Shingobee - News Archive

Holiday Stationstore #404, completed by Shingobee in December 2009, has been honored with an Eagle Award in Associated Builders and Contractors Minnesota Chapter Excellence in Construction Awards competition. The award was presented on January 27, 2011, at the 2010 Awards Banquet, held at The Metropolitan in Minneapolis, MN.

ABC's awards program is designed to recognize the quality and innovation of merit shop construction and to honor all the members of the construction team, including the contractor, the owner, and the design team responsible for the project. The winning projects were selected from entries submitted from across the state and were judged on complexity, attractiveness, unusual challenges, completion time, workmanship, innovation, safety and budget.

Award accepted by Scott Alpaugh, Stacy Gleason, and Rick Wold

The award was accepted by Scott Alpaugh, Holiday Stationstores; Stacy Gleason, Project Manager; and Rick Wold, Superintendent.

Holiday Companies created a unique design for this Stationstore, located on a site adjacent to Target Field, the Minnesota Twins’ new stadium. Exterior masonry details on the convenience store and freestanding car wash building were designed to complement the classic ballpark appearance of the new stadium, as well as fit in with nearby buildings in the urban-industrial neighborhood.

Shingobee encountered a number of challenges in the construction of this unique project, including a contaminated brownfield site that required clean-up; a condensed schedule; tight urban site constraints; cold weather and winter conditions.

Deep excavation was required for fuel storage and water reclamation tanks, so 4,815 tons of contaminated soil had to be transported off the site. A high water table and poor soils necessitated sheet piles and installation of 216 piles to a 40- to 50-foot depth.

Creative scheduling was required to meet the condensed schedule established by the owner, with subcontractors running long shifts and working weekends. The small urban site required extra supervision to coordinate the work effort and maintain safety. Cold fall weather further impacted the schedule, and winter conditions had to be dealt with during a portion of the work.

Throughout the project, Shingobee met the challenges by providing options to the owner, coordinating successful solutions, and turned over the store exactly on schedule. We enjoyed the opportunity to work on such a challenging, creative project for an ongoing, successful client, Holiday Stationstores.

Primrose School Groundbreaking Held

January 2011

Primrose School Groundbreaking, Eagan, MN

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held at the site of a new Primrose School in Eagan, MN, on Wednesday, January 26, 2011. Representatives of the Primrose School Franchising Company, Four Points Real Estate (the developer for this project), local owners Darren and Diane Storkamp, and Shingobee were on hand to celebrate the beginning of construction of the school.

Primrose Schools are based in Acworth, Georgia, and are located in 16 states. There are nine located in Minnesota, and this is the third to be built by Shingobee. Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated, and provides educational child care for children ages infant through kindergarten.

Construction started mid-January and is scheduled to be completed in June.

US Bank Project Achieves Gold Level Certification

May 2010

The US Bank project in Burnsville, MN, completed by Shingobee in October 2009, has achieved Gold level certification in the LEED® Green Building Rating System.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

See additional information on the US Bank project.

Top National Award for Dakotah! Ice Center Construction

February 2010

Shingobee was recently honored by Associated Builders and Contractors as an Eagle Winner in ABC's National Excellence in Construction Awards competition, for construction of the Dakotah! Ice Center in Prior Lake, MN. The award was presented on February 4, 2010, at ABC’s National Convention in San Diego, California. Accepting the award at the event were Shingobee Project Manager Jim Schuweiler and Superintendent Bob Mueller.

ABC's National Excellence in Construction Awards competition is the construction industry’s premier annual awards program, recognizing the outstanding merit shop projects of the year. This honor recognizes Shingobee as having one of the most innovative and high-quality merit shop construction projects nationwide.

“ABC is pleased to present this industry-leading construction project with our Excellence in Construction award,” said Kirk Pickerel, ABC president and CEO. “This year’s winners were exceptional examples of the outstanding craftsmanship and professionalism that embody merit shop construction. ABC members continue to be the driving force behind some of the nation’s highest-profile projects.”

The new Dakotah! Ice Center is an addition to the existing Dakotah! Sport and Fitness facility, owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), a federally recognized Indian Tribe, in Prior Lake, Minnesota. The facility features state of the art amenities and utilized numerous Green Initiatives for sustainable, energy-efficient construction. See the project description for more information.

