Texas 19, September 10, 2023

AGC Members Ready to Execute Historic Investment

By Irwin Rapoport CEG CORRESPONDENT

Texas recently went big when it made a significant investment to upgrade roads and bridges, as well as a major expansion of the highway network to meet the demands of a growing population and red-hot economy.

On Aug. 17, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced that Gov. Greg Abbott has provided the Texas Transportation Commission with a historic, record $142 billion to invest in a variety of transportation projects in the Lone Star State.

AGC of Texas President Stacey Bryant commended the effort of everyone who made this possible.

“The Associated General Contractors of Texas, on behalf of the heavy highway industry, applauds Governor Greg Abbott, Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, the members of the Texas Transportation Commission, Texas Senate Transportation Chair Robert Nichols, House Transportation Committee Chair Terry Canales and all involved in this historic investment in Texas’ infrastructure for their leadership and steadfast dedication to building a safer and more connected Texas for all Texans in all corners of our state,” said Bryant. “The industry is ready to execute on this historic investment. To aid in these efforts, AGC of Texas launched two new workforce development efforts in partnership with AGC of America, TxDOT and TXAPA to educate and connect applicants on the vast array of available and rewarding opportunities in the heavy highway industry.”

The record investment includes the unanimous adoption of the $100 billion, 10-year statewide roadway construction plan with TxDOT for transportation projects to enhance safety, improve congestion and connectivity and preserve Texas roadways.

The investment represents a $25 billion increase in total investment from the previous year.

“Thanks to our booming economy, Texas has achieved a major milestone in our transportation infrastructure with this

record $142 billion investment that will strengthen our roadways and build a next-generation transportation network,” said Abbott. “Through this record transportation investment project, the state of Texas will further improve roadway congestion and safety to meet the growing needs of Texans in our large metros, rural communities, and everywhere in between. This plan will not only connect Texans from every corner of our state, it will also bolster our economic growth

and ensure Texans and businesses continue to thrive for generations to come.”

Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr. stressed the need for the additional funding.

“This historic investment in our transportation system is critically important to help meet the needs of our fast-growing state. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Abbott and

San Antonio Express-News photo Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced a record-amount $142

Agricultural Tractors

2015 JOHN DEERE 6215R $139,500

2020 JOHN DEERE 6130M $115,000

(6) 2018-2021 JOHN DEERE 6120M From $79,500

2018 JOHN DEERE 5125R ................$98,500

(2022 JOHN DEERE 5125M ............$139,500

2) 2021-2022 JOHN DEERE 5100M $CALL

(2) 2017 JOHN DEERE 5085M From $59,500

Artic Trucks

(2) 2016 CATERPILLAR 745C $289,500 Ea.

(2) 2019 CATERPILLAR 745 $409,500 Ea.

