CAM Magazine December 2014

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DECEMBER 2014

Vol. 35 • No. 12 • $4.00

MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

8 KEY BUSINESS TOPICS RECOVERY SHOWS A STRONGER 2015 COMPANY MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

SITE WORK:

DIGGING DEEP IN AUBURN HILLS



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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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42 18

SUSTAIN-ABILITY 12 Michigan Contractors Benefit from PACE

SITE WORK 14 D&R Earthmoving Successfully Tackles New Auburn Hills Development

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16 Historic, World Famous Civil Engineer from Livonia Brings Potential Growth to Port of Detroit-Over 100 Years Later

DEPARTMENTS 17 100 Years of Great Civil Engineering-The Panama Canal

18 MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

8 9 11 46 49 52 54

Industry News Safety Tool Kit Marketing on the Level Products People in Construction / Corporate News Construction Calendar Advertising Index

36 Looking Ahead to 2015: Key Business Topics to Consider

38 2014 Construction Recovery Shows a Stronger 2015

CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHT 42 J.S. Vig and Integrated Architecture: Project Team Scores a Touchdown at Schembechler Hall

4 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

ABOUT THE COVER D & R Earthmoving, LLC, Howell, recently finished mass grading a 20-acre site in Auburn Hills for Hirotec America. In total, D & R mass graded approximately 200,000 cubic yards of soil under contract with General Development, Southfield. Nowak & Fraus, PLLC, Pontiac, is the civil engineer for the development. Photo by Matt Austermann, CAM Magazine Production Director

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 5


PUBLISHER EDITOR

Kevin N. Koehler Amanda M. Tackett

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mary E. Kremposky

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGN DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Matthew J. Austermann Noelle E. Scharer Gregg A. Montowski Cathy A. Jones

DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chairman

Eric C. Steck Amalio Corporation

Vice Chairman

Todd W. Hill Ventcon, Inc.

Vice Chairman

Mary K. Marble Marble Mechanical, LLC

Treasurer

Larry S. Brinker, Jr.

President

Kevin N. Koehler

The Brinker Group

DIRECTORS

Stephen J. Hohenshil Glasco Corporation

Brad Leidal Leidal & Hart Mason Contractors, Inc.

Giuseppe (Joe) S. Palazzolo Detroit Spectrum Painters, Inc.

John Raimondo Roncelli, Inc.

John W. Rieckhoff C.L. Rieckhoff Company, Inc.

Kevin F. Ryan Powerlink Facility Management Services

Preston Wallace Limbach Company, LLC

Donielle Wunderlich George W. Auch Company

CAM MAGAZINE EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

William L. Borch, Jr. Ironworkers Local Union 25

Gary Boyajian Division 8 Solutions, Inc.

Stevan Bratic Bratic Enterprises, LLC

Marty Burnstein Law Office of Marty Burnstein

George Dobrowitsky Walbridge

Daniel Englehart Peter Basso and Associates, Inc.

Chris Hippler Capital Letters

Dennis King DMKING Consulting, LLC

Nancy Marshall Aluminum Supply Company

Rick Rys Hi Def Color

Sanford (Sandy) Sulkes International Building Products, Inc.

James Vargo Capac Construction Company, Inc. CAM Magazine (ISSN08837880) is published monthly by the Construction Association of Michigan, 43636 Woodward Ave., P.O. Box 3204, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-3204 (248) 972-1000. $24.00 of annual membership dues is allocated to a subscription to CAM Magazine. Additional subscriptions $40.00 annually. Periodical postage paid at Bloomfield Hills, MI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: CAM MAGAZINE, 43636 WOODWARD AVE., BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI 48302-3204. For editorial comment or more information: magazine@cam-online.com For reprints or to sell CAM Magazine: 248-972-1000 Copyright © 2013 Construction Association of Michigan. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. CAM Magazine is a registered trademark of the Construction Association of Michigan.

6 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

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INDUSTRY NEWS

CREW AWARDS THREE PROJECTS FROM NEW IMPACT AWARDS LOCATION IN DETROIT More than 200 local professionals attended the annual CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Impact Awards Luncheon in Detroit on September 17 to honor three of the year’s most impactful developments. Each year CREW Detroit recognizes the owners, developers, contractors, designers and consultants of projects or developments that have made a positive impact in their Southern Michigan communities. Three Impact Awards are given out each year in the prestigious competition: one for renovation or adaptive reuse, one for new construction, and a Special Impact award that

recognizes an outstanding redevelopment or new construction project. The winners of the 2014 Impact Awards were the Gateway Marketplace for new construction; Lowe Campbell Ewald Headquarters for adaptive reuse; and the Woodward Garden Theater Apartments for special impact. All three projects are located in the City of Detroit. Presenters awarded the CREW member companies that submitted each project, which were REDICO for the Gateway Marketplace, anchored by Meijer in the State Fair neighborhood; Neumann/Smith Architecture for

Lowe Campbell Ewald, which recently relocated from Warren to the former J.L. Hudson Co. Warehouse at Ford Field in Detroit; and McIntosh Poris Associates for the Woodward Garden Theater and Apartments, whose redevelopment is being lauded for encouraging a string of additional redevelopment projects in Midtown. With several projects from this year’s competition coming as a result of the resurgence of Detroit, CREW decided to move its signature awards event to the city. This year’s Impact Awards took up in the Westin Book-Cadillac Hotel, located right downtown. The “trophies” for winners of the 2014 Impact Awards were Detroitmade Pewabic Pottery ceramic tiles, another shift from previous Impact Awards. Both changes, as well as the introduction of project display boards at this year’s event and a “VIP Table” featuring local business and political leaders, were well received at the 2014 CREW Impact Awards. Last year, CREW Detroit expanded its region for Impact Awards submissions to include the counties of Oceana, Newaygo, Mecosta, Isabella, Midland, Bay and Huron. The expansion allows entries to come from all parts of the southern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Impact Award judges juried 15 projects in this year’s competition.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

GENSLER RECEIVES AIA DETROIT AWARD FOR DESIGN EXCELLENCE As Gensler celebrates more than 20 years in downtown Detroit, it is being recognized for design excellence in interior architecture, for the second time, by the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Detroit Chapter. The global firm will be presented with the Interior Design Building Honor Award for the design of its new Detroit office during the chapter’s Annual Architecture Celebration, as part of the Detroit Design Festival. “We are thrilled to receive this recognition again for the design of a new workplace as it showcases our continued commitment to using Gensler environments to explore the impact of emerging trends on the built environment and cultivate a culture of design,” said William Hartman FAIA LEED AP, principal and managing director at Gensler Detroit. “Our firm and staff are rooted in the community and we wanted the new space to highlight our unique approach to working with our clients and business partners.” Centered on recent findings from the firm’s extensive research on the connections between workplace design, employee productivity and business competitiveness, the new open and flexible office provides space for all four work modes to co-exist, including focus, collaboration, learning, and socialization. Planned as two primary work areas bundled together, the daylight-filled office provides an energetic but welcoming, next-generation LEED Gold workspace that fosters creativity within an agile work environment and encourages employees to collaborate with clients. To describe the design of Gensler Detroit, Robert Piatek, president of the AIA Detroit Chapter, notes: “The workplace design was recognized successfully, creating a whole that is indeed greater than the sum of its parts. A multitude of iconic statements are made, but tastefully blend together. The flexibility of spaces to adapt to different activities is notably poetic and practical.” The award was presented at the Eastern Market Shed 3, on September 25, 2014, before more than 1,200 industry patrons and members of the public. Committed to supporting a revitalized Detroit, Gensler is located on the 17th floor of the 150 West Jefferson building, in the heart of the city’s Financial District and beautiful riverfront area.

PUBLIC LIGHTING AUTHORITY OF DETROIT PASSES 20,000 MARK IN INSTALLATION OF NEW STREET LIGHTS The Public Lighting Authority of Detroit (PLA) has just installed the 20,000th light in its program to install new LED street lights throughout the city of Detroit. “Last year, only 500 new street lights were installed in our city,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Under the new leadership at the PLA, we are now installing an average of 500 new LED lights every week as we relight neighborhoods across Detroit.” PLA CEO Odis Jones said that crews have been doing a fantastic job installing the lights, all while maintaining a Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

SAFETY ACHIEVEMENT DOT MEDICAL QUALIFICATIONS AWARDS – ARE YOU Nov. ’14 Safety Tool Kit

AWARE OF THE CHANGES? By Tracey Alfonsi BY TRACEY ALFONSI The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) physical In May 2015, CAMSAFETY present Safety Achievement Awards to examination is required to helpwill ensure that a person is medically qualified our members based on the information included on their MIOSHA Form to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). In the interest of public 300A, documenting recorded and illnesses for the 2014 safety, CMV drivers are held toinjuries higher physical, mental andcalendar emotional year. than passenger car drivers. Recent changes involving this standards Safety Achievement Awards given to employers who achieve medicalThe qualification process are noware in effect. rates below Michigan/Private/Construction Industry To qualify, CAM members operating commercial vehicles arestandards. likely affected and can contractors must demonstrate Days Away/Restricted/Transfer Rates benefit by understanding the following: (DART) andaRecordable Injury and Illness Rates(i.e., (IR) below 2.0 and card)? 3.7 Who needs Medical Examiner’s Certificate DOT medical respectively, while maintaining an Experience Modification Rating (EMR) Actually, there is no recent change with this requirement, but it is often below 1.0. Meet thatunderstood criteria andthat you CDL are guaranteed an Honorable misunderstood! It is well holders, which are persons Mention certificate. rates gross are based on 2012 data as published operating CMVs with aThese maximum vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If 2013 numbers overby 26,000 pounds, are required to have a valid DOT become medical available card. But, prior to January criteriaby toMichigan’s qualify will be adjusted accordingly. a DOT medical card1,is2015, also the required Motor Carrier Safety Act addition to beating industry weover award Gold,pounds. Silver andAny for anyInperson operating CMVs withaverages, a GVWR of 10,000 Bronze winners in categorieslicense basedtoonoperate, hours worked: 0 to 50,999; person requiring a Chauffeur’s for example, a service to 199,999; 200,000 to 499,999; and 500,000+. We will 10,000 also truck51,000 or pickup truck with a trailered air compressor exceeding present a certificate to the company with the lowest overall EMR. pounds GVWR is also required to have a valid DOT medical card. Examine You can check workforce your company’s loss ratesattention against the industry your current “driving” and pay special to mechanics, standard at the driving website for thevehicles. Bureau of Laborthat Statistics: foremen or laborers company Beware operating http://www.bls.gov/ without a valid DOT card exposes the company to greater liability, often results in citations issued to both company and driver, and is considered must safety be a current CAM member to apply. The 2014 Safety Achievement as aYou serious deficiency. Award application will be available for to download at www.cam-online.com Are Medical Examiners required be certified? Yes, as of Maybeginning 21, 2014, January 1, 2015, and must be completed by February 2015. all new medical examinations are required to be15,performed by certified Medical Examiners. Prior to, any medical provider could perform examinations and issue DOT medical cards as long as the proper form was used. u In too many cases, FMCSA discovered that disqualifying conditions wereJohn present though new DOT medical cards were issued. Do not E. even Green, Ideal automatically assume past providers are now certified. Be diligent and Contracting, andthat Brand check the National Registry Energy Services wereat http://nrcme.fmcsa.dot.gov/ to verify that Medical Examiners being used recognized for are certified. What is the “self and medical outstanding safety certification” required now by the Michigan Secretary of State? Ininaddition achievement the to declaring the type of CMV operation, all CDL500,000+ holders are required to submit a copy of their new DOT medical card hours-worked to the State Driver Licensing Agency (i.e., Michigan Secretary of State). category for 2013. Each CDL holder can submit using one of four methods: online, mail, fax or in person at a branch location, and instructions for doing so are available Speaking of 300 you up to speed on the prior changes to previous injury online. The new cardLogs, must are be successfully submitted to the and illness reporting requirements effective January 1, 2015? Jointhe card’s expiration. If not, then the Secretary of State’s Office will notify us that on February for a MIOSHA Recordkeeping course. The and costwill holder they are 5th no longer medically certified to operate a CMV $120.00 per person. covering up to 50 of thenisremove all CDL privilegesScholarships from their license. However, thispercent requirement the tuition are available through MIOSHA. Go to does not apply to those persons with a Chauffeur’s license (i.e., operating www.cam-online.com or call (248) 972-1000 more information. a CMV between 10,001 - 26,000 pounds GVWR),for only to CDL holders. CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 9


INDUSTRY NEWS

rapid rate that is ahead of the PLA’s original schedule. Because crews are moving at a good pace, the PLA is more than 4,000 lights ahead of its original schedule and is able to report that 20,169 new LED street lights have been put in since January 2014. As the PLA rebuilds the city’s street lighting system, it has a goal of completing all neighborhoods by the end of 2015. The installation, which began in January 2014, is significantly ahead of schedule. Work on major thoroughfares, which use underground wiring, will be completed by the end of 2016. Approximately 65,000 new LED lights will be installed in the city during the next two years. The installation process begins with an engineering survey of the neighborhood, followed by the preparation of engineering plans to install and operate the lights, followed by the actual installation of the street lights. The LED lights being installed in neighborhoods are the lighting equivalent of 150 watt High Pressure Sodium lights, twice as bright as the 75 watt High Pressure Sodium lights that have been the standard in the past.

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10 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

NAWIC Installs 2014-2015 National President and New Board Members The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) installed Sandy K. Field, CBT, CIT, as its 60th National President, during NAWIC’s Annual Meeting and Convention in Indianapolis, IN on Friday, September 5, 2014. Field, Office/HR Manager for Horizon Group International, has been a member of NAWIC’s Houston, TX Chapter since 2005. “I am looking forward to next year as NAWIC navigates through some exciting changes, one being the redistricting of our regions,” said Field. “The redistricting brings with it unlimited possibilities for NAWIC and its members. However, as with any change, it must be properly managed to enjoy a smooth, productive and effective transition. As President, it will be my responsibility to see that the transition is carried out smoothly and in a manner that is most beneficial to the association as a whole.” Field plans to spend her year in office working to increase the value of a NAWIC membership. She said, “It has been my mantra for the past few years that we need to get back to the basics of why NAWIC was founded. To ‘enhance the success of women in the construction industry’ we must offer value to membership with “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


INDUSTRY NEWS

programs that are relevant to the industry and provide opportunities for professional development. One of my priorities will be to work with the chapters to evaluate how we can increase the value of membership on the chapter level to not only bring in new members, but also retain our existing members.” Also during her tenure, Field plans to promote NAWIC’s mentoring programs. She said, “Another priority of mine is mentoring future leaders for the association. Our membership is made up of very dynamic women and we need to make sure we are building future leaders on all levels.” NAWIC also installed officers President-Elect Riki F. Lovejoy, CBT, CIT, Greater Orlando, FL Chapter; Vice President Connie M. Leipard, CIT, Central MO Chapter; Treasurer, Stephanie K. Crane, CIT, Greater Birmingham, AL Chapter; Secretary Amy Berg, CBT, CIT, FargoMoorhead, ND Chapter; and Immediate Past President Yasmine A. Branden, CCA, Portland, OR Chapter. In addition to the officers, the NAWIC Board is comprised of a national director from the association’s 13 regions. Each director serves a two-year term and is elected by her peers to bring the wishes and needs of the chapters to the attention of the association. You can learn more about the NAWIC Detroit Chapter 183 by visiting www.nawicdetroit.org.

