www.gorillahammers.com
Callan Marine Finishes Port of Corpus Christi Work
The dredge “Ohio” has a suction diameter of 34 in. and a discharge diameter of 30 in. with a combined 18,300 horsepower.
By Irwin Rapoport
Callan Marine Ltd. recently delivered the Port of Corpus Christi’s fourth and final phase of its $625 million Ship Channel Improvement Project (CIP).
Construction on the first phase began in 2018, with the final phase starting in September 2023. The project deepened the 36-mi. ship channel from 47 to 54 ft. mean lower low water (MLLW) and widened it from 400 to 530 ft. with additional barge shelves added to accommodate the growing demand by port customers for larger vessels.
Officials said the work transformed the channel into one
of the most strategically enhanced waterways along the United States Gulf Coast between Texas and Florida, the United States’ largest energy export gateway and the thirdlargest seaport in total waterway tonnage.
The expanded waterway facilitates safe, navigable commerce for larger vessels and two-way traffic, enabling the more efficient transport of crude oil, liquefied natural gas and other commodities. Annual transportation cost savings are estimated to exceed $200 million.
Jointly funded by Congress and the port, with support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and pri-
vate marine companies, officials said the CIP is a testament to the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing critical infrastructure initiatives.
“This accomplishment is only possible because of the steadfast support and cooperation of our nonfederal partner, the Port of Corpus Christi,” said Col. Rhett Blackmon, the commander for the USACE Galveston District. “Along with the port, stakeholders like the Texas General Land Office and the Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program advocate for the communities we serve. In collaboration, we were able to
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Stewart & Stevenson Hosts Demo Day at Houston Facility
Stewart & Stevenson held a Demo Day on Aug. 14, 2025, at its Houston, Texas, facility at 8631 East Freeway.
Contractors, fleet operators and industry partners attended the event to see equipment in action, meet with OEM representatives and connect with the Stewart & Stevenson team.
Attendees were served lunch from El Guajillo Taco Truck and took part in a guided tour of the facility. Long-time Stewart & Stevenson staff members, many with decades of industry experience, were available to share knowledge and visit with customers. Representatives from Allison Transmission, Deutz, Terex, Atlas Copco, Volvo Penta, MTU Solutions and Rail King also were on hand to answer questions and provide product information.
The demonstration area featured a full lineup of Atlas Copco equipment and Rail King mobile railcar movers, along with Terex rough-terrain cranes, including the TRT70US, TRT55US and TRT80US. Guests were able to review product features, capabilities and applications directly with factory experts.
In addition to the equipment on display, the demo day offered valuable networking opportunities for contractors, dealers and OEM partners. The event emphasized Stewart & Stevenson’s longstanding role as a leader in the power industry and its commitment to supporting customers with equipment, service and technical expertise. CEG
(All photographs in this article are Copyright 2025 Construction Equipment Guide. All Rights Reserved.)
(L-R) are Miles Cobb of Stewart & Stevenson and Ronell Batiste and Raymond Vasquez, both of Airgas.
(L-R) are Philip Alexander and Jeff Alexander of Delta Hydraulics at Stewart & Stevenson’s Houston Demo Day
(L-R) are Stephen Test, sales representative of
(L-R) are Gina Shomber, operations executive of Titan Manufacturing; Ryan Bournias, sales representative of Stewart & Stevenson; Prashant Paudel, customer service manager of Titan Manufacturing; and Shawn Akins, sales representative of Volvo Penta, at the Houston Demo Day.
(L-R) are Allison Moore, human resources manager of Kirby Corp.; Kierstyn Osteen of Kirby Corp.; Stephanie Brett, senior recruiter of Stewart & Stevenson; and Roy Smith of Kirby Corp., who welcomed guests and greeted attendees.
Gavin Tyner, sales promoter engineer of Atlas Copco; and Ben Parrish, senior director of operations at Stewart & Stevenson.
Atlas Copco; Neil Breedlove, vice president of the Southwest region of Atlas Copco; Ryan Dziuk, regional sales representative of Atlas Copco; Natalie Hogg, sales application engineer of Atlas Copco; Nathan Carrell, executive vice president;
A Terex TRT80US rough-terrain crane was set up for display.
Scott Keith (L), maintenance coordinator, and Danny Grimaldo, field coordinator of American Cementing, work with Stewart & Stevenson on diesel engine service and support.
