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McHugh Construction

Founded: 1897
Founder: James D. McHugh
Headquarters: 1737 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
Phone: 312-986-8000
Number of employees: 500
Website: www.mchughconstruction.com

Overview

Established in 1897, James McHugh Construction Co., known simply as McHugh Construction, has a longstanding history of contributing to the architectural landscape of Chicago, Illinois, and beyond. With more than a century of operation under its belt, the company has managed to cultivate a robust reputation in the construction industry, offering a comprehensive range of services from preconstruction to complete project execution.

Throughout its long history, McHugh Construction has been associated with a vast array of projects, encompassing various sectors such as residential, commercial, hospitality, healthcare, and infrastructure. This diversity is a testament to the company’s capabilities and adaptability, allowing them to thrive and expand even in the face of shifting market trends and economic challenges.

Services Offered

James McHugh Construction Co. offers a broad range of construction services to cater to the needs of different sectors in the industry. These include:

1. Preconstruction Services: McHugh Construction provides comprehensive preconstruction planning, including project feasibility studies, budget estimates, value engineering, and constructability reviews.

2. General Contracting: As a general contractor, McHugh handles all aspects of construction, from obtaining necessary permits to hiring and overseeing specialized subcontractors for various elements of the project.

3. Design-Build Services: This integrated approach brings design and construction into one contract, fostering a collaborative relationship between designers and builders, improving project timelines, and providing a single point of responsibility.

4. Construction Management: McHugh offers professional management of construction projects from inception to completion, overseeing every detail to ensure they meet their client’s needs.

5. Concrete Construction: The company has specialized in high-rise concrete structures and has set several records in this field. It offers services for concrete construction projects, from planning to completion.

6. Self-Perform Work: McHugh has the ability to self-perform a significant portion of the construction work. By doing so, it maintains a greater control over project schedule, cost, and quality.

7. Sustainable Construction: The company is committed to incorporating sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices in their construction processes.

8. BIM/Virtual Design and Construction (VDC): McHugh employs advanced technology such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) to improve project visualization, enhance collaboration, and increase efficiency in construction processes.

McHugh Construction Completed Project

James McHugh Construction Co. had completed a significant number of projects across various sectors. These projects span from high-rise residential and commercial buildings to landmark infrastructure and hospitality ventures. Here are some notable examples:

Water Tower Place: Completed in 1976, this was the world’s tallest reinforced concrete building at the time. It’s a mixed-use retail and residential building located in downtown Chicago.

Trump International Hotel and Tower: At the time of its completion in 2009, this was the tallest concrete building in North America.

One Museum Park: A prominent high-rise residential building located in the Near South Side community area of Chicago. It’s considered the tallest building in the Central Station development, the tallest on the Chicago’s South Side, and the tallest in Chicago south of Van Buren Street.

Wolf Point West Tower: Completed in 2016, this is a 46-story residential tower located at the confluence of the Chicago River’s branches.

Navy Pier’s Centennial Wheel and Plaza: This project involved the construction of a new, larger Ferris wheel, an updated plaza, and the addition of an outdoor ice rink. It was completed in 2016.

Aqua Tower: An 82-story mixed-use residential skyscraper in the Lakeshore East development in downtown Chicago. The building’s unique undulating exterior is representative of its innovative design.

Vista Tower: As of 2021, this was one of the latest major projects McHugh Construction was associated with. This 101-story building, once completed, will be the third tallest building in Chicago.

Marina City: A mixed residential and commercial building complex notable for its unique design. Marina City towers are among the most recognizable structures in Chicago.

NEMA Chicago: A luxury residential tower offering studio to four-bedroom apartment homes in the heart of downtown Chicago.

Astellas US Headquarters: A multi-building office and laboratory campus for Astellas Pharma’s US headquarters.

77 West Wacker Drive: This is a 668 ft (204 m) tall skyscraper in Chicago. Known as the United Building, its modern structural expressionist style is exemplified by the clean, polished look of its exterior.

The Coast at Lakeshore East: A 46-story residential tower completed in 2013 that provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

The Legacy at Millennium Park: This is a 72-story skyscraper in Chicago. Completed in 2010, the building includes residential condominiums and a portion of the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Tower: McHugh served as the concrete contractor for this project. The expansion completed in 2010 added 24 stories atop the existing 33-story building, making it one of the world’s tallest buildings to be extended vertically.

Sky55: This 40-story high-rise in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago was completed in 2004 and contains 411 residential units.

Joffrey Tower: Completed in 2008, this project involved the construction of a 32-story condominium building which also houses the Joffrey Ballet’s headquarters and studios.