CORRECTION

Regarding the CAM Magazine October 2014 Special Issue, “Detroit Medical Center Harper University Hospital Surgical Renovation Project.” Some of our photo captions mistakenly claimed that the Cleansuite system was used within the Hybrid OR’s. The system was actually the Bio-Grid clean room system. The picture seen here, from page 94, actually shows TLF-LED laminar flow light diffusers incorporating special LED lights. This patented product was developed at the request and input of the University of Michigan Hospital design staff to offset the lighting deficiencies caused by a new ventilation standard for procedure rooms. The Bio-Grid ceiling and the TLF-LED laminar flow diffuser are now the design standards for UMH and have been incorporated in all their recent OR and procedure room renovations. OR #5 at DMC Harper Hospital incorporated the Bio-Grid ceiling system and TLF diffusers, and did not use the Cleansuite system. CAM Magazine regrets this error.

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NEW MARKETING CLASS TO HELP CAM MEMBERS BUILD THEIR BUSINESSES BY CHRIS HIPPLER, PRESIDENT, CAPITAL LETTERS

If you want to grow your business in the construction industry, finding new work is the lifeblood of your company. It’s a constant. Where’s the next job coming from? Will the seeds you planted last spring grow into projects, or will they shrivel up and wither on the vine? Forecasters may be projecting an increase in spending in the industry, but what does that mean for your business? You can blame the economy, client’s budget constraints or your competition when new business prospecting is slow. But Jimmy Buffet’s lament in “Margaritaville” may apply too: It’s your own damn fault. The marketing initiatives you did (or did not) implement invariably are a factor. If you want to grow your business - find new clients, expand into new territories, or introduce new products or services - determining the best marketing strategy for growth is critical ... and daunting. Here’s the conundrum. While marketing is essential to business growth, the choices are overwhelming with an explosion of marketing options: social media, digital marketing, Direct Mail, trade ads, etc. Marketing is not a science or a math equation. You can’t plug in a formula and get a result. It takes time to develop a strategy, and every business has a unique set of circumstances. There are no cookie cutter solutions. With so much options, how do you know what will deliver the best ROI for your business? A new class I’m teaching through CAMTEC may answer some of your questions. In January 2015, I will be teaching a two-hour class with Jane DeLancey of DeLancey Design. We created the class for business owners, presidents, CEOs, and other decision makers at small- to mid-sized companies. Our curriculum will cover marketing strategies for a number of business goals, including: How to rebuild your brand; How to get a bigger share of the market; and How to launch a new product. Both Jane and I have extensive marketing experience in the commercial and industrial construction industry, and we will be using case studies of our clients to illustrate how to effectively use marketing to achieve business goals. We will have many samples to share with the class, including brochures, websites, video, Direct Mail, print ads, and more. This class is designed to help CAM Members develop their own marketing strategy to grow their business in a new and constantly changing industry landscape. The commercial and industrial construction industry is very competitive. As the Preferred Provider of marketing for CAM, we have many CAM Members as clients. I also know that good, sound marketing can give companies an edge over their competition. If you want that edge, this class may be for you. It will be informative, fun, and a lively exchange of ideas tailored, as much as possible, to the specific needs of those attending. Want to grow your business? I hope you can attend. Details of the class can be found on the CAM website, camonline.com. “Marketing on the Level” is written specifically for CAM members and the commercial and industrial construction industry. We are specialists at inbound marketing, outbound marketing, and developing websites. Ideas for a column, or questions about marketing are always welcome! Contact Chris @ chris@capitallettersmarketing.com or 734-353-9918, or visit www.capitallettersmarketing.com. CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 11


SUSTAIN | ABILITY INDUSTRY NEWS

M I C H I G A N C O N T R A C T O R S B E N E F I T F R O M PA C E ONE THIRD OF ALL ENERGY IS WASTED - IS PACE THE SOLUTION? According to current energy data, commercial and industrial buildings use about 60 percent of the energy generated in the U.S. About one-third of this energy, especially in older buildings, is wasted due to inefficiency. But how do we know which third, and what can we do about it? The answer is, plenty! And with new financing available in Michigan, it will be even easier. PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) helps commercial, industrial and multi-family property owners implement energy efficiency projects, eliminate waste and save money using innovative financing options. “People often see cost as the biggest obstacle to making the improvements,” says Jim Newman, CEM, LEED AP BD+C, OPMP, BEAP, FESD, managing partner of Newman Consulting Group (NCG) in Farmington Hills. “Even when we can show the building owner that the improvements will pay for themselves in 18 months to five years.” Through PACE, energy projects are now clearly profitable for all parties – property owners, contractors and financial institutions. New to Michigan, PACE has been working successfully in over 30 states. It helps eliminate one of the biggest barriers - access to capital and financing. The program allows qualified property owners to access 100 percent up-front financing using long-term loans (up to 20 years) in the form of a ‘special assessment property tax.’ This makes energy efficiency and energy improvements much more affordable. Almost any project that reduces energy or water usage or installs renewable energy systems is eligible. “With guaranteed energy savings you are cash flow positive from day one. When it makes financial and environmental sense, why not do it?” says Newman. If this sounds like ‘free money,’ in a sense it is. PACE projects qualify as an operating expense. This means owners can finance improvements without incurring additional debt on their balance sheet and while preserving capital and credit lines for core business investments. Newman and his team of energy professionals at Newman Consulting Group were among the first on board. A long-time CAM member, Newman is one of the country’s most respected energy and green building experts. Known as “The Dean of Green,” Jim is an internationally recognized speaker and advocate for green building technology, policy and sustainability. NCG recently launched Optimized Building Solutions (OBS), a division dedicated to helping building owners make and finance energy improvements. With an extensive history in energy auditing and energy efficiency upgrades, as well as experience with government agencies and forms, OBS is particularly wellpositioned to help property owners navigate the paperwork and requirements to qualify for and implement PACE projects. “This is a game-changer,” says Newman. “You typically pay nothing down, and a PACE project must save more than it costs.” The semi-annual special assessment payments must be less than the money saved in reduced energy costs for a net positive cash flow. “Once you have paid off the special assessment, you get all the savings with no payments at all.”

WITH GUARANTEED ENERGY SAVINGS YOU ARE CASH FLOW POSITIVE FROM DAY ONE. WHEN IT MAKES FINANCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SENSE, WHY NOT DO IT? -JIM NEWMAN

“ ”

PACE Benefits Include: • No Charge to See if You Qualify • No Up-Front Costs • Long-Term, Low-Cost Financing that Stays with the Building if it’s Sold • Improved Energy Efficiency that will Pay Off Year After Year • Improved Indoor Air Quality (Often Goes Along with Improved Efficiency) and Improved Productivity of People Who Work There • Higher Building Value (Cite Statistics) “We decided to offer a turnkey service for property owners, including a free energy audit to determine if they qualify for PACE. Then we recommend the most cost-effective interventions and contractors. Plus, we fill out the forms, make the financial projections, manage the projects, communicate with providers, find the right contractors, and ensure accurate reporting. This all takes a tremendous amount of time. We guide you through the process so time and energy (no pun intended) are not wasted. An ASHRAE Level II Audit or equivalent is required, and the cost is included in the package. This is where the expertise of NCG/OBS comes in handy,” adds Jim. 12 CAM MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2014

BY DOUGLAS ELBINGER ENERGY SYSTEMS ANALYST, GREENLANCER.COM

t

Jim Newman is recognized as one of the country’s most experienced energy efficiency and green building experts. Known as “The Dean of Green,” Jim regularly speaks to professionals and the media about sustainability and green technology.

Typical ECM (Energy Conservation Measures) financed by PACE include: • Certified Energy Audit and Evaluation • Insulation • Caulking, Weather-Stripping, and Air Sealing • New, Energy Efficient Windows, Roof and Doors • Energy Control Systems • Electrical Systems Including DC Micro Grids, Safety, and Efficiency Upgrades • HVAC Upgrades • Improved Energy Recovery Systems • New, Energy Efficient Lighting Fixtures and Day Lighting Systems • Electrical Systems to Charge PEVs (Plug-In Electric Vehicles) • Water Use Reduction or Efficiency • More Energy-Efficient or Water-Efficient Manufacturing Processes • Solar PV Energy Systems (Electricity) & Solar Thermal (Hot Water) • Wind (Electricity) & Geothermal (HVAC) To participate, experienced energy contractors with strong track records can register with Lean & Green Michigan (www.leanandgreenmi.com). Once you are accepted and trained, property owners may turn to you to help evaluate, design, and implement energy projects. To see if your property qualifies for PACE financing, contact Newman Consulting Group, www.newmanconsultinggroup.us. “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


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SITE WORK

D & R EARTHMOVING SUCCESSFULLY TACKLES NEW AUBURN HILLS DEVELOPMENT Mary E. Kremposky Associate Editor D& R Earthmoving, LLC has been busy grading sites on projects across Southeast Michigan. The Howell-based firm recently finished mass grading a 20-acre site in Auburn Hills for Hirotec America, a provider of closure panel solutions for the automotive industry. D & R Earthmoving is working under contract for General Development, a general contractor based in Southfield; Nowak & Fraus, PLLC, Pontiac is the civil engineer for this new development. Arriving on site in mid-August 2014, Tarr’s Service, Inc., Troy acted as the tree-clearing subcontractor for D & R. By mid-September, D & R had rolled onto the site with an arsenal of equipment to mass grade a site with “about 60 feet of relief,” according to D & R Project Manager Don Sines. D & R’s mission was to create a level building pad for Hirotec’s 200,000square-foot building and its associated parking. The project also includes 20-foot retaining walls to hold back the earth grade at the surrounding existing roads. In total, “D & R mass graded approximately 200,000 cubic yards of soil,” said D & R Co-Owner Brian Dodds. “There are 30-foot cuts and fills within the building pad. On one end, we are excavating 30 feet, and on the other end we are filling 30 feet.” Added Sines, “That large of an elevation difference is unusual for this area. Typically, a site has a 10-foot maximum difference.” The main challenge, however, is the wet soils. “There are pockets of peat and marl, and there has been a great deal of undercutting necessary on the site,” continued Sines. D & R undercut the pockets of peat and marl and replaced it with suitable engineered fill composed of on-site excavated clay and sandy materials. The soil is silt-like fine sand “that holds a lot of water” to the north, while the soil on the south part of the site is predominately clay, added Sines. In addition, “There is static water pressure right in our building pad in the subgrade portion to the north where we are down at the 30-foot cut line,” 14 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

said Dodds. Because the storm sewer and all of its trenches are pitched, D & R will use the storm sewers to drain the site through the low end of the property. The next step was site utilities, including new sanitary sewers, water main and storm sewer. Superior Excavating performed the work as subcontractor to D & R. In the spring, D & R will return to this expansive site and prepare it for asphalt paving. D & R has been working under a very tight schedule to have the building operational by May 2015. “We are the first ones on the job in the beginning and the last ones out,” said Dodds. “We mass grade, then we perform finish grading for the site utilities, and then we come back for final grading after the site is paved to backfill curbs and islands, as well as to re-spread the top soil, final grade the perimeter of the site and get the entire site ready for the landscaper.” D & R recently completed work for American Tire in Novi and Canton Middle School. D & R is currently hard at work on Oakland Park Building 10 in Highland Park, and in late October, D & R launched work on a project for Versa in Lyon Township and for Unit 56 in the Beck North Corporate Park in Novi. D & R Earthmoving provides services ranging from large-scale development projects to restoration and erosion control sites for residential, commercial, municipal and industrial applications. Its fleet of heavy equipment consists of several types of large and small equipment to accommodate site specific requirements. D & R creates a project-specific quality control plan that addresses the issues unique to each project, and the firm develops specific procedures with the owner to ensure correctness. D & R’s services have lent themselves to subdivisions, commercial development, landfills, wetlands, parks, schools, road work and other types of projects. “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


SITE WORK

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

MASS GRADING • SITE UTILITIES Earth Moving Site Development Private Work • Commercial & Public Work Sand and Gravel Pits Soil Erosion Controls • Seeding MDOT Prequalified

WE ARE A MULTI-STATE CONTRACTOR

5840 Sterling Drive, Suite 420 • Howell, MI 48843

517-586-4033 2 Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 15


SITE WORK

HISTORIC, WORLD-FAMOUS CIVIL ENGINEER FROM LIVONIA BRINGS POTENTIAL GROWTH TO PORT OF DETROIT - OVER 100 YEARS LATER

BY JOE NEUSSENDORFER, AFF.M.ASCE, ESD

The Panama Canal, whose construction was completed in 1914, celebrated its 100th Anniversary this past August. Aside from historical curiosity, why would modern-day CAM Magazine readers (who are interested in upcoming projects) be interested in this civil engineering marvel thousands of miles away? Because when the Panama Canal’s current construction project is completed in early 2016, the expansion will double the Canal’s capacity and have a significant impact on world maritime trade. Alfred Noble The wider canal will give shippers an option to bypass existing container ports. Now, 70 percent of U.S. container traffic from Asia passes through Pacific ports. The current huge container ships are much too large to pass through the existing Panama Canal. Once the new, expanded Canal is open, these large container ships can pass through it with ease and move directly in to the Gulf Coast and up the U.S. Eastern Seaboard to the Port of New York. Once there, they can unload their containers and trade goods, where they can move down the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Port of Detroit. While all of this will take some time, Detroit and its Port Authority will have to begin planning for increased maritime traffic to Detroit. When this happens, it will be a historical homecoming due to a worldfamous Civil Engineer named Alfred Noble who was born in Livonia, Michigan in 1844. Livonia’s Alfred Noble – his last name spelled “le” not “el” - is often confused with the Swedish scientist Alfred Nobel. Alfred Noble grew up on a farm in the old “Livonia Township” (established as the City of Livonia in 1950) a few miles away from a City Library in his

16 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

name located on Plymouth Road. As a young man, he enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War and fought at Gettysburg. After the Civil War, he attended The University of Michigan and graduated as a Civil Engineer in 1870. In 1885, he designed the first “moveable” or “emergency dam” for the new Weitzel Lock on the Soo Canal at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. In 1903, he served as the President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). In 1905, he was appointed by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt to the International Board of Consulting Engineers charged with determining whether a “locked” or “sea level” canal should be constructed across Panama. There was a great technical debate on which approach to take. Alfred Noble was very persuasive to undertake the “locked” method that prevailed. The rest is history. With this history in mind, we should salute Livonia’s Civil Engineer Alfred Noble for “helping” to bring new life to the Port of Detroit in the years ahead. The seeds for this were planted by him over 100 years ago! Joe Neussendorfer is an Affiliate Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and a 39-year Member of the Engineering Society of Detroit. He has been writing history of the construction-engineeringarchitecture community for over 40 years. He is the Founder of the Alfred Noble Historical Society. His website is www.constructionanswerman.org and his e-mail is jneusendorfer@mindspring.com.

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


LIVONIA’S ALFRED NOBLE RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM AT ACEC’S “WORLD ENGINEERING CONGRESS” AT PANAMA CANAL; MARKS 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF GREAT CIVIL ENGINEERING MARVEL

Livonia’s world-famous Civil Engineer Alfred Noble received international recognition in October 2014 at the American Society of Civil Engineer’s (ACEC) “World Engineering Congress.” The global gathering of civil engineers was held at Panama in conjunction with this year’s 100th anniversary of the Canal. Alfred Noble was given considerable credit for his role in the Canal’s history by Dr. J. David Rogers, Ph.D.,P.E.,P.G.,CEG,CHG,MASCE, who serves as the Karl F.Hasselmann Chair in Geological Engineering at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Dr. Rogers presented a 238page paper on the history of the Panama Canal. In his paper he made many references to the significant role that Alfred Noble had in the siting and technology of the Canal. Further information on Alfred Noble may be obtained from Joe Neussendorfer, Founder of the Alfred Noble Historical Society jneussendorfer@mindspring.com or from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), www.asce.org.

