaboration with CredibleMind aims to break down stigma, increase access to mental health resources and promote psychological well-being across the workforce.
“This partnership reflects our deep commitment to the health and safety of our members — not just on the job site, but in every aspect of their lives,” said Eric Dean, general president of IW. “Mental wellness is just as critical as physical safety. Addressing mental health is critical for maintaining a safe job site. With CredibleMind, we are equipping our members with the knowledge, support, and resources they need to thrive.”
CredibleMind is a confidential and anonymous platform that empowers individuals to take charge of their mental health anytime, anywhere. By offering a centralized hub of thousands of expert-reviewed resources including videos, podcasts, articles, apps, books and online programs — CredibleMind meets union members where they are — with tools that are easy to use and tailored to diverse needs.
“The challenges presented in our industry, including mental health and death by suicide, cut across all demographics and affect the ironworkers and our employer,” said Bill Brown, executive director of Ideal Contracting. “With CredibleMind, we are providing 24-7 access to tools, tips and protocols that will serve the employers and their families, many of whom, like me, are ironworkers.”
The initiative underscores a broader shift in the building trades: recognizing that mental health is foundational to job performance, safety and overall quality of life. The IW and its contractors are proud to lead the way in creating a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength — not weakness.
(L-R) are Eleonor Pruitt, Caterpillar Inc.; Mitch Christenbury, Carolina Cat; and Mary Ashley Lozano, Elyce Tatum, Alex Andrade, Jerry Harmon, Tracy Faithful, Nicholas Clemency, Chris Cannon, Malcolm Klepp and David Terwilliger, all of Blythe Construction.
Carolina Cat Hosts Global Operator Challenge Competition
During the “Mini Masters” segment of the competition, operators used a Cat 303.5 mini-excavator to “putt” the ball approximately 75 ft. in a defined time period.
Welcoming more than 30 operators and 75 attendees, the event brought together equipment operators and industry professionals for hands-on experience and competition. Attendees enjoyed a complimentary lunch from several food trucks and networking opportunities with Carolina Cat team members and Caterpillar representatives.
The event spotlighted the newest Cat equipment and technology while kicking off the first local phase of Caterpillar’s Global Operator Challenge — drawing skilled operators eager to test their abilities in speed, accuracy and precision.
After multiple rounds of operating skills on display, Danny Avila of Wayne Brothers earned the title of AllAround Winner.
Carolina Cat experts shared insights on how Cat machines and services are transforming productivity and efficiency across the industry. From compact machines to heavy-duty earthmovers, the event gave guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the latest tools of the trade. CEG (All photographs in this article are Copyright 2025 Construction Equipment Guide. All Rights Reserved.)
During the “Big Dig,” contestants used a Cat 323 excavator to dig a trench to a precise depth and length in the allotted time. Deductions were made for not keeping a consistent level grade.
Carolina Cat had the new Cat 275 compact track loader on hand for guests to demo, though it was not part of the challenge.
Using a Cat D4 blade to knock only the tennis ball off the cone is one of the tasks during the Precision Tracktor segment.
Carolina Cat had its mobile operator simulator training trailer on hand. The simulated environment helps customers learn to complete projects safely, on time and on budget.
ARTBA Foundation Scholarships... Children of Fallen Construction Workers to Receive College Aid
Seven children of transportation construction workers killed on the job will receive post-high school financial assistance for the 2025-26 school year due to the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) Foundation scholarship initiative.
The program was established with a major gift from two Roanoke, Va., highway contractors and their companies — Stan Lanford (1999 ARTBA chairman) of Lanford Brothers and Jack Lanford
(1991 ARTBA chairman) of Adams Construction Company. Scholarships have a value of up to $10,000 annually.
More than 225 “Lanford Family Transportation Construction Worker Memorial” scholarships have been awarded to worthy students from 33 states to pursue undergraduate and graduate courses, as well as technical training.
The 2025 class includes:
Amy McNeil Stepan, Lumberton, Texas
Amy’s father, Jeffrey McNeil, was killed in 2005 while working for the Texas Department of Transportation. Amy is a graduate student at Texas Woman’s University pursuing her master’s degree to become an acute care gerontology nurse practitioner.
Breana Jones, Gaston, S.C.
Breana’s father, Stan Jones Sr., died in 2007 after being struck by a vehicle while at work for the South Carolina Department of Transportation. Breana will be a senior at Winthrop University studying graphic design.
Katie & Christopher Hutt, Cleveland, Tenn.
Katie and Christopher’s father, Chris, was struck and killed in 2006 while installing signage for United Rentals in a highway work zone. Katie will be a senior studying architecture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where her brother will be a sophomore.
Zoe Watts, Marshall, Ark.
Zoe’s father, James “Kirk” Watts, was killed by overturned equipment while working for the Arkansas Department of Transportation in 2018. Zoe will be a sophomore majoring in nursing at the University of Central Arkansas.
Bailey Edwards, Gadsden, Ala.
Bailey’s father, Keith, was killed in 2020 when he was struck by an 18-wheeler while placing road work signs for Vulcan Materials Company. Bailey will be a freshman studying biomedical sciences at Auburn University.
Toxey Voudrie, Trussville, Ala.
Toxey’s father, Darin, was struck and killed while working for Jefferson County Roads and Transportation Department in 2015. Toxey will be a freshman studying sports and medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Two Graduations
Multi-year Lanford Scholarship recipient Jenna Jares graduated in May 2025 with a master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas.
Another 2024-25 awardee, LaToya Hood, will receive her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Texas Southern University this summer.
MDOT’s Road Work in Full Swing at 15 Sites in State
Mississippi Transportation Commission Chair Willie Simmons recently announced updates to several state Department of Transportation (MDOT) projects in the state’s western counties.
“As we enter prime maintenance and construction season, we’re pleased to provide the following updates on projects across western Mississippi,” he said in a May 7, 2025 news release. “This amount of progress shows your tax dollars hard at work improving our infrastructure.”
U.S. Highway 82 Greenville Bypass Work Nears Final Stages
Simmons said that crews continue making headway on the U.S. 82 Greenville Bypass in Washington County. The project calls for the construction of 9 mi. of fourlane highway from Mississippi Highway 1 to Leland. It also provides for the grading, paving, bridge repairs and installation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) components on the U.S. 82 Greenville Bypass from the Mississippi River Bridge to Miss. 1.
In addition, Simmons added:
• workers are currently placing the second and final lift of asphalt, as well as pouring sign foundations;
• Haxton Road, Flannagan Road and Miss. 454 remain open to traffic on a new alignment;
• crews also continue boring and pulling wire for lighting and ITS installation; and
• cable barrier, signposts and fences are being installed.
“Significant progress continues being made on this long-term construction project that will greatly enhance safety and improve traffic conditions throughout a region that is very near and dear to me,” he said. “We are taking vehicles carrying chemicals and hazardous products out of our communities along U.S. 82. Please drive slow and exercise caution so that we can safely put the finishing touches on this massive construction project.”
The remainder of the bypass project is on track to be completed this fall. The contract was awarded to Eutaw Construction of Madison, Miss. at a total cost of $216 million.
Miss. 28 Bridge Rehabilitation Continues in Copiah County
Repairs to the Miss. 28 bridge over the Pearl River at the Copiah/Simpson County line also are progressing. The 80-year-old steel truss bridge has been closed since 2024 after being struck by an over-height vehicle traveling westbound, the result of which caused significant structural damage.
Crews working for Southern Road & Bridge LLC, located in Tarpon Springs, Fla.,
are currently erecting structural members of the bridge. Several sway bracings were struck during the accident, damaging the load-bearing components of the bridge. Due to its large and complex design, a significant amount of preliminary engineering work was completed before repairs began, including five shoring points that were designed and approved by MDOT.
“As commissioner, I applaud our dedicated engineers for their careful review, design and execution of this complex bridge repair,” Simmons said. “We also appreciate the patience of surrounding communities and businesses for allowing us to get the assessment and repair process completed as quickly and safely as possible. Every effort is being made to expedite the repair and reopen the bridge as soon as it is safe to do so.”
Mississippi Department of Transportation photo
Mississippi Transportation Commission Chair Willie Simmons recently announced updates to several state Department of Transportation (MDOT) projects in the state’s western counties.
The $1.5 million repair project is on track to be completed this spring, according to MDOT.
Miss. 16/149 Bridge Replacements in Yazoo County
A $27.9 million project to replace three bridges on Miss. 16/149 over the Yazoo River Floodway channels is quickly heading toward its conclusion at the end of this year. The work requires the complete closure of the state highway between West Leeve Road and Whittington East Levee Road in Yazoo County.
The contractor, Madison-based Key LLC, has completed Bridges A and C and is in the process of setting the structural steel for Bridge B.
“We appreciate your patience [in allowing] crews to get these bridges replaced as quickly and efficiently as possible,” Simmons said in the MDOT news release. “Residents and businesses will have a safer set of bridges to carry loads across [Miss.] 16/149.”
Road Construction, Maintenance Is Spread All Over Region
In addition to these roadway efforts, a number of others are also under way across western Mississippi.
• A project calling for the repair of five bridges on Interstate 20 over the Big Black River in Warren County is ongoing. Crews are placing traffic head-to-head and starting bridge repair work at the site. The $17.1 million project was awarded to Key LLC, which is expected to wrap up the work in the autumn of 2026.
• The U.S. 49W bridge over the
Sunflower River is being repaired as part of a $3 million contract that MDOT awarded to Key LLC. At the Sunflower County site, workers have swapped traffic to a head-tohead configuration so that fixes can be made on the southbound bridge in time for the project’s completion this fall.
• A project calling for the reconstruction of I-20 in Warren County has recently begun. Crews from T.L. Wallace Construction Inc. in Columbia, Miss. are currently working on detours and roundabout construction. The $13.4 million project is expected to finish in the fall of 2026.
• A major U.S. 49 pavement restoration continues in Yazoo County where 11 mi. of the highway is being upgraded from almost a mile north of Old U.S. 49 to the Miss. 16/U.S. 49 frontage road just south of Yazoo County High School. Richland’s APAC-MS is removing and replacing island pavement, performing curb and gutter work at local intersections and correcting drainage issues. At the same time, a paving team is applying the second of four lifts of asphalt on mainline U.S. 49. The $29 million project is likely to wrap up later this fall.
• Also planned to be finished this autumn is a major 19-mi. overlay effort in Claiborne County along Miss. 547 from the Copiah County line to U.S. 61 in Port Gibson. At the moment, workers with Dickerson & Bowen Inc. are milling and paving the highway’s mainline. The MDOT contract is worth $4.6 million.
• In Jefferson County, a second massive asphalt overlay stretching for 19 mi. is taking place on Miss. 553 from the Adams County line to U.S 61 in Fayette. Random clearing is currently under way throughout the $6.6 million project, which was awarded to APAC-MS. MDOT noted that work should be completed by the end of 2025.
• A bridge replacement over Little White Oak Creek continues in Copiah County
along Miss. 227. The contractor, Chris Albritton Construction Co. Inc. in Laurel, Miss., has placed traffic on the final alignment after having extended the box culvert and removing the detour. The $6.9 million construction is on track to wrap up this summer.
• An effort that calls for the replacement of a bridge on Miss. 8 over the Quiver River in Sunflower County is also underway this spring. There, crews have driven the test piles and began constructing the detour bridge. The $7.9 million contract was awarded to Ridgeland, Miss.’s Century Construction Group Inc. and is projected to be completed by the end of 2026, according to MDOT.
• In Warren County, a mill and overlay 5 mi. in length along Miss. 822 (Old U.S. 80) from Glenwood Funeral Home to the end of state maintenance near Bovina is nearing its end. Once washing issues are corrected, only thermoplastic stripe placement remains. The $1.8 million project went to APAC-MS, which should have the work wrapped up this summer.
• Eight miles of U.S. 49W from U.S. 82 in Indianola to Sunflower, including a single mile of Miss. 3 from A.J. Riley Road to U.S. 49W, is being milled and overlaid in Sunflower County. APAC-MS and its people have completed mainline paving and are working on pads, local roads and shoulder gravel as part of its $4.1 million state contract. The road project should be finished in the coming weeks.
• Work also is moving along to overlay U.S. 61 from the end of its four-lane section south of Port Gibson to Miss. 547. So far, crews from Vicksburg’s Hayes General Construction LLC have cleared and repaired failed areas in the pavement. With a contract worth $1.5 million, the contractor is expected to complete the paving project by this fall.