(2) 2019 CATERPILLAR 740GC ............$CALL

(3) 2017-2019 CATERPILLAR 725C2 .............. From $289,500

(2) CATERPILLAR 725 $CALL

(2) 2023 ROKBAK RA40 $CALL

(2) 2023 ROKBAK RA30 $CALL

Compactors - Padfoot/Smooth Drum

2020 CATERPILLAR 815K ..................$CALL

2007 CATERPILLAR 815F 2 ................$CALL

(2) 2017 CATERPILLAR CS66B From $125,000

(6) 2016-2022 CATERPILLAR CP56B From $125,000

(8) 2017-2022 CATERPILLAR CS56B From $115,000

(2) 2013-2021 HAMM H13I From $87,500

2020 HAMM H12I ............................$CALL

Crawler Loaders

(2) 2022 CATERPILLAR 963 $CALL

(4) 2017-2021 CATERPILLAR 963K From $265,000

Excavators - Crawlers

2019 CATERPILLAR 390FL $935,000

(2) 2019-2020 CATERPILLAR 374FL $CALL

2020 CATERPILLAR 352 ................$465,000

(2) 2017-2019 CATERPILLAR 349FL .............. From $279,500

(3) 2021-2022 CATERPILLAR 349 $CALL

(3) 2019 CATERPILLAR 336 From $219,500

2018 CATERPILLAR 336FL ............$269,500

(2) 2023 CATERPILLAR 330-07 ............$CALL

(2) 2015-2018 CATERPILLAR 323 From $132,500

2018 CATERPILLAR 320 $172,500

2017 CATERPILLAR 316FL ............$149,500

2013 CATERPILLAR 6030 ............$1,250,000

Dozers - Crawler

(2) CAT D10T2 From $1,950,000

(5) 2012-2022 CATERPILLAR D8T ................ From $299,500

(2) 2020 CATERPILLAR D6 $329,500

2020 CATERPILLAR D6 XL $375,000

(7) 2020-2022 CATERPILLAR D6 LGP

......................................From $309,500

2019 CATERPILLAR D6T XW $325,000

2018 CATERPILLAR D6N XL $CALL

2014 CATERPILLAR D6K2 LGP $89,500

2012 CATERPILLAR D6K XL $139,500

2023 CATERPILLAR D4 ....................$CALL

2017 KOMATSU D61EXi-24 $CALL

2021 KOMATSU D71PX-24 $319,500

(5) 2023 KOMATSU D71PXi-24 $CALL

Dozers - Wheel

2015 CATERPILLAR 834K ..............$285,000

Crawler Carriers

(2) 2019-2020 MOROOKA MST4000VD ......................................From $269,500

(2) 2018 MOROOKA MST3000VD From $165,000

(3) 2018-2019 MOROOKA MST2200VD From $142,500

MOROOKA MST660VD ....................$85,000

Motor Graders

(2) 2022 CATERPILLAR 16 $1,345,000

(2) 2020-2023 CATERPILLAR 150 ................ From $399,500

(2) 2017-2019 CATERPILLAR 140M3 $CALL

2017 CATERPILLAR 14M $CALL

(3) CAT 2004-2007 14H VHP ....From $135,000

Skid Steers - Track

(7) 2020-2021 JOHN DEERE 333G

........................................From $72,500

(3) 2020-2022 CATERPILLAR 299D3 XPS From $49,500

(2) 2021 CATERPILLAR 299D3 $CALL

Winch

PACCAR PA110VS245 $7,500

Wheel Loaders

2019 CATERPILLAR 966M ......From $329,500

2020 CATERPILLAR 950M ..............$339,500

(2) 2018 CATERPILLAR 938M From $179,500

Water Equipment - Tower/Tanks

(4) 2020-2022 KLEIN KPT-120 WATER TOWERS ..........................................From $62,500

Water Equipment - Trucks

(3) 2022-2023 CATERPILLAR 740GC $CALL

2013 CATERPILLAR 740B $329,500

2022 CATERPILLAR 730-04 $CALL

2022 CATERPILLAR 725-04 ............$575,000

(3) 2021-2022 CATERPILLAR 725 From $550,000

2015 FREIGHTLINER M2 $49,500

(19) 2018-2021 KENWORTH T370 From $89,500

2023 INTERNATIONAL HV507 4X4 ....$169,500

(3) 2022-2024 INTERNATIONAL HV607 $CALL

(7) 2022 INTERNATIONAL MV607 From $115,000

(18) 2018-2022 PETERBILT 348 From $149,500

Miscelleneous Equipment

2022 ROME AG-12 $11,500

2023 ROME OT-12 PLOW $CALL

2019 ROME TACW16 $36,000

2023 ROME TAW-20S $45,000

2018 ROME TCW28 ......................$19,750

2018 ROME TCW32 ......................$23,000

(4) 2022-2023 ROME TRCW-12 From $72,500

2022 ROME TRCW-16 $83,500

Authorized dealer for

Bobcat of Amarillo 806-622-9593

Bobcat of Austin 512-251-3415

Bobcat of Corpus Christi 361-884-3959

Bobcat of Lubbock 806-745-1322

Bobcat of Pleasanton 830-580-4020

Bobcat of Marble Falls 830-220-6070

Bobcat of Marble Falls 830-220-6070

Bobcat of Marion 830-420-9029

Bobcat of Midland–Odessa 432-685-9298

Bobcat of the Rio Grande Valley 956-425-4300

Bobcat of San Antonio 210-337-6136

Officials Praise Houston’s First Clear Lanes Project Finish

The Texas Department of Transportation was joined by Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg Jr., local elected officials, community leaders, and TxDOT staff to celebrate the completion of the Houston District’s first Texas Clear Lanes project at Interstate 45 from the NASA 1 Bypass to Farm to Market Road 518. Also known as the Gulf Freeway, I-45 launched Houston into the freeway era nearly 75 years ago, on Sept. 30, 1948.

The project began in May 2017 and was completed by Williams Brothers Construction for $99.8 million. Improvements included widening I-45 to 10 main lanes, adding two three-lane frontage roads and access into two HOV diamond lanes, improving traffic signals on FM 518 at the Hobbs Road/Lafayette Lane intersection, and restriping and signing. The project also included reversing and braiding the northbound entrance and exit ramps to cross over each other, widening the northbound exit ramp to two lanes, lengthening the Clear Creek Bridge frontage roads, sidewalk and bicycle accommodations and the construction of detention ponds.

“This project made numerous improvements to I-45 from NASA Road 1 to FM 518 in Harris and Galveston counties,” said Chairman Bugg. “Clearing our most congested roadways and keeping Texans and, in this particular corridor, our freight industry moving more efficiently and safely is exactly why the Texas Clears Lanes Program was created.”

The average daily traffic on the project’s 3.3-mi. segment is over 148,000 vehicles per day. In addition, it is designated I-45 as an element of the Highway Primary Freight Network by the Federal Highway Administration. A 2015 study detailed that of the top 100 freight bottlenecks in the nation, five were located on I-45. And across the entire Interstate Highway System, I-45 had more freight bottlenecks per mile than any other facility in the nation. The completion of this project will provide much needed relief and have an equal impact on commerce and the five cities that make up Bay Area Houston across Harris and Galveston counties.

“This is a major milestone for the Houston District, and we are thrilled to deliver our first Texas Clear Lanes project,” said District Engineer Eliza Paul. “With the population boom in this area and I45 being both a critical evacuation corridor as well as part of the state’s primary freight network, this project positively impacts quality of life and industry.”