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Rent Equip, Bertling Equipment Announce Merger
Rent Equip of Austin announced a merger with Bertling Equipment Rental of San Antonio.
The news was made public in early August 2025 and brings the combined company, now operating under the name Rent Equip, to six locations across Central and South Texas.
For President Shane Walsh, the merger was a natural fit.
“The more we explored it, the more it made sense,” he said. “Geographically, Bertling already had customers in Austin, and we were beginning to push further south. They already had larger machines, such as 50,000-pound excavators, dozers and rollers, that we had been looking to add. Our Austin branches were stronger in compact and mid-size earthmoving equipment.
And the customer bases complemented each other perfectly.”
Rent Equip has historically served several industries, including landscaping and concrete contractors in the Austin market, while Bertling Equipment built its reputation serving similarly diverse customers, including paving contractors in San Antonio and New Braunfels. The merger brings these specialties together under one organization, operating as Rent Equip moving forward.
As part of the merger, Blake Bertling has taken the role of vice president of central and south Texas, focusing on business development and maintaining relationships in the San Antonio-New Braunfels region.
“Blake has an outstanding reputation as both a person and a businessman,” Walsh said. “His relationships in that market are
invaluable, and his focus will remain on taking care of those customers.”
The combined operation now employs more than 40 people and serves customers from Waco to San Antonio and surrounding areas. Equipment is currently working across a wide territory.
Walsh emphasized that Rent Equip’s foundation remains the same.
“Our existing customers trust us because we do what we say we’re going to do,” he said. “The equipment arrives on time, it works and, if there is an issue, we respond quickly. That does not change. What changes is the scale of what we can offer.”
Preventive maintenance remains central to the company’s service. Each machine is inspected using a checklist developed in deep consultation with mechanics and manufacturers.
“There is no scenario where a piece of equipment goes on rent without being checked out or straight from one job site to another without being checked,” Walsh said. “Our reputation depends on it.”
The priority now is ensuring a smooth integration of operations while continuing to serve customers in both Austin and San Antonio.
“Taking care of our customers comes first,” Walsh said. “From there, it is about operating as one organization and expanding our ability to serve existing cus-
tomers wherever their projects take them”. With six locations and a wider range of equipment than ever before, the merger of Rent Equip and Bertling Equipment Rental represents a significant step forward in the company’s ability to meet customer needs across Texas.
(All photos courtesy of Rent Equip.)
University of Houston Launches $43M Campus Reshaping
On June 1, 2025, the University of Houston launched the first phase of its Centennial Construction Project, a $43 million project that will reshape areas on campus in advance of the university’s 100th anniversary in 2027, the dailycougar.com reported.
“Feedback from students, faculty and staff helped shape the priorities for this project, particularly the desire for more walkable, connected and collaborative spaces,” said Bryan Lugn, director of media relations. “The plan reflects a shared goal of creating a welcoming, vibrant campus that supports student well-being, academic collaboration and school pride.”
Spearheading the Centennial Plaza project are UH Facilities/Construction Management and OJB, a land-
scaping and design firm known for creating natural environments that adapt to the changing needs of people and can grow and trans-
form over time, according to the university.
The project is slated to be completed by the end of 2026, just in time for the University’s centennial celebrations.
The university released mock drawings of what the redesign will look: It will include more trees to create shade, promoting a more walkable campus and more seating spaces for students. These changes will promote an aesthetic campus that leaves a strong first impression, the dailycougar.com reported.
The redesign also will impact foot and vehicular traffic in some areas.
University Drive, which serves as one of the main thoroughfares,
will be transformed into a pedestrian-first passageway that leads directly to Cullen Performance Hall, according to thedailycougar.com
In addition, the area between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall will be transformed into a centennial plaza —a space used for events and as a general gathering area for students.
Farish Hall will be demolished, thedailycougar.com reported. And Wilhelmina’s Grove, which is adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will undergo landscaping upgrades while adding seating and shaded areas to create a more comfortable and usable space for students.
A John Deere 310L backhoe loader in the rental lineup at the Austin branch
Blake Bertling (L) and Shane Walsh shake hands in front of Rent Equip’s Austin branch, marking the start of a new chapter. OJB rendering
Plaza
THE DOER’S DREAM
Abbott Touts 10-Year, $146B Investment in Transportation
will abound in Texas over the next 10 years.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Aug. 21, 2025, a new 10-year transportation plan with a projected investment of more than $146 billion.