• In Holmes County, a $2.7 million bridge replacement on Miss. 12 over Moccasin Creek recently began, according to MDOT. Waterford, Miss.-based Ste-Bil Grading Inc. currently has its crews driving production piles for the bridge. The construction is slated to be finished by Spring 2026.
MDOT is responsible for providing a safe intermodal transportation network that is planned, designed, constructed and maintained in an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sensitive manner. The agency’s objective is to maximize taxpayer dollars by providing safe and efficient roadways that enhance economic stability and growth statewide.
Driving Development: RIPA & Associates Sees Success
RIPA & Associates, a cornerstone in west Central Florida site contracting, was founded in 1998 by Frank Ripa and has grown from a small startup with 10 employees to a workforce of 1,250 today. Operating in a 90-mi. radius from its Tampa headquarters, RIPA provides full-service site development, including clearing, earthwork, utilities, roadways and paving.
“Our scope of work is comprised primarily of residential communities, commercial and industrial sites, schools, and hospitals,” said Chris LaFace, president and CEO.
Additionally, RIPA’s sister company, Florida Asphalt & Concrete (FAC), plays a crucial role in handling asphalt and concrete work for many of RIPA’s projects. FAC, established to complement RIPA’s services, has been a pivotal addition to the company’s capabilities.
“Having Florida Asphalt & Concrete allows us to self-perform the paving and concrete scopes in our contracts,” LaFace said. “This not only streamlines our processes but ensures we deliver a consistent, high-quality product to our clients on our schedule.”
RIPA’s remarkable growth stems from its commitment to fostering strong relationships and maintaining a customerfocused culture. After weathering the economic downturn of 2008, RIPA emerged stronger by investing in talent and emphasizing repeat business.
“Our success comes from having a phenomenal team and an unwavering commitment to customer service,” LaFace said. “Our business is built entirely on private work — no hard-bid government contracts — which keeps us focused on our clients’ needs.”
Expanding Fleet
The team’s expertise is complemented by a robust equipment fleet and strategic technology integrations. Among RIPA’s preferred machines are Komatsu D51PX-24 dozers, Komatsu HM300-5 and HM400-5 articulated trucks, Komatsu WA320-8 wheel loaders, BOMAG BW 211 D single-drum vibratory rollers, BOMAG BW 11 RH-5 pneumatic tire rollers, and BOMAG RS 360 soil stabilizers/recyclers.
This specialized equipment enables RIPA to deliver exceptional results efficiently and consistently.
“We introduced Komatsu machines as rentals initially, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” said Casey Dowling, fleet director. “The operator interface is simple and intuitive, and the visibility on the D51PX-24 dozer, in particular, enhances safety and productivity.”
Dowling added, “We prefer BOMAG rollers because of their ease of use, reliability and serviceability. Their uptime
is much higher than other ones we’ve tried.”
The equipment’s versatility is critical, as RIPA handles a variety of projects, including master-planned communities like Two Rivers in Wesley Chapel and large-scale developments in Parrish, such as the Seaire community. The Seaire project alone involves thousands of residential lots and a new hospital, showcasing RIPA’s capacity to manage multifaceted developments.
“For a project like Seaire, we’re using a mix of Komatsu dozers for earthwork, BOMAG equipment for soil compaction, and Kubota tractors for utility work,” Dowling said.
“Having the right equipment ensures each phase of the project moves smoothly.”
In addition to its core fleet, RIPA relies heavily on Superior brooms and Kubota MX5400 tractors, which Dowling praised for their reliability and ease of maintenance. These machines are used across various projects, from road maintenance to residential development, thanks to their adaptability.
“We use the MX5400s with either a box blade or broom attachment, and our operators love them,” said Dowling.
Managing this extensive fleet efficiently is possible thanks to advanced telematics systems, such as Komatsu’s Komtrax. It provides real-time data on equipment performance, location and maintenance needs, allowing RIPA to maintain high uptime and minimize delays.
“Technology is an important part of our fleet strategy,” Dowling said. “With integrations like Komtrax, we’ve automated processes and improved data quality, enabling us to make informed decisions quickly.”
RIPA’s innovative approach extends to training programs that utilize simulators to upskill operators and improve safety. These initiatives are part of the company’s broader strategy to maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry.
Partnering With Linder
RIPA receives support from Linder Industrial Machinery Co., especially Vice President Vince Aguayo and sales rep-
Linder photo
Chris LaFace, president and CEO
Linder photo
The
helps RIPA operators strengthen and stabilize soil by adding binding agents
Linder photo
The BOMAG BW 211 D single-drum vibratory roller provides optimal compaction for RIPA’s projects.
resentative Randy Thomas. The partnership ensures that RIPA’s fleet remains well maintained and operational.
“Randy has been solid since day one,” said Dowling. “He is extremely personable, helps with a lot of problem-solving, and is always responsive. Vince and Randy are top notch in making sure we have some of the best service and support.”
LaFace added, “Randy is always there when we need him, and that’s important to us.”
The support from Linder extends beyond equipment sales, with dedicated product support and Total Maintenance and Repair (TM&R) contracts ensuring uptime for RIPA’s fleet of 72 Linder-supported machines.
“We rely on TM&R contracts for all heavy equipment,” Dowling said. “This shifts the risk of maintenance to the dealership, allowing us to focus on operations.”
Focusing On Consistency, Quality
Looking ahead, RIPA is optimistic about its prospects, with a strong backlog of projects and plans to continue refin-
ing its operations. While the company remains rooted in its Tampa community, it is open to opportunities for sustainable growth.
“Our future is about consistency and quality,” LaFace said. “We’re proud of our team and our culture. We’ll stay true to our roots by doing the right thing and taking care of the customer.”
In addition to its business achievements, RIPA is deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting local initiatives such as the Tampa Pig Jig and the Fishing for Wishes Tournament.
“This is our community; this is our home,” said LaFace. “Taking care of it and giving back is a major part of our organization.”
With a strong foundation, innovative strategies and a dedicated team, RIPA is poised to continue leading the way in site contracting and community engagement.
*The opinions expressed here are from the end user as quoted. The results described herein are those of these end users under certain conditions. Individual results may vary.
Customer Snapshot
• Company: RIPA & Associates
• Location: Tampa, Florida
• Employees: 1,250
• Established: 1998
• Area of expertise: Full-service site development
• Komatsu equipment: D51PX-24 dozers, HM300-5 and HM400-5 articulated trucks, and WA320-8 wheel loaders
• BOMAG equipment: BW 211 D single-drum vibratory rollers, BW 11 RH-5 pneumatic tire rollers, and RS 360 soil stabilizers/recyclers
By the Numbers
• RIPA’s territory covers a 90-mi. radius from its Tampa headquarters and includes Ocala, Venice and Haines City
• Sixty percent of RIPA’s projects are residential subdivisions
• Thirteen Komatsu trucks and dozers were recently added to RIPA’s fleet.
Linder photo
Casey Dowling, fleet director
Linder photo
(L-R): RIPA’s Chris LaFace and Casey Dowling receive support from Linder’s Randy Thomas.
Linder photo
Linder photo
Komatsu HM300-5 and HM400-5 articulated haul trucks allow operators to move large quantities of material efficiently across job sites.
Groundbreaking Puts Major Rail Project On Track in Virginia’s New River Valley
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin broke ground April 24, 2025, on the highly anticipated New River Valley Rail Project in the town of Christiansburg, located southwest of Roanoke, Va.
As part of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority’s (VPRA) Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) initiative, the construction encompasses railroad infrastructure upgrades that will allow VPRA to extend its Amtrak Virginia service from Roanoke to Christiansburg and return passenger rail service to the New River Valley for the first time since 1979.
DEUTZ
Center... DEUTZ Announces Relocation to Its New Facility in West Palm Beach, Fla.
DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South has relocated to a new facility at 5786 Premier Park Drive in West Palm Beach, Fla. This new location is approximately 8 mi. from the Power Center’s former home at 475 Cleary Road.
“Today’s groundbreaking represents a lot of hard work, determination and collaboration,” Youngkin told the event’s guests. “We are here today because people came to the table and worked together to execute a new and dramatically better deal — one that accelerates the return of passenger rail service to the New River Valley years earlier, on a better line, and at a much lower cost to Virginia’s taxpayers — than the one I inherited. I look forward to all that this station will do to support and grow such an important region of the Commonwealth.”
Amtrak Media noted that the new passenger rail effort in Christiansburg will include:
• a new station platform with a canopy;
a parking lot and access roads;
• track improvements and an updated signaling system; and
• an Amtrak layover facility in the nearby community of Radford, Va.
The estimated cost of the entire VPRA project is $264.5 million. Preliminary construction began in late February 2025, with the bulk of the work set to commence in May 2025.
The extension of service to Christiansburg will be via Norfolk Southern’s main line (N-Line), the result of an agreement between VPRA and Norfolk Southern completed last September through which VPRA purchased the Manassas Line and gained access to the N-Line, according to Amtrak.
By expanding service from Roanoke to Christiansburg on the N-Line, VPRA will use existing infrastructure with a focus on developing a station stop at the Cambria site, which previously served the community from 1904 to 1979.
The project also will enhance Norfolk Southern’s freight service through the area.
“I want to thank VPRA and Norfolk Southern for coming together last year to reach an all-around better deal for Virginians,” said Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III. “The new agreement between VPRA and Norfolk Southern is the reason we are here breaking ground on a project that will provide additional connectivity and promote economic growth in the New River Valley.”
Created by the Virginia General Assembly in 2021, the New River Valley Passenger Rail Station Authority has the lead in renovating the historic Christiansburg station build-
ing at Cambria — to be called the New River Valley Station. Construction is expected to begin in 2027.
“Extending passenger rail from Roanoke to Christiansburg will provide a much-needed transportation alternative along the increasingly busy I-81 Corridor,” said Virginia State Sen. Travis Hackworth. “I’m excited to see this region of Virginia benefit from the Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative. I want to thank all those involved for making this project a reality.”
Project Latest Boost to VirginiaÊs Amtrak Ridership
Amtrak Virginia service is expected to begin in 2027 with two daily roundtrips between Christiansburg and Washington, D.C., with stops in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Culpeper, Manassas, Burke Centre and Alexandria. Travel times are estimated to be 50 minutes between Christiansburg and Roanoke and just under six hours between Christiansburg and Washington.
From the nation’s capital, the service will continue north onto Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor to Philadelphia, New York, Boston and points in-between.
One of VPRA’s four corridors of service, the Roanoke corridor began with one daily roundtrip between Lynchburg and Washington in 2009. Since that time, the service was extended from Lynchburg to Roanoke and increased from one daily roundtrip to two.
Ridership along the corridor also has grown — from a little more than 100,000 between Lynchburg and Washington during its first year, to more than 343,000 passengers between Roanoke and Washington in 2024.
Since its formation, VPRA’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily along four corridors with stops at 17 stations in Virginia and one in Washington, D.C.
“Passenger rail creates greater potential for sustained economic growth, facilitates job creation and provides an efficient, affordable travel alternative to riding on the crowded interstate highway system,” noted Virginia’s U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith. “Today’s groundbreaking announcement means that the New River Valley will reap tremendous benefits and more. Extension of passenger rail to the New River Valley is an encouraging sign of things to come.”
VPRA was established in 2020 to promote, sustain and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service across the state of Virginia. The agency is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service.
“We’re always looking for ways to better serve our customers and provide them with the best possible DEUTZ experiences,” said Chris Thompson, general manager of DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South. “We’ve enjoyed outstanding demand since opening in West Palm Beach a few years ago, and the new location at 5786 Premier Park Drive is larger and better suited to meet the complete equipment service needs of our growing customer base.”
DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South supports OEM partners, assists dealers and helps independent equipment owners and rental companies across south Florida decrease downtime and increase productivity. Because Power Centers fully support DEUTZ engines, their customers can expect elevated levels of attention and expertise. Along with providing complete DEUTZ genuine parts support, DEUTZ Power Centers provide regularly scheduled maintenance for an entire piece of equipment and emergency service of DEUTZ engines, either at the Power Center location or at the customer’s site via traveling service technicians. DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South also serves as an official complete parts and service provider for JLG telehandlers and aerial work platforms, as well as Husquavarna concrete saws.
Daniel Fry, eastern regional director of DEUTZ Power Centers, said that DEUTZ Power Centers provide service support for more than just DEUTZ engines.
“We know customers can’t afford to wait, because they need to put their equipment back into service,” Fry said. “So much depends on having equipment up and running to meet strict project deadlines. That’s why we service not only equipment powered by DEUTZ engines, but any piece of equipment a customer may have. We take pride in being a one-stop source for our customers, across any of the territories we serve.”
