MJ Wins APWA Project of the Year Award

MJ recently received Project of the Year Award for Structures/Facilities from the American Public Works Association Central New York Branch for the Transformation of the New York State Fairgrounds. MJ was presented the award at the annual banquet on Thursday, November 17th in Syracuse, New York. MJ's project manager, Joel Bianchi, and lead engineer, Jenny Moon-Lippmann, were in attendance, along with representatives from the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and NYS Office of General Services (OGS).

In 2015, the NYS Governor’s Office announced an unprecedented $50 million investment for the revitalization of the New York State Fairgrounds, located in Geddes, New York.

This project represents the most significant transformation that the Fairgrounds have undergone since the Fair first opened at its current home in 1890. The goal of this project was to enhance the Fairgrounds as a premier year-round and multi-use facility to attract more events and visitors from across the State and beyond. Projects completed in 2016 include a new main gate, expanded midway, new RV park, utility upgrades and enhanced landscaping.

The team completed the design within eight weeks, with construction spanning just short of six months. Due to the short timeframe and unexpected field conditions, collaboration with user groups and stakeholders was essential to the success of the project. The design and construction team was in frequent contact with OGS and AGM, often several times a day to address challenges as they arose. Extensive coordination with numerous regulatory agencies was vital to secure required permits and approvals, which was a feat in itself given the sizeable scope and aggressive time frame.

The project has redefined the experience for those that visit the Fairgrounds annually. This year, the Fair broke its all-time attendance record with over 1.1 million visitors. Governor Cuomo said, “We set the bar high, but the results far exceeded expectations by every conceivable measure. I congratulate everyone who worked on this year’s Fair on a job well done and cannot wait to see this banner year topped in 2017."