ABC National Award

Project Manager Jim Schuweiler and Superintendent Bob Mueller accept the Eagle Award from ABC Chairman James Elmer

Two Shingobee Projects Receive Top "Excellence" Awards for Construction

January 2010

Shingobee received top awards from the Minnesota chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors for two projects in ABC's Excellence in Construction Awards competition. The awards were presented on January 14, 2010, at the 2009 Awards of Excellence In Construction Banquet at The Metropolitan in Minneapolis, MN.

Dakotah! Ice Center, Prior Lake, MN
Eagle Award, Other Construction - Over $5 Million Category
St. Cloud Regional Airport Terminal Expansion & Remodel, St. Cloud, MN
Pyramid Award, Commercial Construction - $1-$5 Million Category

ABC's awards program is designed to recognize publicly the quality and innovation of merit shop construction and to honor all the members of the construction team, including the contractor, the owner, and the design team responsible for the project. The winning projects were selected from entries submitted from across the state and were judged on complexity, attractiveness, unusual challenges, completion time, workmanship, innovation, safety and budget.

“These projects are clear examples of the high-quality work merit shop contractors perform every day,” 2009 MN ABC Chairman Steve Kuepers said at the awards event.

Shingobee worked closely with the owner and architect (HTG Architects of Eden Prairie) from design development through construction to manage the schedule and complex construction methods for the project. Fast-track phasing was utilized to manage the project schedule, and great attention was given to site safety. Shingobee completed the project on time and on budget.

The new facility is one in which SMSC and the at-large community take great pride. Serving as a model for Green construction, and serving the needs of the community, the Dakotah! Ice Center exemplifies what a state-of-the-art ice arena should be.

St. Cloud Regional Airport Terminal Expansion & Remodel: Shingobee provided Construction Management services for a 9,295 square foot expansion and remodel of the existing 10,175 square foot terminal building at St. Cloud Regional Airport. The timeline of the entire project was driven by a deadline for one-time discretionary federal funds, resulting in condensed design, bidding, and construction schedules. Remodeling of the existing facility was phased to allow services to continue uninterrupted throughout construction. The expansion was opened to passengers exactly on schedule, and the City of St. Cloud has received positive feedback from the public related to the improvements to the terminal. See this article for more information.

Architect: Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc., St. Paul, MN

Shingobee extends its thanks and congratulations to everyone involved in these successful projects.

US Bank Project Completed; Earned LEED Gold Certification

October 2009; Updated May 2010

Shingobee completed construction of a new branch facility in Burnsville, MN, for US Bank in October 2009. The project consisted of new construction of a single story 5,000 square foot building with a four-lane drive-up canopy, and parking and circulation for 30 vehicles, on a 1.3 acre site. Grand Opening festivities were held at the Bank on October 8, 2009.

US Bank Burnsville

The project achieved Gold level certification in the LEED® Green Building Rating System. The design and construction of the building incorporated numerous energy efficient and sustainable strategies, including site selection in a developed area with public transportation, efficient stormwater design, roofing with a high solar reflectance index, water efficient landscaping, water use reduction, efficient HVAC systems, use of certified wood building components, indoor air quality control, low-emitting interior materials, and daylight harvesting with skylights. Shingobee was responsible for a variety of requirements during construction to achieve certification, including construction waste management, and use of recycled and regional materials.

More information on Shingobee’s Green Initiatives

More information on Shingobee’s financial facilities construction experience

"Top Projects" Recognition

July 2009

Two projects constructed by Shingobee recently received “Top Project” honors from Finance and Commerce: Dakotah! Ice Center in Prior Lake, MN, and United Prairie Bank in Mankato, MN. The annual awards program showcases 25 Minnesota construction projects that show a high degree of innovative construction technique, creativity in design, and overall complexity.

Dakotah! Ice Center, constructed for the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, was recognized for its energy efficient features and sustainable design. Bill Rudnicki, tribal administrator, was quoted, “It’s a beautiful facility that is built to the highest standards.”

United Prairie Bank was recognized for its striking design and stately, traditional features. The building houses the corporate headquarters for United Prairie Bank and its bank holding company, Farmers State Corporation, which oversees a network of 16 community banks.

HTG Architects of Eden Prairie was the architectural designer for both projects.

The Top Projects were honored at an Awards Presentation held on July 16, 2009. The projects were also included in a special publication that was distributed with the newspaper in June 2009.