The plan by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will invest in local roads and major congestion relief projects to meet the demands of Texas’ growing population and a thriving economy.
“This more than $146 billion investment in our roadways will help Texas meet the critical needs of our growing state as more people and businesses move here for the freedom and opportunity they can’t find anywhere else,” Abbott said. “We must strengthen our roadways and improve congestion and safety to keep our economy booming and keep Texans moving. By investing billions of dollars in our transportation network today, we will build the future of Texas for generations to come.”
“It’s no question why so many businesses and families want to move to Texas, and this monumental investment will help us take care of everyone here while attracting more to come in the future,” said Alvin New, acting Texas Transportation Commission chair.
“Built with our transportation partners and public feedback from across the state, the UTP will enhance safety, improve mobility and support our growth over the next 10 years,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Whether you live in a rural area or a big city, this plan benefits everyone as we continue to work to move people and
Work Involves Liquefaction Units... Bechtel Wins $9B in Contracts for Rio Grande LNG Projects
Houston-based NextDecade announced that Reston, Virginia-based Bechtel finalized $9 billion in contracts for construction work on Train 4 and Train 5 at its Rio Grande LNG Facility in Brownsville, Texas.
NextDecade, the oil and gas firm that owns the facility, said “that its subsidiaries have finalized a pricing refresh of the Company’s lump-sum, turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract with Bechtel Energy Inc. (Bechtel) for the construction of Train 4 and related infrastructure at the Rio Grande LNG Facility and executed a lump-sum, turnkey EPC contract with Bechtel for the construction of Train 5 and related infrastructure at the Rio Grande LNG Facility.”
An LNG train refers to the liquefaction unit within an LNG plant.
NextDecade will pay Bechtel approximately $4.77 billion for the Train 4 work and
$4.32 billion for the Train 5 work, according to the news release.
Both contracts include pricing validity clauses that extend to Sept. 15, 2025.
Bechtel and NextDecade already have a working relationship: The former is building Phase 1 of the Rio Grande LNG Plant for $12 billion, which includes the facility’s first three liquefaction trains.
In NextDecade’s first-quarter business update in May, the company reported that the overall project completion percentage for the first two trains and the common facilities of the Rio Grande LNG Facility was 42.8 percent as of March, while the third train was 17.8 percent complete.
In May, NextDecade signed a 20-year deal to supply Japan's power generator JERA with 2 million tons annually of LNG from the fifth liquefaction facility at its Rio Grande project, according to Reuters.
goods safely and efficiently, fulfilling our mission of connecting you with Texas.”
The Texas Transportation Commission approved the 2026 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) on Aug. 21. The UTP includes $101.6 billion for projects over the next 10 years to improve safety, connect communities and encourage a robust economy. This marks the third consecutive year the plan exceeds $100 billion. It also includes nearly $45 billion for development and routine maintenance.
Many of the projects in the 2026 UTP are roadway segments identified on Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadways list.
Texas Clear Lanes congestion-relief projects will increase in funding by nearly $2 billion, supporting the $84 billion total investment for completed, under-construction and planned non-tolled projects since 2015. It also includes a nearly $17 billion investment in safety and an additional $669 million in funding for rural corridors and key roadways in economic hubs.
The adoption of the 2026 UTP occurs after an extensive process to allow the public to voice comments and opinions on the projects included in the document.
Updated each year, the UTP “road map” guides project development to improve safety, address congestion and connectivity and preserve roadways for Texas drivers. It also includes public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, international trade and bicycle and pedestrian connectivity.
EdgeConneX Begins Work On $440M Data Center Near Austin
EdgeConneX is beginning to build a $440 million data center facility in Cedar Creek on the outskirts of Austin, according to mysanatonio.com.
EdgeConneX, which is headquartered in Herndon, Va., plans to build a 578,000-sq.-ft. two-story facility at the northeast corner of Wolf Lane and FM 635 in Bastrop County, according to July 14, 2025. Filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Construction kicked off on Aug. 1 and is expected to conclude on June 14, 2026, according to current project estimates, according to mysanatonio.com. A general contractor wasn’t named.
