Granite Construction Company Inc. of Watsonville, Calif., has been honored for its work building support and successfully coordinating with a variety of contractors, owner groups and state and local agencies as part of the I-15 reconstruction project in the greater Ogden area of Weber County, Utah. The project, which received the Associated General Contractors of America's (AGC) Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Award, was among four cited for successfully maintaining support and cooperation among the many groups involved with its construction and oversight.

"These awards acknowledge that the hardest part of most construction projects isn't laying bricks or pouring cement, it’s building a foundation of understanding, trust and support with everyone involved," said Doug Pruitt, incoming president of AGC. "Successful projects need technical skill and know-how, but a commitment to community support, worker safety and great communication are essential."

The Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Awards were announced as part of AGC's 90th Annual Convention in San Diego, Calif. Pruitt said that these awards are designed to recognize construction companies for their ability to achieve a common goal, honor all stakeholders, maintain momentum, perpetuate partnering, improve communication and incorporate team-building activities.

The 2009 Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering winners Include:

I-15 NOW Design Build Reconstruction Project; Greater Ogden Area of Weber County, Utah; Granite Construction Inc., Sponsoring Partner of Weber County Constructors

Edward R. Roybal Learning Center - LAUSD Central High School No. 11; Los Angeles, California; Hensel Phelps Construction Company

Virginia Approach Spans for the Woodrow Wilson Bridge; Alexandria, Virginia; Granite Construction Company, Sponsoring Partner of Virginia Approach Constructors (VAC)

Milwaukee City Hall Historic Restoration; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; J.P. Cullen & Sons, Inc.