Greeley picks Wisconsin firm to lead MERGE project

GREELEY — Kraemer North America, a company headquartered in Plain, Wisconsin, has been selected by the City of Greeley as construction manager and general contractor for the MERGE project.

MERGE, an acronym for Mobility Enhancements for Regional Growth and Equity, includes a regional mobility hub and upgraded grade-separated interchanges along U.S. Highway 34 at 35th and 47th avenues.

Naming the construction manager and general contractor is a key step in the city’s partnership with the Colorado Department of Transportation to move the transportation project forward. Bringing the construction contractor into the project during the design phase allows the city, CDOT and contractor to collaborate early on construction sequencing, traffic management, project phasing, cost considerations and other practical details, the city said in a news release.

“Selecting a CM/GC partner gives the project team the benefit of construction expertise while plans are still being developed,” Seth Sorenson, Greeley public works director, said in a prepared statement. “This approach will help us make smart choices about design, scheduling and phasing. It focuses on getting the most value from the project budget and minimizing impacts on travelers, businesses and residents wherever we can.”

Kraemer was chosen for its track record with transportation projects as well as its approach to project scheduling and phasing.

“Getting the contractor involved early, during design, helps spot possible construction issues. This way, we can improve the project’s phasing plan before work starts,” Ben Rowles, resident engineer for CDOT, said in the news release. “That collaboration helps the project team develop a more efficient, buildable plan. It also better prepares them for the transition to construction.”

During the design phase, Kraemer will work with the city, CDOT and design consultant RS&H. This collaboration aims to finalize the project scope before construction phases are determined. The team will use this collaboration to evaluate options and help maximize project budget. Once design is done and the project is set for construction, the city will negotiate the terms of a construction contract with Kraemer.

Share on Facebook on LinkedIn