EdgeConneX already operates more than 80 data centers across four continents, as well as more than 20 countries. That includes an already operational center in Houston.
Data centers house servers and other equipment necessary for internet consumption (including online shopping, banking and health care work). They are considered “energy intensive” facilities due to the constant need for cooling units and fans to prevent system overheating, according to mysanatonio.com.
In July 2024, the Bastrop County Commissioners Court adopted an order that
designated a plot of land in Cedar Creek as a commercial-industrial reinvestment zone. There were multi-phased plans detailing four data center campus buildings on the property; each building was subject to its own tax abatement agreement, according to county documents.
In December 2024, commissioners entered into tax abatement agreements with EdgeConneX for a 10-year term, according to mysanatonio.com.
That was projected to create approximately 60 or more quality trade and engineering jobs and more than $6 million in wages and benefits, per county documents. During construction, county officials said the project was expected to create 400 to 600 daily, on-site construction jobs, according to mysanatonio.com.
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts said there are nearly 80 registered qualifying data centers or center projects listed in its system that qualify for state sales tax exemptions; that includes Central Texas projects affiliated with Google and Giga Texas’ data center.
As of September 2024, Texas housed nearly 300 data centers in Texas, many of them concentrated between Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio, according to the Texas Comptroller.
Texas Department of Transportation photo Road construction
Southwestern U. Completes Mood-Bridwell Hall Renovation
Originally constructed as one of Southwestern University’s first buildings in 1908, Mood-Bridwell Hall underwent a $25 million renovation that incorporated the latest classroom technology while honoring the structure’s history.
With Southwestern University’s 186th academic year set to begin, the university is celebrating a major renovation project that breathed new life into one of the campus’ most historic buildings. Mood-Bridwell Hall originally opened in 1908 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
In a partnership between the university, the city of Georgetown, project management firm Kitchell, general contractor Linbeck and architect PBK, construction began in September 2023 following a thorough design process.
Ensuring compliance with guidelines from the city of Georgetown’s Historic and Architectural Review Commission to preserve the century-old facade, work was done to scale the building’s interior back to its original studs and foundation.
From there, Mood-Bridwell Hall was reimagined. Modern classrooms, faculty offices, meeting spaces and even a coffee shop, were woven among the original beams, pillars and columns that date to the early 20th century. What resulted is the unique blend of old and new. From the exterior, Mood-Bridwell Hall’s original facade shines bright thanks to new windows as well as comprehensive stonework and washing.
The interior features enhanced Wi-Fi and networking capabilities, an interactive video wall in the main atrium,
Crews use a JLG lift to work on Mood-Bridwell Hall’s exterior.
advanced projection systems in each classroom and environmentally friendly printing systems on all three floors that use 50 percent less power and use a water-based ink system, eliminating the need for petroleum-based toner.
One of the building’s new defining characteristics, a large skylight, fills the main atrium with natural sunlight, a nod to the building’s original configuration that featured an open-air atrium.
Sustainability was incorporated throughout the project as energy-efficient windows and skylights allow for natural light to help offset the need for lamps and other electric light sources. A new dual-system HVAC system improves efficiency and provides for individual room temperature control while still maintaining a central system for consistency across shared spaces.
Faculty began moving into the renovated Mood-Bridwell Hall in late July and the building welcomed students for the fall semester in late August.
In addition, construction crews transformed what was previously unused roof space into a new outdoor terrace on the second floor, designed to be a central gathering place. The renovation also included the construction of a new annex on the north side of the building, allowing for the addition of new classrooms.
Lubbock Psychiatric Center Construction Under Way
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on July 29, 2025, that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is beginning construction of the new Lubbock Psychiatric Center.
Abbott and the 88th Texas Legislature approved $121 million in funding for the hospital, which is slated for completion in 2027.
“Texas continues to increase access to mental health care in every corner of our state,” Abbott said. “This new hospital will offer Texans in the South Plains high-quality treatment closer to home. I thank the Texas
Health and Human Services Commission for their crucial work to expand and improve mental health services for Texans in rural communities and across our great state.”
“Ongoing investment in our state hospitals leads to more resilient individuals and
healthier communities,” said Scott Scalchin, deputy executive commissioner of the HHSC Health and Specialty Care System.
