39 Issue 2 Summer Edition 2019 BUILD MANITOBA ON THE GROW Accelerated schedule fast-tracks Simplot’s processing plant in Portage la Prairie The J.R. Simplot Company is broadening its Manitoba footprint with the expansion of its facility in Portage la Prairie. The project will increase the size of the potato processing plant from 180,000 sq. ft. to 513,072 sq. ft., effectively doubling its capacity for locally-grown potatoes and making way for 87 new full-time employment positions. “The Simplot expansion will address current and future market demand for their product,” says Rick Graumann, Vice President, Manitoba Division, Stuart Olson. The Simplot project is a joint venture between the U.S. firm Fisher Construction Group and Stuart Olson. “Once completed, the expansion will provide a major economic boost to the region, not only through the construction process, but also through local employment, product demand and support from local businesses.” Work on the expansion began in spring 2018. One year later, Dean Gagne, Project Manager, says the project has made considerable gains thanks to the team’s accelerated scheduling: “The fast track delivery model that we implemented has been remarkable. From the initial concept design in March 2018, we mobilized to the site in April and started site preparation and piling in May 2019. Barely 12 months later, we have closed the 513,072-sq.- ft. footprint and are in the finishing and equipment installation phase of the project.” “Speed to market is always critical for food processors,” adds Graumann. “Simplot is no exception.” A STRATEGIC APPROACH Coordination and collaboration have been critical to the Simplot processing plant expansion. For Stuart Olson and its team of over 500 workers, specialized consultants, subcontractors and suppliers, that has required enhanced communications among all stakeholders to keep the existing plant in full operation and ensure the safety of everyone on site. To that end, the team has installed a full-time project scheduler to keep work on track, and implemented daily communications initiatives and regular reporting with Simplot. “Managing the communication, design, schedule, safety and labour elements amongst all parties requires a skilled and dedicated staff of experienced construction specialists stationed on site to deal with daily coordination challenges,” says Graumann. “Ultimately, it’s important that everyone is kept informed and we’re all pulling in the same direction.” By Matthew Bradford Photo credit: Stuart Olson Construction Stuart Olson’s team arrives in the early morning to assist with the execution of the helicopter crane lift. Specialized riggers – involved in helicopter picks of various rooftop units – being hoisted to the roof.