Idaho Sand & Gravel Company Wins Aon Build America Award for Best Renovation of Highway & Transportation Project Under $10 Million

Nampa, IDAHO–The renovation of Idaho’s State Highway 78 was recently named one of 2010’s most significant construction projects.  As a result, the project’s contractor, Idaho Sand & Gravel Co. (an Oldcastle Materials Co.), was one of 20 firms to receive the association’s Aon Build America Award at an awards ceremony held March 23, 2011.

The renovation of Idaho’s State Highway 78, a $2.6 million project to repave 40 lane miles of highway, won for best renovation of a highway and transportation project under $10 million.  The project team partnered with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) to use warm mix asphalt for the entire paving on the project, totaling 42,000 ton.

Garry Mattson, Idaho Sand & Gravel vice president said, “This project was a huge success for everyone involved.  Although we hadn’t produced warm mix asphalt in large quantities prior to this project, we relied on the expertise of other Oldcastle Materials companies and were able to present the benefits of warm mix asphalt to the ITD. We completed the project in 28 days and on budget, all while utilizing the innovative warm mix paving technique and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

 Shawna King, ITD engineer, echoed Mattson’s sentiments about the project, saying, “We are pleased to have partnered with Idaho Sand & Gravel on this warm mix asphalt project.  The benefits of mix produced at a lower temperature are great in saved energy costs and reduced emissions and fumes.”

The Aon Build America Awards recognize the nation’s most significant construction projects.  A panel of judges, representing all areas of construction, evaluated over 115 projects this year, assessing each project’s complexity, use of innovative construction techniques and coordination with partners, among other criteria.  The awards, which were announced during the association’s annual convention in Las Vegas, are considered by many to be the most prestigious recognition of construction accomplishments in the U.S.