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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 17


The Construction Association of Michigan (CAM) was founded in 1885 as the Builders Exchange of Detroit and Michigan. As we celebrate our 130th Anniversary as an association in 2015, we also wish to congratulate our CAM Member Companies who are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2014 and 2015. Below we are acknowledging all companies who are celebrating anniversaries ending in a 5 or 0 in 2014 or 2015. To further honor companies who have achieved 50 years or more, we have invited them to provide us with information to be featured in these pages. CAM offers its heartfelt congratulations to everyone!

25 TH ANNIVERSARY Architectural Building Components 25th Anniversary in 2014 Basso Associates, Peter 25th Anniversary in 2015 Genesee County Habitat for Humanity 25th Anniversary in 2015 GenPower Products, Inc. 25th Anniversary in 2014 ZenaComp 25th Anniversary in 2014

30 TH ANNIVERSARY 5 TH ANNIVERSARY JMC Electrical Contractors, LLC 5th Anniversary in 2015 Metro Consulting Associates 5th Anniversary in 2014

Guardian Environmental Services 30th Anniversary in 2014 Ritz Safety 30th Anniversary in 2014

10 TH ANNIVERSARY

35 TH ANNIVERSARY

Anderson Morris Construction 10th Anniversary in 2014

BDN Industrial Hygiene Consultants, Inc. 35th Anniversary in 2015

AMH Painting, Inc. 10th Anniversary in 2014

Desai Nasr 35th Anniversary in 2015

15 TH ANNIVERSARY

40 TH ANNIVERSARY

Integrated Design Solutions 15th Anniversary in 2014

D.J. Conley Associates 40th Anniversary in 2014

20 TH ANNIVERSARY

Sani-Vac Service, Inc. 40th Anniversary in 2015

Division Nine Products 20th Anniversary in 2015

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Administrative Controls Management, Inc. 30th Anniversary in 2015

Viazanko Construction Services, LLC 40th Anniversary in 2015

G2 Consulting Group 20th Anniversary in 2014

45 TH ANNIVERSARY

Golden Refrigerant 20th Anniversary in 2015

DeMaria, DCBE, WCBE 45th Anniversary in 2014

Landscape Services, Inc. 20th Anniversary in 2015

Ventcon, Inc 45th Anniversary in 2015 “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


Adamo Group 50th Anniversary in 2014 Adamo Group is a second-generation family business founded in 1964 by John Adamo, Sr. and currently presided over by sons John Adamo, Jr. and Richard Adamo. With five decades of success built on integrity, fairness, and quality of work, Adamo has secured its place as one of the nation’s leading demolition and site decommissioning companies. Headquartered in Detroit, Adamo Group has completed many of Michigan’s highest profile demolition projects, including the Dodge Main Plant, the Uniroyal Tire Plant, the Delphi Flint East and West Plants, and most recently American Axle & Manufacturing. Adamo has approximately 100 full-time employees year-round, a number that can grow to 250 during its busiest times of the year. Supported by a strong infrastructure of engineers and management professionals, Adamo has developed into an experienced technical team that advises clients on managing the seemingly endless environmental issues and regulatory mandates impacting demolition projects. Adamo’s demolition and remediation services are topped off by its modern fleet of over 200 pieces of heavy equipment and attachments, including ultra-high reach excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and numerous dump trucks to name a few. From demolishing hundreds of blighted, abandoned homes and commercial structures per week to razing complex multi-story buildings, Adamo’s $25 million fleet of modern machinery is ready when needed. It’s a no-wait, no-third-party experience, allowing for superior efficiency, safety, and accountability. Adamo Group provides comprehensive demolition, asset recovery, site decommissioning, site preparation, and environmental abatement services throughout the United States and Canada. For more information, visit adamogroup.org.

Amalio Corporation 50th Anniversary in 2015 Founded in 1965 by Seravino Amalio, the late father of current President John S. Amalio, a concrete company built on the reputation of reliability, quality and integrity was born. Specializing in residential concrete construction until the late ‘60s, S. Amalio and Son expanded into commercial and municipal flatwork services. In the late ‘80s, looking to expand their support to their customers, John S. Amalio ventured into the foundation end of the concrete construction industry and truly became a full-service concrete contactor. Today, Amalio Corporation maintains the same principals established by the founder and prides themselves in being the premier non-general contracting, full-service foundation and flatwork company in Southeast Michigan. Amalio specializes in demanding, logistically challenging and complicated “just in time” delivered construction projects associated with the construction of upper-education facilities, hospitals, multi-use high-rises, sports and entertainment venues, and parking structures construction. Recently expanding their services to states outside of Michigan, Amalio has followed and supported their cliental and established workforce and new clients in the Southwest region of the United States. Keeping up with technology and BIM practices, Lean Construction principals and collaborative design-assist partnerships, has propelled Amalio to the forefront of the concrete industry. Finally, the third generation of Amalios, John Jr. and Anthony, having positioned themselves in strategic positions with the company and with the continued leadership of their father John, will ensure Amalio Corporation’s existence for another 50 years, serving Michigan. Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

Fastdecks, Inc. 50th Anniversary in 2014 Fastdecks, Inc., a Michigan corporation since 1964, is a specialty contractor that has been solving the formwork needs of its customers for over 50 years. Built on trust and customer satisfaction, Fastdecks, Inc. has completed formwork for columns, walls, slabs, beams, edges and stairs for hundreds and hundreds of projects in Michigan, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Florida, Louisiana and Colorado. Notable projects include Comerica Park (Detroit); The Alticor Marriott Hotel (Grand Rapids); Detroit Waterworks; MSU Engineering Building; Camden Yards (Baltimore); Sparrow Hospital (Lansing); and currently completing the over-one-million-square-foot BVD Parking Garage in Orlando, Florida (shown in photo). George G. Kerver, Gale F. Brohl, and Todd A. Doenitz are co-owners of the business, offering a combined total of over 100 years of experience. An extremely loyal, experienced, and closely-knit field management also provides real value that makes each project something with which customers are happy and proud. From preliminary design assistance to complete formwork supply and installation on all your concrete building frames, Fastdecks is a critical team member in making sure your project comes in on time and under budget. Safe, Accurate, and Productive projects are guaranteed. CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 19


Homrich 50th Anniversary in 2014 Established in 1964, Homrich has earned the respect as an innovative leader and is recognized as one of the premier demolition and environmental contractors in the industry. Throughout the past 50 years, Homrich has built its valued reputation on its ability to perform safe, high quality services with professional on-time results. Safely and successfully performing and completing projects such as abandoned City of Detroit houses, high-rise hotels, historical buildings, schools, industrial facilities, power plants, large commercial demolition projects, water disconnects, environmental clean-up, as well as sludge hauling, accurately represents Homrich’s ability to perform as a single-source contractor from start to finish. Homrich has maintained a strong presence in the City of Detroit from its inception in 1964 as well as all regions located throughout the United States. Homrich continues to procure work and maintain positive communications and working relationships with city offices, agencies and personnel. Homrich, a family-owned and operated business, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2014. The company is proud to acknowledge that the 3rd generation of the Homrich family has been operating within the business for 20 years, and will be pursuing an active role in preserving the integrity and sustainability of the family business for years to come.

Jeffers Crane Service, Inc. 50th Anniversary in 2014 Jeffers Crane Service, Inc., as part of the ALL Family of Companies, is proud to celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2014. This is an important anniversary; 50 years of service means that Jeffers Crane has the experience needed to handle any job – they have faced all the challenges of time, budget, weather and workspace, and rise above those challenges. Jeffers people are better prepared and better trained, and they continually invest in order to offer the largest, most technologically advanced fleet. Customers benefit from this fleet in Michigan as Jeffers’ yards strategically surround them, providing critical support. The company’s investment in employee training exceeds any industry standard. That’s because they deliver leaders, not just cranes, to your jobsite. They take great pride in saying that it is their people – operators, oilers, service technicians and safety professionals – that leave a lasting impression of the company’s excellence. Jeffers is your expert source for crane rentals, sales, service and parts. They pull from the strength of the ALL Family of Companies – the largest privately owned crane and equipment rental enterprise in North America. Help celebrate Jeffers Crane Service’s anniversary and put their experience to work for you on your next job. Visit www.allcrane.com. 20 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

Poncraft Door Company 50th Anniversary in 2015 Poncraft Door Company is one of the original manufacturers of architectural decorative laminate wood doors, and is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2015. The Poncraft Door originally manufactured under the former Pontiac Millwork Company, was spun off after a catastrophic fire and incorporated exclusively as a door manufacturer in Auburn Hills in 1965. All architectural doors are manufactured with high pressure laminate (HPL) from a variety of laminate vendors. Doors are laminated with an edge before face process, thus eliminating the shadow line effect from the face of the door. With the large variety of colors and special finishes of those colors, the consistency from one door to the next will never vary among the thousands of colors available to the architectural community to choose from. Some of the laminate choices even include finishes that can mimic the grain of wood veneer, but still maintain the durability known for plastic laminate. Some of Poncraft’s high-profile projects supplied locally are: Chrysler Tech Center; Greektown Casino Hotel; MotorCity Casino Hotel; and the Karmanos Cancer Center. Poncraft’s national sales are primarily focused on the healthcare, hospitality and institutional markets because of the clean-ability and ease of maintenance of the door. Nothing compares to the beauty of a quality wood door, and Poncraft Door combines the beauty, performance and life safety with its 50 years of manufacturing architectural solid core doors. The company could not have achieved this milestone without their reputation for quality workmanship and long-term relationships with their customers. “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


Time is money. We save you both.

SUPPORT – SAFETY – SERVICE – SAVINGS Our technologically advanced fleet is the largest in North America. Our operators are simply the industry’s best. And our factory trained technicians keep the equipment running perfectly, and that includes job site emergencies, 24/7.

Highland, MI | 419-693-0421 Lima, OH | 419-223-9010 Oregon, OH | 419-693-0421 www.allcrane.com © ALL Erection & Crane Rental Corp., an Equal Opportunity Employer

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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 21


Trend Millwork 50th Anniversary in 2015 It began with an idea spawned by founding father William John Muzzatti. The idea was to be combined with a collection of individual talent that, back in 1965, recognized the need for quality, service and craftsmanship in the custom architectural millwork industry. It began with experience gained through Muzzatti’s many years in the woodworking industry. It began with his understanding of quality, craftsmanship and above all, his understanding of service. It began with Muzzatti’s idea and his fervent desire to succeed. Now in their 50th year, Trend Millwork has had the capability, flexibility and the dependability to successfully complete both large, small and LEED-Certified projects, alike. Their valued reputation ensures satisfied customers with a thorough, professional approach to every project. Located downriver from Detroit off of I-75 between Outer Drive & Southfield Road, the Lincoln Park-based manufacturing facility combines skilled craftsmen with the latest manufacturing techniques & equipment to give them the capacity for projects of any specification or delivery schedule. Time proven engineering skills have allowed Trend to detail the most intricate of designs put forth by the best architects in North America. “We have withstood the test of time and earned a solid reputation for dependability,” says CEO David Muzzatti. “This has been one of the secrets to our 50-year success. Our people have inherited my father’s founding ideas. They realize the paramount importance of dependability and no matter the construction schedule or geography, our customers can always count on Trend Millwork for that service.”

Soil and Materials Engineers, Inc. (SME)

Tupper Door & Hardware

50th Anniversary in 2014

50th Anniversary in 2015

SME, one of the Great Lakes Region’s premier engineering services firms, is celebrating its 50th year anniversary. First established in 1964 by Ken Kramer, his son Mark continues to build upon SME’s solid family business foundation. SME helps clients in Michigan, the Midwest and across the world by providing the right solutions at the right time. Engineering News Record (ENR) ranks SME among the top 500 design firms in the United States. Mark Kramer, CEO states, “Since 1964, SME has grown steadily based on my father’s philosophy: surround yourself with a great team of smart people who have a passion for solving problems, and then work together to take care of our clients. Our reputation and success depend on SME being responsive and valuable to our clients, which we do every day by providing practical solutions. SME continues to build on my father’s vision by following his performance principles on every project we undertake.” Thank you to our friends at CAM and our valued clients for their contribution to our 50 years of success.

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Tupper Door & Hardware is a leading supplier of doors, frames, finish hardware and other specialty products to the commercial construction market. A third generation company, Tupper Door works in all types of general commercial building specializing in senior housing, hotels, office renovations and medical office buildings. Tupper Door & Hardware was founded in 1964 as Tupper Associates. It started as a division of Tupper Lumber Company, owned by Bayard Tupper and his son Richard Tupper. A branch office was later opened in Saginaw, MI, along with sales offices in Ohio, Iowa and Florida. In December 1997, the third generation took the helm as Richard’s son, Brian Tupper, was named president and Barbara Tupper Dresden became corporate secretary. Richard’s wife, Donna, continues her role as corporate treasurer. Richard Tupper remained active promoting the business until his passing in 2010. In 2006, the company moved back to the Farmington Hills Freeway Industrial Park, acquiring a larger facility where they operate from today. Tupper Door & Hardware has a reputation for exceptional customer service and a “do whatever it takes” attitude when it comes to fulfilling customer needs & requirements. Tupper Door is ISO 9001 quality registered, a small business enterprise, and a member of several specialty, trade and community organizations. “We’re proud of our reputation of working closely with our customers to see their projects completed on time and to the satisfaction of their clients,” said Brian Tupper.

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


Balfrey & Johnston, Inc. 55th Anniversary in 2014 2014 marks the 55th anniversary of the manufacturer’s representative firm of Balfrey & Johnston, Inc. Founded in 1959 by Norman Johnston and William Balfrey, Balfrey & Johnston has grown from modest beginnings to represent over 25 different manufacturers throughout the plumbing, heating and specialties markets. From their start in a tiny office on Mack Avenue, moving to a small storefront on James Couzens, expanding to a medium-sized warehouse on Coolidge Highway, and finally moving to their current location on Eight Mile Road, growth has been a continuous process for the firm. Balfrey & Johnston’s 15 dedicated employees can help with almost any plumbing item on the project, including roof drains, stainless steel sinks, water coolers, oil interceptors, pumps, tankless water heaters, hydronic heating, and much more. The company can also provide Section 10 products including toilet partitions and accessories. Embracing change, technology and Best Practices throughout their business has allowed Balfrey & Johnston to survive and thrive as the economy has changed. Leading the way forward with water and energy conserving plumbing products has also paved the way for their growth. The firm’s success and longevity has also been assisted by representing quality-driven manufacturers such as Armstrong Fluid Technology; Centoco; Elkay; Green Turtle; Guardian Safety; Jacuzzi; Leonard Valve; Moen; Navien; Stern-Williams; SureSeal; T-Drill; Wilkins; and Zurn. With the third generation of Johnstons - George II, Jeffrey, Scott; along with Dan McClary managing the firm, the company looks forward to providing the construction market’s quality products for the next 55 years and beyond!

R.M. Hunter Company 55th Anniversary in 2014 For over 50 years, R.M. Hunter Co. has been representing manufacturers of quality construction materials. Founded in 1959 by Richard M. Hunter, R.M. Hunter Co. began from the idea that quality product lines needed to be promoted within the architectural and engineering industry. This would later earn them a remarkable reputation as a leading manufacturer’s representative company. James (Jim) Hunter (president) has been in the business for over 30 years, assuming the position of president in 1990. Teri Hunter joined the business as executive director in 2000. R.M. Hunter Co. offers technical expertise and consultation on masonry, waterproofing, air barriers, garden roof systems, precision grouts, concrete repair products, deck coating membranes, expansion joints, dimensional stone and granite, cast stone, and spray-on insulation. They cover Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois territories. Jim is a member of Building Envelope Council (BEC), Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), Manufacturers Agents National Association (MANA), Construction Association of Michigan (CAM), Builders Exchange of Grand Rapids, and Builders Exchange of Ohio.

