Greenfield north’s continuing growth
Thank You
for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
Danielle Bannon
Maddy Guyton
Danielle Marion
Sarah Maser
Lisa Masters
Tina McGinnis
Lindsay McGuire
Jason Miles
Kristen Munro
Stephanie Reese
Melissa Reid
Elaine Richard
Laurel Rolle
Mike Shirk
Robin Stauffer
Scott Werkheiser
High Spirit
Spring 2025
In this issue...
A Message from the CEO
Industry Leadership
Bethlehem’s New Parking Solution
StructureCare Becomes High Strategic Business Unit
HSSC’s Maintenance Development Program
Awards
Good Measure Award Winners
Darryl Gordon NAACP Award
Achievements in Safety
John O’Quinn AISC Lifetime Achievement Award
Ronnie Medlock Lectureship Award
Additonal Award Acknowledgements
Community Commitment
High Foundation Celebrated at Elizabethtown College
High Foundation Recognizes Essence of Humanity Winners
2024 United Way Campaign
High Transit & StructureCare honor Veterans
Submissions, comments, and suggestions are welcome and should be submitted to:
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Krista Merkelr
kmerkel@high.net 717.293.4545
Environmental Stewardship
High Hotels Champions Sustainability
High Facilities Move to Install LED Lighting 01 06 11 19 23
MIKE SHIRK Chief Executive Officer
The High Companies
Team High –
I hope you’re enjoying a wonderful summer. It’s certainly been hot, but that hasn’t stopped our amazing coworkers from making a positive impact on our customers and communities.
a message from THE Ceo
We enter the second half of 2025 in great shape overall, despite the unusual levels of uncertainty and volatility in the overall economic and political environment. We’re financially sound with conservative debt levels. Our backlogs and pipelines of new project opportunities in our High Industries companies are solid. High Real Estate Group is currently constructing several exciting properties and has many new ones in the works, including developing a 476-acre parcel of land in Lancaster County, which we acquired last December. Our vision for this land is a vibrant mixed-use community that honors our commitments to contributing to a world of beauty, environmental sustainability, and innovative leadership.
The ownership transition to High Foundation is working very well. The companies are providing increased levels of funding to High Foundation as planned, and High Foundation, in turn, is developing new programs and initiatives to make an even bigger impact. Throughout the remainder of this year and beyond, expect to hear more about how High Foundation, in partnership with our companies, is taking on a bigger role in the areas of environmental sustainability and affordable/workforce housing. More to come on that soon.
continued on page 2
Lastly, I am personally very energized by all the positive comments I’ve received about the High Health and Wellness Center. This unique facility in Greenfield, which is also connected to a network of available primary offices, is unquestionably contributing to improved physical and mental health outcomes for many coworkers and family members and has even saved lives. This is by far the most convenient and affordable (since it’s zero cost!) way for many coworkers and family members to not only deal with acute health issues, but also receive proactive health support and management of chronic health issues. Where else can you have almost no wait and get a very thorough physical with all the attention on you? I have heard that this has been a game-changer for many, and this may turn out to be one of the investments that I am most proud of in my entire career.
In this edition of High Spirit, the team is highlighting some recent wins but also catching up on some coworker recognition from late last year. Before you read on, I wanted to share some very recent examples of projects we’re undertaking and completing. The next few pages, you’ll see highlights of recent photos of High Real Estate Group projects currently underway and High Industries projects completed in the first half of 2025.
Greenfield North Apartments
Greenfield Architects, High Associates, High Construction Company
Greenfield North Building 423
Greenfield Architects, High Associates, High Construction Company
Fairfield Inn and Towneplace Suites - Lancaster, PA High Construction Company
Cold Spring Harbor Parking Garage - Cold Spring Harbor, NY High Concrete Group
underway
underway underway
I-95 Central Access Philadelphia (CAP) Project - Philadelphia, PA High Steel Structures
I-495 NEXT Project - McLean, VA
High Steel Structures, High Structural Erectors, High Transit
Mon Fayette Expressway - Allegheny, PA High Steel Structures
Innovative Design Meets Historical Aesthetics in Bethlehem’s New Parking Solution
The Bethlehem Parking Authority’s Walnut Street Garage project is an impressive undertaking by High Concrete Group (HCG). This six-level parking garage will provide 517 parking spaces, addressing the growing demand for parking in Bethlehem, PA. The project stands out due to its innovative design and thoughtful integration of historical aesthetics.