“Patients at the Lubbock Psychiatric Center will receive the care they need in a secure, state-of-the-art building that helps facilitate their recovery.”
The new 108,430 sq.-ft., 50-bed maximum-security hospital will be located off Peach Avenue near Highway 84. The hospital is designed with the latest mental health care standards in mind to promote recovery and healing. Security measures, such as perimeter fencing, video surveillance, alarms, electronic monitors and additional staff, will help ensure the safety of patients, staff and the community.
Since 2017, Abbott and the Texas Legislature have appropriated more than $2.5 billion to replace, renovate or expand state hospitals across Texas.
Hospital construction is under way in Amarillo, Dallas, Wichita Falls and Terrell, and two additional expansion and renovation projects are in the planning stage. HHSC hosted grand openings for replacement state hospitals in Austin and San Antonio in 2024.
(All renderings courtesy of the Texas Governor’s Office.)
Southwestern University photo
Niece 8,000 gallon water tanks
installed on 40 ton Articulated Off Highway chassis. This combination is the workhorse of the dust control and water needs for quarries and large construction sites
The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology
AEM Manufacturing Express Completes August Texas Tour
The AEM Manufacturing Express concluded on Aug. 31, 2025, its month-long tour of the equipment manufacturing capital of America, Texas.
The tour, which launched on Aug. 1 in Mount Pleasant and concluded in Houston, traveled to 22 manufacturers across 17 Texas cities, celebrating the 345,000 men and women of the Texas equipment manufacturing industry — more than any other state.
This month’s tour followed last year’s historic and award-winning tour across 22 states and 80 facilities. Across the 22 Texas stops, more than a dozen local, state and federal lawmakers took facility tours, joined in celebratory festivities and heard directly from workers in the industry.
“From visits to family-owned manufacturers to global brands, this month’s tour was a strong reminder of the far-reaching impact of our industry,” said Megan Tanel, AEM president and CEO. “We were grateful to put a spotlight on the people that make our industry stronger. Every worker we met along the tour has a story, and those stories deserve to be told.”
Each stop of the tour invited attendees to play the “Manufacturing Challenge,” an interactive game testing knowledge of the equipment manufacturing industry, for a chance to win giveaways. Attendees also were invited to become advocates for the industry by joining AEM’s national grassroots campaign, I Make America.
“As the equipment manufacturing capital of America, Texas leads by example: investing in its workforce, understanding the promise of American manufacturing, and championing pro-growth policies,” said Kip Eideberg, AEM senior vice president of government and industry relations. “Our month-long tour was about celebrating this success, and most importantly, the people that work behind the scenes.
“From welders to engineers, the equipment manufacturing industry is only as strong as its people, and this tour was about recognizing their role in making America — and the world.”
For details, visit manufacturingexpress.org.
(All photos courtesy of AEM Manufacturing Express.)
Caterpillar Engines of Seguin, Texas, welcomed the AEM Manufacturing Express on Aug. 21, 2025.
Project Deepens, Widens Corpus Christi Ship Channel
from page 1
deliver one of the largest beneficial use projects in the history of our district.”
“The Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project unlocks a new era of economic growth for both the Coastal Bend and the nation,” said David Engel, chairman of the Port of Corpus Christi Commission.
The port was established in 1926 and, four years later, its channel was dredged to a depth of 25 ft. and a width of 200 ft. Since then, it has been widened several times.
Planning for the latest improvements began in 1990 when Congress authorized a study to determine the feasibility of expanding the channel by widening and deepening it.
The Phase 4 contract was awarded to Callan Marine by the USACE in September 2023, with operations commencing in November 2024.
The project was designed, planned and executed by the USACE, which served as the lead federal agency.
THE USACE said there was a shortage of areas to place dredged material along the channel, so it worked with the Coastal Bends Bays & Estuaries Program (a nongovernmental organization) to find ways to use the material beneficially. That included creating new land for marsh restoration and using the material for shoreline restoration along Joe Fulton Corridor.
The dredged depth will be maintained in perpetuity through regular maintenance dredging.
A port spokesman said the USACE monitors sedimentation and schedules maintenance activities as needed to preserve the channel dimensions and ensure continued navigability.
Environmental considerations were a central part of the project. That included minimizing impacts on sensitive habitats, maintaining water quality, protecting endangered species and managing dredged material in accordance with environmental regulations, according to the USACE. It required an extensive review and coordination with federal and state resource agencies to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable laws.