Ferndale Electric 55th Anniversary in 2014 The zest for challenge has driven Orville and his son Art Ashely from inception over 55 years ago to the highly respected specialized electrical services contractor embracing complex demands of the healthcare, manufacturing, homeland security, transportation, renewable energy, government and infrastructure markets, today. Ferndale Electric has installed structured cabling systems for voice and data at Detroit’s newest Airport Terminal, renovated electrical systems for movable lift bridges, major projects for airports, helped protect the nation’s borders, and installed combined CCTV and access control systems at various auto plants nationally. Conceptualizing with customers creates effective and efficient solutions. Being highly competitive, with an unparalleled record of ontime completions, drawing from years of expertise, superior project management and exceptional process control, have established Ferndale Electric among the most respected electrical contractors in the nation. Positioned to be a leader the industry, they are committed to shaping the industry for the future with sustainable practices helping to minimize their customers’ environmental footprints, reducing costs, and enriching work experience of employees. Substantial financial strength, along with strong bonding capabilities, enable Ferndale Electric to continue a strong growth pattern with expansion into new market areas in response to customers’ requests. Art Ashley took the reins as president in 1987 from his father who founded the company. Through growth and diversification, Ferndale Electric is well positioned to grow through the addition of four new stockholders: John Hillock, president; John Toloff, vice president finance; Paul Ferguson, vice president estimating; and Joe Pantone, vice president Systems Integration Group. This will secure Ferndale Electric to have a strong future for many years to come.

Marble Mechanical 55th Anniversary in 2015

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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 23


Boone & Darr

JJ Curran Crane

60th Anniversary in 2014

65th Anniversary in 2015

Boone & Darr, Inc. is happy to be celebrating its 60th Anniversary this year! In 1954 Bob Darr and Louis Boone started their company in Ann Arbor, MI. Boone & Darr, Inc., has since grown into one of Southeast Michigan’s premier Mechanical, HVAC and Piping contractors serving the Industrial, Commercial and Institutional markets. The company has proudly provided these services for any and all Industrial and Commercial clients; from engineering/design-build construction through preventative and periodic maintenance contracts with their Service Department. Boone & Darr’s service area covers the entire area of Southeast Michigan. They have earned the honor of being awarded the MSCA Star status as an elite mechanical contractor in this area. Repeat customers are the reason for the company’s longevity. Boone & Darr strives for customer satisfaction even when it may not be the most beneficial financially. The company is focused on long-term customer retention in lieu of short-term gain. Boone & Darr is also committed to helping the community in which they reside, through donations to several charity organizations and a commitment to providing heating and cooling to the elderly and those in need. Each year, the company participates in “Project Heat’s On,” an event that offers free heating system checks and repairs for those who need it most. As a company, Boone & Darr donates the use of their equipment and employees donate their time to this worthy organization.

JJ Curran Crane Company is celebrating 65 years in the crane rental and lifting equipment business. The company began in 1950 when John J. Curran, known as JJ, started as an underground contractor. Gradually cranes became his livelihood, which lead to more than six decades of JJ Curran Crane Company serving southeast Michigan. Today, the second generation of Currans are at the helm with JJ’s sons, Larry and Jeff, running the business. Larry serves as president and Jeff is the chief financial officer. They pride themselves on their long family history of customer service, as well as their complete selection of hydraulic cranes ranging from five to 450 tons. At JJ Curran Crane Company, the word “family” has significant meaning as their business has welcomed other families into their own. Today, several second generation operators are on the staff following in the footsteps of their own families. True to their Irish heritage, the Curran’s motto is “It’s Not Luck, It’s KnowHow” and it continues to be how they approach every job. They take pride in looking for solutions to satisfy every customer. The JJ Curran Crane Company is looking forward to being a part of the rebirth of Detroit and helping “lift” southeast Michigan to new heights for many years to come.

Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc. 60th Anniversary in 2014 In September 1954, Spalding DeDecker & Associates (SD&A) was born in a small, storefront office on Woodward Avenue in Birmingham, Michigan. SDA’s founders, Vernon Spalding and Frank DeDecker, began a partnership with a simple verbal agreement, a handshake, and an oath to focus on quality in workmanship and integrity in client service. That oath has been the company’s mission through six decades of ups and downs. In the ‘70s, Vern and Frank created an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, and with the retirement of Frank DeDecker in 1994, the firm was converted to a 100 percent employee-owned business, giving each team member a vested interest in the success of the company and ultimately, their clients. On its 60th Anniversary, Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc. introduced a new corporate name and logo. The company changed its name simply to Spalding DeDecker, keeping the history alive and honoring its founders. Retaining the triangular shape, the strongest geometric figure, the new logo represents strength, quality and integrity. Today, Spalding DeDecker is an employee-owned consulting engineering and surveying firm specializing in infrastructure, land development, landscape architecture and surveying. With regional offices in Detroit and Rochester Hills, Michigan; San Antonio, Texas; and several field offices, Spalding DeDecker offers a diverse set of skills to clients who seek solutions to construct and maintain their infrastructure. The firm offers municipal engineering, construction engineering, transportation engineering, land development, landscape architectural, pavement management and land surveying services.

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“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


A4 Access, Wright & Filippis 70th Anniversary in 2014 Since 1944, Wright & Filippis has built a wellearned reputation as a leader in prosthetics, orthotics, custom mobility products and accessibility solutions. The company’s founder, Anthony Filippis, Sr., a double amputee from the age of 12, made a promise to people with physical disabilities: “No limits.” It’s a promise that has guided the company for 70 years. It’s a promise they intend to keep for the next 70 years and beyond. A4 Access, a Wright & Filippis company, provides accessibility solutions that reflect its dedication to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, a core principle for Wright & Filippis. A4 Access remains focused on assisting people who want more independence at home, work or wherever their travels take them. The company’s licensed, highly trained staff will install all types of accessibility equipment including residential elevators, vertical platform lifts, stair lifts, patient lifts and more. For commercial customers, A4 Access provides equipment that ensures safe and reliable means for easier access to businesses. Call A4 Access, a Wright & Filippis company, at (877) 406-7056 or visit them online at www.A4-Access.com.

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Contact: Tom Doyle 248.223.3402 thomas.doyle@plantemoran.com plantemoran.com www.cammagazineonline.com Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 25


Barton Malow Company 90th Anniversary in 2014 Barton Malow is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2014. Founded in Detroit in 1924 as the C.O. Barton Company by Carl Barton, the firm is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, has 12 regional U.S. offices, and employs approximately 1,800 personnel including 700-800 skilled trades. “When companies reach significant milestones like 90, others often want to know the secret to their longevity. In Barton Malow’s case, I can tell you that our endurance can be attributed to not only what we do, but how we do it. We treat everyone fairly, ethically and respectfully, and that’s what truly matters,” said Ben Maibach III, Chairman and CEO of Barton Malow. Barton Malow’s core purpose is to, “Building with the American Spirit – People, Projects and Communities,” and the corporate culture, since its inception, has been entrenched in a commitment to others. To that end, the Barton Malow Foundation was established in 1954 and today donates an average of five percent of its pre-tax earnings each year to charitable organizations across the country. An employee-owned company, Barton Malow is consistently ranked among the top construction firms in the U.S. and was named 2014 Contractor of the Year by ENR Midwest. Barton Malow Company provides construction services through a variety of delivery methods with focused capabilities to increase safety, quality and productivity through our self-perform trades and technology applications. Market niches include automotive, healthcare, higher education, industrial, energy, federal and government, K-12 education and sports/special event facilities.

Foster Specialty Floors 90th Anniversary in 2014 Foster Specialty Floors is a flooring contractor based in Wixom, MI. The family business was established by C.G. Foster in 1924 in Detroit. The 4th generation of this family-owned and operated business is now celebrating its 90th year as one of the most recognizable names in the area’s flooring industry. The business got its start working in residential and commercial flooring and has since moved its concentration to the athletic and specialty flooring market. They offer wood and synthetic systems for use in Gymnasiums, Field Houses, Track and Field Buildings, Dance Studios, Performing Arts Centers, Stages, Church and School Multi-purpose Rooms, and many other athletic flooring applications. They offer system options for all levels of competition, including some of the country’s most recognizable collegiate athletic programs. Foster Specialty Floors also offers options for cleaning, annual maintenance coatings, complete resurfacing, repairs and replacements of specialty flooring and athletic systems. Contact Foster Specialty Floors to ensure that you have the best flooring system for your facility and put their 90 years of experience and knowledge to work for you!

26 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

Nelson Iron Works 90th Anniversary in 2015 Nelson Iron Works, Inc. was established in Detroit in 1925 as an ornamental iron fabricator making fences and chandeliers, and transitioned into structural and miscellaneous steel after World War II. Nelson Iron has been family-owned and operated for 90 years and is one of the longest established structural steel companies in Michigan. As a Detroit Certified Business Enterprise, they are committed to the revitalization of the City of Detroit. Nelson Iron Works takes on a wide range of projects with a varied work scope all over Southeastern Michigan and in Ohio and Indiana. They specialize in challenging projects in hospitals, schools, universities, military installations, retail spaces, and manufacturing facilities. They have helped renovate many of Detroit’s historic buildings including Broderick Tower, Michigan Bell Building, Detroit Music Hall, and they are currently renovating the freight elevator in the Michigan Central Station. Nelson Iron Works has remained resilient and consistent throughout its 90 year history in Detroit. They have assembled a talented construction team supported by a committed ownership that stands behind its employees and values their expertise. Their accurate fabrication process allows for a seamless transition between their steel erection and subsequent trades in the field, all the while maintaining a vigilant eye on budget, schedule and safety. They are responsive to customer needs, fostering longterm relationships with many of Michigan’s largest general contractors. Nelson Iron Works’ enthusiasm for the Metro Detroit area and the construction industry will propel them toward their 100 year anniversary and beyond. See you on site!

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


Miller Transit Mix Company 90th Anniversary in 2015

M.C. Gutherie Lumber Company 90th Anniversary in 2015 After World War I, Melvin Charles Gutherie used his severance pay to buy a truck. He found work in Detroit, hauling lumber. He asked the owners of a lumberyard whose wood he hauled if he could purchase stock in the company – and eventually he owned the company. In 1925, Gutherie Lumber Company was established (then known as Gutherie and Brand Lumber). Four generations later, the company continues to thrive, offering the finest service and quality in the products that they distribute.

Miller Transit Mix Co. has been a family business in Richmond for 90 years. In 1925, the family’s grandfather, August, moved his fledgling feed and grain business from Detroit to rural Macomb County. He bought a local coal yard in 1932 which he sold to his son, Adelbert, in 1942. In 1952, Adelbert transitioned into the concrete business which he and his wife operated until 1979 when they sold it to their sons, Alan, Gayl and Terry Miller. Today, Miller Transit Mix is primarily focused on ready-mix concrete. They serve customers in Macomb and St. Clair Counties offering high quality concrete and ancillary products for residential, industrial, utility and commercial uses. They are also a dealer for Amvic System products which include ICF poured wall systems, Pex panels for in-floor heat, and foam insulations. Aaron, of the family’s fourth generation, is studying Construction Management in college to prepare for his future place in the business.

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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 27


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Madison Electric Company 100th Anniversary in 2014

Detroit Elevator Company 100th Anniversary in 2014

John A. Brooks Company 100th Anniversary in 2015 Founded in 1915, the John A. Brooks Company is the oldest lawn sprinkler installation company in the world. Today, it is a division of Marc Dutton Irrigation, which acquired the company in 1988. Dutton technicians still maintain many original Brooks systems throughout metro Detroit. The company’s founder, John A. Brooks (1871–1958), was awarded numerous patents for early irrigation innovations. In 1916, he was awarded a patent for a “lawn sprinkling means,” an early ancestor of today’s modern pop-up lawn sprinklers. In 1926, he patented a clockactuated sprinkler system launching the era of truly modern systems. The company developed a national reputation installing irrigation systems in New York’s Central Park, in Chicago’s Grant Park, and at the United States Capital in Washington, D.C. In 1988, Marc Dutton Irrigation was called upon by the University of Michigan to help restore the 1926 Brooks system at Henry Ford’s home, Fairlane. The system had not been used in over 30 years, and was carefully restored by Dutton technicians. “Clients of the Brooks Company read like a Who’s Who of early modern Detroit,” said CAM Member Marc Dutton. “He did work for Henry Ford, S.S. Kresge, the Dodge brothers, and other leading industrialists. We’re proud to carry on his tradition of quality workmanship and innovation.”

30 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

Madison Electric Company, one of Michigan’s largest wholesale distributors of electrical, automation, HVAC, PVF, plumbing, water management and network communication systems and components, is celebrating 100 years as a Michigan family-owned business. In celebration of its centennial, Madison Electric Company is committed to raising $100,000 for local charities to show its appreciation for the community that has supported Madison in a century of success. The charitable organizations include: Karmanos Cancer Institute, Gleaners Food Bank, Detroit Institute for Children, and Michigan Freedom Center. In addition to the fundraising efforts spearheaded by family executive leadership, Madison associates will also participate in planned fundraising events and volunteer activities at the four selected charities throughout the year. Over the past century, Madison Electric Company has grown from two men, operating their business out of a small industrial building in Detroit, to a multi-faceted corporation comprised of eight locations, 150 employees and $80 million in annual sales. The company was founded in 1914 by brothers Morris and Max Blumberg and has remained under the leadership of their decedents ever since. It enters its second century presided over by Brett Schneider, great grandson of Morris Blumberg, marking the fourth generation of leadership. “As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Madison Electric Company, we’d like to thank those who came before us and laid the strong foundation where we stand today,” said Schneider, president of Madison Electric Company. “It remains our duty to fix our eyes to the future to ensure just as strong a foundation for the next generation.”

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


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The Christman Company 120th Anniversary in 2014 Founded in South Bend, Indiana in 1894, The Christman Company traces its roots to a 27-yearold German immigrant with little more than a team of draft horses and dream of being an independent American businessman offering “Teamster and Excavating Services.” H.G. Christman’s values were basic, including honesty and respect for self and others, and willingness to work hard, learn on the job and feel pride in producing the best product possible. Fast-forward to 2014, Christman Company still strives to exhibit those values daily, emphasizing teamwork, planning and innovative services, focusing on adding value to the bottom line of each project and being a great place to work. Today’s employee and management-owned Christman offers a full range of building services, including construction management, general contracting, program management, design/build, real estate development, facilities planning, and self-perform skilled trades. The company specializes in education, healthcare, historic preservation and adaptive reuse, office and data center, industrial and power, and other construction markets. Christman’s services are national in scope, with eight full-service offices throughout the Midwest, Southeast U.S. and mid-Atlantic, with partnerships extending throughout the country. In 2013, Christman acquired the capital stock of Tennessee-based Rentenbach Constructors, Incorporated to expand mutual capabilities in the southeast U.S. and beyond. Christman values its great partnerships with customers, architects and engineers, skilled trade contractors, and many others. The company ranks 138 in the Engineering News-Record ENR 400 list of top contractors nationally. Cheers to the past 120 years, and here’s to the next 120!

Partlan-Labadie Sheet Metal 125th Anniversary in 2014 Partlan-Labadie Sheet Metal Co. has been providing quality products and services for its customers since its modest beginnings as J.W. Partlan Mechanical in June 1889. The company is a full-service contractor providing shop fabrication and on-site installation to the commercial, industrial and institutional sectors. The current project list for Partlan-Labadie includes Ford Livonia Transmission Plant; Wayne County Airport Bldg. 610; General Motors Hamtramck New Logistics; Oakwood Annapolis Hospital; Taylor Ford Dealership Addition; and several AT&T sites. Partlan-Labadie has also provided specialty items such as company signs and a giant replica of the NHL Stanley Cup. The policy of Partlan-Labadie is to achieve and maintain a high standard of quality in all aspects of operations, and to continually satisfy the expectations of its customers in respect to all services offered.

Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. 130th Anniversary in 2014 Hatzel & Buehler, Inc., the oldest electrical contracting company in America, is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2014. In 1882, master electricians John D. Hatzel and Joseph Buehler worked beside Thomas Edison at The Electrical Illuminating Company in New York City. Shortly after completing the first commercial electrical generating plant in 1884, Mr. Hatzel and Mr. Buehler left The Electrical Illuminating Company to begin their partnership of Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. Opening their first office in New York City, the company soon became renowned for wiring some of the country’s most lavish residences, including the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, JP Morgan’s personal New York residence, and The Breakers, Newport home of the Vanderbilts. Business continued to grow, and Hatzel & Buehler expanded their reach, opening offices in Delaware, Michigan and New Jersey. The company would later open offices in Ohio and Pennsylvania, all of which are still open and active. Hatzel & Buehler opened their Michigan office in 1922 in an effort to provide electrical services to the emerging automotive industry. The local office quickly established relationships with the Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation and the Chrysler Corporation, with large-scale project work quickly following and continuing throughout the mid-1900s. In 1977, the Hatzel & Buehler Michigan team completed an electrical installation throughout the newly constructed, 5,000,000-square-foot Detroit Renaissance Center. Nearly a century after opening their first office in Detroit, Hatzel & Buehler maintains ongoing relationships with Marathon Petroleum, University of Michigan, Shell Air, Buckeye Pipeline and other such notable companies. 34 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


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MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2015: KEY BUSINESS TOPICS TO CONSIDER

BY THE CONSTRUCTION TEAM AT PLANTE MORAN As 2014 comes to a close, join us as we explore five actionable business topics to consider in 2015 and beyond. We take a look at implementing technology innovations to make your projects more cost-effective, to how a captive insurance model can provide risk management, expense reduction, and tax savings. The construction industry should also be focusing on key audit and tax concerns surrounding the new revenue recognition standards, and repair and maintenance regulations. And finally, the importance of preparing for the future success of your business with a transition and succession plan. Technology Innovations From materials, to execution, to business process and management, technology is a driving force behind innovation in the construction industry. New technology advancements are made every year, and it’s important for any successful company to stay abreast of changes. Materials and construction execution technologies provide greener, safer, stronger, and more cost-efficient projects. Another important area of technology advancement is in business process and project management tools. • Mobile computing is vital to every construction company. Continued advancement in mobile technology and cloud applications is making it easier for companies to report from the field, providing real-time information on materials, project status, and consumption of labor and equipment. This real-time information allows companies to detect problems early and make adjustments. • Adoption of the AEMP Telematics Standards on equipment will establish a standard protocol across the industry. This is especially helpful to companies with mixed fleets, as they can collect and report data on equipment status and location across the fleet, regardless of the equipment manufacturer. • Building information modeling (BIM) will continue to grow and impact the design process. By virtualizing the different layers of a construction project, potential problems are identified and mitigated before actual construction begins. A newer advancement is the use of augmented reality, where BIM data is viewed via glasses, allowing the user to interact with the structure in a virtual world. 36 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

• Electronic content management (ECM) is very important in the construction industry due to the tremendous number, and size, of project related files. ECM software provides a common platform to manage, store, and access files from any location and any device. Steps for Successful Technology Implementation 1. Start with a good foundation. Before exploring new and advanced technologies, a company needs to be certain they’re effectively utilizing basic industry technology such as estimating, job costing, and project management tools. 2. Understand your needs and the market. Companies must carefully assess their needs, and that of the market, to determine what technology will offer the most value. Leverage the knowledge of construction technology experts, talk with peers, and conduct appropriate vendor due diligence before investing the time, money, and resources into new technology. 3. Understand risks and implications. With each new technology comes new risks. Companies should take the necessary steps to understand and mitigate new risks such as IT security, or safety and training concerns with new materials and execution technology. Captive Insurance - a Risk Management, Expense Reduction, and Tax Saving Solution Insurance is one of the most expensive, and most important, line items for organizations in the construction industry, and it isn’t getting any cheaper. Managing risk, including workers compensation, general liability, and personal/professional liability can play a pivotal role in a company’s financial success. Many companies are turning to insurance captives to lower costs, manage risk, save on taxes, and for long term business planning. However, while a captive insurance company is a unique planning opportunity, it must undergo careful analysis to ensure it makes economic sense. Captive insurance is a type of modified selfinsurance that provides insurance to and is controlled by its owners. A captive can provide tax savings, play a role wealth management or help in transferring wealth to the next generation. Every captive is unique, but there are four common types of captives the construction industry can consider. The type of captive depends on the number of owners, the

organization’s legal structure, their sources of capital, and the types of risks underwritten. • Group Captive: This captive is established by a group of companies with similar businesses, or exposures, writing only the risks of its owners and/or affiliates. • Pure, Single-Parent Captive: A wholly owned captive writing only the risks of its parent and/or affiliates. • Rent-a-Captive: This captive is owned by an outside organization and participants pay a fee, or “rent” licenses. • Risk Retention Group Captive (RRG): An RRG is a group captive that assumes and spreads the risk for commercial liability exposure. Is a captive a viable solution for your organization? Starting a captive is complex and all aspects and regulations must be understood completely before moving forward. There are many variables to consider, from your organization’s size, to your ability to manage risk. And while captives offer many benefits, there are risks to consider. As more and more organizations turn to captives for their insurance needs, there has been an increase in IRS scrutiny. Careful planning and structure is key to running a successful captive that meets all IRS regulations. It involves a complex team of various professionals from insurance brokers and specialists, actuaries, regulators, legal professionals, and tax professionals. Preparing for New Revenue Recognition Standards In 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) issued a joint new accounting standards update, titled Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new revenue recognition guidelines will be effective in 2017 for public companies, and 2018 for nonpublic companies. However, it is not too soon to consider how the new guidance will affect your company, and to consider any necessary changes to your processes and procedures. How Do the New Standards Affect the Construction Industry? Most companies will have substantial new disclosure requirements, and perhaps most importantly, adoption of the new standard may result in a change in when revenue is recognized. Some aspects of the new standard that could “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

lead to a change in timing of revenue recognition are: • Performance Obligations. A contract that is currently considered one unit of accounting may be required to be segmented into separate performance obligations, with revenue recognition being determined separately for each performance obligation. • Contract Modifications. The new guidance affects when contract modifications can be recognized and whether the original transaction price is adjusted, or if the modification represents a separate performance obligation. • Variable Contract Prices. Revenue for contracts that do not have a fixed price may be recognized only to the extent it is probable there won’t be a subsequent downward adjustment. • Revenue Recognition When (or as) Performance Obligation is Satisfied. The new standard continues to allow for recognition of revenue over the course of performing under a contract, but only if control of the good or service is transferred to the customer over time. What Should You Do to Prepare? 1. First, learn the new standard and understand how the various steps in the process impact your specific business activities and contracts. 2. Next, determine your timeline goal for implementation, considering the length of your typical contracts, the potential significance of the changes, and the impact on other business arrangements, such as banking agreements, buy/sell agreements, stock options, etc. The typical contract length is important because the standard must be applied retrospectively for all contracts in process at the beginning of the year in which the standard is adopted. 3. Finally, determine and address the potential business changes needed for your organization. Consider modifying your standard contract terms, if necessary, and evaluate the need for system administration changes – such as project management, job costing, and accounting software. Repair and Maintenance Regulations The IRS issued final capitalization rules in September 2013 that are effective for all businesses for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2014. These long-awaited regulations govern how expenditures for the repair and maintenance of buildings, equipment and other tangible assets should be treated for tax purposes. Under the regulations, asset purchases and repair costs should be analyzed to determine if Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

they are a betterment, adaption, or restoration of existing units of property. This classification will dictate whether the costs should be capitalized or expensed. It is important for you to review your purchases and determine the appropriate category for each. The regulations contain a few safe harbor exceptions for consideration. The De Minimis Rule The de minimis exception allows tangible property to be expensed up to a certain dollar amount. To qualify, taxpayers must have a capitalization policy in place at the beginning of the year. Made annually, the de minimis election contains a threshold maximum of $5,000 for those with applicable financial statements. The threshold is significantly less, at $500, for those without applicable financial statements. Taxpayers may elect to deduct amounts over the limit, but bear the risk of qualifying such decisions to the IRS during an audit. Routine Maintenance Routine maintenance costs refer to routine or reoccurring costs intended to keep assets in working condition. These items are eligible for automatic deduction. These expenses are expected to be incurred more than once during the item’s Alternative Depreciation System (ADS) class life for personal property. There is a separate safe harbor for building components. Materials and Supplies Generally, if a unit of property costs $200 or less, or has a use-life less than 12 months, it is considered incidental and taxpayers can deduct when purchased. Non-incidental items are items that are kept in inventory (whether through a formal inventory or not), and must be capitalized and only expensed when the item is used and/or disposed. There is an optional election to capitalize and depreciate rotatable, temporary, and standby emergency parts, versus waiting until disposal for deduction. What Steps Should You Take? • Review current capitalization policies and ensure all policies are followed. • Review purchases and determine if they are properly classified as repairs, betterments, adaptations or restorations, and whether materials and supplies are considered incidental or non-incidental. • Set up a separate general ledger account for safe harbor items. • Keep track of all invoices. The de minimis elections are based upon the invoiced dollars. Transition & Succession Planning Since selling a construction company to an outside third party can be a challenge, many construction companies see a transfer of

ownership generationally or via the management team. A successful transition plan will ensure the survival and prosperity of your business and it can take years, even decades, to do correctly. Simply put, there’s no such thing as too early to plan for transition. First and foremost, thorough financial and estate planning are key elements in developing a sound transition plan, and should not be delayed. Financial planning will help you set clear, reasonable retirement goals and educate you on how to meet them up to, and after, your retirement. Beyond the tax and legal issues, estate planning will ensure your business is in good hands in the event of a crisis. You may not be ready to make a definitive decision on who will run your business in the future, but you should be narrowing the list down as much as possible. Family dynamics, with the potential for sibling rivalry and hurt feelings, can make planning very difficult. It’s important to keep things in perspective by establishing a sense of stewardship that will ensure family members are thinking of the business first, and not themselves. Whether you’ve chosen your successor already or not, leadership and management training is a vital component of succession planning. Does your team currently have the right skills? What training is needed? Does the management team need restructuring? You should also be communicating your strategic plan with your potential successors. Sharing your vision is a key element for future business profitability. Another component of ownership transition is valuation. How much is your business worth? The value is often less when selling to a family member or internal management, versus a third party. This comes back to sound financial planning – if your retirement is well-funded, you can often afford to take the risk of internal business transition.

Authored by the at Plante Moran:

Construction

Team

Thomas Doyle Thomas.Doyle@plantemoran.com Ken Julien Ken.Julien@plantemoran.com Carole McNees Carole.McNees@plantemoran.com Terry Olejnik Terry.Olejnik@plantemoran.com Sarah Wolters Sarah.Wolters@plantemoran.com

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 37


MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

2014 CONSTRUCTION RECOVERY SHOWS A STRONGER 2015 BY DON WILSON CONSULTING ECONOMIST In southeastern Michigan, where housing is usually a leading indicator of future economic activity, non-residential building is more of a lagging than a leading indicator. As measured by contract awards authorizing start of future construction (construction put into place is tabulated only annually), the value of such contracts bottomed out in the first quarter of 2010 following the low point in regional business activity in 2009’s first quarter. Previously, building awards tanked simultaneously with the low point in regional business activity in 2002’s first quarter that accompanied the national slowdown in 2001. Before that, in 1991’s first quarter, when regional private sector activity hit bottom following the start of the nation’s economic contraction in 1990’s fourth quarter, contracts did not dropped to their lowest level until 1992’s first quarter. However, after the end of region’s recession in 2009’s first quarter, and four quarters of year over year improvement from the 2010’s third quarter through 2011’s second and three more such improvements, one in 2011’s fourth quarter and in two quarters of 2012, contract awards posted year over year declines for another six quarters until an increase in 2014’s April – June period. Private sector payroll activity and the Detroit Business Barometer, a measure of activity in ten segments of the metropolitan area’s business sector, are contrasted in Graph #1. Chart #2 compares indices of the region’s commercial space demand and the value of contract awards for start of non-residential construction. Business activity, as measured by the Business Barometer, has been on a year-over-year expansion track, since the first quarter of 2010, accompanied by increasing payroll hours, since the first quarter in 2011. Leasing demand, however, continued to languish until the first quarter of 2011 before starting on a consistent growth track in the second quarter of 2012. Non-residential construction activity, as portrayed by the index of contract awards in Graph #2, has lagged the recovery in southeastern Michigan, as illustrated by the Barometer in Graph #1, due primarily to the slow or no growth in various market segments, an ample amount of vacant commercial and industrial building space, reluctance to invest and unwillingness lend for mortgages. Subsequent tables and paragraphs provide insight into the basic changes occurring in six major market segments. Industrial Market Industrial structures, the largest segment of the region’s non-residential real estate market, changed as follows between 2007 and 2013: TABLE #1 TRENDS OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN INDUSTRIAL MARKET (% YEAR OVER YEAR) 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 MANUFACTURING BAROMETER

-5.8 -25.8 6.3

4.0

5.6

5.0

MOTOR VEHICLE PRODUCTION

-5.2 -25.9 -40.8 44.0 19.0

7.7

7.5

EMPLOYMENT

-6.3 -13.2 -16.7

3.3

4.0

CONSTRUCTION PUT IN PLACE

-12.4 -34.2 -42.3 -11.3 -20.6

2.1

49.7

-3.9

5.4

8.7

In the industrial market business activity is still largely dependent on the 38 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

operations of automobile making. Industrial facility construction declined in 2007-11 with the decline in sales of many types of products and the accompanying cutbacks in output requiring many structures to be mothballed or torn down. Vacancy rates rose from 12.7 percent at the start 2007 to 15.4 percent at the close of 2010. Following an upturn in sales and accompanying increases in manufacturing and vehicle production in 2010 many steps were taken that minimized the need to add new space and capacity spending. These included lengthening weekly work shifts, adding a second or third shift to weekly work schedules and increasing production output by reviewing and redesigning work station procedures including worker retraining. Since 2009, Detroit automakers’ share of the North American car and truck market increased from 43.2 percent in 2009 to 45.4 percent in 2013 resulting in a 98.7 percent increase in North American motor vehicle production including a 121.4 percent rise in southeastern Michigan production, but only a 35.3 percent increase in southeastern Michigan motor vehicle employment. Construction in 2010-13 was made up of 74 percent in additions to, redevelopment of, or renovation of existing space, up from 30 percent in 2007 before the recession. Detroit automakers’ U.S. and Canadian production increased by an estimated 3.5 percent in 2014. With U. S. car and truck unit sales on a pace to total about 16.4 million units in 2014, sales are predicted to rise 2 percent in 2015 fueled by introduction of 100 new, refreshed and redesigned vehicles. Office Market The trend of change in the office construction, the third largest regional market and the factors effecting it are summarized in the table below: TABLE #2 TRENDS OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN OFFICE MARKET (% YEAR OVER YEAR) 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 -1.2

-3.2

-3.8

-7.0

-3.5

2.5

4.8

LEASED SPACE

1.2

-0.6

-1.8

0.1

0.5

1.9

3.2

CONSTRUCTION PUT IN PLACE

4.4

-7.0 -65.0 -62.4 70.4 -42.7 267.4

EMPLOYMENT (ADVANCED ONE YEAR)

After the 1996-2002 surge in office construction, building vacancy in the region rose from 16.9 percent at start of 2007 to 19.2 percent at the close of 2011, with the glut in space and the cutbacks in employment accompanying the recession. As a result, construction dropped 88 percent between 2007 and 2010. Since 2010, 64 percent of construction has involved redevelopment of, additions to and renovation of existing space, but new space is increasing, accounting for 51 percent of work completed and in process at the end of 2013. Occupancy of leased space has been slow to recover, rising only 1.9 percent between the close of 2011 and 2013, due to employers packing greater numbers of workers into the same space, the shift to digital from paper record keeping and storage and adoption of more liberal work practices. Employees in the Detroit area working from home climbed to 3.3 percent in 2013, from 3.0 percent in “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

2010 and 2.7 percent in 2005. The outlook for occupancy and construction in the office market is expected to improve only slowly as employment gradually grows with the local recovery. Some former office properties are being converted to industrial use and to multi-story residential structures. Overall employment in the Detroit metro area, after growing 2.3 percent in 2012, fell to 0.7 in 2013, inched up an estimate 0.3 percent in 2014, and is forecast to rise by only 1.0 percent in 2015 per PNC Bank’s 2014 Midyear Detroit Market Outlook. Retail Market Trends in 2007-2013 southeastern Michigan retailing are summarized in Table # 3:

had receded to 13.9 percent by the close of 2013. Hospital inpatient traffic, after climbing to a new level in 2011, fell in to its lowest level in 2013 pushing bed utilization down to 58 percent, its lowest level in ten years, Construction, after dropping in 2009-10, increased in 2011, but declined again in 2012-13. Only 58 percent of construction in 2011-13 was for new space compare with 83 percent in 2007. The region’s healthcare sector is in the final stages of consolidating into a few networks to reduce costs, increase profitability and gain better access to capital to more effectively meet patient needs and accommodate declining reimbursement from public and private sector payers. Such circumstances suggest near term construction installation or planning will mainly relate to additions to or renovation of existing floor space.