One of the most striking features of the Walnut Street Garage is its unique facade. HCG has employed three different types of brick cast into precast concrete to create a facade that mimics the appearance of historic factories built adjacent to each other. This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal of the garage but also pays homage to Bethlehem’s rich industrial heritage. The rear facade of the garage utilizes a stained thin brick form liner, achieving a thin brick look on the lesserviewed elevation, ensuring that every aspect of the structure maintains a high standard of aesthetic quality.
In addition to its primary function as a parking facility, the Walnut Street Garage will also contribute to the local economy by incorporating retail space on the ground floor. This integration of commercial space within the parking structure is a forward-thinking approach that aims to create a vibrant, multi-use environment, benefiting both residents and visitors.
The Walnut Street Garage is a testament to HCG’s commitment to innovative design and functionality, balancing vehicle storage with user comfort and experience.
This modern approach to urban infrastructure, enhanced by the inclusion of retail space, makes the garage a valuable addition to Bethlehem’s urban landscape. The project offers much-needed parking solutions while contributing to the city’s architectural and economic vitality, blending historical aesthetics with modern functionality.
StructureCare Becomes High Strategic Business Unit
StructureCare was established more than 20 years ago as the repair and restoration arm for High Concrete Group’s precast garage clients. As these structures aged, High Concrete’s clients sought a specialized company to complete repairs and maintenance for their garages. StructureCare provided these services to High Concrete’s clients, and grew their own book of business as the company became more successful.
What started as a small, Lancaster-based company has now grown to a national firm, spanning from Miami to Boston and reaching out to the West Coast.
With ambitious growth plans, StructureCare became its own legal entity and independent High Strategic Business Unit in November 2024 to achieve these goals.
“It’s incredibly exciting to witness the growth and development of our teams and our people; watching their journey has been truly inspiring. The creation of a separate legal entity for StructureCare is a powerful testament to High’s unwavering commitment and investment in this thriving business. We’re excited for the opportunities ahead as we continue to grow together!” explained John McCormick, President.
Melissa Reid
HSSC’s Maintenance Development Program:
Empowering Coworkers and Enhancing Culture
It is no secret that today’s labor market is highly competitive, especially for skilled maintenance candidates. High Steel Service Center (HSSC) was no stranger to the challenges of attracting and retaining external maintenance coworkers, so in 2023, they partnered with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology to implement an internal Maintenance Development Program. The proactive approach they established not only helps fill these roles, but also offers career growth opportunities, improves succession planning, boosts retention, and positively impacts company culture.
Program Overview
The Commercial and Industrial ElectroMechanical program is a six-month, hands-on program intended to provide a structured and immersive learning experience to coworkers who have an interest in developing maintenance skills. Graduates of the program will be able to hit the ground running to maintain, calibrate, and trouble shoot equipment most commonly used in today’s
high-tech manufacturing facilities. Coworkers interested in the maintenance field can meet with their manager to explore available pathways and potentially be selected for enrollment, depending upon job performance and anticipated opportunities. If selected, HSSC offers coworkers the flexibility they need to continue to fulfill their regular job responsibilities, while attending their courses.
continued on page 6
Maintenance coworkers Pat Donley, Jason Erb, and Keith Wilkin working on our precision blanking line.
HSSC’s Maintenance Development Program Cont...
Impact
The program has already led to positive outcomes, particularly in succession planning for the maintenance department and increased coworker engagement by providing career growth opportunities. Having an internal program in place focused on upskilling current coworkers allows HSSC to continue to be forward-thinking, innovative leaders.
To date, three coworkers have participated with one completing the program in 2023 and currently employed as a member of the maintenance team, while two more are slated to graduate in June of 2025.
Part of the High Philosophy is “Being Innovative Leaders,” and the Maintenance Development Program is just one of the ways HSSC is achieving that standard.
Maddy Guyton and Jason Miles
Recognize Excellence with a Good Measure Award
The 2024–2025 Good Measure Award nomination period is open and will continue through July 31, 2025.
If you know a coworker, or a team, who consistently gives Good Measure, consider nominating them for this prestigious recognition.
Nomination forms are available through your HR representative, who can assist with completing the form.
Let’s celebrate those who go above and beyond.