DEUTZ Power Center Florida — South also offers dedicated application engineering and technical sales resources for OEMs utilizing DEUTZ products. Manufacturers can receive custom, value-add production and assembly services that result in the best possible DEUTZ solutions for their engine specification and configuration needs. Power Center customers also can purchase new DEUTZ engines, as well as DEUTZ Xchange remanufactured engines.
“We’re very excited about this new location, and we invite all our customers to stop by and see how we’ve grown to meet their needs,” Thompson said. “We’re fully committed to continuous improvement and making our best even better by providing easy, convenient access to DEUTZ products and parts, as well as world-class service for any equipment.”
For more information, visit www.deutzamericas.com.
A render of the finished Christiansburg station
VPRA render
AED Announces 2026 Summit Headliner
Nikki Haley, Additional Keynote Speakers
Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) announced that Nikki Haley will be the featured keynote speaker at the 2026 AED Summit in Dallas, Texas, Jan. 19-21, 2026.
Haley will be joined by a lineup of additional keynote speakers, including First Sergeant Matt Eversmann (Ret.), economist Lauren Saidel-Baker, and an expert OEM panel moderated by Marc Johnson of Pinion Global.
“We are honored to welcome Ambassador Haley to the 2026 AED Summit,” said AED President and CEO Brian P. McGuire. “Her bold leadership and global perspective, combined with the incredible lineup of speakers, will bring valuable insight to this year’s event.”
Haley’s keynote will be presented as part of “Dinner and a Conversation” — an engaging and candid onstage dialogue between Haley and McGuire. The dinner event will offer attendees a rare opportunity to hear firsthand insights from one of the most influential figures in American politics and global diplomacy.
Haley made history as the youngest governor in the country and the first minority female governor in America. Under her leadership, South Carolina became a powerhouse in economic development, earning the nickname “The Beast of the Southeast.” As U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Haley was widely recognized for her principled leadership, commitment to U.S. interests and outspoken advocacy for human rights. She was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential people in the world and one of Forbes’ World’s 100 Most Powerful women.
In addition to Haley, the Summit will feature First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.), whose story was portrayed in Black Hawk Down, sharing leadership lessons on resilience and strategic decision-making from his military experience. Marc Johnson of Pinion Global, a trusted advisor to equipment dealerships, will moderate the OEM Panel and economist Lauren Saidel-Baker of ITR Economics will provide essential macroeconomic analysis to help attendees make data-driven decisions for 2026 and beyond.
The AED Summit is the premier event for the equipment industry, uniting distributors, manufacturers and service providers from around the globe. The 2026 Summit will deliver world-class educational programming, unparalleled networking opportunities and invaluable strategic insights to help industry leaders drive their businesses forward.
For more information, visit aedsummit.com.
Industry Leaders Take Part in ARTBA Leadership Program
Thirty-one emerging leaders in the transportation design and construction industry completed an intensive introduction to federal legislative and regulatory issues May 6-8, 2025, during the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) Foundation’s Industry Leader Development Program (ILDP).
The ILDP, held in conjunction with the association’s Federal Issues program and the Transportation Construction Coalition Fly-In, provided participants with a solid understanding of industry economics, how transportation work in the United States is funded and financed, how actions by the federal government impact the industry, and how they — and their company or agency — can become politically engaged. ILDP attendees also met with their members of Congress to discuss opportunities to continue to grow investments in surface transportation.
The 2025 class includes:
• Eduardo Luis Acosta Jr., Texas Department of Transportation;
• Kevin Allen, Zachry Construction Corp.; Richard Barrett, RK&K LLP;
• Len Becker, HNTB Corp.;
• Allison Scott Berkheimer, RK&K LLP;
• Thomas Boals, Vulcan Materials Co.;
• Jenna Brose, AECOM;
• Skye Gentile Bush, Parsons Corp.;
• Joseph Cole Denney, J&D Specialized Equipment Hauling;
• Eric Dues, GFT;
• Raymond Farcas, Parsons Corp.;
• Jay Gabrielson, Parsons Corp.;
• Wilson Gebhart, SIMON, A Colas Co.;
• Isabel George, ARTBA;
• Todd Hubbard, Idaho Transportation Department;
• Jad Kabbani, ARTBA;
• Brian Kelso, Delta Cos. Inc.;
• Andy Kowske, HNTB Corp.;
• Aldo Madrid, Texas Department of Transportation;
• Casey Potts, RS&H, Inc.;
• Andre Guzman Rocha, Duit Holdings Inc.;
• Rajeev Shah, Parsons Corp.;
• Gregory Siebers, Parsons Corp.;
• Sarah Silberstein, AGC of Texas;
• Jessica Smith, GFT;
• Cheryl Ashley Spatz, Psomas;
• Rodney Paul Svec, Texas Department of Transportation;
• Timothy Adam White, Terracon Consultants Inc.;
• Alexis Williams, STV Inc.;
• Heather Wills, STV Inc.; and
• Jennifer Wood, Parsons Corp.
Approximately 900 graduates from more than 200 industry firms and public agencies have completed the ILDP since 1996. HNTB, one of the world’s leading infrastructure firms, is the program’s exclusive sponsor.
For more information, visit artbafoundation.org
AED photo
Lauren Saidel-Baker
AED photo
Marc Johnson
AED photo
First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (ret.)
AED photo
Nikki Haley
SECTIONPaving
ShoulderMaster Introduces Skid Steer Center Paver
ShoulderMaster announced the launch of the “world’s first” skid steer center paver.
The new skid steer center paver is designed for versatile applications, making it ideal for narrow paving projects, utility trenches and paving asphalt between rail tracks.
Its design includes a universal skid steer attachment quick connection, ensuring easy setup and operation. The purpose-placed material minimizes wastage, eliminating the need for hand work and it requires only a standard flow skid steer, making it accessible for a wide range of users, according to ShoulderMaster.
Among its features, the paver includes a wireless remote-control system, providing the ground operator with full control and convenience. It is easily transported to various job sites and is equipped with two builtin cameras for better monitoring and precision. With a hopper capacity of 88 ft.-cu., it allows for efficient material handling and the paver can take material from conventional size trucks.
In addition, its advanced screed functions enable it to pave from 0 to 4 in. thickness and 12 in. to 40 in. width.
The skid steer center paver delivers enhanced functionality, ease operation and cost-efficiency, according to the company.
By using a skid steer on site and transforming it into a versatile tool akin to a Swiss army knife, it significantly reduces both capital and maintenance costs, according to ShoulderMaster.
CEG screenshot
ShoulderMaster unveiled its new skid steer center paver at World of Asphalt 2025.
ShoulderMaster photo The new skid steer center paver is designed for versatile applications, making it ideal for narrow paving projects, utility trenches and paving asphalt between rail tracks.
A Workhorse To Depend On
The Carlson CP100 II sets the standard for versatility, component lifecycle and mat quality. With a powerful 100hp engine, an array of configurations and the class-leading EZCSS single slide screed, it’s time to see why the CP100 II has fast become the contractor’s choice for heavy-duty commercial paver platforms.
BOMAG Showcases Innovations During Celebration of Construction in D.C.
BOMAG photo
This milling machine features BOMAG’s BMS 15L holder system that is slimmer than other designs to lower resistance, which reduces fuel consumption and improves advance travel rate.
BOMAG Americas participated in the 2025 Celebration of Construction on the National Mall event, that took place May 14-16 in Washington, D.C. Hosted by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), the landmark event brings together leading construction equipment manufacturers, technology innovators and workforce development organizations to demonstrate how the industry is building a stronger, safer and more sustainable America.
BOMAG Americas had a substantial presence among the event’s interactive displays, equipment demonstrations and educational exhibits on the National Mall near the Smithsonian Metro station. The exhibit included the latest compaction, milling and paving equipment and technologies available from BOMAG. Visitors interacted with a live demonstration of the radio remote controlled BOMAG BMP 8500 trench compactor, focusing on how it’s helping to advance worker safety at the job site.
“BOMAG’s long equipment heritage is steeped in leveraging design innovation and technology,” said Brian Bieller, president of BOMAG Americas. “Our display on the National Mall tells the story of worker
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safety, efficiency and sustainability being at the heart of BOMAG design. We look forward to engaging with the public and policymakers in Washington at a time when they are set to debate several issues critical to offroad equipment manufacturers like BOMAG Americas in the coming year.”
Visitors were able to speak with BOMAG Americas experts to learn more about the equipment and technology on display beyond the BMP 8500.
This includes:
• Innovation — new BOMAG CR 820 T-2 tracked asphalt paver. This new paver features a 7-in. LCD display at each console and a new HumanMachine Interface (HMI) that groups similar functions for quick adjustment. Plus, it boasts BOMAG’s SMARTRAC automatic track tensioning system to reduce maintenance and SIDEVIEW for increased operator visibility.
• Sustainability — BOMAG BW 120 AD e-5 electric tandem roller. Part of BOMAG’s e-Performance line, the roller features an electric drive system that is just as powerful as its conventional counterpart with the added benefit of producing no fine dust pollution from exhaust gases and emits no CO2. • Technology — BOMAG BW 191
AD-5 AM tandem roller with Asphalt Manager. This roller offers three vibration systems, TanGO tangential oscillation with only one amplitude that is optimized for all applications, Asphalt Manager’s continuous automatic amplitude adjustment based on the level of compaction achieved to prevent over compaction and conventional vibration. Added BOMAP technology allows the operator to map out their jobsite in real time, monitoring active compaction results.
• Safety — BOMAG BM 1200/352 cold planer. This milling machine features BOMAG’s BMS 15L holder system that is slimmer than other designs to lower resistance, which reduces fuel consumption and improves advance travel rate. It can be equipped with BOMAG’s Ion Dust Shield that binds fine particulate matter generated from the milling process and reduces these fine particles by more than 80 percent.
The Celebration of Construction on the National Mall aims to educate policymakers, media, stakeholders and more about the construction industry’s vital role in the economy, public safety and environmental stewardship.
For more information, visit bomag.com/us-en.
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LaDOTD Bans Trucks in I-20 Construction Zone for Safety
photo
With an average of 80,000-100,000 vehicles per day, the reconstruction was long overdue.
The primary source of funding for the project was provided by the National Highway Performance Program (NHPP) due to the project location being on an interstate.
LADOTD from page 1
“This issue reared its head as we hit the rainy season,” said Erin Buchanan, public information officer of LaDOTD. “In the first phase, the outside lane was open, and the 18-wheelers would shy away from the concrete barriers, putting their tires on the outside edge. When it got wet, that tire would hit the outer edge of grass and mud and could not recover. They would tumble down the embankment. Thankfully, there were no major injuries, but it was hours and hours of recovery time for these very large vehicles.”
The LaDOTD solved the problem by prohibiting 18wheelers from the construction site, which was easy enough since an alternate route is nearby.
“We are lucky that we have an interstate bypass, and it is perfectly situated on either end of the project limits,” Buchanan said. “It is equipped to handle the increase in traffic, and it is located right there at the work zone. They can take that bypass and not be put out of their way very far, especially for through traffic to get to Texas or eastbound, the bypass puts them right where they need to be.”
The $123 million, three-phase project began in the fall of 2023 and is the first major rehabilitation effort since the interstate system was built in the late 1960s. With an average of 80,000-100,000 vehicles per day, the reconstruction was long overdue. Finished, it’s expected to make travel for both passenger vehicles and commercial motor vehicles significantly smoother and safer.
see LADOTD page 50
The $123 million, three-phase project began
of 2023 and is the first major rehabilitation effort since the interstate system was built in the
LaDODT photo
in the fall
late 1960s.
LaDODT
LaDODT photo
LaDODT photo
The project is on track for the scheduled completion date of late 2025/early 2026.
LaDODT photo
Crews Move to Final Phase of LaDOT’s I-20 Project, Set for Late 2025 Finish
“The pavement on I-20 in this area had long passed its useful service life and was riddled with patches and rough areas,” Buchanan said. “The travel lanes, as well as the on and off-ramps at five interchanges, on I-20 from near Hamilton Road to Industrial Drive in Bossier City are all being completely removed down to the dirt and rebuilt in both directions. The inside lanes have all been removed and reconstructed over the course of the last year, which comprised Phase 2 of the project.
“The project also includes extensive full-depth concrete panel repair along I-20 from the Pines Road interchange to near the Red River in Shreveport. While this is not a full reconstruction, this portion of work still provides widespread improvements to the interstate corridor through Shreveport.”
