On a historic day in September 2022, the successful installation of a 2,800-ton cracking furnace at Chevron Phillips Chemical Co.'s Baytown ethylene plant marked a significant milestone. This achievement was the culmination of three years of meticulous planning and collaboration between PCL Industrial Construction Co., led by Robert D. "Danny" Evans Jr., and the project stakeholders. The innovative "supermodule" strategy involved transforming an existing furnace design into modular components that were pre-assembled offsite and transported to their final location. The seamless integration of these modules showcased the team's dedication to safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Despite numerous challenges, including supply chain disruptions, the project remained on track, demonstrating the effectiveness of this novel approach to industrial construction.

The journey to this moment began in 2019 when the idea of modularizing a complex structure like a cracking furnace was still uncharted territory for many involved. The concept entailed breaking down the furnace into four major assemblies and 17 smaller modules. These components were meticulously crafted offsite and then transported approximately one mile to the Baytown facility. The process required extensive coordination and precise engineering to ensure that all pieces would fit together flawlessly. As the 12-story furnace was lowered into place, its supports aligned perfectly with the pedestals, allowing workers to secure it effortlessly. Evans remarked on the precision of the fit, emphasizing how the careful attention to detail paid off in the end.

Maintaining momentum throughout the project was no small feat. Material shortages and supply chain issues emerged as significant obstacles after the assembly and stacking of modules commenced in September 2021. However, Evans and his team remained undeterred. Their proactive approach ensured that these challenges did not compromise the project's timeline or budget. Mitch Krutilek, formerly Chevron Phillips' general manager for project execution, praised Evans for his commitment to the project, noting his ability to manage resources as if they were his own. Krutilek also highlighted Evans' focus on solutions rather than problems, which kept the project moving forward smoothly.

The success of the Baytown supermodule project is also attributed to the exceptional safety record maintained over nearly 649,000 work hours. Don Abrahamson, project manager for Technip Energies, credited Evans' calm and methodical leadership for keeping the project on track without any injuries or incidents. Abrahamson emphasized that Evans' leadership style helped navigate potential bottlenecks and ensured a smooth workflow. The collaborative spirit among all team members—from senior partners to frontline workers—was another key factor in the project's success. Everyone prioritized the project's best interests over individual agendas, creating a unified effort that made the project truly special.

Looking ahead, Evans and the PCL team are applying lessons learned from the Baytown project to build seven new crackers at another Chevron Phillips Chemical plant. This new endeavor will further refine and expand upon the modular construction techniques pioneered in Baytown. The project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through innovation, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

In the heart of Sioux City, an ambitious road renovation project is scheduled to commence this summer. The city's engineering department plans to overhaul Glen Oaks Boulevard from Teton Trace to Outer Drive. This significant infrastructure upgrade aims to improve traffic flow and enhance the quality of life for local residents. An open house was recently held to provide detailed information about the project and address community concerns. The construction will be executed in three phases, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life, with completion expected by mid-September.

Details of the Road Reconstruction Project

In the vibrant and bustling environment of Sioux City, a major transformation is set to take place on Glen Oaks Boulevard. The reconstruction effort, which will span from Teton Trace to Outer Drive, is anticipated to begin around June 1st and wrap up by mid-September. This comprehensive project follows last year's work on the section between Teton Trace and Chambers Street, which involved panel patching. However, this year's initiative will be more extensive, as the current condition of the road necessitates a complete replacement of the concrete surface.

The project leaders have meticulously planned the construction to occur in three distinct phases. This phased approach is designed to maintain accessibility for residents throughout the renovation period. Gordon Phair, the city engineer, emphasized the deteriorated state of the area, explaining that a full replacement is the most effective solution. An initial open house was conducted to inform the public and gather feedback, with another session planned for March to provide further updates.

From a journalist's perspective, this project highlights the city's commitment to improving its infrastructure and addressing the needs of its residents. It underscores the importance of proactive urban planning and community engagement. By involving the public in the process, the city fosters transparency and ensures that the voices of those affected are heard. This collaborative approach sets a positive example for future infrastructure projects in Sioux City and beyond.