2023-2024 Good Measure Award Winners
The Good Measure Award was established as a means of recognizing individual coworkers or teams who exemplify The High Philosophy by going above and beyond, whether in the daily job responsibilities or in their personal time supporting the community. The name “Good Measure” is a tribute to the company’s founder, Sanford High, who said, “Lay down a good weld and give good measure.”
For the 2023-2024 nominating period, 24 coworkers received GMAs for their commitment to The High Philosophy. The first two winners were selected by High’s Executive Committee to receive grand prizes, which were awarded during the 2024 High Forum.
High Industries Grand Prize Winner
Jonathan Shugg - Regional Manager
StructureCare
Nominated by: John R. McCormick
In 2023, StructureCare launched an aggressive growth plan to expand into several new territories which comprised over 10 new states. Expanding into a new territory requires securing the proper licensing in order to operate, including acquiring a General Contractor licensing in every state where we do business. Each state has its own general contractor licensing exam and set of requirements. Alternatively, Jon Shugg learned that a representative of the company can take the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (“NASCLA”) exam, which grants general contractor accreditation in 18 states, many of which are states where StructureCare operates or plans to operate. Despite having a business degree and little construction experience, Jon, on his own, decided to take the challenging eight-hour exam on behalf of StructureCare. This required him to acquire, study and learn over 20 text and code books related to construction practices. He dedicated eight months to studying outside of work and passed on his first attempt. Jon’s efforts secured General Contractor accreditation for StructureCare, ensuring compliance with licensing requirements so that the company could continue to progress their growth plans.
High Real Estate Group Grand Prize Winners
High Hotels Ltd.
Nominated by: Keith W. Komon
Courtyard by Marriott- Ewing, NJ
NJ
On January 5, 2024, Adolfo DeLeon, Maintenance Technician at the Courtyard by Marriott – Ewing, NJ, observed water seeping from the ground near the dumpster area and promptly notified management. Shortly afterward, a fire alarm sounded throughout the hotel due to a ruptured main water line and fire sprinkler pipe, causing significant flooding. Despite the difficult circumstances, Adolfo worked tirelessly to reach the maintenance room where these pipes were located.
General Manager, Rich St. Jean was on vacation at the time, so he contacted Justin Young, the General Manager of their sister property the SpringHill Suites for help. Without hesitation, Justin arrived onsite to assist. By the time the fire department arrived and shut off the main water line, electricity, and gas, the hotel had over two feet of water in the lobby, leading to its closure and the need to relocate more than 65 guests.
Tim McMillan, Karif Collier, Wayne Rosenfeld, and Justin Young helped guests with their luggage and provided transportation to the SpringHill Suites, where most guests were relocated. Cassie Fuller and Kaitlyn Percevault assisted with getting guests settled into the hotel after a challenging night.
Karif Collier Bistro Attendant
Adolfo DeLeon Maintenance Technician
Cassie L. Fuller Assistant General Manager III
Kaitlyn Percevault Guest Services Representative
Tim A. McMillan Houseperson
Gary M. Raymond Director of Hospitality Projects High Hotels, Ltd.
Wayne Rosenfeld Assistant General Manager III
Justin Young General Manager
SpringHill Suites by Marriott - Ewing,
GMA Winners Cont...
Later that evening, Gary Raymond arrived and immediately mobilized a restoration company to dry out the building and prevent further damage. Gary then managed the repair project over the next several months.
The team’s quick actions and effective coordination with emergency services mitigated the impact of the incident, ensuring guest safety and expediting the recovery process.
2023-2024 GMA WINNERs
William A. Adams Supply Chain Specialist HCG - Denver
Derick Gower Assistant Project Manager HCG - Denver
Ned V. Schneider Senior Design Team Leader HCG - Denver
Matthew B. Krebs Project Executive HCG - Denver
Kandy Miller Project Services Supervisor HSS - Lancaster
Lyle E. Bowman Senior Principal Engineer HCG - Springboro
Mark J. Zvorsky Senior Principal Engineer HCG - Denver
Thomas F. Clark Senior Project Manager HAL
Troy A. Stricker Senior Checker HCG - Denver
Gary G. Berkhouse QC Foreman HCG - Springboro
Ronald Cariello Building Maintenance HAL - Retired
Kevin R. Cummings Maintenance Lead HAL
Paul A. Rogers Senior Analytics Developer High Companies
Brent W. Eidemiller Marketing Representative HAL
Eric Westcott Business Intelligence Management High Companies
Darryl Gordon receives Business and Human Resources award at this Year’s Annual NAACP Freedom Fund Gala
On October 3, 2024, the NAACP Lancaster Branch celebrated its 101st anniversary with the annual Freedom Fund Gala.