The completion of this project leaves five remaining Texas Clear Lanes projects in progress, in the Houston area. A second project on I-45, from north of FM 517 to south of FM 1764, is widening that segment to eight lanes and adding two two-lane frontage roads. The $121.7 million project’s anticipated completion timeframe is mid-2025. Current TxDOT projects in the southeast Houston and Galveston County areas have a total investment of over $2 billion.. 

(All photos courtesy of TxDOT.)

Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg Jr., local elected officials, community leaders and TxDOT staff celebrated the completion of the Houston District’s first Texas Clear Lanes project at Interstate 45 from the NASA 1 Bypass to Farm to Market Road 518.

Improvements included widening I-45 to 10 main lanes, adding two three-lane frontage roads and access into two HOV diamond lanes, improving traffic signals on FM 518 at the Hobbs Road/Lafayette Lane intersection, and restriping and signing.

The project began in May 2017 and was completed by Williams Brothers Construction for $99.8 million.

The project also included reversing and braiding the northbound entrance and exit ramps to cross over each other, widening the northbound exit ramp to two lanes and lengthening the Clear Creek Bridge frontage roads.

State Increases Funding Budget By $25B From Last Year

our Texas Legislature, Texas continues to see growth in the transportation investments needed to support a world-class transportation system focused on safety and congestion relief.”

Many of the projects in this plan are roadway segments identified on Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadway list. Texas Clear Lanes congestion-relief projects will see an increase in funding, supporting $66.7 billion total investment for completed, under-construction, and planned non-tolled projects since 2015. Funding for rural projects also increased to $19.2 billion, a major jump from $2.2 billion in the 2016 UTP.

Austin Projects

Project highlights from the Austin District include:

• $4.5 billion for the I-35 Capital Express Central project, running from U.S. Hwy. 290 East to SH 71 and Ben White Boulevard;

• $383.6 million dedicated to U.S. Hwy. 281 to “improve mobility and enhance safety” between U.S. Hwy. 290 and the Comal County line;

• $105.2 million to remove signals and construct overpasses along SH 71 at Tucker Hill Lane and Pope Bend Road;

• $43.9 million to remove signals and create an overpass on SH 71 at FM 1209;

• $81.8 million to both widen and realign FM 812 from U.S. Hwy. 183 to SH 21;

• $80 million to add grade-separated intersection improvements at U.S. Hwy. 281 and SH 71;

• $31.2 million to extend frontage roads along SH 71, running from Riverside Drive to U.S. Hwy. 183

• $32 million for “intelligent transportation systems” along I-35;

• $164.5 million to widen RM 620 South and create a sixlane divided highway;

• $61.3 million to widen U.S. Hwy. 79 from I-35 to east of

FM 1460.

El Paso Projects

• $83 million for I-10 Segment 2 Downtown widening between Executive Center Boulevard and SL 478 (Copia Street), complementing $304.9 million previously dedicated to IH 10;

• $90 million for FM 2185 extension between Looney Spur Road and Junction with FM 3541 in addition to $10 million of existing funding;

• $110 million for I-10 widening between FM 1905

(Antonio Street) and SH 20 (Mesa Street);

INVESTMENT from page 1 see INVESTMENT page 12

• $12 million for I-10 frontage road construction between Executive Center Boulevard and Sunland Park Drive to add to $16.5 million of existing funding;

• $51.2 million for U.S. 54 (Patriot Freeway) between Kenworthy Street and FM 2529 (McCombs Street);

• $30 million for U.S. 62/180 (Montana Avenue) expressway and frontage roads between Global Reach Drive and FM 659 (Zaragoza Road) in addition to $101.6 million previously dedicated on this project;

TxDOT photo

The more than $10 billion of average annual investment programmed in the UTP over the next 10 years is expected to bring an estimated $18.8 billion per year in economic benefits.

TxDOT photo

One of the largest investments is $4.5 billion for the I-35 Capital Express Central project, which will feature upgrades from U.S. Hwy. 290 East to SH 71 and Ben White Boulevard.

TxDOT photo

In Austin,$383.6 million will be dedicated to U.S. Hwy. 281 to “improve mobility and enhance safety” between U.S. Hwy. 290 and the Comal County line.

NPT1200

Niece Water Towers deliver reliability and durability when you need fast mobile water service. With a 12” discharge tube it fills your tanks at a rate of over 1,000 gallons per minute. Offers removable power pack for security, fifth wheel tow hitch, professionally engineered and constructed. It features (8) legs for stability

5th wheel set up for quick “tow and go.”

OFF ROAD WATER TRUCKS

OVER THE ROAD WATER TRUCKS

FUEL AND LUBE TRUCKS

FUELER TRUCKS

Progress Being Made at Tesla’s $375M Battery Facility

Tesla officially broke ground at its new Lithium Refinery outside Corpus Christie, Texas, in May. Since then, there have been a number of construction activities under way at the facility.

The site has grown in width and depth. Trenching and vertical assembly is taking place.

Tesla is investing $375 million to build the facility on the Gulf Coast that will help it secure a domestic supply of lithium hydroxide, a key ingredient used to make batteries for its electric vehicles, and its home- and utility-scale batteries.

The automaker plans to produce enough battery-grade lithium at the new factory to support the production of 1 million electric cars annually.