Dredging operations generated more than 40 million cu. yds. of material.
“I’m especially proud that more than 90 percent of the new work dredged material in this contract is staying within the system, through our beneficial use program,” Blackmon said.
Texas-based Callan has worked extensively on channel-deepening projects, beach renourishment projects and marsh creation projects. Phase 2, also performed by Callan, saw the company use a new large dredger, dubbed the “General MacArthur.”
“Our mission is to provide top-tier dredging services through quality performance, competitive pricing, safe work and professional relationships,” said Maxie McGuire, president of Callan Marine. “This award is particularly special to us because it demonstrates faith in the Callan brand and our years of experience. We are honored to partner with the US Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District and the Port of Corpus Christi on this project.”
The channel was fully operational during Phase 4.
Phase 4 had Callan dredging and widening the channel, with crews operating 24 hours, seven days a week.
No widening was done through the channel, other than that required for the deepening, according to the USACE Galveston District Public Affairs Office.
The plan of attack for the dredging and widening operations had Callan use a cutterhead dredge to remove the material and place it in beneficial use sites along the channel. The operation was completed in July 2024.
The dredged material consisted mostly of a mix of clays and sands.
The material was moved via pipeline from the dredge to the placement areas, according to the USACE. The material was tested for contamination before removal, and no contamination was noted in the laboratory testing. The dredge occasionally found debris in the channel, such as tires and wire. That material was moved to an authorized waste site.
Multiple cutterhead dredges were used for removing the material. Callan Marine used the “General MacArthur,” the “General Bradley” and the “General Arnold.”
Callan also handled abandoned pipeline, with a dredge taking out material and uncovering the pipeline, followed by a barge with an excavator that removed it.
“Locating the pipeline is a challenge as we don’t always know the exact location of pipelines that were placed decades ago,” the USACE Galveston District Public Affairs Office said. “Utilizing surveys and magnetometers helps to localize the area for removal.”
The project took approximately seven years to complete. Phase 1 was awarded to Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. LLC, which was delivered on schedule in March 2020. Great Lakes crews deepened and widened the shipping channel from the Gulf of Mexico to Harbor Island.
Callan secured the $97.9 million contract for Phase 2 in April 2020, finishing the job in July 2023. Crews deepened and widened the channel from Harbor Island to 2.7 mi. past the La Quinta Junction, including Ingleside where three large crude export marine terminal operators — Buckeye Partners, Moda Midstream and Flint Hills Resources — are located.
Great Lakes secured the Phase 3 contract, which covered the area from west of La Quinta Junction to the Chemical Turning Basin. That phase was completed in March 2024. The port is near two major oil and gas fields — the Eagle Ford Shale and the Permian Basin. The enhanced navigational infrastructure has attracted more than $65 billion in commercial investments to the Coastal Bend in the past decade.
Port customers and port-related activities generate more than 95,000 jobs throughout the state. The port is the largest U.S. crude oil export gateway and the world’s third largest, exporting more than 2.4 million barrels per day of crude oil to international clients.
It also is the second-largest U.S. gateway for liquefied natural gas exports and handles a variety of other goods both inbound and outbound.
The Port of Corpus Christi averages 14 ship movements per day. Those vessels consist of Panamax-class ships averaging 600 ft. long by 106 ft. wide; Aframax-class ships averaging 700 ft. long by 144 ft. wide; Suez-class ships averaging 800 ft. long by 157 ft. wide; LNGC-class ships averaging 1,000 ft. long by 152 ft. wide; and VLCC-class ships averaging 1,100 ft. long by 195 ft. wide. CEG
(Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.)
Jordan Foster Construction Awarded $183M in Highway Work
Jordan Foster Construction announced on Aug. 14, 2025, that it was awarded two highway construction contracts by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), totaling $183.3 million, to improve major transportation corridors in both Bexar and Bastrop counties.
The contracts include the expansion of U.S. 90 from Interstate 410 to Loop 1604 in Bexar County and infrastructure improvements along State Highway 71 at Tucker Hill Lane in Bastrop County. Both projects are designed to address rising traffic demands, reduce congestion and improve safety and connectivity across growing communities.