111 South Wacker Drive: This is a 681-foot (208 m) tall skyscraper located in Chicago. Completed in 2005, it won the 2006 Silver Award Winners for “Best Development” from the Urban Land Institute.

340 on the Park: Completed in 2007, this is a residential tower located across from Millennium Park. At the time of its completion, it was the first residential tower in Chicago designed to meet LEED certification standards.

McHugh Construction Awards and Recognition

James McHugh Construction Co. had received numerous awards and recognitions for its construction projects and contributions to the industry. These awards and recognitions reflect the high standards and dedication that James McHugh Construction Co. brings to its projects. Here are some notable examples:

Excellence in Concrete Construction Award: In 2016, the company received this award from the American Concrete Institute (ACI) for its work on the Wolf Point West Tower.

Chicago Building Congress Merit Award: McHugh Construction received this award in 2017 for its involvement in the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Plaza project.

Chicago Landmark Award for Preservation Excellence: The company received this award for its work on the Wrigley Building.

Outstanding Project Award from the International Concrete Repair Institute: McHugh was recognized for its work on the Lake Shore Drive Over Chicago River Bridge Rehabilitation project.

Safety Excellence Awards: The company has been recognized numerous times for its commitment to safety in the workplace. In 2016, the company received three safety awards from The Builders Association: The Outstanding Safety Record and Zero Lost Time Accidents awards, and an Outstanding Company Safety Program recognition.

ENR Midwest’s Project of the Year: McHugh Construction’s work on NEMA Chicago won ENR Midwest’s Project of the Year award in 2020.

General Contractor of the Year: The Federation of Women Contractors awarded this recognition to McHugh Construction in 2016, demonstrating the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

ENR Midwest’s Best Projects Award: In 2013, the firm won this award for its work on the Aqua Tower.

Chicago Association of Realtors Good Neighbor Award: The Coast at Lakeshore East, a project by McHugh Construction, won this award in 2014.

Engineering News-Record (ENR) Best of the Best Project Award: The Legacy at Millennium Park, built by McHugh Construction, won this national award in 2010 in the Residential/Hospitality category.

Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI) Design Award: McHugh Construction was recognized with this award for their work on 340 on the Park, a residential tower, in 2008.

McHugh Construction Growth and Expansion

McHugh Construction has displayed a remarkable trajectory of growth and expansion over its long history. The company started out in the nascent construction industry of Chicago and has since established itself as a major player in the region.

Early in the company’s history, McHugh Construction made a name for itself with a focus on infrastructure and marine construction. As the City of Chicago expanded and grew, so too did McHugh. The company was instrumental in the creation of some of the city’s most critical infrastructure, including the city’s system of bridges, which helped to spur Chicago’s growth and expansion.

In the mid-20th century, McHugh Construction pivoted to take advantage of new opportunities in the building construction sector. The company leveraged its experience and reputation in the infrastructure sector to transition into the high-rise building market. One of the first major successes in this field was Water Tower Place, completed in 1976. This project marked McHugh’s entrance into the field of high-rise construction and was a significant milestone in the company’s growth.

Since then, the company has been at the forefront of many notable high-rise construction projects in Chicago and beyond, from commercial and residential buildings to hotels and healthcare facilities. Some of the most notable include the Trump International Hotel and Tower, One Museum Park, the Aqua Tower, and NEMA Chicago.

In terms of services, the company has also expanded its capabilities over the years. While it started as a general contractor, it now offers a comprehensive range of services, including preconstruction, construction management, design-build, and self-perform work.

The company’s growth has also been recognized in the industry. In 2020, for example, McHugh Construction ranked #8 in Crain’s List of Chicago’s Largest Contractors.

It’s evident from McHugh Construction’s track record that the company has had a longstanding commitment to growth and expansion. This is evidenced by its expansion of services, involvement in large-scale and diverse projects, and its continuous recognition in industry rankings.

McHugh Construction Commitment to Quality and Safety

McHugh Construction has a well-established reputation for its commitment to quality and safety, as evident from the company’s operational principles and recognition in the industry.

Quality: McHugh Construction is committed to delivering high-quality projects. This commitment is reflected in their operational philosophy, project outcomes, and client feedback. The company applies meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to quality assurance. Their philosophy encompasses not just the physical construction, but also project management, client service, and communication. This dedication to quality has contributed to the construction of some of the most iconic buildings in Chicago, including Aqua Tower, Vista Tower, and the Trump International Hotel and Tower.