TABLE #3 TRENDS OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN RETAIL MARKET (% YEAR OVER YEAR)

TABLE #5

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 RETAIL SALES LEASED SPACE DEMAND CONSTRUCTION PUT IN PLACE

Lodging Market Hotel / motel activity in the region is summarized in Table #5.

-0.5

-5.9

-4.1

4.2

-1.3

2.2

2.2

1.1

1.0

0.1

2.0

0.6

0.5

1.5

21.7 -40.1 -36.3 -39.8 -32.6 56.2 21.6

Retail facilities, the second largest segment of the region’s non-residential real estate sector, suffered a tenant loss after 2007 raising the vacancy rate from 9.9 percent to 11 percent at the close of 2009. Retail sales which started sliding in 2002 were 14 percent lower in 2009 due to the contraction in household spending power with rising joblessness, weakening consumer confidence, need to pay down debt obligations, and a withering housing market. Retail sales, up an estimated 3 percent in 2014’s first three quarters from 2013, are expected to continue to remain firm with the improvement in household buying power accompanying the earnings generated by moderately stronger employment, lower energy outlays with the weakening in oil prices and an increase in housing activity with more modest mortgage rates. The contraction in retail sales and space occupancy caused an 85 percent decline in construction from 2007 through 2011. With the rise in retail sales from 2010 and the increase in occupancy, construction rose 87 percent from 2011 to 2013. Healthcare Market The trend of healthcare activity in southeastern Michigan in 2007-13 is summarized in Table #4: TABLE #4 TRENDS OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN HEALTHCARE MARKET (% YEAR OVER YEAR)

TRENDS OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN LODGING MARKET 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 HOTEL/MOTEL GUESTS TRAFFIC (% YEAR/YEAR)

-2.3

OCCUPANCY (%)

58

CONSTRUCTION PUT IN PLACE INDEX (2007=100)

7.6

LEASED SPACE

-2.1

1.8

-0.1

6.8

4.0

2.2

56

50

14.1

8.9

3.3

3.3

48.5 51.6 53.4 53.6

100 367.9 178.5 96.1

-0- 704.2 533.1

With conventions, conferences, corporate meetings and individual business travel on the increase, since 2009, hotel and motel traffic was 16 percent higher in 2013 than in 2010 raising room occupancy by 10.5 percent. With hotel / motel occupancy in the 53 to 54 percent range in 2012-13, expectations to add to the supply of rooms are minimal. This is confirmed by the fact that 80 percent of construction activity in those years was made up of only replacing, redeveloping or renovating existing space. While business and leisure travel have risen with the economic recovery, the opening of new casino gambling venues elsewhere and lower fuel prices are strong indications there will be increasing attraction and motivation to travel to areas other than southeastern Michigan in 2015. Institutional Market Table #6 portrays the trend of change in factors driving this market and the construction put in place. Accounting for 25 percent of all regional construction in 2000-06, that activity was 51 percent smaller in 2007-13 though still taking a 24 percent share. Tax receipts are starting to improve with rising property values, retail sales and employment earnings, but budgets are still tight. It is expected building activity will only show a slow recovery with additions to and renovation of existing structures. TABLE #6

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 HEALTHCARE SERVICES BAROMETER

-5.1 -14.1

TREND OF CHANGE IN S. E. MICHIGAN INSTITUTIONAL MARKET (% YEAR OVER YEAR)

1.9

1.6

-0.7

-0.3

1.8

1.6

0.8

INPATIENT TRAFFIC CONSTRUCTION

-2.3

0.9

0.6

1.1

2.8

-3.9

-3.2

PUT IN PLACE

21.5

2.1

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 PUBLIC SECTOR SPENDING

-3.2

0.3

-2.7

-1.9

-5.5

-2.5

-3.1

ENROLLMENT

-1.1

-1.3

-0.2

-1.4

-1.5

-2.1

-2.0

EMPLOYMENT CONSTRUCTION

-2.4

-1.9

-1.2

-2.6

-2.5

-1.6

-2.2

PUT IN PLACE

-17.9 -16.3 -19.0 -14.3 60.9 -52.8 -14.6

-40.1 -76.9 142.3 -45.6 -64.6

According to the Detroit area Healthcare Barometer, a composite metric of the services delivered by all types of medical, dental, mental and social service providers, activity in the market was 13.5 percent higher in 2013 than in 2010. The medical office segment of the commercial building market, after rising to a vacancy level of 16.7 percent at mid-year 2010, Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 39


MICHIGAN CONSTRUCTION OUTLOOK 2015

Market Outlook Chart #3 portrays indices of construction starts and put in place and employment change in all regional non-residential markets in 2006 to 2013, a 2014 estimate and 2015 forecast. Improvement in construction has been slow in developing as part of local economic recovery, but it finally got started in 2013 climbing from 35.7 in 2012 (2007 = 100) to 49.2 in 2013 to an estimated 61 in 2014 and a forecast 80 in 2015. Much of the continuation in the upturn in 2015 will be due to the surge in starts to a level of 86 during 2014 (2007 = 100) from 63.6 in 2013. Supporting this projection is data on construction plans acquired and published by CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS in their March 3rd issue, which indicated there were 8.4 million square feet of proposed office space and 8.5 million of industrial space in one or more phases of planning or development, per research by Washington based Co-Star Group.

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About the author: Don Wilson is a consulting economist based in Hartland, Michigan. He has specialized in working for trade associations, banks, chambers of commerce and municipalities since 1982. 40 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


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J.S. VIG AND INTEGRATED ARCHITECTURE: PROJECT TEAM SCORES A TOUCHDOWN AT SCHEMBECHLER HALL BY MARY E. KREMPOSKY ASSOCIATE EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN MACONOCHIE

p The new brick façade helps to weave Schembechler Hall into the existing fabric of neighboring buildings in the athletic campus. The curving glass and stone wall breaks from the surrounding architecture to highlight the significance of the Hall. A bronze statue of Glenn E. “Bo” Schembechler, standing in front of the University of Michigan building that bears his name, expresses the spirit of the legendary former coach of the Michigan Wolverines. Immortalized in bronze at the building’s new grand entry, it is as if Schembechler himself is still pacing the sidelines with an M-stamped ball cap on his head and a headset in one of his hands. As construction manager for the addition and renovation of Schembechler Hall, J.S. Vig Construction Company, Taylor, rigged and installed the lifesized statue that captures the coach in mid-stride. The project honors both Schembechler and the history and tradition of Michigan football, as well as its future. The addition houses a newly remade Margaret Dow Towsley Sports Museum, 42 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

a new recruiting lounge and reception areas, while the existing building houses locker rooms, team rooms, coach offices and other spaces devoted to The Game. For the addition, “The interior layout is designed around a central beacon called the Win Wall that has one football for each U-M victory,” said Director of Design Scott Vyn, Integrated Architecture, Grand Rapids. The actual score is printed on each football of this towering wall of fabled pig skins topped by a high-tech programmable video screen. All 910 footballs are numbered and placed behind a two-story, curved glass wall. This Win Wall is visible from outside of the building, courtesy of the addition’s two-story exterior serpentine glass wall. Also visible from the first-level museum and the second-story

recruit lounge, the top portion of the Win Wall forms a type of privacy barrier in the new lounge – a free-flowing, mezzanine-type space echoing the sinuous line of the interior and exterior glass walls. “The addition has almost no right angles,” said J.S. Vig CEO Joseph S. Vig, LEED AP. “It is essentially a very complicated three-dimensional puzzle.” J.S. Vig successfully assembled this complex puzzle of an addition and renovated the existing building, as well. The construction firm managed the logistics of a tight site along State Street, worked in harsh winter conditions and labored in an occupied facility, all without disrupting ongoing football operations. J.S. Vig also maintained strict safety measures on a project in close proximity to State Street, a very busy campus roadway. “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHT

and limestone that forms the main expanse of the Construction-wise, assembly of this intricate The Game Plan building’s new façade. façade and addition of glass, stone and brick The overall game plan for the project called for With its glass, stone and brick facade, took skill and care. According to J.S. Vig Project “demolishing 7,000 square feet of the existing Integrated Architecture achieved the dual goal of Superintendent Marty Lewis, “The new façade building and replacing it with a steel-framed, showcasing Schembechler Hall while weaving required an intricate steel system to facilitate both 10,000-square-foot addition with a very the building more tightly into the existing fabric of the height of the clear spanned space, as well as complicated geometry,” said Vig. “We opened neighboring athletic buildings, namely Yost Ice the architecturally curving outer wall.” The outer up 50 percent of the existing building’s roof and Arena to the north and the Al Glick Field House wall’s curved limestone base and its structurally façade, and provided extensive temporary (the indoor practice facility for Michigan football) glazed curtain wall above are intricately linked, protection measures.” demanding close layout and The project actually a precise fit of building called for removal of the components. “The project entire northeast corner of was immensely the building. “The complicated, but worth replacement of the every sleepless night,” said northeast corner allowed Valerie Vig, project manager the project to address for J.S. Vig Construction. issues of connectivity and The end result is a new accessibility,” said Vyn. brick façade creating greater “The renovated portion continuity among the allowed the project to community of buildings in utilize the existing the athletic campus and a infrastructure and to tie to showcase of a glass wall. the rest of the building Because of the addition’s program.” new glass wall, “Visibility of Gone is the familiar tier the building itself, as well as of three blue roofs sloping the activities and exhibits down to an entry on within, are more prominent State Street. The main and celebrated along State entry’s new location on Street,” added Vyn. “This the building’s north face building announces creates a fitting space for Michigan football even the Bo Schembechler before you set foot in the statue and its companion facility.” limestone wall etched with the former coach’s This is Michigan iconic saying, “Those Once inside, both museum Who Stay Will Be visitors and recruits will be Champions.” The north steeped in the rich tradition entrance also supports a of Michigan football. The new public entry and a museum visitor first enters team entry, both easily the space and sees a wall accessed from an blanketed in a photo collage adjacent parking lot. The and emblazoned with the public entry flows directly words, “This is Michigan.” In into the hall of honor and another famous museum; the team entry Schembechler phrase, the accesses the operational wall celebrates “the team, spaces of the existing the team, the team.” p building. The museum’s exhibit area The bronze statue of Bo Schembechler stands near a limestone wall etched with is an open two-story space the former coach’s iconic phrase, “Those Who Stay Will Be Champions.” A New Face for subdivided into different Michigan Football sections. Exhibits honor Schembechler Hall now has a new grand entry to the south. Michigan Legends of football fame, the Big on the north and a new presence along State Vyn explains the design concept: “The House or the actual Michigan Stadium, and the Street on the east and within the athletic campus. material, scale and cadence of the neighboring contributions of former coaches, players and Replacing the former northeast corner, J.S. Vig buildings can be seen in the renovated brick walls community supporters. “The exhibits are built the new serpentine wall of exterior glass, of Schembechler Hall until you reach the corner designed to celebrate the history of Michigan installing it on a limestone base etched with a where the two-story, curving glass and stone wall football through touch screen displays and other large M. As part of the game plan, the glass wall breaks from the surrounding architecture to interactive media, as well as through the display is flanked by a new “wrapper” of traditional brick highlight the significance of the Hall.” of memorabilia, trophies, artifacts and other

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CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 43


p The facility is composed of free-flowing, sinuous spaces, both on the museum’s lower level and on the recruit lounge’s upper level. passive media,” said Vyn. Displays range from nooks built into the exterior wall to freestanding cases that echo the building’s shape. The interactive displays make strong use of embedded technologies. “The Big House exhibit has a multi-screen interactive display that enables visitors to navigate through U-M football program content,” said Vyn. “The Legends wall has an interactive table that allows visitors to watch videos and learn about Michigan Legends.” All of this state-of-the-art technology “showcases over 100 years of Michigan football history and is used to help recruit top high-school talent,” said Vig. J.S. Vig had to coordinate and integrate these technologies into all the building systems, both old and new. “We integrated these technologies into an existing 30-year-old building as part of the renovation,” said Vig. “We also integrated complex systems into the twostory curved glass wall, (Win Wall) that uses embedded technology to show films and

changing visual displays.” According to Vyn, “The glass at the top of the Win Wall is designed to accept an electric charge, which turns the surface opaque allowing for the projection of an assortment of images, ranging from a block M to the live broadcast of the game. The projected images can be seen from the main museum, from the second-floor recruiting lounge and from outside on State Street.” According to Lewis, The Win Wall itself is composed of 24 curved pieces of glass soaring 24 feet above the floor. Numbering close to one thousand, the individual footballs are suspended from wire cable, and the “upper level of glass also has “smart” film applied adding to the wall’s ability to project a variety of images. The facility is also filled with appealing, custom spaces. As one specialty space, the second-floor recruiting lounge is designed to draw recruits into the Michigan experience. The lounge visually puts potential recruits into

the game. Emblazoned with the words “It’s Great to Be a Michigan Wolverine,” a graphic of a close huddle of players is stretched along one wall of the lounge. Directly in front of this larger-than-life graphic are three separate display cases celebrating the University’s 11 national championships, 42 Big Ten championships and three Heisman Trophy winners. The entire interior is designed and built to enhance the user’s experience, ranging from recruits and their families to current student athletes and coaches, as well as alumni and UM football supporters. “Everything was custom built with long lead items, embedded technology

t The interior layout is designed around a central beacon called the Win Wall that has one football for each Michigan Wolverine victory. p Both interactive and passive exhibits honor Michigan Legends of football fame, the Big House or the actual Michigan Stadium, as well as the contributions of former coaches, players and community supporters.

