Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org
Surnames: Ruzic, Cannestra
----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co, WI) 2/05/2014
Ruzic Construction Wins State Award (WisDOT Award - 2014)
Ruzic Construction Wins State Award
Gary Ruzic, owner of the former Ruzic Construction Company of Neillsville, is shown near bridge company equipment in the spring of 2013. Ruzic’s company was recently presented with an Excellence in Small Structure Award by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for a project completed in 2012.
By Todd Schmidt
The former Ruzic Construction Company of Neillsville was presented with a Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) award at its annual construction-engineer conference held Jan. 21 in Madison.
Ruzic Construction and Mattson Contractors of Knapp received the Excellence in Small Structures Award for their work on the Hay Creek Bridge along STH 40 in Elk Mound. The $380,000 project represents construction of the first Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil (GRS) integrated bridge system in Wisconsin.
Instead of traditional concrete abutments supported on piling, GRS walls were used. Beth Cannestra, director of WisDOT’s Bureau of Project Development, said the contractors used a new construction technique that allowed for a quick, aesthetically pleasing result.
“We are truly fortunate to have so many private sector partners who do outstanding work to keep people and commerce moving safely across Wisconsin,” Cannestra said. “It’s always difficult to choose award winners because our contractors do great work. After careful Consideration, this project is among the best of the best.”
Gary Ruzic said Friday he was proud to receive the award on behalf of his former employees. After 42 years in business, Ruzic Construction closed its doors at the end of 2012. Ruzic’s construction equipment was sold in the spring of 2013.