The site will deploy for the first time ever at scale an acid-free lithium refining process which “eliminates the use of hazardous reagents and byproducts in favor of more inert options,” the company added.

Full production at the site is expected to be achieved by 2025, Tesla said.

Tesla stated that the plant will later employ 250 people full-time and nearly 1,000 jobs will be created for construction. The 250 fulltime employees, including production technicians, plant managers and engineers, are to be partly trained and recruited locally. To this end, Tesla is investing in several educational projects in the region. 

(All photos courtesy of X/Joe

Tegtmeyer.)

The Tesla construction project broke ground in May 2023 and numerous construction activities have taken place over the summer.

Crews are performing soil stabilization to generate long-term strength. This reaction produces stable calcium silicate hydrates and calcium aluminate hydrates. The calcium from the lime reacts with the aluminates and silicates solubilized from the clay.

Tesla is investing $375 million to build the facility on the Gulf Coast that will help it secure a domestic supply of lithium hydroxide, a key ingredient used to make batteries for its electric vehicles, and its home- and utility-scale batteries.

The site will deploy for the first time ever at scale an acidfree lithium refining process which “eliminates the use of hazardous reagents and byproducts in favor of more inert options.”

Full production at the site is expected to be achieved by 2025.

AGC of Texas Launches New Programs for Project Applicants

INVESTMENT from page 8

• $40 million for SH 178 (Artcraft Road) operational improvements and direct connectors at IH 10 in addition to $168.5 million previously dedicated to SH 178;

• $14 million for U.S. 62 passing lanes between East El Paso/Hudspeth County Line and 2 mi. east of FM 2317 in addition to $9.27 million of existing funding.

Tyler Projects

• $408 million for widening I-20 from the Smith County line to SH 31;

• $268 million to improve mobility, access and safety at the I-20 and SH 31 Interchange in Gregg County;

• $194 million for the widening and safety improvements on U.S. 175 from CR 3509 east to FM 347 in Cherokee County;

• $190 million for the widening and safety improvements on FM 2493 (Old Jacksonville Highway) in Smith County.

Waco Projects

• $101.5 million for Interstate 35 widening in Bell County that will become part of the future Interstate 14 east expansion;

• $8.9 million for the Highway 281 expansion project in Coryell County, increasing the current two-lane roadway to four lanes divided;

• $25 million for the final third segment of the ¾ Highway 281 relief route for the City of Hamilton;

• $40.9 million for Highway 84 expansion and reconstruction to include new ramps, main lanes, frontage roads, interchanges and direct connectors;

• $60 million to replace the existing Highway 6 “twin bridges” over Lake Waco.

“Through this record transportation investment project, the State of Texas will further improve roadway congestion and safety to meet the growing needs of Texans in our large metros, rural communities, and everywhere in between,”

Abbott said, in part, in the release. “This plan will not only connect Texans from every corner of our state, it will also bolster our economic growth and ensure Texans and businesses continue to thrive for generations to come.”

In February, Gov. Abbott announced TxDOT’s proposed 2024 Unified Transportation Program (UTP), estimated to be $15 billion more than the 2023 UTP. With the State of Texas providing a majority of the funding, the 2024 UTP includes a total investment of over $142 billion for all devel-

opment and delivery projects, right of way acquisition, engineering, routine maintenance contracts, and UTP construction funding. The more than $10 billion of average annual investment programmed in the UTP over the next 10 years is expected to bring an estimated $18.8 billion per year in economic benefits, per the Texas A&M Transportation Institute's analysis. These benefits are a result of increased labor income and business output, as well as the addition of 70,500 direct and indirect jobs.  CEG

TxDOT photo

The record investment includes the unanimous adoption of the $100 billion, 10-year statewide roadway construction plan with TxDOT for transportation projects to enhance safety, improve congestion and connectivity and preserve Texas roadways.

TxDOT photo

Funding will go toward all development and delivery projects, right of way acquisition, engineering, routine maintenance contracts and UTP construction funding.

TxDOT photo

The investment represents a $25 billion increase in total investment from the previous year.

KIRBYUSED.COM

“One of the largest sources of used Komatsu equipment in North America”

2019 Komatsu PC360LC-11

2019 Komatsu PC88MR-10

2018 Komatsu HM400-5 40T & Tailgate

2019 Komatsu PC240LC-11

2018 Komatsu PC490LC-11

2012 Komatsu PC88MR-8 HYD, Roadliner Blade, QC, BKT KM12603X

2017 Komatsu PC490LC-11

2018 Komatsu PC360LC-11

Thumb, BKT

2016 Komatsu D61PX-24 PAT, Drawbar

2011 Komatsu WA380-6

2017 Takeuchi TL12V2-CRR Cab, Rubber Tracks, Ride Control

2022 Terramac RT-7R Crawler High Lift Gate Bed

2020 Terramac RT-6 Track Carrier Flat Bed TM20015 $138,500

hrs.

2019 Komatsu PC290LC-11 K191558X

2018 Takeuchi TL10V2-CRR Cab, Rubber Tracks, Ride Control

2020 Komatsu PC360LC-10 QC, 42” BKT

2019 Komatsu D39PX-24 Pat, Drawbar K191511M

2018 Komatsu HM400-5 40T & Tailgate KM18095M $261,000

East Texas Bridge, Madden, Others Continue Work in Tyler

Numerous construction projects are under way to upgrade infrastructure in the Lone Star State. Many of these projects are taking place in Tyler County. Contracting crews will continue work throughout the fall on a number of items.