We are proud to announce that Darryl Gordon, High’s Chief Human Resources Officer, was honored with the Business and Human Resources Award at the event. The program commended Darryl’s dedication to both his profession and community, noting that his commitment to excellence and service continually drives him to achieve at the highest level.
Congratulations to Darryl on this well-deserved recognition!
The Safety Circle Award winners are:
HIGH INDUSTRIES
• High Concrete Group Denver, PA
• High Construction Company
• High Steel Structures Lancaster, PA
• High Steel Structures Williamsport, PA
HIGH ASSOCIATES
• Barrcrest Lancaster, PA
• Bentley Ridge Lancaster, PA
• Eastwood Village Lancaster, PA
• Greenfield, Lancaster, PA
• Greenview Terrace Lancaster, PA
• Orchard Ridge, Pottstown, PA
• Rossmoyne Business Center Mechanicsburg, PA
• The Crossings Lancaster, PA
• The Flats at Kennett Kennett Square, PA
• The Reserve at Greenfield Lancaster, PA
• The Summit at Mill Creek Lancaster, PA
• Village Green Lancaster, PA
HIGH HOTELS
• Courtyard by Marriott Lancaster, PA
• Residence Inn by Marriott Lancaster, PA
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Center Valley, PA
High Celebrates Achievements in Safety
2024 President’s Safety Awards Presented at Annual Safety Summit
On March 4, 2025, the High Corporate Environmental Health and Safety Team hosted its annual Safety Summit at the S. Dale High Leadership Center in Lancaster, PA. This event honored and celebrated the Safety Circle Award winners, who were chosen for their exceptional safety performance in 2024.
The High Executive Committee selected three Safety Circle Award recipients for President’s Safety Awards: High Steel Structures – Williamsport, an affiliate of High Industries Inc., received the award in the Manufacturing/Construction category, and the Hotels/Properties award was presented to Orchard Ridge, Pottstown, PA and The Flats at Kennett, Kennett Square, PA.
Congratulations to the 2024 Safety Circle Award and President’s Safety Award winners. Your unwavering dedication to safety is a cornerstone of The High Philosophy and plays a crucial role in fostering a safe and thriving workplace culture. Your efforts ensure the well-being of all our coworkers. Thank you for making safety a top priority!
Orchard Ridge From left to right: Steve England (Kennett), Steve Walker (Orchard Ridge), Mike Shirk, Kathryn Sylvia (Orchard & Kennett), Jenny Stump (Orchard Ridge) From left to right: John O’Quinn, Mike Shirk, Rusty Wynegar
Ronnie Medlock Receives Lectureship Award for Contributions to Bridge Welding Reference Manual
High Steel Structures Vice President of Technical Services, Ronnie Medlock, PE recently received the American Institute of Steel Construction’s 2025 T.R. Higgins Lectureship Award for his contributions to the Federal Highway Administration’s Bridge Welding Reference Manual.
“Simply put, Ronnie Medlock is an icon within the bridge fabrication and construction world, and the impact of his contributions to the standards that guide the industry cannot be overstated. Ronnie Medlock has changed the way bridges are fabricated and constructed in the U.S.,” said AISC Vice President of Engineering and Research Christopher H. Raebel, SE, PE, PhD.
In April, Medlock gave the final keynote address at the 2025 NASCC: The Steel Conference, where he also received a $15,000 honorarium. He will present his work upon request throughout the country over the course of the year.
“I’m humbled and honored to receive this extraordinary recognition,” said Ronnie. “Really, the award reflects the top priority and value that High Steel and the High Companies place on community engagement, industry leadership, and the achievement of excellence in our projects and services.”
Additional Awards
We are pleased to announce that Tina McGinnis has officially earned the Certified Property Manager (CPM) certification from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM). This significant milestone reflects Tina’s dedication to excellence in property management.
The CPM certification is a testament to Tina’s commitment to professional development and the pursuit of industry-leading standards. This achievement will undoubtedly enhance High’s capabilities and the quality of service we provide to our clients and community.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Tina on her achievement. We look forward to the continued growth and success that this certification will bring.
Congratulations, Tina!