44 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHT

and work that demanded extensive coordination between at least three to four different trades,” said Lewis. Vig views this $6 million addition and renovation as “especially challenging and rewarding.” J.S. Vig is clearly no stranger to complex projects. The firm has a “history of complicated projects completed on time, with minimal change orders and of high quality,” said Vig. Vig lists other projects delivered for the University of Michigan: Radiation Oncology Center; Brandon Center for the School of Education; several projects at the Ross School of Business; the Wilpon Baseball and Softball Complex; and Mitchell Fields for Intramural Athletics. “We have also done several tunnel and infrastructure projects,” said Vig, “as well as general renovation projects for administration and classroom buildings.” The project team successfully delivered a visually stunning, on-time and on-budget project. Both J.S. Vig and Integrated Architecture clearly brought their A Game to the construction and design of the newly transformed home of Michigan football, the winningest college football program in the country.

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Curtis Industries Introduces Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle Plow Full Hydraulic Plow Ships Completely Assembled Curtis Industries LLC, manufacturer of cab enclosures, attachments and accessories for compact vehicles, has announced the release of its new heavy-duty utility vehicle plow. The plow ships fully assembled to dealers to significantly reduce installation time and cost. This durable plow is powder-coated for corrosion resistance and painted in a polished silver-gray finish that complements any color vehicle. The plow features a 72” wide x 19” high adjustable full-trip moldboard with 6” double-sided cutting edge for longer life. It’s designed with a 48” trip frame and heavy-duty springs to protect the plow and vehicle from ground obstructions. The plow ships with moldboard, trip frame, A-frame, lift frame, hydraulic pump and motor and angle cylinders fully assembled, including hydraulic fluid. Quick installation and one-plug electrical connection means greater time and money savings. Custom vehicle mount kits are designed for the John Deere Gator XUV; Club Car XRT 1550/ Case; Polaris Ranger XP 900; Bobcat 2200, 2300, 3400 4x4; Case Scout and Scout XL; Husqvarna HUV 4421 and 4421XL; New Holland Rustler 120 and 125. The mount kit bolts directly to the existing holes in the vehicle frame. No drilling is required. Once installed the plow easily mounts on standard 2” receiver hitch in less than 30 seconds. The plow’s rapid speed hydraulic lift and angle controls operate within 2 seconds. The plow includes a 4-button hand-held controller allowing the user to operate the controls with one hand from the comfort of the vehicle. The hydraulic reservoir is enclosed in a removable metal housing above the mount frame for easy access to hydraulic fluid, hoses and coil valve while protecting the components from the weather. Skid shoes, high-visibility blade markers and jack leg, which are accessories on some plows, are included as standard equipment. The plow is perfect for schools, universities, parks, resorts, municipalities and home owners with acreage. Curtis offers an optional snow deflector and rubber cutting edge for the plow. Other snow and ice accessories are also available such as a vibration kit, gate control units and spreaders for salt, sand, fine gravel and fertilizer. For more information on Curtis products, visit www.curtiscab.com.

Decking Jobs Just Got Easier Hilti X-HSN 24 Steel Deck Fastener Hilti continues their decking innovation stream of products with a new unmatched mechanical deck fastener that can replace puddle welds for all bar joist attachments. The new one nail bar joist solution, X-HSN 24, outperforms current bar joist fasteners and provides a consistent fastening even at the most difficult connection points. Designed with a longer and fully knurled shank, this new fastener can be used where other methods of fastenings are limited. To further simplify the portfolio, the X-HSN 24 was designed to work optimally with Hilti red cartridges. One fastener and one cartridge for virtually all steel base materials 1/8” up to 3/8” thick. To expedite visual inspection the X-HSN 24 is collated in red plastic strips allowing it to be quickly and easily identified on the deck surface. Combine this new fastener with Hilti’s innovative “SLC” sidelap screw portfolio, and users will achieve an unmatched deck fastening system. For more information on the Hilti X-HSN 24 Steel Deck Fastener and the entire Hilti mechanical deck attachment system, please contact Hilti Customer Service. From the U.S. call Hilti, Inc. at 1-800-8798000 or visit www.us.hilti.com. From Canada, call Hilti (Canada) Corporation at 1-800-461-3028 or visit www.ca.hilti.com.

46 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

Gateway Safety’s Wheelz® Safety Goggles Meet Winter Weather Conditions Head On Many workers braving the cold and snow this winter need more than warm clothing. They need personal protective equipment that protects both from hazards on the job and the harsh conditions that accompany the cold winter months, such as frigid temperatures, strong winds, and even harsh glare. Eye protection is no exception. Gateway Safety’s Wheelz® safety goggles offer several “cold-weather-friendly” features that make them a popular eye protection choice for outdoor workers in colder climates. Cold weather brings the possibility of lens fogging, the most common eyewear-related winter-weather hazard reported by outdoor employees. Wheelz goggles include a unique Whirlwind™ ventilation system, with 10 vents along the frame’s brow area and 10 additional vents on the frame’s underside, to circulate air through the inner frame area between the face and lens. The resultant strong “whirlwind” of air helps clear the fog and maintain unhindered vision at all times. For additional fog prevention, an anti-fog coating is also available. Wheelz are unlike big and bulky traditional goggle styles. Their compact and lightweight frame is made of a soft, flexible material for allday comfort. Wheelz goggles also feature an optional soft foam lining that not only helps with comfort, but also prevents snow and debris from blowing into the eyes. Additionally, mirrored-lens options help fight the glare that is often reflected from snow-covered surfaces. While several features help specifically in the outdoor cold, Wheelz safety goggles provide serious impact protection at all times. They are independently certified by Underwriters Laboratories to meet ANSI Z87+ and CSA Z94.3 standards. With many products independently certified to meet ANSI and CSA standards, Gateway Safety ensures its products are safe, durable, and of the highest quality. For more information, contact: Gateway Safety, Inc., 11111 Memphis Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44144. Phone: 800-822-5347. Fax: 216-889-1200. Web: www.GatewaySafety.com. E-mail: marketing@gatewaysafety.com. “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


PRODUCTS

Larson Electronics Explosion Proof LED Strobe Light with Magnetic Base and 25’ Cord Leading manufacturer and distributor of industrial lighting Larson Electronics announces the release of an explosion proof 10 watt LED strobe light with a magnetic mount base. Waterproof and IP67 rated, this LED light is magnetically mounted for temporary use and is available in several different color options and operates on 12/24 volts DC or 120/277 volts AC. The EPSLED-80-M-25 magnetic mount explosion proof LED strobe light from Larson Electronics is UL rated Class 1 Division 1, Groups C and D, paint spray booth approved, and produces 4 flashes per second. This powerful and durable magnetically mounted explosion proof LED strobe light is approved for use in paint spray booths and is ideal for industrial applications, hazardous work spaces, and areas where gases, vapors and dusts may be present. The lamp housing is waterproof, constructed of heavy cast aluminum, and UL tested to withstand 1,490 pounds per square inch of hydrostatic pressure. Factory sealed and finished in a durable polyester powder coating, this lamp is available in several different color options. This hazardous area strobe light carries a T3C temperature rating and is U.L. approved Class I, Groups C and D, Class II, Groups E and F, and Class III, Groups E, F, and G. This strobe light is IP67 rated waterproof and is suitable for use in paint spray booths and areas where flammable gases, vapors, and chemicals may be encountered as well as approved for exposure to combustible dusts. This LED strobe light is mounted by a 200lb. grip magnetic base for temporary mounting on any ferrous surface. This temporary explosion proof signal light is equipped with 25’ of power cable that is terminated in a 5-15P explosion proof plug. The LED lamp in this strobe light offers a 50,000+ hour lifespan and a 4hz flash rate. This new explosion proof magnetically mounted LED strobe light is built for temporary use in locations where a permanent mount light is not required. It is available in red, blue, green, amber, and white to better meet customer’s requirements. Larson Electronics carries an extensive line of LED light towers, portable power distributions, explosion proof lights for hazardous locations, portable work lights and industrial grade LED area lights. You can view Larson Electronics’ entire line of lighting by visiting them on the Web at larsonelectronics.com. You can also call 1-800-369-6671 to learn more or call 1-214-616-6180 for international inquiries.

Don’t Leave Your Feet Out In the Cold This Winter ThermaCELL’s Heated Insoles Provide Lasting Heat for Men and Women ThermaCELL’s Heated Insoles are a “must have” to endure the blistery winter season. With a wireless remote and cordless battery, ThermaCELL Heated Insoles will pleasantly transform time spent outdoors for work or play. The insoles can be customized to fit any shoe size from women’s 6 to men’s 13, and are available in: small, medium, large, x-large and xx-large. ThermaCELL Heated Insoles provide continuous warmth for up to five hours, or using them in intervals, they can last much longer. With advanced heat technology, the insoles provide remote controlled foot warming comfort as needed. The high-tech wireless remote gives fingertip control between medium heat (100°F), high heat (111°F) and no heat, all while feet remain comfortable through the use of a built-in thermostat. Each remote features a uniquely coded, highly reliable radio frequency transmitter that is paired to one set of insoles and has a range of seven feet. It can easily be attached to zippers and belts, or simply stored inside a pocket. Because they are water resistant, ThermaCELL Heated Insoles function well in damp environments and work interchangeably with shoes, boots and waders. Their versatility allows the freedom to slip them into different footwear, depending on the activity. The lightweight soft cushion design provides additional shock absorption for all day comfort. And, SATRA, worldwide leader in footwear testing, research and development, evaluated ThermaCELL Heated Insoles for durability, heating and safety. Available at thermacell.net for $129.99. For more information visit www.thermacell.com or call 866-753-3837.

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New ARM Lets Water Jet Operators Keep Their Distance The new Automated Remote Manipulator (ARM) from NLB Corp. is a semi-automated water jet system that increases operator protection while reducing downtime. It lets an operator manipulate a variety of accessories from the safety and comfort of a climate-controlled cab, using convenient joystick controls to position them and to start and stop the flow of highpressure water (up to 40,000 psi, or 2,760 bar, at 600 hp). With specialized tooling mounted on the arm of a mini excavator, the ARM efficiently handles applications as diverse as shellside tube bundle cleaning and hydrodemolition. Its unique quickconnect system makes it easy to change accessories, such as NLB’s patented SPIN JET® and SPIN-NOZZLE® heads, to suit the job. The ARM has a vertical reach of about 12 feet and a horizontal reach of about 17 feet, with a wide water jet pattern to maximize coverage. This allows the operator to stay out of the action, not only reducing risk but eliminating the fatigue of manual water jetting and the possibility of inconsistent results from operators with different skill levels. NLB Corp. (www.nlbcorp.com), a global leader in high-pressure and ultra-high pressure water jet systems, manufactures a full line of quality water jetting pump units and accessories for contractor and industrial uses. Applications include product removal, surface preparation, tube bundle cleaning, tube and pipe cleaning, pavement marking and rubber removal, tank cleaning, drill pipe cleaning, concrete hydrodemolition, concrete and pipe cutting, and more. For more information, call (248) 624-5555 or visit www.nlbcorp.com.

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 47


PRODUCTS

Larson Electronics Releases a 20 Foot Telescoping Light Mast with Four 150 Watt LED Light Fixtures Industrial lighting specialist Larson Electronics has announced the release of a 20-foot telescoping light mast with 360° rotating capabilities that is equipped with four 150 watt LED light fixtures. The LM-18-4X150RT-RB is a fold-over light mast that produces 48,000 lumens of light capable of illuminating 2.5 acres of work space. The LM-18-4X150RT-RB produced by Larson Electronics features a rotating boom that allows for 360° of rotation, a removable mast head affixed with four 150 watt LED light fixtures, and an easy fold-over assembly. This light boom can be extended to a height of 20’ for effective coverage and collapsed to 12’. The mast is elevated from its folding position with a 1,000 pound hand winch that is fitted with 3/16” cable. A second 1,000 pound winch provides the 12’ to 20’ elevation of the mast. The 360° rotation is provided by a single T-Handle. By loosening the T-Handle, operators can rotate the mast with ease in either direction and lock it into place once the desired position is found. This light mast includes four of Larson’s wet area suitable LED fixtures that produce a combined total of approximately 48,000 lumens at only 600 watts. Each fixture produces 12,000 lumens of high intensity light while drawing only 150 watts @ 1.25 amps from a 120 volt electrical system. The lights are wired to a junction box at the base of the tower, and 10 foot of SOOW cable terminated in an industrial grade 5-15 plug. A 36” wide and ¼” thick mounting plate is attached to the upper section of the mast which provides a strong and stable platform for the four light fixtures. These light masts are typically mounted to trailers or other stable surfaces by a 15” by 13”, ¼” thick mounting baseplate which has been predrilled to accept six ¾” anchor bolts. When lowered to 12’, the mast can withstand winds up to 125 miles per hour. The light tower weighs approximately 300 pounds and can easily support and lift 150 pounds of weight. Larson Electronics produces a full range of industrial and commercial lighting equipment, telescoping light towers, explosion proof lighting, and LED work lights. To view the entire Larson Electronics line of industrial grade lighting solutions, visit them on the web at Larsonelectronics.com. You can also call 1-800-369-6671 to learn more about all of Larson Electronics’ lighting products, or call 1-214-616-6180 for international inquires.

Lincoln Electric Introduces the Next Generation of VIKING™ Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets The VIKING™-2 Helmets Offer the Best Optical Clarity in the Welding Industry Today Lincoln Electric has developed a new generation of VIKING™ auto-darkening welding helmets designed to deliver improved optics and superior comfort. Backed by a threeyear warranty, these helmets offer better optical quality as well as durability in tough welding environments. The auto-darkening cartridges in the VIKING™-2 series offer a top EN 379-1/1/1/1 optical clarity rating. The ratings correspond to four important categories. Each category is graded on a scale of 1-3, with a score of 1 representing the highest optical quality rating and 3 representing the lowest. The new VIKING-2 Helmets score a perfect 1/1/1/1 clarity rating. New Features: • Improved optical clarity with a perfect 1/1/1/1 rating • Pivot-style headgear for greater comfort • Three-year warranty The best-in-class optics, improved headgear and three-year warranty are standard on the company’s VIKING 3350, 2450, 2450D and 1840 -2 Series helmets. Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the design, development and manufacture of arc welding products, robotic arc welding systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment and has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln has 48 manufacturing locations, including operations and joint ventures in 19 countries and a worldwide network of distributors and sales offices covering more than 160 countries. For more information about Lincoln Electric and its products and services, visit their website at http://www.lincolnelectric.com.

48 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


PEOPLE IN CONSTRUCTION

Shari L. Bouman recently rejoined Triangle Associates, Grand Rapids, as cost accountant. As cost accountant, Bouman will be responsible for all accounting aspects for specific projects including the preparation of monthly billings while working with various project managers, managing subcontractor and vendor issues and inquiries, project close-outs and all other duties as assigned by the controller. Stephen Auger + Associates (SA+A) Architects, Lake Orion, announced recently the hiring of Laura Pihajlic, senior designer. Pihajlic, a graduate from The College of Creative Studies with a major in Industrial Design, brings over 15 years of marketing design strategy to the SA+A architectural design team. Pihajlic’s experience in all levels of design from inception and development, to hand and digital rendering, will provide a foundation for creative leadership and vision at Stephen Auger + Associates Architects. Neumann/Smith Architecture, Southfield, is pleased to announce the following additions of four new employees. Kjartan Kristoffersen, CSI joins the company as a specifications writer. He has over 20 years of experience in specification services, interior design, architectural and lighting design. Christie Johnson, IIDA, LEED AP joins as an

Kristoffersen

Bouman

Pihajlic

Johnson

interior designer. She has over 18 years of experience in commercial design work, representing various market segments including corporate, retail, hospitality, higher education, healthcare and industrial. Josh Pearson, Associate AIA joins as a project manager. He brings 16 years of Pearson Rudnycky experience specializing in project management and architecture across many markets. Jamie Rudnycky, Associate AIA joins the firm as a project architect. She has over six years of project experience in various sectors including commercial, residential, educational and industrial. Also, Neumann/Smith is pleased to announce the return of Jaime L. Millspaugh, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C, as Millspaugh director of interior design where she will steer the group’s creative direction and business development efforts for the firm. Jamie builds on an 11-year career (2000-2011) at Neumann/Smith where she was an Associate and senior interior designer. Her career has been marked by involvement in a range of interior architecture projects for clients across the corporate, higher education, and municipal markets. Holland, MI-based Elzinga & Volkers (E&V), a leading provider of construction management services, has announced the following recent employee promotions within its operations: Dan Blamer to senior field manager; Doug Eddy to senior field manager; Todd Grzegorski to senior field manager; Scott Jesko to senior field manager; Clayton Martin to senior project manager; Nate Meeuwsen to senior field manager; Joe Shashaguay to senior field manager; and Brian White to general superintendent. continued on page 50

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SMRCA Contractors are established companies with years of experience in providing responsive service, superior workmanship and exceptional value. Call us today at 586.759.2140 to receive our free “Roofing Facts” brochure or contact one of the SMRCA Contractors below for a no-cost estimate on your next roofing project or visit us at www.smrca.org.