Safety: Safety is another primary focus for McHugh Construction. The company maintains a comprehensive safety program designed to prevent job site accidents and injuries. The firm’s safety program includes regular employee training, site-specific safety plans, and continuous on-site safety inspections. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their impressive safety record and recognition in the industry. For example, in 2016, the company received three safety awards from The Builders Association: The Outstanding Safety Record and Zero Lost Time Accidents awards, and an Outstanding Company Safety Program recognition.

McHugh Construction dedication to quality and safety is a cornerstone of its business, demonstrating the company’s commitment to its employees, clients, and the broader community. The company’s record suggests that it takes its responsibility for the safety of its workers and the quality of its work seriously, delivering results that meet and often exceed industry standards.

McHugh Construction Commitment to Sustainability and Green Building Practices

McHugh Construction has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and green building practices in its projects. The company recognizes the importance of environmentally responsible construction and has incorporated sustainable practices into many of its operations and projects.

One significant example of this commitment is seen in the construction of the “340 on the Park” residential tower. Completed in 2007, it was one of Chicago’s first residential towers designed to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification standards, an internationally recognized green building certification system.

Another notable example is the Aqua Tower, a high-rise residential building designed with sustainability in mind. It features energy-efficient design elements, including a green roof, rainwater collection systems, and energy-saving glazed windows.

In addition to these, the company has been involved in other projects that incorporated environmentally friendly design elements and construction techniques. These efforts demonstrate McHugh Construction’s commitment to sustainability and its role in promoting green building practices in the industry.

Moreover, McHugh Construction has professionals on its team who are LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED AP), further showcasing their commitment to green building practices. These professionals have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles, as well as the LEED rating system.

McHugh Construction Company Values and Culture

McHugh Construction has consistently conveyed a strong set of company values and a distinctive company culture, which can be reflected through their various activities and practices.

1. Commitment to Quality: McHugh Construction places a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality projects. Their commitment to quality is not only about the physical construction, but also extends to project management, client service, and communication.

2. Safety First: Safety is one of the paramount values of McHugh Construction. The company maintains an extensive safety program aimed at preventing job site accidents and injuries. The firm’s safety record and industry recognition testify to their commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.

3. Integrity: McHugh Construction has built its reputation on a foundation of integrity. The company is committed to conducting its business honestly and ethically.

4. Teamwork: The company believes in the power of teamwork and collaboration. McHugh Construction works closely with architects, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to achieve project goals.

5. Innovation: McHugh Construction is recognized for embracing innovative construction methods and technologies. The company’s involvement in complex and iconic projects speaks to its innovative spirit.

6. Community: McHugh Construction is committed to supporting local communities. They actively participate in various community outreach programs and foster a culture of giving back.

7. Sustainability: The company acknowledges its responsibility to the environment. Through green building practices and sustainability initiatives, McHugh Construction contributes to environmental stewardship.

These values are deeply ingrained in McHugh Construction’s operations and are reflected in their work and relationships with partners and communities.

McHugh Construction Community Engagement

McHugh Construction demonstrated a commitment to community engagement. The company recognized its role within the broader community and has sought to contribute positively to it.

One significant example of McHugh Construction’s community engagement is its commitment to workforce development. The company has been known to participate in initiatives designed to provide job opportunities and training for local community members. For instance, McHugh Construction has collaborated with local unions and trade organizations to offer apprenticeships and training programs, helping to develop the next generation of skilled construction professionals.

Additionally, McHugh Construction has shown a commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion. This commitment extends not only to its own workforce but also to its relationships with subcontractors and suppliers. The company has made efforts to work with minority and women-owned businesses, helping to create economic opportunities within these communities. Moreover, McHugh Construction has supported various local causes and community organizations. The company’s commitment to community engagement is clear in its practices and operations.

The company’s long history of successful projects, its range of services, its reputation for excellence, and its commitment to sustainability and community involvement are all indicative of a robust and well-respected enterprise. It is reasonable to conclude that these traits have continued to propel McHugh Construction in its quest for continued success in the construction industry.

Disclaimer: Please note that the names and positions of employees mentioned may be subject to change, as individuals may move to different roles or organizations. While we make every effort to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee that all employee details are current or complete. We encourage you to verify the identity and positions of any individual mentioned and check their Linkedin Profile before taking any action based on their role.

Employees

Patricia H. McHugh – Chairman

Michael J. Meagher – President

Ray Cisco – Chief Operating Officer

Kate Ivanova – Executive Vice President

John Sheridan – Executive Vice President

Dan Jatis – Senior Vice President / Chief Financial Officer

Natalie Pedraza – Vice President / Corporate Compliance

Tina Paries – General Counsel

Steve Wiley – Senior Vice President / Preconstruction

Andrew Totten – Vice President

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