The primary source of funding for the project was provided by the National Highway Performance Program (NHPP) due to the project location being on an interstate. The project received 90 percent federal funds ($86.4 million) with a 10 percent state match ($31.3 million) at the time of bidding, Buchanan said.
Crews have shifted from Phase 2 to Phase 3, the final phase. Traffic will be put onto the newly constructed travel lanes so the contractor can proceed with demolishing the old outside lanes and begin the process of rebuilding those, Buchanan said.
And that should be good news for the drivers of those 18wheelers who, though not taken far out of their way, were nonetheless not pleased to discover their rigs were prohibited.
“I think that they just have not encountered signs that say ‘Interstate, closed to trucks’ before,” Buchanan said. “I think they were a little surprised at that. We were surprised. But,
you know, it’s like with any kind of unforeseen construction or roadway issue, you have to kind of pivot. And so, while we did not foresee having to prohibit an interstate highway to 18-wheelers, which is kind of like their land and their exact time, it’s what we had to do for the safety of everybody.
“But now, the contractors are in the process of constructing the outside lanes, so there may be a point where we can pull those barriers out wide enough ... that the prohibition won’t be necessary anymore.”
The project is on track for the scheduled completion date of late 2025/early 2026. CEG
LADOTD from page 48
LaDODT photo Crews have shifted from Phase 2 to Phase 3, the final phase.
LaDODT photo
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RAISSING THE STANDARD IIN
New Logistics Center Has Potential to Create 300 Jobs
initial 180 jobs and plans to expand further, potentially creating more than 300 jobs in the long term. This influx of employment will drive economic growth in the region, providing stable incomes and fostering community development. Additionally, the construction and operation of the facility will stimulate local businesses and services, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the area.
Evans General Contractors has been selected as the contractor for the project. According to Arturo Garcia, project executive of Evans General Contractors, the construction of a distribution and logistics center is a multi-phase process. It involves site selection, design, permitting, site preparation, building construction and final systems installation that includes earth work, concrete work, building envelope, steel installation, joist and deck, electrical installation, plumbing, roofing, HVAC and other trades.
“In Mississippi, this process has evolved alongside the state’s growing importance as a logistics hub, due to its strategic location along the Gulf Coast, major interstate highways such as I-55 and I-20, rail connections and proximity to major ports such as the Port of Gulfport and the Port of Pascagoula. Mississippi has increasingly attracted logistics investments due to its strategic geography, improving infrastructure and incentives offered by state economic development programs. The state’s experience in supporting major distribution centers means that while the construction process follows general industry standards, it also includes local adaptations for climate, soil conditions and storm resilience.”
Garcia said work has been progressing steadily and largely uninterrupted.
“We’ve maintained strong momentum across all phases, thanks to proactive scheduling and constant coordination between subcontractors. While we experienced a few weather-related delays due to heavy rain and even some unexpected snow in the area, these impacts were minimal and quickly mitigated through revised daily work plans.
“We’ve also been conducting weekly coordination meetings, particularly focusing on ongoing design developments from systems integrator vendor, SSI Schafer. SSI Schaefer will manage the complete delivery of warehouse and conveyor technology and oversee all involved trades. This collaboration has been crucial in aligning design updates with field conditions and installation sequencing, ensuring there are no bottlenecks during critical path activities.”
Construction currently taking place includes site clearing, mass grade cut /fill,
underground utilities installation, underground electrical duct banks, placing concrete in foundations and slab on grade and soil testing. Garcia noted that Tupelo, like much of northeastern Mississippi, has clayheavy soil that can expand and contract with moisture.
“This creates challenges for laying stable foundations and can lead to long-term structural issues if not properly addressed. Soil testing and appropriate foundation systems, like pier and beam or deep footings, are often necessary. In addition, Mississippi weather has a considerable impact on construction due to its highly variable and often severe climate.
“The state experiences frequent thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, high humidity and extreme heat, especially during the summer months. These conditions can delay project timelines, increase labor and material costs
and pose significant safety risks on site. Rain can also create muddy job sites that are difficult to work on without proper drainage or gravel access roads.”
Liebherr heavy equipment being used on the job includes the L 550 and L 546 wheel loaders for earth work, moving dirt, loading material into trucks and site cleanup; the R 945, R 930 and R 920 crawler excavators for earth work and digging foundations and trenches for utilities; the PR 756, PR 736 and PR 726 crawler dozers for earth work, pushing large volumes of earth and site clearing; a PR 716 crawler dozer; and a TA 230 articulated dump truck.
Liebherr 250-ton and 350-ton cranes also are needed for lifting and placing steel beams, roof and other large structural components, while the Liebherr 38XXT and 47XXT truck-mounted concrete pumps deliver concrete to hard-to-reach areas like
deep footings, slab pours or upper floors.
Other heavy machinery on site includes graders to prepare a smooth, level base for foundations or paved surfaces such as parking lots and loading docks; skid steers for moving material and cleanup; and forklifts for unloading and transporting materials and boom lifts to provide access to high elevations for steel erection, electrical installation and roofing,
Approximately 250,000 cu. yds. of dirt will be moved on the project. Crews are working with roughly 35,000 cu. yds. of concrete and about 180,000 sq. ft. of concrete tilt wall panels.
For an effective construction outcome, Garcia said ensuring effective collaboration among all the various stakeholders is essential and calls for early and consistent engagement.
“It starts with clear communication and shared expectations. This includes owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, vendors and inspectors to align goals and identify potential conflicts before they impact the schedule or budget.
“We also have weekly design meetings with all stakeholders and weekly meetings with Liebherr vendors to keep everyone informed and accountable. These include agenda-driven updates, milestone tracking and open forums for identifying and resolving issues early.”
The logistics center, a major milestone for the company, is expected to be completed in late 2026. For Joerg Stroebele, managing director at Liebherr-Logistics GmbH, carefully planned design and construction of the facility underscores the company’s dedication to excellence.
“By establishing this facility, Liebherr aims to provide faster and more efficient services to its customers, reinforcing its position as a leader in the industry.” CEG
Liebherr USA Co. photo
Liebherr is building a logistics center in Tupelo, Miss., that will streamline the distribution of parts and components, ensuring timely delivery and improved availability.
LIEBHERR from page 8
Liebherr USA Co. photo
Liebherr R 945, R 930 and R 920 crawler excavators are being used for earth work and digging foundations and trenches for utilities.
Navigating Incentives: What Contractors Need To Know
Electric equipment is no longer just a niche solution — it's quickly becoming a requirement for many public projects and urban job sites.
For contractors, especially those aiming to work with municipalities or on government-funded developments, understanding and leveraging available incentives is critical.
Incentive programs at both the federal and state levels are helping reduce the cost of zero-emission equipment, making it more accessible for small and large contractors alike. But these programs vary widely by region and their future can be tied to shifting political priorities. That means knowing what's available — and acting quickly — can offer a serious advantage.
Contractors who take the time now to understand what’s available and prepare to meet these requirements will not only cut costs — they’ll position themselves for long-term success as the industry shifts toward cleaner, quieter, more sustainable operations.
Federal Support: Shifting But Strategic Opportunity
At the federal level, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) continues to offer key benefits. Among them is the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit, which provides a 30 percent credit for eligible equipment purchases if projects meet wage and apprenticeship criteria. For contractors investing in electric machines, this can substantially offset the upfront cost.
There's also support for charging infrastructure through the Alternative Fuel Refueling Property Credit. This program covers up to 30 percent of the cost (up to $100,000) for installing electric charging stations — making it easier for contractors to manage electric fleets without massive logistical hurdles.
Still, the future of these programs remains somewhat uncertain. Shifts in federal administration could impact the availability or
scale of incentives. While current support is strong, there's no guarantee it will remain so long term. Contractors who act now are in the best position to take advantage.
State-Level Standouts: California, Beyond
California's CORE (Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project) program is among the most robust state initiatives available today. It offers point-of-sale vouchers to dramatically reduce the purchase price of zero-emission construction equipment.
As of 2025, CORE has more than $126 million in funding available. Specialized tracks exist for industries like landscaping, where small business owners and sole proprietors can access dedicated support. The program also provides bonus incentives for equipment deployed in disadvantaged communities or by small businesses.
Texas offers its own initiative through the
Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP).
TERP includes grants for a variety of vehicles and equipment used in construction, agriculture, cargo handling and more. Programs under TERP — such as the Emissions Reduction Incentive Grant Program and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Incentive Rebate Grant — help fund replacements or upgrades to cleaner technologies, cutting both emissions and operational costs.
In New York, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provides technical and financial support through multiple clean energy programs. Their FlexTech program supports energy studies and planning, while utilities like NYSEG and RG&E offer capital investment incentives up to $200,000 per project for electric infrastructure upgrades.
Programs like CORE, TERP and NYSERDA-backed efforts are making a tangible difference in how electric equip-
ment is adopted, especially in states where clean air goals drive procurement policies. Many contractors still overlook these tools, but those who take the time to explore their options can gain a financial and competitive advantage.
How Contractors Can Stay Ahead of Curve
Municipalities and government agencies are prioritizing zero-emission goals — and they want contractors who can help them meet them. That means having electric equipment ready and being able to document eligibility for available incentives. This doesn't just help with cost — it can be the difference in winning a bid.
To take full advantage, contractors should start early. Many incentive programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis and the most successful applicants are those who plan ahead. Documentation is key — equipment specs, business qualifications and program requirements all need to be in order before submitting an application.
Manufacturers and dealers can be essential partners in this process. They often have direct lines to program administrators, understand how to match equipment with incentive criteria and can help walk through the necessary paperwork.
Contractors who take the time now to understand what's available and prepare to meet these requirements will not only cut costs — they'll position themselves for longterm success as the industry shifts toward cleaner, quieter, more sustainable operations.
Electric equipment is a smart investment. With the right incentives, it's also an affordable one. Now is the time to make your move.
For more information, visit jcb.com.
JCB photo
Municipalities and government agencies are prioritizing zero-emission goals — and they want contractors who can help them meet them.
JCB photo
Electric equipment is no longer just a niche solution — it’s quickly becoming a requirement for many public projects and urban job sites.
JCB photo
Dothan, AL
334/794-8691
Troy, AL
334/566-4181
Riverview, FL (HQ)
813/620-1000
Miami, FL
305/592-5740
West Palm Beach, FL
561/848-6618
Orlando, FL
407/299-1212
Fort Myers, FL
239/334-3627
Lutz, FL
813/995-0841
Daytona, FL
407/299-1212
Riverview, FL
813/621-4902
Pompano Beach, FL
954/977-9541 Sarasota, FL
941/960-2004
Melbourne, FL
321-234-3344
Adairsville, GA
770/773-9857
Albany, GA
229/888-1212
Atlanta, GA
404/691-9445
Braselton, GA
770/965-1889
Brunswick, GA 912/264-6161
Columbus, GA
706/687-3344
Grovetown, GA
706/855-5440
Macon, GA 478/788-1586
Savannah, GA 912/964-7370
Valdosta, GA
229/474-6680
Andrews, SC
843/983-7337
Aynor, SC
843/358-5688
Ladson, SC 843/572-0400
Simpsonville, SC 864/963-5835
Walterboro, SC
843/539-1420
West Columbia, SC
803/794-9340
Palatka, FL 386/325-6268 Panama City, FL 850/769-4844 Pensacola, FL 850/476-0277 Perry, FL 850/584-9200
Companies Keep Close Eye On Autonomous Machine Market
This year, construction machine manufacturers have gone deeper, introducing newer and more sophisticated autonomous models.
At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held in January, more than one heavy machinery manufacturer introduced contractors to autonomous rigs.
Caterpillar has made a concerted effort to lead the move toward autonomy in machine operations at mining sites.
At this year’s CES, it was clear the company’s priority is battery technology and electrification. Anything that extends battery life is a key focus right now.
Autonomous operation ensures optimal cadence of material flow as well as longer times between battery recharging.
“Apart from optimal workflow in a mining location, autonomy has other significant advantages,” wrote Sabbir Rangwala in a Forbes magazine article.
The technology addresses the acute shortage of skilled labor in remote locations, enhances safety and preventive maintenance procedures, he said.
It also “allows trained human labor to control multiple pieces of moving equipment from remote locations,” wrote Rangwala.
Rob Hoenes, senior vice president of Caterpillar’s Energy and Transportation segment, said mining customers have sustainability goals. They have a significant focus on reducing environmental and noise pollution, Rangwala wrote of Hoenes’ comments.
Hoenes and Caterpillar believe the key to extending battery life is to optimize overall flow of operations in a mine. Every aspect of operations, from excavating to loading of trucks to transport and unloading are affected, wrote Rangwala.