We are thrilled to announce that Elizabeth Seifert, a dedicated Guest Services Representative at Home2 Suites York, PA, has been honored with the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) Spirit of Hospitality Employee of the Year Award! This prestigious recognition celebrates Elizabeth’s exceptional commitment to hospitality and her unwavering dedication to providing outstanding service to our guests. Elizabeth was nominated by Taryn Nadolny, Assistant General Manager.
Congratulations, Elizabeth, on this well-deserved accolade!
S. Dale High was recognized by the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County at their Annual C. Emlen Urban Awards Dinner on June 20, 2024.
Dale was presented with the 2024 Leadership Award, which is given to an individual or group who recognizes the value of saving historical artifacts and takes the initiative to ensure their preservation.
With his longstanding commitment to Lancaster and his present positions as Chair Emeritus of High companies and Chair of High Foundation, Dale was selected for his leadership skills, his many restoration and preservation efforts in Lancaster County, and his overall goodwill in the community.
Congratulations, Dale!
High Foundation’s Impact Celebrated at Elizabethtown College
High Foundation, led by esteemed alumnus and Chairman S. Dale High, has significantly contributed to Elizabethtown College through decades of generous philanthropy. This partnership is evident in the namesake buildings and spaces across campus, as well as in vital programming and initiatives benefiting students and the surrounding community.
Elizabethtown College President Betty Rider highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to systematic change, addressing issues like poverty, improving cultural and economic vibrancy, and fostering social innovation. This partnership was celebrated during a recent High Foundation Board Meeting held at the High Library, a facility transformed by funding from the Foundation.
High Foundation’s support extends beyond the library, enhancing student-focused spaces such as the Hoover Center’s Trostle Finance Lab and the High Wellness Wing of the Bowers Center for Sports, Fitness, and Well-Being. Additionally, the Foundation’s philanthropy reaches into the community through The High Center for Family Business, which has served over 200 family-owned businesses since its founding in 1995.
In 2023, the High Center for Nonprofits was launched to provide growth opportunities for regional nonprofit leaders through workshops, seminars, and peer-to-peer learning. These initiatives promote sustainable practices and encourage collaboration among nonprofits dedicated to addressing poverty and transforming communities.
Honoring Those Who Inspire the Best in Us All
Each year, High Foundation recognizes people in our community who give of themselves selflessly, role models of the human spirit who work tirelessly to overcome adversity and affect positive change. Regardless of accolades, opinions, or obstacles, they demonstrate the highest human qualities such as courage, love, strength, determination, persistence, and more, moving beyond personal circumstances to make life better for others. Since 2001, the Essence of Humanity Award has elevated the stories of these individuals who exemplify the human spirit, beyond the requirements of their formal work lives, and demonstrate what it means to be a compassionate citizen.
At the Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast on January 20, 2025, the Essence of Humanity Award was presented to Derrick Burch and Ron Martin, who have dedicated their lives to service, displaying characteristics of courage, love, strength, determination, and persistence. The breakfast was hosted by Crispus Attucks, a program of Community Action Partnership and a cultural hub creating equitable community by honoring African American history, elevating the Black experience, and caring for their neighbors.
Meet Derrick Burch
Driven by his lived experiences, Derrick exhibits a lifelong commitment to making a positive impact through his work as Director of Development and Community Engagement at The Mix, grant writing consultancy, catering, and involvement with various organizations. Derrick’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to bettering his community.
Meet Ron Martin
Ron Martin spent four decades as an anchor and reporter at WGAL, the NBC affiliate serving the Susquehanna Valley. Ron’s 40-year career was groundbreaking, making history as the first person of color to anchor at WGAL and becoming a trusted source, delivering the news that mattered to the people of the Susquehanna Valley. He also took others under his wing, mentored them, and served as a champion and role model.
We congratulate Derrick and Ron for their outstanding service to others.
2024 United Way Campaign: Supporting a Bridge to opportunity
“We are on this earth for a purpose that is larger than our own interests. That purpose is to strive to make the world a better place…beginning in our community.”
– S. Dale High
Our dedicated coworkers and retirees have once again demonstrated their commitment to enhancing our community through their generous support of the United Way.
The 2024 campaign was a resounding success, showcasing our collective ability to Live United and support a Higher Purpose. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Lindsay McGuire and the United Way Committee for their invaluable time and talents, as well as to all coworkers and retirees who contributed so generously.
Together, we raised an impressive $232,000+ to support the communities where we live and work!
High Transit and StructureCare Honor Veterans Together
In December 2024, High Transit and StructureCare coworkers served together in honoring our veterans by participating in Wreaths Across America in Pennsylvania and Virginia.