In Bexar County, the U.S. 90 project will reconstruct approximately 2.55 mi. of highway, widening the main lanes from four to six.
The scope includes the expansion of frontage roads, four new bridge structures, major storm drainage improvements, box culverts and a direct connector from U.S. 90 westbound to Loop 1604 northbound. Supporting elements include MSE retaining walls, concrete and asphalt paving, lighting, upgraded signals and phased construction to maintain traffic flow.
This project is a crucial step in preparing for a projected increase in traffic from 78,300 to 107,900 vehicles per day by 2045. Work on the U.S. 90 corridor is expected to begin in fall 2025 and reach substantial completion by fall 2029.
In Bastrop County, the SH 71 improvement will convert a signalized intersection at Tucker Hill Lane into a grade-separated overpass and introduce new one-way frontage roads. The project also includes expanded accommodations for bicycles and pedestrians, enhancing safety and connectivity in one of Central Texas’ fastest-growing areas, with direct connections to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and the City of Bastrop.
Construction on the SH 71 improvements is scheduled to commence later this year, delivering long-anticipated upgrades that will shorten commute times and improve daily travel for Bastrop-to-Austin drivers.
Together, these projects represent a continuation of Jordan Foster Construction's role as an infrastructure contractor in Texas. The company brings deep technical expertise in excavation, drainage, structural bridgework and large-
scale phased delivery; supported by an experienced workforce that self-performs critical scopes such as earthwork and concrete to ensure safety, precision and schedule control.
“What makes projects like these especially meaningful for our team is that they're personal," said John Goodrich, president, infrastructure group at Jordan Foster Construction. "Many of our employees live in these neighborhoods or commute on these roads. So, when we build something new, something that didn't exist before, it's not just about infrastructure. It's about improving lives. We take that seriously.”
Jordan Foster Construction is a Texas-based construction firm with more than 50 years of experience delivering civil infrastructure, commercial and multifamily projects across the state. The company's commercial portfolio includes millions of square feet of completed office, retail, industrial and warehouse space, as well as the construction of more than 22,000 parking garage spaces and more than 30,000 hospitality units.
For details, visit jordanfosterconstruction.com.
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TxDOT Touts, Reaches Major Project Milestones in August
From breaking ground on long-awaited projects to completing critical emergency repairs ahead of schedule, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) had a landmark month in August, advancing efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve safety across the state.
Cow Creek Bridge Rebuilt in 29 Days
After being washed away by deadly floods over the Fourth of July weekend, the Cow Creek Bridge — linking Lago Vista, Marble Falls and Cedar Park — was rebuilt in just 29 days, well ahead of the original September deadline.
TxDOT awarded a $4 million emergency contract to Hunter Industries, who began work on July 21 and finished construction before the end of August.
The new bridge features a taller, wider and more resilient design, with improved travel lanes and shoulders to better withstand future flood events.
Gov. Greg Abbott joined local leaders for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the rapid response.
Cedar Park Frontage Road Gap
A major milestone for Cedar Park and sur-
rounding communities came as TxDOT broke ground on the U.S. 183 frontage roads project, which will add two nontolled lanes on both sides of the 183A Toll Road between Ranch to Market Road 1431 and Avery Ranch Boulevard.
The $139 million project also will include a new shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists, connecting to the existing trailhead. Construction began in July and is expected to wrap up in 2029.
AustinÊs Westlake Drive Bridge
TxDOT opened the new Westlake Drive bridge over Loop 360 in Austin as part of a $72.1 million corridor improvement initiative. The upgrade restores critical east-west
connectivity and includes nonsignalized Uturns for improved mobility.
The bridge is one of several intersection upgrades planned along Loop 360, a corridor known for high traffic volumes and congestion.
I-30 Tech Upgrades in East Texas
In Bowie and Titus counties, TxDOT is rolling out new dynamic message signs and closed-circuit TV (CCTV) cameras along I30, enhancing driver safety and traffic monitoring capabilities.
“These signs can display alerts, warnings and real-time updates,” said Christina Trowler, TxDOT Atlanta District director of transportation operations.
Work will begin in October and is expected to be completed by mid-2026.
Panola, Upshur Counties Set for Safety Improvements
More than 25 mi. of rural highway in Panola and Upshur counties will soon benefit from new safety features designed to reduce the severity of crashes involving vehicles that leave the roadway.