“Our customers face incredible challenges that technology helps solve,” Hoenes told Forbes magazine. “We will continue investing in electrification, alternative fuels, automation, connectivity and digital solutions” to power new ecosystems customers will use, he added.
ExpandingMachineAutonomous Market
Caterpillar isn’t the only equipment manufacturer whose customers want streamlined sustainability in their construction businesses.
The autonomous construction equipment market sector is undergoing rapid expansion, according to market reports.
SNS Insider, tracking the demand for AI-powered innovations, efficiency and electric-powered machines, sees sector growth to $28 billion by 2032.
In fact, from 2024-2032 the compound annual growth rate is projected to be 8.99 percent.
SNS said the growth is down to rapid technological advancements in automation and AI, coupled with a global shortage of skilled construction labor.
“These factors are driving the adoption of autonomous machinery to enhance efficiency, safety and productivity,” according to an SNS press release.
In addition to Caterpillar, “key players” include Bobcat, CNH Industrial America, Komatsu, AB Volvo, Hitachi, SANY, Royal Truck, Topcon and Deere.
SNS noted that the semi-autonomous equipment segment dominates the market, holding a more than 62 percent market share.
“This is largely due to the human supervision of critical tasks, but automation is becoming increasingly used in construction.”
Excavators, loaders, dozers and other semi-autonomous machines all improve efficiency, safety and precision when their operators can intercede.
Labor shortages, increasing infrastructure projects and AIbased control systems are driving the demand for such equipment, continued the report.
“Semi-autonomous solutions provide a transition for contractors to build automation into their operations without completely supplanting human operators.”
The report breaks the market sector down by types of equipment. The earth-moving segment had the biggest share in 2023, at more than 32 percent.
That equipment category includes dozers, excavators and loaders used for heavy-duty excavation, grading and site prep, according to SNS’s records.
“Global demand for autonomous earth-moving machinery is an indirect consequence of the boom in real estate and infrastructure development worldwide.”
Because of the demand for well-organized, accurate, automation-enabled construction, governments and private sectors are investing on a larger scale.
The road construction segment dominated the autonomous equipment market in 2023. SNS reported this segment held a more than 42 percent share.
“This dominance is reinforced by a growing international emphasis on infrastructure improvement, urbanization growth and smart city projects.”
“Common” autonomous construction machinery, such as self-driving dozers, pavers and rollers, is “improving efficiency.”
These machines are also “reducing reliance on labor and delivering accuracy in road construction,” the firm said.
Global governments heavily investing in expanding highways and maintaining roadways are accelerating the demand.
Technology such as AI, GPS and IoT for safety and operational performance has made autonomous road equipment the preferred type.
In 2023, SNS found that North America dominated the autonomous construction equipment market. It had more than 38 percent of market share.
The United States leads this expansion, with advanced technology infrastructure and significant investment in construction automation.
SNS said this, in turn, allows the rapid adoption of autonomous machinery on a variety of projects.
“The factor that solidifies the U.S. regional market leadership is the early adoption of autonomous technologies.”
That, combined with the availability of many manufacturers who are also key players in the region.
Caterpillar photo In
off-highway truck, Caterpillar scaled its Cat MineStar Command autonomous hauling systems to meet the demands of quarry operations.
Case Construction Equipment photo Case introduced a new electric wheel loader concept at bauma. Engineered for remote or autonomous operation, the cabin-less design enables operation in extreme environments and adverse weather.
Kubota introduced its KATR four-wheeled all-terrain multifunctional robot at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. The machine, designed to maintains a level cargo deck, can work autonomously or remotely to tackle construction applications.
The rise of AI and robotics, coupled with a commitment to enhancing labor productivity, reducing costs and improving safety, drives that leadership.
Caterpillar has watched the progress of autonomous technology into the construction market. The equipment manufacturer said site communications is key.
“As remote controlled and autonomous construction equipment comes into wider use, construction site communications will play a vital role,” said the company.
Vijay Ramamsamy, chief engineer of construction industries remote control and autonomy, believes automated systems are on the way to job sites.
“Semi-autonomous systems will take over key tasks from human operators. Fully autonomous machines will complete tasks all on their own.”
The bottom line, he said, is all of these autonomous systems will run on the same thing: data. Specifically, connections both on and off the site.
That’s because these equipment systems need to accomplish several things. First, they must feed video and machine data to remote operators.
They also must communicate locations and status between machines; share bandwidth with subcontractors; and provide production information to the GC.
And all this, according to Caterpillar, must be done reliably and largely instantaneously.
So, the question becomes a simple one: “How do you create a data and site communications network for your job site that can meet all those challenges — without breaking the bank?”
Autonomous Model Launches Caterpillar introduced the Cat 775 off-highway truck
this year at bauma. It is the first next-generation off-highway truck design for the company. The company said in a press release that the 71-ton payload hauler is engineered to be fully autonomous in the future. It will be launched in 2025.
“The design of the Next Gen 775 represents a significant leap forward in off-highway truck technology,” said Tony Fassino, group president of construction industries.
Its current autonomous hauling systems (AHS), Cat MineStar Command for hauling, is already at work at mine sites throughout the world.
Scaling the system to meet the specific needs for quarry operations, the company used lessons learned from working with a truck customer.
At CES, Kubota unveiled a range of customer solutions and presented its vision for the future across its entire equipment portfolio. It offers diverse powertrain options, seamless access to data and analytics, improved connectivity and advanced automation.
Equipment on display included KATR Kubota’s fourwheeled all-terrain, multifunctional robot. Designed to maintains a level cargo deck when working on uneven terrain, it can work autonomously or remotely to tackle construction applications.
Electric vehicle news site Eletrek reported that Case brought a new electric wheel loader to bauma designed for remote or autonomous operation. In the product concept stage, the cabin-less design of the Impact electric wheel loader enables operation in extreme environments and adverse weather, reported Eletrek.
“It also means that jobsite, disaster recovery or even rescue operations can continue 24/7, with operators in different time zones logging in for their shifts.”
Case believes the Impact concept marks a significant advancement in accessibility.
“Operators with motor impairments and other disabilities can now operate the machine without physical limitations,” according to the new site.
Are Autonomous Equipment Alarms Unfounded?
Driverless dozers, excavators, load carriers and haul trucks are performing a variety of jobs on construction sites.
Steel bridge manufacturer U.S. Bridge explained in a blog post that these machines are typically controlled by an operator via remote control.
“This innovation has allowed many construction projects to be completed with minimal safety issues and maximum efficiency.”
The use of autonomous vehicles (AV) has increased over the past decade, noted the company, despite concerns about the negative impact on jobs.
“Fortunately, studies have shown that will not be the case.” In fact, said U.S. Bridge, autonomous could end up creating higher-paying jobs over time.
While traditional operator roles will transition to remote operations, they’ll be in high demand, and working conditions will be better, said the blog post.
The technology minimizes the risk of injury and provides operators with a clear view of the work happening, said the bridge manufacturer.
“We can expect to see autonomous construction equipment on job sites across the country in a matter of decades,” predicted the company. “As such, learning the new skills of the trade will be essential to keeping up with the evolution of the industry.” CEG
Kubota North America photo
Volvo CE Expands Electric Lineup With Mid-Size Equipment
Volvo Construction Equipment continues to transform expectations of what’s possible with electric construction equipment with the North American introduction of its midsize L120 Electric wheel loader and the new-generation EC230 Electric excavator.
While most electric construction equipment currently on the market is compact, the new mid-size electric wheel loader and excavator from Volvo CE are designed to meet the growing demand for larger, more powerful equipment with reduced environmental impact.
“These larger battery-electric models mark a significant advancement toward zero-emission solutions that can help businesses and government fleets meet sustainability and productivity goals,” said Ray Gallant, vice president — Sustainability and Productivity Services, Volvo CE. “The electric excavator and wheel loader offer comparable performance to their diesel counterparts but with zero emissions, reduced noise and lower maintenance costs.”
North American customers can register online to reserve the mid-size L120 Electric wheel loader and the new-generation EC230 Electric excavator. Deliveries in the region are expected to begin in 2025.
L120 Electric
The L120 Electric wheel loader is a 22-ton machine with 6-ton lifting capacity and a recommended rehandling bucket capacity of 5 cu. yd., giving it nearly identical performance capabilities as its conventional counterpart. It can handle a variety of applications, includinginfrastructure, waste and recycling, agriculture, forestry, and ports and logistics centers.
Its 282-kWh lithium-ion battery system can run for five to nine hours on a single charge, depending on the application. Charging options include a 50-kW DC mobile charger that
will charge the L120 Electric from empty to full in about six hours or a 150-kW DC fast charger that can charge it from empty to full in two hours.
The L120 Electric wheel loader is equipped with separate electric motors for propulsion and hydraulics. The system recoups deceleration energy to extend battery runtime, reduce brake wear and minimize the need for axle oil cooling. The loader also features active cooling and heating of the high-voltage batteries as well as passive cooling for the electric motors, transmission and hydraulic oil.
It includes many of the same features as its diesel equivalent, including on-board weighing with the Volvo Load Assist system, torque parallel linkage, electro-hydraulic lever controls and auto bucket-leveling functions. The electric loader is compatible with a range of Volvo attachments, such as buckets, forks, grapples, brooms and snowplows.
The L120 Electric wheel loader will be commercially available in North America in 2025. Customers can express their interest in the L120 Electric by filling out a simple reservation form at volvoce.com/united-states/en-us/products/electric-machines/reservation/.
EC230 Electric
The 23-ton EC230 Electric is a general-purpose crawler excavator that first launched in early 2023 and has been proving itself on job sites ever since, with a breakout force of 33,500 lbf, a max digging reach of 32 ft. 7 in. and a max digging depth of 22 ft. 1 in.
Early users have found that the EC230 Electric excavator significantly reduces emissions and operating costs. For instance, Skanska used it to load trucks of export material from an underground tunnel as part of a transit line renovation in Los Angeles. The machine reduced hourly carbon emissions by 66 percent and hourly costs by 74 percent over the 90-day test period.
In a 90-day pilot with Sunbelt Rentals, the mid-size electric excavator delivered an 80 percent carbon reduction rate and 83 percent cost savings in comparison to its diesel equivalent.
The updated version of the EC230 Electric excavator boasts an improved battery for longer runtime. It also has the updated cab and styling that is part of Volvo’s latest series of excavators.
The EC230 Electric will be commercially available in North America in early 2025. Customers can express their interest in the EC230 Electric by filling out a simple reservation form at volvoce.com/united-states/en-us/products/electric-machines/reservation/.
For more information, visit www.volvoce.com.
(Photos courtesy of Volvo.)
The L120 Electric wheel loader can handle a variety of applications, including infrastructure, waste and recycling, agriculture, forestry, and ports and logistics centers.
The 23-ton EC230 Electric is a general-purpose crawler excavator that has a breakout force of 33,500 lbf, a max digging reach of 32 ft., 7 in. and a max digging depth of 22 ft., 1 in.
LINDER TURF & TRACTOR
www.lindertt.com
4737 McConnell Center Drive Greensboro, NC 27405 336-792-3412
1530 Middle River Loop Fayetteville, NC 28312 910-483-3692
1501 N. Memorial Drive Greenville, NC 27834 252-695-6200
5504 15th Street E Bradenton, FL 34203 941-755-5722
505 US Hwy 82 West Leesburg, GA 31763 229-435-2212
1205 Veterans Pkwy North Moultrie, GA 31788 229-985-3882
2902 US Hwy 84 West Valdosta, GA 31601 229-588-8100
RJV KUBOTA
www.rjvequipment.com Nashville 140 Charter Place LaVergne, TN 37086 615-793-7576 Knoxville 3356 Rudy Street Knoxville, TN 37921 865-970-2840
BROOKS SALES, INC.
www.brookssales.com 3144 Hwy 74 East Monroe, NC 28112 704-233-4242
CREEL TRACTOR CO.
www.creeltractor.com
3771 Palm Beach Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33916 239-694-2185
AMH Celebrates 22 Years of Customer-Focused Excellence
All Material Handling Inc. marks 22 years of unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, quality products and expert service.
Founded in Chicago by industry veteran Peter Brettner, AMH was built on a simple, yet powerful principle: success comes from putting the customer first. More than two decades later, that philosophy remains the cornerstone of the company’s operations.
“From the beginning, we understood that customer service had to be more than just a phrase in a brochure — it had to drive everything we do,” said Brettner.
To fulfill this mission, AMH maintains a multi-million-dollar inventory across four strategically located U.S. service centers in Houston, Texas; Des Moines, Iowa; Atlanta, Ga.; and Portland, Ore., allowing same-day shipping and rapid nationwide delivery.