Some of the larger projects include:

Anderson County

U.S. 175 Widening Project

Contractor: Big Creek Construction LTD

Cost: $55.5 million

Anticipated Completion Date: spring 2026

Limits: From 0.4 mi. SE of SH 155, SE to Cuney

The contractor is scheduled to work on the new eastbound bridge and roadway elements. With phase one of the project nearing completion, a traffic switch to the phase two configuration should be expected in the coming weeks.

SH 155 Overlay Project

Contractor: Madden Contracting Company

LLC

Cost: $14.6 million

Anticipated Completion Date: summer 2023

Limits: From 0.14 mi. S of FM 19 (End of Curb and Gutter) to S of FM 315

The contractor is scheduled to work on the guardrail. It consists of one course surface treatment (OCST), permeable friction course (PFC) surface, shoulder texturing, edge treatment and pavement markings.

Cherokee County

SH 294 Rehabilitation Project

Contractor: Madden Contracting Company

LLC

Cost: $3.4 million

Anticipated Completion Date: fall 2023

Limits: CR 2326, E to SH 21

The contractor is scheduled to pave driveways on the west end. Lane closures will occur when work is in progress with traffic controlled by flaggers and a pilot vehicle. The project consists of pavement resurfacing.

SH 21 Resurfacing Project

Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp

Cost: $6 million

Anticipated Completion Date: summer 2023

Limits: Houston County Line east to U.S. 69 in Alto

The contractor is scheduled to continue widening and perform base repairs as weather allows. Lane closures are anticipated. The project consists of pavement resurfacing.

Gregg County

SH 135: Kilgore Traffic Circle

Contractor: East Texas Bridge

Cost: $8.37 million

Anticipated Completion Date: March 2024

Limits: Traffic circle in Kilgore to Rusk County line

This project consists of completely rebuilding the traffic circle and full width of roadway to the Rusk County line. It will consist of removing existing concrete paving, reconstructing subgrade, constructing concrete paving, storm sewer installation, lighting, and striping.

SH 149

Contractor: Madden Construction

Cost: $9.4 million

Anticipated Completion Date: December 2023

Limits: I-20 south to the Rusk County line

This project consists of replacing culverts, adding safety end treatments, guard fence, milling and inlaying hot mix asphalt surface, and striping.

FM 2206/Harrison Road

Contractor: East Texas Bridge Inc.

Cost: $14.15 million

Anticipated Completion Date: December 2023

Limits: Fisher Rd. to SH 42

This project consists of widening a two-lane road to four lanes with a center turn lane. This includes drainage structures, new bridge, flexible base, hot mix and pavement markings. Contractor will be extending culverts and constructing detours.

FM 2206/Harrison Road

Contractor: East Texas Bridge Inc.

Cost: $15.16 million

Anticipated Completion Date: December 2023

Limits: From Loop 281 to Fisher Rd.

This project consists of widening a two-lane road to four lanes with a center turn lane. This includes drainage structures, flexible base, curb and gutter, sidewalks, hot mix and pavement markings. Contractor will be extending culverts and constructing detours.

High St. Bridge Over UP Railroad

Contractor: Ragle Construction

Cost: $9.3 million

Anticipated Completion Date: January 2025

Limits: Nelson Street to Marion Drive. The project consists of replacing the High Street bridge structure over the UP railroad. One half of the bridge will be constructed at a time.

U.S. 80: Gladwater

Contractor: East Texas Bridge

Cost: $12.6 million

Anticipated Completion Date: November 2023

Limits: SH 300 east to Locker Plant Road in Gladewater

This project consists of milling and inlaying main lanes of travel, as well as striping.

Henderson County

SH 198 Bridge Project

Contractor: Copasa Inc.

Cost: $30.4 million

Anticipated Completion Date: fall 2024

Limits: At the Clear Creek Bridge 1 mi. north of FM 3054 to 0.1 mi. north of CR 2830

The contractor is scheduled to work on the new northbound bridge and roadway elements. The project consists of the construction of replacing bridges, approaches, grading, structures, asphalt concrete pavement (ACP) base, ACP surface, retaining walls, curb & gutter, metal beam guard fence (MBGF) and pavement markings. The speed limit has been reduced to 50 mph throughout the project.

FM 216 Rehabilitation

Contractor: Baker & Company

Construction LLC

Cost: $7.9 million

Anticipated Completion Date: spring 2024

Limits: FM 1861 to U.S. 175

The contractor is scheduled to work on roadway and drainage elements. The project includes pavement reconstruction, structures, pavement markings and signs.

Rusk County

U.S. 84: FM 225 E to CR 3155

Contractor: Drewery Construction Company

Cost: $12.8 million

Anticipated Completion Date: June 2024

Limits: FM 225 east to CR 3155

This project consists of reconstructing U.S. 84, extended structures, hot mix asphalt surface, and new signs striping.

Smith County

U.S. 69 Rehabilitation

Contractor: Drewery Construction Company Inc.