High Transit’s two trucks participated in the Honor Fleet, where Rich Daughtrey delivered to Indiantown Gap National Cemetery and Bern Cemetery in Pennsylvania, and Barry Graybeal delivered to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
This year, our Arlington truck was stationed at Section 30, adjacent to the Kennedy gravesite with the eternal flame. Section 30 is rich in history, being the final resting place of some notable figures such as President William Howard Taft, the first president buried at Arlington, and his wife, Helen “Nellie” Taft.
StructureCare’s coworkers and families in the Mid-Atlantic Region volunteered to lay wreaths throughout Arlington National Cemetery.
Being part of this event reminded us of the incredible sacrifices made by our nation’s service members and veterans. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to remember and honor their legacies.
Melissa Reid and Danielle Bannon
High Hotels Champions Sustainability and Community Impact Through Renovation Donations
High Hotels is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities with a unique initiative: repurposing materials from hotel renovations. In collaboration with local organizations, the company has successfully donated most of the furniture, bedding, and fixtures from the Hampton Inn in Lancaster, PA, and the SpringHill Suites in Mt. Laurel, NJ, as part of ongoing interior renovations.
This impactful project has been driven by the dedicated efforts of team members Gary Raymond, Director of Hospitality Projects and Adam Marotta, Area Chief Engineer/Special Projects. Their leadership has helped facilitate partnerships with three organizations to repurpose items like furniture, TVs, and bedding, rather than discarding them.
Blessings of Hope, a Greenfield-based charity, transported donated furniture and bedding to North Carolina, where families have been devastated by flooding. Meanwhile, Philadelphia Furniture Bank took in pieces from the SpringHill Suites in Mt. Laurel, using them to support individuals and families in need within the Philadelphia area.
Additionally, Pennsylvania Furniture Mission in Columbia, PA, has been working to repurpose mattresses, bedding, and soft goods. The team at the Mission has carefully steam-cleaned and prepared these items to ensure they are safe and comfortable for families. The Mission even celebrated the donation on social media, sharing a heartwarming post about a recipient enjoying her new living room furniture.
By repurposing rather than discarding these materials, High Hotels is helping to rebuild communities in a sustainable way, making a meaningful impact on those who need it most. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder that even small actions can create lasting change.
Stephanie Reese
High Facilities Move to Install LED Lighting
Many High facilities have made the decision to install LED lighting to reduce energy usage. This article will share some reasons why LED lighting makes sense and highlight a 2024 lighting project at High Concrete Group’s Denver facility.
What is LED Lighting?
LED lighting, or Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting, is an energy-efficient form of lighting that uses diodes to convert electrical energy into light. This type of lighting has been around since the early 60s but has become increasingly popular for residential and commercial applications due to its cost-saving benefits. LED lighting uses up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
In addition to their energy efficiency benefits, LED lights offer a range of other advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs such as improved light quality and color rendering, longevity (LED bulbs last up to 30x longer), less heat generations, and increased safety.
High Concrete Group Denver replaces almost 120 obsolete exterior fixtures with LED technology
In 2024, HCG Denver initiated an improvement project to convert the old exterior lighting fixtures to LED lighting. This project included removing wall packs and flood lights that are
no longer needed and upgrading over 120 other wall packs, flood lights, and dusk-to-dawn fixtures throughout the architectural and structural manufacturing buildings. On the previous page is an example of the locations and the mapping used to determine which fixtures would be upgraded.
Many factors went into the approval process. Two major factors were the initial investment cost and the payback that this type of investment would produce. Removing old fixtures and upgrading others resulted in an annual energy savings of 71% or $20,600.
Along with the energy savings, the local utility, PP&L, offers a rebate to the consumers who initiate these changes. HCG applied for and received a $25,000 rebate paid after the project was completed. Finally, this LED lighting upgrade resulted in an annual maintenance savings of $5,700. All these savings combined covered 96.5% of the initial project costs.
This project has many benefits:
1. Energy efficiency: LEDs operate with remarkable efficiency, reducing electricity consumption.
2. Cost savings: Switching to LED bulbs results in significant energy cost savings.
3. Longevity: LED bulbs have a long life.
4. Environmental impact: Using LED bulbs is an eco-friendly choice.
This project was a great win for the environment and the HCG Denver coworkers.
Scott Werkheiser