Dakotah! Ice Center Earns Awards and Media Attention

Updated July 2009

The Dakotah! Ice Center (see article below) is generating considerable interest among construction publications for its green, energy-efficient features.

Finance and Commerce recognized the Ice Center as one of its Top Projects of 2008. The project was published in a special supplement to the publication in June 2009.

The project has been selected as a Green Building of America Award-winning project and will be featured in the upcoming special Real Estate & Construction Review-Midwest Green Success Stories edition. Each Green Building of America Success Story project will be highlighted in a case study that intertwines the words of the project’s owner, consultants, architects and contractors to explain how the teams worked together to design and build one of the region’s most important, innovative or unique sustainable facilities.

The Dakotah! Ice Center was also featured in the April 6, 2009, issue of Construction Bulletin. The article discussed methods and products used by many of the contractors on the project for environmentally-friendly construction. View the article here: New Ice Arena Turns Green

At its annual awards event on April 16, 2009, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal recognized the Dakotah! Ice Center as a Finalist in their annual Best in Real Estate Awards. The project was featured in a special Best in Real Estate publication in the April 17, 2009, issue of the Business Journal.

Additional information on the Dakotah! Ice Center project

Project Managers Earn LEED® Accreditation

April 2009

Shingobee Project Managers Dean Dalzell, Eddy Dehmer, and Bob Sedey were recently recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council for achieving the designation of LEED® Accredited Professional. They earned this designation by demonstrating the knowledge of green building practice required for successful implementation of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Green Building Rating System™. They join Stacy Gleason, who earned her accreditation in 2008.

Dean Dalzell is a senior project manager focusing on state-wide projects for clients like Grand Casinos and McDonald’s. Eddy Dehmer, project manager, specializes in tenant improvement work in the Twin Cities metro area. Bob Sedey, a senior project manager, focuses on commercial retail and restaurant projects. All will be involved in management and advisory roles on the growing number of construction projects that seek to utilize energy efficient practices in their design and construction.

LEED Professional Accreditation distinguishes building professionals with the knowledge and skills to successfully steward the LEED Certification process. LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principals and the LEED Green Building Rating System.

The LEED AP credential represents knowledge of the LEED Rating System and its application in practice. LEED APs facilitate the integrated design process and streamline the LEED Certification process. More than 77,000 building professionals from across all areas of practice have become LEED APs since the Professional Accreditation program was launched in 2001.

More information on Shingobee’s Green Initiatives

St. Cloud Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Completed

Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held April 21

April 2009

Shingobee recently completed a major expansion of the commercial aviation terminal at St. Cloud Regional Airport. The $4.7 million expansion nearly doubled the size of the 10,000 square foot terminal building, adding a secure passenger boarding space, a redesigned security checkpoint, and an office for the Transportation Safety Administration.

Airport officials say St. Cloud can now fully serve as a reliever airport to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Before the expansion, the airport’s check-in area could only fit about 30 people. Today it has a security checkpoint area that can accommodate 200 people, along with office space for the TSA. Grand opening festivities were held on April 21, 2009.

Shingobee constructed the original airport terminal building in 1995, a new air traffic control tower in 2004, and a variety of other support facilities at the Airport. Shingobee was recently awarded installation of a passenger loading bridge to connect the passenger terminal to commercial airplanes, a project funded by the federal stimulus bill.

Additional information:

Minnesota Public Radio coverage, March 16, 2009, St. Cloud airport expands during tough economic times

Shingobee Completes New Ice Arena with “Green” Features

December 2008

Shingobee is currently putting the finishing touches on a new ice arena addition at Dakotah! Sport and Fitness in Prior Lake, MN, for the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. The new facility contains energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and state-of-the-art components.

The new arena is a 72,000 square foot addition of a second sheet of ice at the Dakotah! Ice Center, which is home ice for the Prior Lake High School Girls’ and Boys’ Hockey Teams as well as the Prior Lake Hockey Association. Shingobee provided pre-construction and general contracting services for the facility. The ice arena was completed and opened for practices in mid-October, with the first hockey game played on November 15, 2008.

State-of-the-Art Amenities

The new ice arena is NHL-sized, with a 900-seat capacity, and additional seating available for a capacity of up to 1,200. It features a seamless glass dasher board, also called support-less radius glass, which curves along with the boards. The SMSC project was the first in the world to order this system and the second to have it installed. There are only three installations worldwide to date.