Cost: $7.8 million

Anticipated Completion Date: fall 2023

Limits: Cumberland Road to .45 mi. north of FM 346

This project consists of rehabilitating exist-

ing roadway and installing a restricted crossing U-turn (R-Cut) at FM 2813 intersection.

U.S. 271 Rehabilitation

Contractor: Madden Contracting Company LLC

Cost: $12.4 million

Anticipated Completion Date: May 2023

Limits: From FM 16 going southwest to I-20 The project consists of paving, structures, MBGF, and pavement markings from IH 20 N to the Gregg County Line. The portion from IH 20 to FM 16 also includes turn lanes and pavement rehabilitation. The SB outside lane and shoulder are open. Additional lane closures are anticipated as crews work on adding additional turn lanes, hot mix the cross overs, and hot mix side street intersections.

FM 16 Widening, Realignment

Contractor: Highway 19 Construction LLC.

Cost: $44.4 million

Anticipated Completion Date: August 2025

Limits: 4 mi. west of FM 849 east to US 69 in Lindale

The project consists of grading, asphalt base, asphalt surface overlay paving, storm drain, bridge, and culvert structures, signing, pavement markings, and signals. Crews will be preparing the ROW by removing trees and grading embankment.

Van Zandt County

SH 19 Super Two Widening, Overlay (North of U.S. 80)

Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp Inc.

Cost: $8.8 million

Anticipated Completion Date: December 2023

Limits: U.S. 80 N 6 mi. to Rains County Line

The project consists of Super 2 type work, including grading, base repair, treated subgrade, flex base, OCST, PFC surface, structures, signs, and pavement markings. Crews are working to install embankment, flex base, and hot mix inside the shoulder closure area.

Wood County

FM 14

Contractor: East Texas Bridge

Cost: $2.6 million

Anticipated Completion Date: September 2024

Limits: From FM 2869 to East of FM 1795

This project is for the construction of safety improvements consisting of PFC surface overlay, culvert work, safety end treatments, rumble strips, and pavement markings. Crews are currently working on driveways and backfilling pavement edges. 

Best Block Donates to TSTC’s Construction Tech. Program

At Texas State Technical College, the formula to a great-paying career for some students starts by training with industry-standard equipment and materials to prepare for competition at the SkillsUSA Texas Postsecondary Leadership and Skills Conference and, ultimately, the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Recently, Best Block, a Quikrete company, donated three concrete masonry units to the Building Construction Technology program at the Harlingen campus.

LeRoy Jackson, a sales representative of Best Block, said the donation is to help the future of masonry.

“The Building Construction Technology instructors at TSTC will teach students how to properly lay blocks in the walls so they can learn a special skill set using a trowel,” Jackson said.

The materials that were given to the program are like those currently used in the construction of many grocery stores, houses, schools and shopping centers across the nation. Jackson said Best Block was happy to contribute.

“Our partnership with TSTC has been [growing] for several years and it will continue to grow,” he said.

Hector Rosa, TSTC’s Building Construction

Technology program director in Harlingen, said the concrete materials will help out substantially.

“The materials will be used in our concrete course this fall,” he said. “They will allow students to develop techniques by using mortar to get an accurate level. Next month, they will use the materials for masonry practice and begin to prepare for SkillsUSA.”

Rolando Garcia, of Harlingen, is studying for an associate of applied science degree in Building Construction Technology. He said the donation helps the students’ masonry skills.

“We’ll be able to expand our knowledge and learn new information that we didn’t know,” he said.

First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers in Texas can earn an average annual salary of $64,470, according to onetonline.org, which projected these positions to grow by 23 percent in the state through 2030.

TSTC offers an associate of applied science degree in Building Construction Technology and a certificate of completion in Building Construction — Craftsman on its Harlingen and Waco campuses.

Registration for TSTC’s fall semester is under way. For more information, visit tstc.edu. 

State Technical College photo

Building Construction Technology students Rolando Garcia, Luis Felipe Torres and Jadynn Ontiveros, with Program Director Hector Rosa, stand next to recently donated concrete masonry units from Best Block.

Earthmovers builds industry leading scrapers and accessories for construction and mining sites around the world.

your investment. Use our cost analysis tool to see for yourself at ktec.com

by incorporating K-Tec™ equipment on your jobsite.

The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology

www.gomaco.com ❘ info@gomaco.com

GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, placer/spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you.

Buffalo, TX 903-322-5602

Carrollton, TX 214-819-4100

Ft. Worth, TX 817-626-2288

Houston, TX 713-937-3005

Longview, TX 903-758-5576

Midland, TX 432-234-9409

EFFICIENT. E.

Mitsubishi Breaks Ground On Electric Facility in Houston

Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas (Logisnext), one of the world’s leading manufacturers and providers of material handling, automation and fleet solutions, celebrated the groundbreaking for its new production facility in Houston, Texas.

The facility will provide increased production capabilities to further support the growing demand for electric lift trucks and warehouse products.

Located on Logisnext’s Houston headquarters campus, the new facility will support manufacturing of key electric warehouse products across the Jungheinrich, Cat lift trucks, Mitsubishi forklift trucks and UniCarriers Forklift product lines.

