McCarthy Holdings Inc. hosted its annual Craft Appreciation Week Aug. 29-Sept. 1.

Events took place on jobsites across the country to recognize the builder’s more than 4,000 craft professionals while spotlighting the importance of construction careers in local communities and throughout the nation.

“McCarthy has a long-standing tradition of respect for the art of building and the people who make it happen,” said Ray Sedey, McCarthy chairman and CEO. McCarthy provides its craft workforce opportunities for classroom and on-the-job training year-round. In addition, McCarthy’s registered apprenticeship program offers instructional opportunities for entry-level craft employees.

Photo courtesy CIG

Lawrence Construction Co. celebrated breaking ground on the I-70 Picadilly Interchange Project in Aurora, Colo., on Aug. 1. A $25-million federal grant from the U.S. Dept. of Transportation is helping fund the project, which features a diverging diamond interchange design. The I-70 Picadilly Interchange is one of just six projects in the country to receive this amount. Lawrence and design partner RS&H joined Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, city council members and representatives from organizations including the Federal Highway Administration, Colorado Dept. of Transportation and the Aerotropolis Regional Transportation Authority to celebrate the start of construction. The project, scheduled for completion in late 2025, will extend Picadilly Road between Colfax Avenue and Smith Road, linking eight new miles of roadway with an interchange onto I-70 in Aurora. A new bicycle and pedestrian path will provide safe and accessible infrastructure for the northeast Denver metro area. As a result, the region will experience a reduction of emissions, freight time and hauling costs. Other benefits include reducing congestion and improving safety, leading to an estimated savings of $132 million in vehicle-operating and travel time over the life of the project.