The improvements will be made to:
• State Highway 43 (Panola County)
• State Highway 155 and State Highway 300 (Upshur County)
Work is expected to start in October and last just over a year.
“These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of traffic crashes when vehicles leave the roadway,” said TxDOT Marshall Area Engineer Jacob Vise.
TxDOT’s recent work reflects the agency’s continued focus on resilience, efficiency and public safety — with projects ranging from long-planned mobility expansions to fast-paced disaster response. As Texas continues to grow, these efforts are laying the groundwork for a more connected and secure transportation future. Story by Ryan LaFontaine of the Texas Department of Transportation.
Next Issue Closes October 8th
$250M Aplin Center Gets Approval From Texas A&M Regents
Texas A&M University System Regents on Aug. 28, 2025, approved building the Aplin Center at Texas A&M University — a three-story, 211,724-sq.-ft. home for experiential learning in hospitality, retail and food and nutrition sciences that will double as Aggieland’s new front door for prospective students and visitors.
“This one’s going to be as popular as Beaver Nuggets,” said Robert Albritton, chairman of the board of regents.
“Arch “Beaver” Aplin III helped build a Texas original, and now he’s helping us build an extraordinary facility at Texas A&M. The Aplin Center blends Aggie hospitality with hands-on education, and it will pay dividends for students and our state.”
Aplin, a former student, contributed $50 million toward the project.
Placed on the block bounded by Wellborn Road, John Kimbrough Boulevard and Olsen Boulevard (former Lot 100), the Aplin Center will feature teaching labs and realworld venues for viticulture and enology, fermentation, coffee roasting, product development, sensory evaluation, meat and food science, retail and hospitality operations.
A new Visitor Center — with a 170-seat theater, 70-seat multipurpose room, ambassador support spaces and staff offices — will create a seamless, high-energy campus-visit experience worthy of a top public research university.
The regents appropriated $225 million for construction and related costs; $25 million was previously appropriated. Funding includes Permanent University Fund debt proceeds, Revenue Financing System debt proceeds and university investment earnings.
Construction starts this month, and substantial completion is slated for February 2028.
Manhattan Construction is the general contractor. And DLR Group and Pickard Chilton are the project architects, according to connectcre.com.
TEXAS STATE SUPPLEMENT
City of Conroe Set to Build New East Side Fire Station
rendering of the city of Conroe’s
Construction will soon begin Conroe's $4.7 million east side fire station after the City Council on July 10, 2025, OK’d a popular construction contract method, houstonchronicle.com reported.
The council approved a design-build method for the project. That gave the Houston-based SLI Group, which designed the project, responsibility for construction as well.
Earlier in 2025, the council approved the station design with SLI Group — a year after it delayed the project because of cost. The council originally approved the project in 2021 as part of the city’s Capital Improvement Plan.
Fire Chief Paul Sims said the station at 676 Farm-to-Market 3083, would be completed in mid-2026, according to houstonchronicle.com.
The proposed cost of the new fire station jumped to $7.2 million in 2024 from $5.5 million in 2022 — a total based on the cost to complete Fire Station No. 7 on Longmire Road in 2018. The design of Station No. 8 will be like that of No. 7.
Councilman David Hairel asked whether potential change orders could cause the cost to jump again, according to houstonchronicle.com.
SLI Group’s Brett Lucksinger said the price won’t likely change, according to houstonchronicle.com.
“The numbers that we have right now, almost everything has been bid,” Lucksinger said. “I don’t anticipate anything coming back that would be a problem.”
Sims said that with the new design, the station’s footprint will remain the same as originally designed, although the interior was redesigned to save money. He said the station will feature six dormitories, a kitchen, storage and three truck bays, according to houstonchronicle.com.
“At the very minimum, there will be three (fire trucks) and likely at different times, there will be a fourth truck from a reserve standpoint,” Sims said. “We are out of space at other fire stations, and we have as many as five or six reserve apparatus.”
Councilman Harry Hardman said the efforts to reduce costs and the “thoughtfulness” put into the design will be helpful for future fire station projects, houstonchronicle.com reported.
“(The fire station) is something we all wanted and now it is something we can afford,” Hardman said. “I’m sure this is something we can replicate moving forward.”
City of Conroe rendering
shortly.
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