The new facility represents a key investment in Logisnext’s long-term electric growth strategy to support its customers throughout North America.

With a total floor area of 73,000 sq. ft., the new facility will expand Logisnext’s current electric manufacturing capabilities by serving as a dedicated fabrication space for in-house welding and painting of masts and frames. The facility will also integrate cutting-edge technologies such as Mixed Model Line Design, Industry 4.0 process monitoring and one-piece flow. The expansion of robotic welding, along with the optimization of paint capacity and weld fixtures, will contribute to Logisnext’s ongoing focus for improved efficiency.

“Today marks an exciting milestone for Logisnext as we break ground on our newest electric forklift manufacturing facility in Houston,” said Jay Gusler, executive vice president of operations at Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. “The material handling industry is rapidly changing and we’re proud to be on the forefront of this change. We’re committed to investing in our manufacturing capabilities and new product development to ensure we continue providing our customers with the most advanced, yet sustainable, electric products and solutions in the future.”

On August 23, the company celebrated the start of construction with a groundbreaking ceremony alongside its Houston campus employees. Leading the groundbreaking was Ken Barina, president, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas and Jay Gusler, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas.

Construction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2024.

For more information on Logisnext, visit www.logisnextamericas.com.

About Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas

Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Inc. and its group companies have helped customers Move The World Forward for more than 100 years. A technology-driven manufacturer, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas offers scalable solutions from material handling to automation and extensive fleet support. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, its complete portfolio of advanced solutions spans across five leading brands: Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat lift trucks, Rocla AGV Solutions, UniCarriers forklifts and Jungheinrich warehouse and automation products. 

Texas Central, Amtrak Explore Dallas to Houston HSR

Texas Central Partners (Texas Central) and Amtrak are seeking opportunities to advance planning and analysis work associated with the proposed Dallas-Houston 205mph high-speed rail project to further determine its viability. Amtrak has cooperated with Texas Central on various initiatives since 2016 and the two entities are currently evaluating a potential partnership to further study and potentially advance the project.

“If we are going to add more high-speed rail to this country, the Dallas to Houston Corridor is a compelling proposition and offers great potential,” said Amtrak Senior Vice President of High-Speed Rail Development Programs Andy Byford. “We believe many of the country’s biggest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas, like Houston and Dallas, deserve more high quality high-speed, intercity rail service and we are proud to bring our experience to evaluate this potential project and explore opportunities with Texas Central so the state can meet its full transportation needs.”

The proposed approximately 240-mi. route would offer a total travel time of less than 90 min. between two of the top five major U.S. metropolitan areas and would complement future, new and improved corridor and long-distance service in the south-

ern region.

Texas Central and Amtrak have submitted applications to several federal programs in connection with further study and design work for the potential Dallas to Houston segment, including the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) grant program, the Corridor Identification and Development program, and the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP-National) grant program.

Amtrak has worked with Texas Central since 2016 when it entered into agreements to provide through-ticketing using the Amtrak reservation system and other support services for the planned high-speed rail line.

“This high-speed train, using advanced, proven Shinkansen technology, has the opportunity to revolutionize rail travel in the southern U.S. and we believe Amtrak could be the perfect partner to help us achieve that,” said Texas Central Chief Executive Officer Michael Bui. “We appreciate Amtrak’s continued collaboration and look forward to continuing to explore how we can partner in the development of this important project.”

High-speed rail service with mostly-dedi-

cated and purpose-built rights of way can radically shrink trip times, achieve excellent reliability and provide significant capacity — all things that will drive ridership and help convince people to shift their trips to rail. When complete, this project is forecast to provide significant social, environmental, employment and economic benefits to the people of Texas. As an example, the project is estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 100,000 tons per year, saving 65 million gal. of fuel while removing 12,500 cars per day from I-45.

“Dallas is the engine of the fourth largest and fastest growing region in the nation,” Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson said. “It is bold, innovative endeavors like this that will propel Dallas toward an even more prosperous future. A high-speed rail line would revolutionize transportation in our region, serve as a catalyst for economic growth and enhance connectivity among Texas residents and businesses.”

“The collaboration between Texas Central and Amtrak is an important milestone for the city of Houston and this project,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner of Houston. “Our city is committed to advancing transportation initiatives that support economic growth and enhance quality of life for our residents. The

potential partnership of these two companies will accelerate the planning and analysis necessary for the successful implementation of a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable rail system connecting Houston and Dallas. I commend all parties involved for their dedication to this transformative project.”

Construction and operations of the proposed high-speed rail line would bring significant economic benefits to the region, including thousands of well-paying construction jobs and nearly one thousand longterm, skilled operations and maintenance positions.

“The Ironworkers strongly support the Dallas-to-Houston high speed rail project,” said Jerry Wilson, Iron Workers District Council of Texas and the Mid South States. “Not only is it safe and green, but it will provide hundreds of highly skilled, good paying jobs for our members as we transport, erect and install the infrastructure.”

Byford joined Amtrak in April 2023 to begin developing a team focused on highspeed opportunities throughout the U.S. In his newly created role, he will develop and lead the execution of Amtrak’s long-term strategy for high-speed rail throughout the

Officials Announce Decision On Capital Express Central Job

A major transformation of I-35 through downtown Austin moves a step closer to construction with the release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision.