Despite operating with a lean team, AMH’s staff brings decades of industry knowledge and experience to the marketplace. The company continues to invest in technical and onsite training, empowering customers and enhancing safety, according to the company.
AMH’s portfolio includes:
• hand and lever hoists, including the flagship LA Series (0.75-10 tons) and MA Series (0.5-30 tons), customizable to specific lift lengths;
• a full line of grade 100 chains, lifting accessories and master links, with products manufactured in Germany, Italy and Taiwan offering an exceptional value;
• is an exclusive North American distributor of Cartec lifting accessories from Italy — AMH
• a growing selection of stainless steel chains and fittings for specialized environments like pharmaceuticals, food processing and marine industries; and
• popular wire rope fittings, synthetic slings, hoist rings and lifting clamps rounding out its extensive catalog.
“We take pride in delivering top-tier equipment and service — with a personal touch,” said Brettner. “When you reach out to AMH, you’ll speak with knowledgeable, friendly representatives who care about your needs.”
For more information, visit www.allmaterialhandling.com
FLORIDA
Bobcat of Jacksonville, LLC Jacksonville 904-288-9181 www.bobcatjax.com
Bobcat of Palm Beach West Palm Beach 561-689-9880 www.sbequipment.com
Bobcat of Broward Pompano Beach 954-763-9880 www.sbequipment.com
Bobcat of the Treasure Coast Fort Pierce 772-460-9998 www.sbequipment.com
Bobcat of the Space Coast Cocoa 321-633-6424 www.sbequipment.com
Dynamic Equipment Group
Bobcat of Orlando 407-273-7383
Bobcat of Tampa 813-626-3470
Bobcat of Miami 305-362-6632
Bobcat of Fort Myers 239-334-4987
Bobcat of Daytona 386-274-1002
Bobcat of Stuart 561-264-3287
Bobcat of Sarasota 941-248-3040
Bobcat of Lakeland 863-250-8762 www.dynamicequipmentgroup.com
GEORGIA
Bobcat of Savannah Bloomingdale 912-236-5588 www.gatewaydealer.com
NORTH CAROLINA
Bobcat of Asheville Arden 828-684-4403 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Charlotte Charlotte 704-343-9000 www.bobcatofcharlotte.com
Bobcat of Johnston County Garner 919-661-1833 www.triangleequipmentgroup.com
Bobcat of Monroe Monroe 704-289-2200 www.bobcatofmonroe.com
Bobcat of Wilmington Wilmington 910-395-2050 www.triangleequipmentgroup.com
TENNESSEE
Bobcat of Clarksville Clarksville 931-436-9555 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Nashville La Vergne 615-941-4000 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of McMinnville McMinnville 931-488-4767 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Maury County Columbia 931-981-9909 www.gatewaydealer.com
Authorized Bobcat Dealers
All Material Handling photo (L-R, standing): Harald Gogg, vice president, and Peter Brettner, president. (L-R, seated): Lukasz Biela, sales manager; Lauren Nagle, operations manager; and Jim Canfield, sales manager.
NORTH CAROLINA
R.S. Braswell Company Kannapolis 704-933-2269 www.rsbraswell.com
Triangle Equipment Company Morrisville 919-596-1995
www.triangleequipmentgroup.com
Bobcat of Wilson Wilson
252-206-0733
www.whitesequipmentco.com
Bobcat of New Bern New Bern
252-636-1837
www.whitesequipmentco.com
Bobcat of Winterville Winterville
252-756-4055
www.whitesequipmentco.com
Bobcat of Jacksonville Jacksonville 910-347-1646
www.whitesequipmentco.com
SOUTH CAROLINA
Bobcat of Columbia Columbia
803-933-9996
www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Charleston North Charleston
843-725-6330 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Greenville Piedmont
864-269-3600 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Spartanburg Spartanburg 864-342-9003 www.gatewaydealer.com
Bobcat of Rock Hill Rock Hill 803-670-2003
www.BobcatofRockHill.com
Bobcat of Myrtle Beach Myrtle Beach 843-236-4499
www.triangleequipmentgroup.com
E-
I
X
A Volvo EC160EL excavator works to transport materials from one job site to another near
Volvo Machines Ease Load for McGhee Grading & Excavating
McGhee decided to begin running Volvo’s construction equipment after having used a few models owned by a friend and fellow contractor, he said.
“I really liked the Volvos and, from there, ended up buying a used 2011 EC160C excavator. It’s now sitting on a 32-acre tract of land that we cleared. That machine is very smooth, quick and has a lot of power for its size. Then, I ended up getting a Volvo SD70 smooth drum compactor and I purchased a 2019 Volvo VHD tandem on-road dump truck that has given us great service.”
Just last fall, he worked with Mitchell Gross, his sales representative in ASCENDUM’s Buford store, to obtain a new Volvo EC160E excavator for his firm.
So far, the fuel efficiency on McGhee’s newest machine — like all Volvo excavators — has proven to be outstanding, he said.
“The power that you get for the fuel economy on Volvo’s excavators is simply awesome. On my new EC160C, I’m getting almost 14 to 15 hours a day out of a single tank.”
Likewise, he has been very pleased at how hard ASCENDUM works to deliver new equipment to him as quickly as possible. Obviously, supply-chain shortages have triggered shipment delays in recent years, he acknowledged, but McGhee is confident in the dealership’s efforts on his behalf.
“When I needed an artic truck and ordered this 2023 A25G, [Volvo] had just had one dropped off at the Savannah port. It arrived almost in the same week that I ordered it and came straight here. Since we got it, it has been a great machine and has just 517 hours on it.”
McGhee believes the Volvo articulated
truck, like the excavators he owns, also give him a bit of an advantage in the field.
“The A25G moves around a lot easier than my regular tandem on site, but the Volvo also has nearly the same power as a larger machine and a lot better fuel economy; we probably save about 35 to 40 gallons a day while doing the same amount of work,” he said.
ASCENDUM Quickly Responds to McGheeÊs Needs
Being the sole employees of McGhee Grading & Excavating, the duo not only run the business and operate the machines, but they also work as their own shop mechanics.
“After our dad got sick in 1988, we went to work for a trucking company where we learned a lot about diesel engines, making repairs, welding, brakes and a lot of other stuff,” said Justus. “We did that for about 10 to 12 years before I started on my own in the grading business.”
ASCENDUM’s Gross said the McGhees are “amazing” people with whom to conduct business.
“These guys take a lot of pride in their equipment, so it’s always nice to work with someone that enjoys the machines and maintains an actual connection to them,” he said.
As equipment technology has advanced over the past 25 years, though, McGhee admitted that it has been more challenging for the two brothers to service the newer pieces themselves, but if they do need help, he does not hesitate to contact his trusted dealers.
In particular, he lauded the folks at ASCENDUM for quickly sending technicians to the job site when electronic issues arise on the machines he bought from them.
In the time that Gross has worked in the Buford branch of ASCENDUM, though, a problem with one of McGhee’s Volvo machines has not yet come up.
But if it does, he said, “Justus knows to call me, and I’ll get somebody on it or get involved myself to make sure that we’re taking care of him on our end. I’ve told him to let me work for him. We talk after hours sometimes; it doesn’t matter to me what time it is.”
To help him get parts, McGhee said he often deals with ASCENDUM Chattanooga’s Mike Brown, whom he describes as always willing to assist the contractor in time of need.
“If we require a part, it’s sometimes easier for us to go up there,” McGhee said. “But, if we need to have them get it to us, [ASCENDUM] usually does so by the next day or no more than two or three days at the most.”
Despite Heavy Workload, McGheeÊs Results Impeccable
McGhee said that his preference is to stay on one project at a time until it is completed, but, he said, “We are always juggling five or six projects – sometimes even seven – at one time.”
Although he continues to bid on projects, the contracting company also relies heavily on its high level of respect among other builders to generate business via word of mouth.
McGhee also has been advertising the company’s services on its own YouTube channel, where videos, photos and project descriptions illustrate its expert work to a much wider audience.
“Since I started that channel a couple of years ago, local people like watching it and
seeing what we’re doing,” Justus said. “I’ve had people out of state who have seen it call to ask if we’d come to South Carolina or North Carolina for their jobs, but we really try to stay in this area of North Georgia because it costs so much to mobilize for a distant project — we try to keep our work within 40 miles of home.”
Gross added that he sees McGhee Grading & Excavating’s YouTube channel as not only a fabulous tool for the construction company to promote its business to potential clients, but one that advertises ASCENDUM’s line of outstanding products that McGhee uses on its job sites.
McGhee Loves His Work Too Much to Leave Just Yet
Justus McGhee acknowledged the possibility that the operation of his grading company will one day be turned over to his son, Justin, and Shane’s son, Tyler, but, right now, he said he cannot envision retiring anytime soon.
“When I first started this business 25 years ago, I met people that have been like family to us ever since,” he said. “I really love what I do, and I enjoy helping people.”
In a summation of how he does business, McGhee added, “For me, quality always comes first. I don’t want to leave a customer with a problem because our company name is all over the job. And, if I can’t do a job that they need, I am always willing to refer them to another contractor that will do a good job for them.”
CEG
(All photographs in this article are Copyright 2025 Construction Equipment Guide. All Rights Reserved.)
Calhoun, Ga.
McGhee Grading & Excavating also is a big proponent of using Volvo over-the-road dump trucks.
MCGHEE from page 12
Serving Southwest Florida 11680 Metro Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33966 888-459-7147
Loved for the features. Trusted for the performance.
Hyundai articulated dump trucks have the power and performance — not to mention top-notch interiors, clear sight lines and handy tech — that make life on the jobsite easier. So you can do more without feeling like longtime fans.
See the Hyundai difference yourself at your local dealer or na.hd-hyundaice.com.
www.nedealers.com
Apopka-Orlando, FL
407-401-8956
Ft. Pierce, FL 772-212-4043 Tampa, FL 813-940-4405
Isuzu Diesel Engines Celebrate Golden Anniversary in 2025
For half a century, Isuzu industrial engines have pow ered productivity across the United States.
Isuzu diesel engines are known throughout the off-road equipment market for their reputation for reliability, durability and long-term value.
“Since 1975, Isuzu Diesel has remained a trusted name in powering a broad range of industrial appli cations — serving construction, agriculture, utility and rental fleets with reliable engine solutions,” said Isuzu. “In a market that has evolved dramatically over five decades, Isuzu engines have stood the test of time with proven performance.”
long-standing support of our customers and distributors,” said Masaaki Sugino, executive vice president of Isuzu Motors America LLC. “We owe this milestone to the many equipment manufacturers, end users, distributors and dealers who have placed their trust in our engines, year after year.
“Fifty years of continuous presence in the United States industrial market is a proud milestone — one that reflects the
“As we move forward, our focus remains on delivering dependable engine solutions that support the evolving needs of our customers,” added Sugino. “We’re proud to carry forward our legacy of dependable performance and we’re committed to supporting our customers in every phase of their equipment lifecycle — today, and for decades to come.”
RTX 750 / RTX8550 EQUIPPED WITH A LARGE CUTTING WHEEL.
EMAIL: RENATO.NASCIMENTO@ELEBBRE.COM
PHONE: +55 11 994602266
WANTED (KS): VERMEER TRACK TRENCHER.
EMAIL: STATELINEDIG@DIODECOM.NET
PHONE: 402-806-0073
WANTED (US): LIEBHERR LTM 1220 ALL TERRAIN CRANES.
EMAIL: ILYAS.MTCPK@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 346-484-0369
WANTED (US): KOMATSU 270-8 WHEEL LOADERS - LOOKING FOR KOMATSU WA270 OR WA200 WHEEL LOADERS WITH THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: HOURS: UNDER 5,000 (PREFERRED), BUT HIGHER HOURS ARE ACCEPTABLE AT A LOWER PRICE. YEAR: BETWEEN 2014 AND 2018. BUDGET: AROUND $75,000, DEPENDING ON CONDITION AND HOURS.