The new building also houses two mezzanine levels, an elevator, seven locker rooms, and a new concession area on the lower level accessible for both sheets. On the upper level there are two conference rooms and concourse viewing and seating area for spectators who want to watch from the comfort of tables and chairs through large windows while staying warm.

Some areas of the existing facility were relocated in order to serve both arenas, such as offices and skate sharpening. Two of the seven new locker rooms in the new space now provide permanent space for the Prior Lake High School Girls’ and Boys’ Hockey Teams. In the first ice arena the six locker rooms were remodeled to create four larger locker rooms.

“Green” Components

Shingobee worked closely with building designers, HTG Architects, and engineers, Emanuelson-Podas, Inc. and Bolton & Menk, to construct several innovative, environmentally friendly features in the new arena:

A compressor system and heat exchanger takes the waste heat from the ice-making equipment and redirects it through the bleachers to heat the concrete in the floor of the seating area. This feature can also be turned on and off to save heat.
A 32,648 square foot green roof treats storm water and improves energy efficiency by lowering the temperature inside the building to reduce energy usage. For additional information on the green roof, click here.
Eight skylights coupled with daylight harvesting sensors reduce energy consumption further by providing natural daylight to the arena. When there’s enough natural light coming in, these special sensors shut the lights off, thus saving energy.
Sixteen solar panels in two banks of eight each, which sit atop the roof, heat water for use in the ice resurfacing equipment.
14,000 square feet of VAST recycled composite pavers (made of recycled tires and plastic containers) are installed along the parking lot center aisle and at the entrance of the facility. By using these pavers, the SMSC saved 7,000 tires and 210,000 plastic containers from entering landfills.
Low flow and efficient faucets, showers, and toilets will conserve water.
A rain garden, or retention pond, is located in a decorative area with flag poles containing the United States, Minnesota, and Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community flags.
1,900 lineal feet of benches for arena seating are made from 100% recycled high-density polyethylene plastic lumber which is created from milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and other #2 plastic containers. All of this material would have normally been taken to a landfill where it would have laid for hundreds of years.
The landscaping at the new ice arena will serve as the public interface between Dakotah! Sport and Fitness and County Road 82 and the adjoining walking trail. Irrigated turf areas will provide a visual contrast and a buffer between the roadway and parking lot area. Trees and shrubs will have seasonal color along with upscale lighting for nighttime appeal.

The NHL-sized ice arena seats up to 1200 and features a curved, seamless glass dasher board system.

The building features two mezzanine levels for spectator viewing comfort.

Energy efficient features include a green roof (now dormant), skylights, and solar panels.

Comfortable bleacher seating is made from recycled material and heated in the floor with waste heat from the ice-making equipment.

Shingobee has now completed two of the largest ice arena facilities in the state, along with the Super Rink at the National Sports Center, which was completed in 1998. For additional information on Shingobee’s community and recreation facilities experience, click here.

Stacy Gleason Earns LEED® Accreditation

December 2008

Shingobee Project Manager Stacy Gleason was recently recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council for achieving the designation of LEED® Accredited Professional. She earned this designation by demonstrating the knowledge of green building practice required for successful implementation of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Green Building Rating System™. Stacy is Shingobee’s first LEED® Accredited Professional, and will be involved in an advisory role on the growing number of construction projects that seek to utilize energy efficient practices in their design and construction.

The LEED AP credential represents knowledge of the LEED Rating System and its application in practice. LEED APs facilitate the integrated design process and streamline the LEED Certification process. More than 60,000 building professionals from across all areas of practice have become LEED APs since the Professional Accreditation program was launched in 2001.

Construction of Two Hotels Under Way

December 2008

Shingobee has begun construction of two hotel projects in recent months – a Holiday Inn Express in Mankato, MN, and a Hilton Homewood Suites in New Brighton, MN.

The new Holiday Inn Express will be five stories and have 88 rooms, with two fifth-floor balconies available to guests. Aimed at value-oriented leisure and business travelers, the hotel will feature single, double, executive, and suite accommodations. The hotel will have three pools, including a large kiddie pool and a spa pool overlooking Fern Lake. The development is on a 5+ acre site. Construction is scheduled for April 2009 completion.

Construction started in early November on a Homewood Suites by Hilton hotel. The building will be a five-story, 124-suite hotel with a prototype Homewood Suites architectural plan to expedite the development timeline. This is Shingobee’s second hotel project for Torgerson Properties of Willmar, MN. The project is scheduled for December 2009 completion.