The Texas Department of Transportation announced the completion of the National Environmental Policy Act process for environmental clearance.

The I-35 Capital Express Central project will enhance safety and improve mobility by adding two non-tolled highoccupancy-vehicle managed lanes in each direction along I35 from US 290 East to SH 71/Ben White Boulevard. In addition to lowering the I-35 mainlanes between Airport Boulevard and Lady Bird Lake, and Riverside Drive and Oltorf Street, the project will also add boulevard-style segments and enhance pedestrian and bicycle paths.

“This is an important step toward bringing much needed congestion relief to central Texas,” said Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr. “Through our Texas Clear Lanes initiative, we’re committed to tackling gridlock in our major metro areas. The I-35 Capital Express Program will result in an estimated $6.2 billion in congestion cost savings.”

In 2020, TxDOT launched a multi-year feasibility, environmental and design review process, partnering with local agencies and organizations and engaging with the community. TxDOT has since incorporated feedback from more than 18,000 community members into the design.

“The Central project represents years of hard work to develop safety and mobility enhancements that will benefit all users,” said TxDOT Austin District Engineer Tucker Ferguson. “It is a project that has seen a tremendous amount of community input, and one that we can say is designed in part by the community and for the community.”

Some project changes based on community involvement include lowering the mainlanes from Airport Boulevard to Lady Bird Lake, removing the upper decks, providing opportunities for deck plazas (to be funded by others), improving transit connections, and widening east-west bridges with 30 feet on each side for bicycle and pedestrian paths.”

High-occupancy-vehicle or HOV lanes provide more reliable routes for emergency responders and transit.

With this decision, the I-35 Capital Express Central project will move into final design and review, with construction expected to begin in mid-2024.

For more information, contact Bradley.Wheelis@txdot.gov or 512/832-7060. 

“The I-35 Capital Express Program will result in an estimated $6.2 billion in congestion cost savings.”

J. Bruce Bugg Jr. TxDOT

TEXAS STATE SUPPLEMENT ADVERTISER INDEX

Davis Crane Purchases First Tadano GT-1200XL-2 in U.S.

Davis Crane Service has been serving the hoisting needs of Texas contractors and businesses for more than 60 years. In fact, President Dennis Davis has been in the business for more than 50 years and is a stalwart among crane owners around the Lonestar State.

Davis has just purchased the first GT1200XL-2 Truck Crane (5-section 167.3 ft. main boom, 33.1 ft ./ 58.1 ft. bi-fold jib, max speed 65 mph) through Tadano's Texas distributor, Scott Macon Equipment. Tadano introduced its new 120-ton truck crane model at ConExpo earlier this year, and Davis looks forward to adding this powerful machine to its well-established taxi crane service.

“We wanted the first GT-1200XL-2 because it fits our taxi crane business, the 110-120-ton market is a big one for us and we trust Tadano cranes,” said Wes Dowd, director of operations and equipment at Davis Crane. “Our driver-operator drove the new truck crane here and said it was just like a Cadillac. And the Tadano’s we have in the fleet currently have been just bulletproof. They are just great machines, and you hear that from everybody. With the Tadano reputation and Scott Macon’s great service, we're not really worried about any issues with a new crane. Whatever they can do to help us, they're always there to help.”

Tadano America Regional Business Manager Todd Elkins added, “We are very excited that the first GT-1200XL-2 in the United States will go to Davis Crane Service. The GT-1200XL-2 is an outstanding machine, and it will be the perfect taxi crane for Davis’ customer base across

Texas.”

The new Tadano truck cranes for the United States and Canadian markets can easily get special permitting for transport, as they feature low axle weights, narrow transport width and long boom designs. The GT1200XL-2 is designed to provide customers with superior utilization, return on investment and lower cost of ownership, the manufacturer said. Built with many of the same field-proven, reliable components as GR Series rough terrain cranes, these new models offer the same high quality and rugged durability that Tadano customers have come to expect.

Tadano America Vice President of Sales Ken Butz is pleased that Davis will receive the inaugural GT-1200XL-2.

“Davis Crane Service is a premier crane services company in Texas. All of us at Tadano appreciate their confidence in us and our new GT-1200XL-2. This quality new 120-ton truck crane will be a great fit into the already impressive Davis fleet.”

Davis Crane Service, Scott Macon Equipment and Tadano are building a strong partnership in Texas, based on mutual core values of safety, quality, efficiency and reliability. Davis Crane Service is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations by offering safe and efficient service, and the new Tadano GT-1200XL-2 will play a key role in helping them to achieve that goal.

For more information about Davis Crane Service, visit https://daviscrane.com/.

For more information about Scott Macon Equipment, visit www.smequipment.com/.

For more information about Tadano, visit www.tadanoamericas.com..

(L-R) are Daniel Bennett, Davis Crane; Ken Butz, Tadano; Kurt Timmons, Davis Crane; Bryan Simpson, Davis Crane; Wes Dowd, Davis Crane; Dean Barley, Tadano; Keith McKee, Davis Crane; Todd Elkins, Tadano; Allan Woodruff, Scott Macon; Mike Thomas, Davis Crane; Danny Eastep, Scott Macon; and Tom Adrian, Davis Crane.