EMAIL: AMERICAUSEDEQUIPMENT@ GMAIL.COM
WANTED (US): JOHN DEERE 850K LGP CRAWLER DOZER 2017-2021 ENC SIX WAY FROM USER NO HACKER MUST WITH WINCH, SMART GRADE, UNDER 1200 HOURS, MUST BE CLEAR ENC CAB NO JUNK UNDER $75000,00CDN. EMAIL: JEANMAURICEBOUTIN@ VIDEOTRON.CA; PHONE: 1-450-346- 8975
WANTED (AZ): MECALAC 10 MCR EXCAVATORS. EMAIL
FAWCETT.HOTSHOT@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 870-321-9572
WANTED (CA): CATERPILLAR 966F II WHEEL LOADERS - LOOKING TO BUY ANY CATERPILLAR DISMANTLED MACHINES – WHEEL LOADERS, EXCAVATORS, BACKHOES, DOZERS OR MOTOR GRADERS, ANY MODEL. EMAIL: FEEDBACK@GCESEQUIPMENT.COM; PHONE: +1 (657) 274-8033
WANTED (PA); MANUFACTURER: INTERNATIONAL 250-C CRAWLER LOADER. LOOKING FOR A MACHINE IN ANY CONDITION OR IN ANY STATE LOCATION.
WANTED (WA): CATERPILLAR 420E BACKHOE LOADER. INTERESTED IN PURCHASING THE FOLLOWING CATERPILLAR BACKHOE MODELS: CAT MODELS: 416C, 416D, 416E, 420D, 420E, 420F ST, 420F, 420F IT, 420F2, 420F2 IT. ALSOLOOKING FOR CASE BACKHOE MODELS: CASE MODELS: 580M, 580SM, 580N, 580SN. PLEASE PROVIDE DETAILS ON THEIR CONDITION, OPERATING HOURS & PRICING.
WANTED (US): JOHN DEERE CRAWLER DOZER, MODEL 550K LGP. NEED BULLDOZER, 550K LGP JOHN DEERE 2020 – 2023, ENC. CAB 24 INCHES WITH WINCH, UNDER 700 HOURS METER AND FRAME.
WANTED (WORLDWIDE) CATERPILLAR CRAWLER DOZER, MODEL D11 / D11T CD. GOOD WORKING CONDITION.
EMAIL: HYESUNG_KIM@NAVER.COM; PHONE: 822-425-6601
WANTED (US): TAKEUCHI SKID STEER LOADERS, ALL MODELS. TL150, MUSTANG MTL 25TH, GEHL CTL80 TURBO 2 OR CYCLONE AIR FILTER ASSEMBLY AND ACCESSORIES, PLUMBING FROM FILTER AND EXTERNAL SPINNER.
EMAIL:
AMATZEN@BROOKFIELDR3.ORG; PHONE: 660-734-0452
WANTED (NC): JCB 214E BACKHOE LOADER - HEAVY ROOT RAKE TO REPLACE FRONT BUCKET ON 214E BACKHOE LOADER
EMAIL: NORWOOD1310@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 910-289-1310
WANTED (NC): JOHN DEERE 12” BUCKETS – LOOKING FOR A 12” BUCKET FOR A JOHN DEERE 310 G BACKHOE.
WANTED (OR): KOMATSU 3.0 YARD BUCKETS - NEED A 2015 KOMATSU WA270 LOADER BUCKET. QUICK RELEASE STYLE.
EMAIL:
BRANDONDANLEY86@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 1-541-213-4973
WANTED (CA): CATERPILLAR WHEEL LOADERS, ALL MODELS.
EMAIL: KARLOSZAC15@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 657-274-8724
WANTED (US): STERLING DUMP TRUCKS, ALL MODELS; LOOKING FOR A ROTARY HI RAIL DUMP TRUCK, PRE EMISSIONS, ANY MAKE/MODEL.
EMAIL:
MURPHYCONTRACTORS@YAHOO.COM PHONE: 860-324-9693
WANTED (OH): FREIGHTLINER DUMP TRUCKS, ALL MODELS. LOOKING FOR A ROTARY HI-RAIL DUMP TRUCK, PRE EMMISSIONS, ANY MAKE/MODEL. EMAIL: MURPHYCONTRACTORS@YAHOO.COM PHONE: 860-324-9693
\WANTED (US): CUMMINS GENERATORS, ALL MODELS. LARGE PORTABLE OR STATIONARY GENERATORS IN ANY CONDITION — CAT, CUMMINS, DETROIT, MTU, PERKINS, VOLVO (DIESEL OR NATURAL GAS) CAN REMOVE IF NEEDED. EMAIL: MICHSURPLUS@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 201-679-6437
WANTED (WORLDWIDE): KOMATSU WHEEL LOADERS, MODELS WA 600-3 AND WA 600-6 2014 OR UP MODELS. EMAIL: IUKANDCO@YAHOO.COM; PHONE: +923331234598
WANTED (PA): CAT OR CASE BACKHOE LOADERS, ANY CONDITION. EMAIL: DEALER.SALES11@GMAIL.COM; PHONE: 717-621-3470
WANTED (US): MISCELLANEOUS CATERPILLAR ATTACHMENTS. LOOKING FOR RELIABLE IT COUPLER ATTACHMENTS & JOHN DEERE 644K FORKS (JRB COUPLER) TO ENHANCE OUR CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONS. ITEMS REQUIRED TO BE IN GOOD, WELL-MAINTAINED CONDITION. PREFERRED ATTACHMENTS ARE SIDE DUMP BUCKETS (LEFT AND RIGHT), BROOM ATTACHMENT, EXTENDABLE BOOM ATTACHMENT FORKS. PHONE: 484-781-2958 EMAIL: JWALSH@JAMESTOHARAINC.COM
WANTED (WORLDWIDE): DRESSER 125E CRAWLER DOZERS - LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE BOSCH VA PUMP OR HEAD AND ROTOR. EMAIL: CRAIGBERENS944@GMAIL.COM
WANTED (FL): COTTRELL TRAILERS, ALL MODELS. EMAIL: WILFREORLANDO@GMAIL.COM
WANTED (US): JOHN DEERE BROOMS / SWEEPERS, ALL MODELS. MID-SIZED JOHN DEERE OR HYUNDAI EXCAVATOR PLUMBED AND WITH CONCRETE PULVERIZER.
EMAIL: NEWYORKCWS@YAHOO.COM; PHONE: 973-956-8854
WANTED (PA): NEW HOLLAND ATTACHMENTS - 7614 LOADER ATTACHMENT FOR NH TRACTOR.
WANTED (US): CATERPILLAR 140G MOTOR GRADERS - NEED TO BUY CAT MOTOR GRADER 140G/H, 14G,14M. ALSO LOOKING FOR A KOMATSU WHEEL LOADER WA-600 AND WA-900. EMAIL: IKCEQUIPMENTS@GMAIL.COM
WANTED (US): CLARK M371 SKID STEER LOADER EMAIL:ANDYGRANGER30@GMAIL.COM
120 Mann Drive
Piperton (Memphis), TN 38017 901-260-2200
2115 N Thompson Lane Murfreesboro, TN 37129 629-335-3077
364 Bob Jobe Road Gray, TN 37615 423-282-5462
5200 Hollywood Avenue Shreveport, LA 71109 318-621-0854
10110 Roberts Way Covington, GA 30014 770-788-0888
7651 Theodore Dawes Road Theodore, AL 36582 251-653-5955 825 31st Street North Birmingham, AL 35203 205-323-6108
Now Open 314 Beltline Road NW Decatur, AL 35061 256-898-0550
Coming Soon Knoxville, TN 37914 888-366-9028
2950 Pinson Valley Pkwy. Birmingham, AL 35217 205-841-9895
1060 West Industrial Ave. Boynton Beach, FL 33426 561-742-7400
2965 McEver Road Buford, GA 30518 470-238-5900
12785 44th St. North Clearwater, FL 33762 727-299-9207
335 Airport Rd., Unit B New Castle, DE 19720 302-501-6900 linkbeltma.com
ALEX LYON & SON AUCTIONEERS
www.lyonauction.com
315-633-2944
• Timed Online
June 8 - 22, 2025
For: Rentals! Construction & Utility Equipment & more (NJ)
• Chico, TX
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Job Conclusion: Turner Contracting Inc.
• Las Vegas, NV
Fri., June 13, 2025
For: Rental Fleet Construction & Utility Equipment & more
• Atlantic City, NJ
Sat., June 21, 2025
For: Rentals! Construction & Utility Equipment & more
RITCHIE BROS. AUCTIONEERS
www.rbauction.com
402-421-3631
• Las Vegas, NV
June 13, 2025
• Houston, TX
June 17 - 18, 2025
• Phoenix, AZ
June 18 - 19, 2025
• Tulare, CA
June 20, 2025
• Great Plains Event
June 24, 2025
ABSOLUTE AUCTION & REALTY, INC.
www.AARauctions.com
800-243-0061
• Online
Ends June 12, 2025
For: Town of New Windsor
Surplus Auction
• Online
Ends June 12, 2025
For: Central Hudson Surplus Vehicle & Equipment Auction
Coming Auctions
To view information on upcoming auctions visit our Auction Calendar at www.constructionequipmentguide.com
AUCTIONS INTERNATIONAL www.auctionsinternational.com
800-536-1401
• Online
June 3 - 18, 2025
For: Online Auctions Closing Daily!
BAR NONE AUCTION
www.barnoneauction.com
866-372-1700
• Online
Sat., June 14, 2025
For: Sacramento, CA Monthly Public Auction
• Online
Fri., June 20, 2025
For: Fontana, CA Monthly Public Auction
BIDADOO AUCTIONS www.bidadoo.com 1-877-BIDADOO
• Online
June 17, 2025
• Online June 24, 2025
BIG IRON AUCTIONS www.bigiron.com 800-937-3558
• Online June 11, 2025
• Online June 18, 2025
DON SMOCK AUCTION CO., INC. www.dsa-auctions.com 765-778-9277
• Pendleton, IN
Fri., June 13, 2025
For: 33rd Annual Summer Truck & Equipment Auction
HANSEN AUCTION GROUP
www.hansenauctiongroup.com 920-383-1012
• Muskego, WI
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Vintage Tractors, Construction Supplies, Trailer, Trucks & Tools
• Princeton, MN
Mon., June 16, 2025
For: Pike June Construction Equipment & Truck & Trailer Consignment Auction
HUNYADY AUCTION COMPANY www.hunyady.com
800-233-6898
• Live Virtual
June 10 – 12, 2025
For: Large 3-Day Absolute Auction. Transmission Power Line Contractor
I.R.A.Y. AUCTION www.iraymn.com 320-968-7230
• Online
Wed., June 25, 2025 For: Heavy Equipment, Truck & Trailer Auction
J.J. KANE AUCTIONEERS www.jjkane.com 855-GO2-KANE
• Online
June 10 - 11, 2025
For: Northeast Regional Timed Auction
• Online
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Southern California Timed Auction
• Online
June 17 - 18, 2025
For: Westen Regional/Government Surplus Auction
J&J AUCTIONEERS www.jandjauction.com 575-485-2508
• Online
Thurs., June 19, 2025
For: One Owner Dispersal Auction
• Flora Vista, NM Sat., June 28, 2025
For: Farmington Area Truck & Equipment Auction
J.M. WOOD AUCTION COMPANY www.jmwood.com 800-447-7085
• Montgomery, AL June 10 - 12, 2025
For: 52nd Annual Summer Sale!
J. STOUT AUCTIONS www.jstoutauction.com 888-897-8864
• Online Wed., June 25, 2025 For: Monthly Live Streaming Auction
JAMES G. MURPHY INC. AUCTIONEERS www.murphyauction.com 425-486-1246
• Online June 12 - 19, 2025
For: Marysville Heavy Equipment, Contractors Equipment & Vehicle Public Online Auction
JEFF MARTIN AUCTIONEERS, INC. www.jeffmartinauctioneers.com 601-450-6200
• Cleveland, TX
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Houston Construction Equipment & Truck Auction
• Pelzer, SC
Thurs., June 19, 2025
For: East Coast Construction & Transportation Auction
• Camden, SC
Sat., June 21, 2025
For: Own Owner Retirement Auction
PURPLE WAVE AUCTION www.purplewave.com
866-608-9283
• Online
Wed., June 11, 2025
For: Ag Equipment Auction
• Online
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Valfair Construction Auction
• Online
Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Truck & Trailer Auction
• Online
Wed., June 18, 2025
For: Vehicle & Equipment Auction
• Online Thurs., June 19, 2025
For: Construction Equipment Auction
• Online
Tues., June 24, 2025
For: Government Auction
RES AUCTION SERVICES
www.RES.bid 833-SOLD-RES
• Wooster, OH
Sat., June 21, 2025
For: Ag & Construction Equipment Consignment Auction
SALES AUCTION COMPANY, LLC
www.salesauctioncompany.com 860-627-7506
• Windsor Locks, CT Thurs., June 12, 2025
For: Paganelli Construction Corp. Complete Dispersal Retirement Auction – Day 1
• Online Fri., June 13, 2025 For: Paganelli Construction Corp. Complete Dispersal Retirement – Day 2 Timed Auction
SHETRON AUCTION & EQUIPMENT LLC
www.shetronequipment.com 717-532-8828
• Shippensburg, PA Wed., June 25, 2025 For: Farm & Construction Equipment Auction
WESTERN CONSTRUCTION AUCTIONS INC. www.wca-online.com 866-731-7760
• Online Fri., June 13, 2025
For: Heavy Construction & Ag Equipment, Commercial Trucks & Trailers & more
WOLFE INDUSTRIAL AUCTIONS, INC. www.wolfelive.com 800-443-9580
• Front Royal, VA Fri., June 13, 2025 For: Northern VA Absolute Contractors Auction
YODER & FREY HEAVY EQUIPMENT AUCTIONS www.yoderandfrey.com 419-865-3990
• Findlay, OH
Thurs., June 12, 2025 For: Heavy Equipment Auction
• Atlanta, GA Wed., June 18, 2025 For: Heavy Equipment Auction
Minn. Seed Company Uses Schweiss Bifold, Hydraulic Doors
The newly constructed dual-purpose shed at Thalmann Seed Farm is the definition of modern efficiency and versatility.