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SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN ROOFING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS T. F. Beck Co. Rochester Hills MI 248.852.9255

Detroit Cornice & Slate Co. M.W. Morss Roofing, Inc. Romulus MI Ferndale MI 734.942.0840 248.398.7690

J. D. Candler Roofing Co., Inc. Livonia MI 313.899.2100

LaDuke Roofing & Sheet Metal Oak Park MI 248.414.6600

Christen/Detroit Detroit MI 313.837.1420

Lutz Roofing Co., Inc. Shelby Twp. MI 586.739.1148

Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

Dave Pomaville & Sons, Inc. Schreiber Corporation Wixom MI Warren MI 248.926.1500 586.755.6030

Newton Crane Roofing, Inc. Royal Roofing Co. Orion MI Pontiac MI 248.276.ROOF (7663) 248.332.3021 North Roofing Co. Auburn Hills MI 248.373.1500

Schena Roofing & Sheet Metal Co., Inc. Chesterfield MI 586.949.4777

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 49


PEOPLE IN CONSTRUCTION

Fleis & VandenBrink (F&V), an engineering and architectural firm based in Grand Rapids, has added seven new staff members. These employees support clients throughout F&V’s seven Michigan and two Indiana offices. Mark Baker works out of the Baker firm’s corporate office in Grand Rapids as a construction technician; Mark Frank is part of the Municipal Group and is assisting with transportation projects as an office technician; Sam Lipscomb joined the Survey Group in Grand Rapids; Christopher Robbins, PE is now part of the firm’s Grand Blanc staff as construction observer; Joseph Benjamin will work in the firm’s Process Group in Grand Rapids as an environmental engineer; and Matthew Bedner and Anna VanderKooi are EITs who have joined the Process Group in Grand Rapids. TMP Architecture, Inc. is proud to announce that seven professionals have been hired to join the firm’s Bloomfield Hills and Portage offices. Stephanie Choate, Matt Guinta, Bradley Pitt, Doug Milburn and Anna Whiteside join TMP’s architectural department.

Choate

Frank

Lipscomb

Robbins

Whiteside

Beuschel

Escobar

Emily Beuschel and Cecilia Escobar have joined the firm’s interior design group. Five will work in TMP’s Bloomfield Hills office, with Milburn and Escobar based in the Portage office.

Benjamin

Bedner

VanderKooi

Guinta

Pitt

Milburn

Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc. (SDA), a national civil engineering, landscape architectural, and surveying firm, has hired Vamshi Konduru, CFM as a water resources engineer within their Engineering Konduru Department. He will be responsible for performing Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) studies for drainage, storm/sewer, water distribution, and flood-related projects throughout Michigan and Texas. He specializes in integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data with various aspects of water resources engineering and will be instrumental in transitioning from the typical 1-dimensional H&H analysis to the dynamic 1D/2D open-channel and combined open/closed system studies. He has experience with some of the most complex levee studies throughout the nation, providing innovative solutions for flood control measures.

CORPORATE NEWS Birmingham-based Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services, Inc., along with its sister company Brewster Maintenance, were selected by the Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA) as Elite Winners at its Metro Detroit’s 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For™ luncheon in September 2014. The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For™ competition identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in their human resource practices and employee enrichment. MBPA recognizes 12 Elite companies based on their overall high scores in their respective category. Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services claimed the top award in the Employee Achievement and Recognition category for rewarding individual employee achievements and performance by teams. Brewster Maintenance was recognized in the Employee

50 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


CORPORATE NEWS

Enrichment, Engagement and Retention category for helping employees meaningfully and personally connect to their work, as well as its ability to adapt to the individual needs of its employees. Triangle Associates, Grand Rapids, was recently named the Elite Small Business Winner among this year’s 101 Best & Brightest Sustainable Companies. The award was presented by the Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA) to a company focused on being more sustainable and improving its local and global environment. Many of the ideas for Triangle’s sustainability practices originate from the company’s “Sustainable Team,” a group of employees who meet on a regular basis to focus on issues such as energy and water use, recycling in the office, reducing the use of disposable take-out containers and eliminating plastic water bottles. The company also focuses on limiting paper and plywood construction signs usage by purchasing its own waste bins and branding them with Triangle colors and logos. In addition, all of the company’s design and construction projects utilize ProCore – a cloud-based construction management software that allows employees to manage projects at any time, from anywhere, with any internet-connected device. Site superintendents also use real time video to communicate with architects, project managers and clients thereby avoiding costly and wasteful visits.

Investing in employee safety and health has saved the company money and provided a platform for growth and new hires over the past three years. From 2011 to 2014, the company has experienced a 35 percent increase in backlog while also reducing workers compensation premiums over the same period of time.

Are You Connected? Stay connected with CAM Magazine and the Constuction Association of Michigan by following us on these popular social media sites.

The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) West Michigan Chapter has recognized Elzinga & Volkers, Holland, MI, with a Diamond level Safety Training and Evaluation Process (STEP) Award. This national award reinforces Elzinga & Volkers’ success at prioritizing the safety of their 130+ employees. The STEP program is designed to support ABC members with development and improvement of safety training efforts. The awards are given in seven levels based on company safety programs: First Step, Participant, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. The Diamond award coincides with Elzinga & Volkers reaching an impressive safety milestone of more than 2,650 consecutive days, equaling an astounding 1,050,000 hours worked without any lost-time injuries. Diamond level winners must have an incidence rate at least 50 percent below the National Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) average in their particular NAICS code for at least three consecutive years and have an EMR (or “mod factor”) at or below 0.700 (0.900 for companies with fewer than 100 employees). Elzinga & Volkers achieved a 0.70 EMR for 2014 (marking the third consecutive year below .800).

Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 51


CONSTRUCTION CALENDAR

CONSTRUCTION CALENDAR

DECEMBER

Please submit all calendar items no less than six weeks prior to the event to: Amanda Tackett, Editor: tackett@cam-online.com

CAM Social Outings 2015 January 22 Lily’s Seafood Fundraiser February 28 - CAM Men’s Doubles Bowling Tournament March 6 European Pheasant Hunt April 6 Tigers v. Twins - Opening Day Tailgate Party May 15 CAM Spring Sporting Clays June 16 CAM Golf Outing – Baypointe Golf Club July 14 – CAM Golf Outing – Links of Novi August 4 Tigers v. Royals - CAM Connect at Comerica Park August 15 Cruise Into CAM at the Woodward Dream Cruise August 18 CAM Golf Outing – Fieldstone Golf Club September 17 - Boy Scouts Building Connections September 22 - CAM Fall Sporting Clays For more information, visit www.cam-online.com. February 4, 2015 – CAM Michigan Construction & Design Tradeshow MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit, Michigan The Construction Association of Michigan (CAM) presents its one-day tradeshow extravaganza, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm. Vendors display wares, products and services. The tradeshow also plays host to the CAM 129th Annual Meeting and the CAM Magazine 2014 Special Issue Awards. For booth or attendance information, call Ron Riegel at CAM (248) 972-1000 or visit www.cam-online.com. April 15-17, 2015 - MGP Conference 2015

Providence Biltmore Hotel, Providence, Rhode Island A gathering of experts on former Manufactured Gas Plant (MGP) sites, this conference provides a forum for MGP site owners, consultants and contractors to share experiences and ideas. It is designed to stimulate knowledge exchange with strong technical presentations and experienced technical panels who will explore the key issues of MGP site management based on lessons learned. The conference schedule will consist of a day of workshops and two-and-a-half days of exhibits, poster presentations, and engaging technical sessions. Please visit: http://www.mgpconference.com

CAMTEC, the training and education center at CAM, offers a wide variety of classes, seminars and presentations on all aspects of construction. All sessions are available at the CAMTEC facility in the CAM headquarters located in Bloomfield Hills, or can be taken to the field on jobsites, in office settings, etc.

2015 Core Class List: Construction Management Professional Level 1 – • Blueprint Reading • Design Phase, Bidding & Proposals (Prerequisite- Blueprint Reading or Blueprint Reading experience) • Estimating (Prerequisite- Blueprint Reading or Blueprint Reading experience) • Project Management-Boot Camp 52 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

Level 2 – • Scheduling and Planning • Contract & PO’s Level 3 • Project Management & Supervision • Project Accounting • Project Close Out • ONLINE Project Management Professional Exam Prep Course Construction Law & Contracts Professional • AIA Contract Forms • Pay When Paid • Mitigating Contract Risk • Construction Liens – A Remedy for Payment on Private Projects Against the Owners’ Land • Preparing Docs to Preserve Construction Liens • Payment Bonds – A Remedy for Payment on Public Work Projects • Account Receivable Management & Collections • Advanced Bonding • Lien Law & Payment Bonds Combined Safety & Health MIOSHA Training Institute offers a Scholarship program to students attending MTI courses. All scholarship requests must be made online at www.michigan.gov/mti • Advanced Accident Investigation • Advanced Accident Investigation - MTI Required • Aerial Work Platform Part 32 - MTI Elective • Asbestos and Lead Awareness • Asbestos & Lead Awareness - MTI Elective • Confined Space for Entrant & Attendant • Electricity: The Invisible Killer- MTI Elective • Excavations: The Grave Danger - MTI Elective • Fall Protection-Part 45 - MTI Required • First Aid, CPR & AED COMBINED • Hazard Communication for Supervisors • Certified Lead Renovator Refresher Training • Health Hazards in Construction - MTI Required • Masonry Wall Bracing Restricted Zone Training • MIOSHA 10-HOUR - MTI Required • MIOSHA Record Keeping - MTI Elective • OSHA 10-HOUR • OSHA 30-HOUR • Scaffolds & Platforms-Part 12 - MTI - Required Other Available Courses • Classes at MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit Wednesday, February 7, 2015 during the CAM Michigan Construction & Design Tradeshow • Exhibitors Sales Training • Prevailing Wage Compliance • How to Grow Your Business Using the Latest Marketing Strategies • 3-Hour Residential Builders Continued Competency Course “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


NEW MEMBERS

WELCOMES

NEW MEMBERS ATD SOLUTIONS, CLARKSTON CROSS RENOVATION, INC., GARDEN CITY DAVENPORT MASONRY, INC., HOLT THE DEARBORN AGENCY, INC., DEARBORN DETROIT COMMERCIAL CARPENTRY, LLC, SHELBY TWP. DIMAMBRO CONSTRUCTION, ROCHESTER DYNALECTRIC MICHIGAN, MADISON HTS. ENVIRONMENTAL, INC., ANN ARBOR EXPETEC TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, TROY GSI ELECTRICAL SERVICES, STERLING HEIGHTS INDUSTRIAL BUILDING PANELS, INC., TROY SP TECHNOLOGIES LLC, WATERFORD J.S.S .CONSTRUCTION, CLAWSON MILLER TRANSIT MIX CO., RICHMOND NEW HUDSON CONSTRUCTION, NEW HUDSON OLD REPUBLIC SURETY GROUP, TROY SPARK ELECTRIC, BAY CITY TEAM FACILITIES, INC., BLOOMFIELD HILLS UNIVERSAL LED, DETROIT VERSATILE CONTRACTING LLC, SAGINAW

Insight, Oversight and Foresight to Build on Your Success An internationally recognized, top 100 U.S. firm, Doeren Mayhew provides construction companies with insight into their businesses, oversight to ensure best practices and foresight for what’s ahead. We invite you to see how we can help you capitalize on the opportunities and navigate the challenges specific to the construction industry. Visit doerenmayhewconstruction.com today.

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Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

Insight. Oversight. Foresight.SM CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014 53


DEPARTMENT

Ace Cutting Equipment ................................54 Administrative Controls Management (ACM) .10

Michigan’s of Concrete Sawing & Coring Equipment

Aluminum Supply Company/Marshall Sales....6 Amalio Corporation ......................................21 Aoun & Company ........................................15 CAM Comp .................................................51

SOFF-CUT 5000

CAM Tradeshow ........................................IBC Cendrowski Corporate Advisors ..................BC DIAMOND BLADES WET & DRY K 760 CUT-N-BREAK

Connelly Crane Rental Corp.........................53 Creative Surfaces ........................................41 Curran Crane Co., J.J..................................10 D & R Earthmoving ......................................15

HC-410 CORE DRILL

PG 820

Demolition Man............................................31 Deppmann Co., R.L.......................................5 Detroit Dismantling ......................................27 Doeren Mayhew...........................................53 Dutton Irrigation Inc., Marc......................32,33 Facca Richter & Pregler, P.C.........................41 Farnell Equipment Company ........................40 Ferndale Electric Company .....................28,29 Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. ......40 G2 Consulting Group ...................................31 GenPower Products, Inc. .............................31 Hartland Insurance Group, Inc. ......................8 Hatzel & Buehler ...........................................7 Holdfast Technologies LLC ..........................41 Homrich ......................................................35 IBEW Local 252.............................................5 Jackson Associates Inc .................................5 Jeffers Crane Service, Inc. ...........................21 Kem-Tec......................................................50 MasonPro Inc. .............................................45 McCoig Materials .........................................13 Next Generation Services.............................17 North American Dismantling Corp ................41 Oakland Companies ....................................13 Operating Engineers Local 324-JATF ..........IFC Plante Moran ..............................................25 SMRCA .......................................................49 Sani-Vac Service, Inc. ..................................35 Spartan Specialties, Ltd. ..............................35 Testing Engineers & Consultants, Inc............54 Valenti Trobec Chandler, Inc./Griffin Smalley & Wilkerson, Inc. ...........................................3 Zervos Group ..............................................31

54 CAM MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2014

“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®


S P O N S O R E D B Y T H E C O N S T R U C T I O N A S S O C I ATT I O N O F M I C H I G A N

FEBRUARY 4, 2015

CONSTRUCTION AT ITS BEST This one-day construction industr xtravaganza is the best place industryy eextravaganza network to lear ork with those learnn about new construction products and netw are building Michigans Michigans future. future. who are owners, contractors, contractors, ar chitects, suppliers and mor e... For owners, architects, more...

Come to learn, stay to network

EVENTS INCLUDE: • CAM MAGAZINE SPECIAL ISSUE AWARDS AWARDS

• 129TH CAM ANNUAL MEETING • EDUCA EDUCATIONAL TIONAL WORKSHOPS

CONSTRUCTION • 2014 CONSTR UCTION PROJECT OF OF THE YEAR PROJECT

Call 248-972-1000 today and and reserve reserve your your space space for this exciting one-day one-day industry industry event, event, or orvisit visitus us online at www.cam-online.com/Tradeshow.aspx


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