Replacing a long-standing structure that had served the farm for many years, this new shed ushers in an exciting new era for the operation.
Established in Plato, Minn., in 1877, Thalmann Seed Farm has been a pillar of resilience and hard work for almost 150 years. What was started by Brian Thalmann’s great-great-grandfather as a small, family-run farm, has evolved into a successful agricultural seed conditioning enterprise spanning six generations. Supported by his son, Adam, and his nearly retired father, Brian Thalmann and his company continue to prosper.
Across the property are several Lester Buildings post-frame structures, primarily used for equipment storage. In addition, there is a seed warehouse and multiple silos dedicated to the operation. Among the buildings on the property, one of the older structures has recently been demolished to make way for a new agricultural shed. Measuring 100 ft. by 220 ft., the shed is divided into two sections. One-third is dedicated to cold storage, while the remaining two-thirds is insulated to retain warmth, making it a versatile
addition to the farm’s operations.
At each end of the new building is a unique door from Schweiss Doors. The Thalmann Seed property showcases some essential differences between the needs best met by bifold and hydraulic doors.
On the non-insulated end of the building, there is a bifold door measuring 40 ft. wide by 20 ft. tall. Positioned at the north end, the bifold door was chosen after careful consideration. Given that more snow accumulates at the north end of the shed, the vertical liftstrap mechanism of the bifold door provides a distinct advantage, ensuring easy access, even in snowy conditions.
Because the door opens by lifting straight up, there is no need to plow in front of the door to open it. The bifold door features a bottom-driven liftstrap system for easy maintenance. It’s equipped with six liftstraps that wrap around the bottom drums as the door opens. Liftstraps require less maintenance, are faster and quieter than cable-driven bifold doors.
When shutting the door, two automatic strap latches on each side pull the door in and securely locks the door into position. To help keep the cold storage end of the building dry, the large bifold door is fitted with a complete weather seal kit, preventing snow and other
elements from easily entering the building. The bifold door complements the building’s design, featuring grey sheeting with a charcoal gray wainscoting.
Schweiss offers flexibility in customization, allowing the shell to be fitted with various types of sheeting and build to any desired size.
On the south end is a Schweiss hydraulic door, measuring 50 ft. wide and 20 ft. high. The hydraulic door was chosen for the south end because there is less snow, it melts faster in the sunshine.
Unlike the bifold door, the bottom of the hydraulic door swings outward and up, requiring a clear space in front of the door to operate. So, heavy snow must be removed before operating the door to avoid scooping snow onto the door frame.
“As the door swings open, the windows give a clear view of the space in front, serving a practical purpose while also allowing natural light into the shop,” said Brian Thalmann.
Covered in the same grey sheeting and charcoal grey wainscoting as the bifold door and building, the hydraulic door also features four windows, each measuring 4.5 ft. by 3.5 ft. The interior of the door is covered in white sheeting, blending seamlessly with
the building’s interior.
To the side of the door is the hydraulic pump, mounted roughly 6 ft. off the floor, out of the way, but easily accessible. The control station is mounted below the pump so the door operator can monitor the door when opening and closing.
Insulated and fitted with radiant floor heating, the southern end serves as the Thalmann’s repair shop. The floor is heated by two natural gas boilers, providing efficient and reliable heating for the entire area. With the large Schweiss hydraulic door, there is a generous opening for the semis to enter the building.
“The size of the door ensures we don’t have to limit what can enter the building, providing enough space for larger trucks and equipment to enter, which is exactly what we wanted,” Thalmann said.
The hydraulic door is insulated with spray foam to keep the temperature stable in the insulated area. It also has a complete Schweiss Doors weather-seal kit, protecting the building from Minnesota’s unpredictable weather and unwanted insects.
Mid-Minnesota Builders of Glencoe, Minn., erected the building, while Schweiss Doors installed the doors.
For more information, visit bifold.com.
A drone’s-eye view of the large bifold door wide open, with a distant glimpse of the Thalmann Seed farm on the horizon.
From within the building, looking out, the hydraulic door is fully extended, providing a vast opening and unobstructed view.
From the side of the bifold door, the yellow Schweiss liftstraps are visible, lifting the door open.
From the front, the un-sheeted Schweiss bifold door frame is revealed, equipped with the Schweiss yellow liftstraps ready for operation.
From a head-on view, the hydraulic door reveals its large size, featuring four windows and a two-tone gray sheeting with wainscoting.
Schweiss photo
Schweiss photo
Beyond the bifold door, the large farming equipment is visible, showcasing how the door opens to accommodate it.
Schweiss photo Schweiss photo
Schweiss photo Schweiss photo
Business Calendar
To view our Business Calendar online, go to www.constructionequipmentguide.com.
ASSOCIATED GENERAL CONTRACTORS (AGC)
AGC Events Calendar:
All AGC Web-Eds are scheduled in Eastern Standard Time (EST). Conferences are scheduled using the local time zone where the event takes place.
• AGC of America HR Master Class Powered by Segal
A SIX-PART ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAM
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025 – (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM) Virtual.
Labor and HR
• AGC Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Forum
Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Online, Virtual Safety and Health
• AGC of America HR Master Class Powered by Segal
A 6-Part ONLINE Training Program
Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025
Time: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Online, Virtual Labor and HR
• 2025 AGC Construction Safety & Health Conference (https://safety.agc.org/)
Dates: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 (7:00 AM) Thursday, July 24, 2025 (12:00 PM) Minneapolis, Minnesota Safety and Health
• AGC EDGE Building Information Modeling Education Program (https://edge.agc.org/course/vbim250801/)
Dates: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 (9:00 AM) –
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 (5:00 PM) Online, Virtual
Training/Professional Development
• AGC EDGE Lean Construction Education Program, 2nd Edition (https://edge.agc.org/course/vlea250801/)
Dates: Monday, August 18, 2025 (10:30 AM –Thursday, August 28, 2025 (8:00 PM) Online, Virtual Training/Professional Development
• AGC of America HR Master Class Powered by Segal
A SIX-PART ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAM
Date: Thursday, August 21, 2025 (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Virtual.
Labor and HR
NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (NFPA)
NFPA Conference & Expo 2025
Dates: June 16 – 18, 2025
Place: Mandalay Bay Convention Center
3950 S. Las Vegas Boulevard Mandalay Bay Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: 877/632-7800
The NFPA Conference & Expo is a fire and life safety premier event. The event will feature over 130 educational sessions and more than 400 exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations in fire safety and life safety.
Which Industries Attend NFPA Conference & Expo?
From fire prevention, wildfire preparedness, and electrical safety to hazardous materials, building and life safety, community risk reduction, and public safety, you’ll find near-endless educational opportunities, innovative products, and professional peers that await you at NFPA Conference & Expo.
Join us in Las Vegas where every industry comes together to improve fire and life safety for people and property.
Member Experience
As an NFPA Member, you know the many benefits of attending the NFPA Conference & Expo world-class speakers, networking, products and education.
Today’s world is changing. So are we.
Known as the trusted source of safety knowledge, the NFPA has been helping to solve some of the planet’s toughest safety problems for more than 125 years.
To remain relevant for over a century as a knowledge and information organization, we’ve continually evolved our scope of expertise from fire prevention, wildfire preparedness, and electrical safety to hazardous materials, community risk reduction, and public safety. People over Profit. Building a better world through shared knowledge.
Our mission is to help save lives and reduce loss of information, knowledge, and passion.
Helping real heroes.
Our passion for our mission is fueled by knowing that our work helps make lives better, workdays easier, and people safer.
We believe people need to work together to transform the world. Over 250 technical committees play a crucial role in our standards development process accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) by reviewing amendments and voting on revisions.
We keep people informed about important fire and life safety issues.
Celebrating 125 Years of SAFETY!
For more information:
NFPA, 1 Battery March Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471
Phone: 1-800/344-3555. Fax: 1-800/593-6372
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS (ASME)
Turbo Machinery Technical Conference & Exposition
Dates: June 16 – 20, 2025
Exhibition: June 17 – 19, 2025
Place: Renasant Convention Center
255 N. Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: 901/576-1200
Make your plans today to join 2,500-plus turbomachinery and propulsion engineering leaders from Industry, Academia, and Government at Turbo Expo in Memphis!
Attend Turbo Expo:
Find your next R&D Partner or employer: Meet R&D leaders from top companies, universities, and government labs at dedicated networking events, including the Celebrating Women in Turbomachinery Event and Early Career Engineer & Student Mixer.
Advance your products: Choose between 1,000-plus technical presentations to discover new ways to build, test, and develop power and propulsion technologies.
Learn the fundamentals: Attend tutorials-of-basics sessions led by industry experts.
Promote your company: Connect with turbomachinery and propulsion decision-makers in-person to stay ahead of your competition.
Turbo Expo Program Tracks include: Aircraft Engine…Ceramics…Coal, Biomass, Alternative Fuels… Controls, Diagnostics, Instrumentation…Cycle Innovations…Electric Power…Energy Storage…Fans & Blowers…Heat Transfer…Industrial and Cogeneration…Manufacturing Materials and Metallurgy, Microturbines, Turbochargers and Small Turbomachinery…Oil and Gas Applications…Structures & Dynamics…Supercritical CO2 Power Cycle
For more information contact: ASME at 800/843-2763. Email: customercare@asme.org
SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (SIMA)
28th Annual Snow & Ice Symposium
Dates: June 18 – 20, 2025
Place: DeVos Place Convention Center
303 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
SIMA is the International Fair for Agricultural Change - The Best Show in Snow
Join the largest trade show for Snow and Ice Management in Grand Rapids, MI, featuring exhibitors, fun activities, and valuable networking opportunities.
Can You Dig It?
You won’t want to miss the biggest trade show dedicated to the snow and ice management industry.
Meet with exhibitors, catch up with the SIMA Staff and win prizes when you hang loose on the trade show floor!
It’s all happening at DeVos Place Convention Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan!
Trade Show Hours at DeVos Place Convention Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan!
Wednesday – June 18, 2025 (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Thursday – June 19, 2025 (11:45 AM – 5:15 PM)
Friday – June 20, 2025 (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
. Visit 100+ Snow and Ice Vendors during our non-compete show hours.
. Participate in our Letter Scramble Game or make a stop on the Ale Trail.
. We have something for everyone.
. Grab Breakfast or Coffee on the show floor while you shop!
. Take part in Riverside Chats.
. Be sure to stay until the Trade Show closes for the chance to win great prizes!
For more information:
Visit Website: https://show.sima.org/tradeshow
SANCO ENTERPRISES/SANCO EQUIPMENT/SANCO SERVICES
SANCO SANDBOX – WEST
Sanco Enterprises: We solve service and equipment opportunities with value added solutions.
Date: Thursday, September 18, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: 621 Cleveland Street, Mankato, MN 56001
DESCRIPTION: On September 18th, our second Sanco Sandbox of 2025 will be in Mankato!
Equipment will be set up in a quarry very near our Sanco Equipment Mankato location with plenty of moveable dirt! Get a hands-on feel for our newest line of Yellow Iron Excavators, Loaders, and Rollers from XCMG! Check out the ingenuity of our partners KAGE Innovation’s attachments! Get the first look at Muskox’ latest and greatest technology! Come ready to play at our inaugural event, Sanco Sandbox!
A waiver will have to be signed at the door for entry.
For more information: Sanco Enterprises. Phone: 651/280-6600
Events are subject to change, check websites for updates