For more on Shingobee’s hotel construction experience, click here.

United Prairie Bank Completed in Mankato

December 2008

Shingobee completed construction of a new facility for United Prairie Bank in Mankato on June 30, 2008, and the Bank held its Grand Opening festivities in October. The new location replaced a temporary facility at another location in Mankato, and is also the company headquarters for United Prairie Bank’s entire 16-bank operation.

The exterior of the three-story, 29,200 sq. ft. steel-framed structure is clad with Dark Ironspot Velour face brick and 153 tons of Northern Buff limestone quarried and fabricated in Mankato by Vetter Stone Company. The curtainwalls and windows are framed with anodized aluminum in champagne color and filled with reflective bronze glass. The drive-under auto bank has four full service lanes and ATM. The building interior features eight foot tall cherry doors and cherry trim, marble tile and terrazzo floors, and a water fountain feature in the main lobby.

Stuart Sneer, President of United Prairie Banks, cited “the superb project management and precise oversight employed during the construction process” and added, “I will have no hesitation in recommending your company to my peers in the financial industry.”

This is the second facility Shingobee has constructed for United Prairie Bank; the first was completed in Spicer, MN, in 2003. Both projects were designed by HTG Architects of Eden Prairie, MN.

For more on Shingobee’s financial institutions construction experience, click here.

Branch Facilities Completed for Citizens State Bank of Clara City

December 2008

Shingobee recently completed construction of two new branch bank facilities for Citizens State Bank of Clara City. The Bank’s original facility in Clara City was constructed by Shingobee in 2004. Shingobee worked with Cities Edge Architects of Willmar, MN, to construct the new facilities located in Granite Falls and Echo, MN.

The new Granite Falls building is a 5,500 square foot, single-story structure featuring three drive-up lanes, multiple offices, and conference room. The building maintains simplicity for economics, yet sustainability and attention to detail deliver a warm, grand feel to the lobby and character of the building.

In Echo, the 1,500 square foot branch office features items such as Echo's first ATM machine and drive-up teller. Positioned along the local highway in town, this facility is very simple but grand in appearance. With all standard amenities, the bank is ready to serve the community for many years to come.

For more on Shingobee’s financial institutions construction experience, click here.

Granite Falls branch during construction

Echo branch during construction

Two Metro Retail Centers Remodeled for Market Repositioning

December 2008

Shingobee constructed major renovations of two Twin Cities area retail centers earlier this year.

Shingobee has been working with M & J Wilkow, owner of the Crossroads of Roseville retail center in Roseville, MN, on several phased remodels and upgrades. To date, the following have been completed:

Dick’s Sporting Goods – shell construction and all interior improvements
Upper level demolition, remodel, and exterior remodel for an Ulta store, build-out for a Lane Bryant store, and shell work for a future space, common hallway, and mechanical room areas
Interior demolition of a large restaurant space
Interior demolition and reconstruction of a 4,000 square foot space for an Armed Services Recruiting Center

Additional phases are planned as part of a complete repositioning of the retail center.

In Coon Rapids, MN, Shingobee completed a building addition and remodel for a Sports Authority store at the Riverdale Commons Shopping Center, owned by Inland Commercial Property Management. The project included remodel of a space that was previously occupied by a Wicke’s Furniture store, and a 7,355 square foot addition. The total space prepared for Sports Authority tenant improvement work was 42,588 square feet.

For more information on Shingobee’s extensive retail construction experience, click here.

Exterior remodel and interior improvements were constructed for Dick's Sporting Goods

Upper level remodel included exterior remodel for an Ulta store

Addition and remodel were completed for Sports Authority

Janet Artmann Recognized by ABC

November 2007

Janet Artmann, Shingobee’s Safety Director and Project Coordinator for the St. Cloud office, was named “Construction Woman of the Year” by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) at their annual meeting on November 20, 2007.

Also named the “Magnolia Award,” the annual award recognizes women in the construction industry who are patient and strong, advancing their careers in a determined and steady manner. They continually grow and strive to improve. They are generous and sharing, and their good work branches out into their companies and communities and has a positive impact on their surroundings. Janet possesses all of these qualities and more.

As an active ABC member since 1998, she has worked with the Excellence in Construction Program, CEF Trust Committee, and is the most tenured active member of the ABC Safety Committee. She has coordinated training seminars, safety days, negotiated behind the scenes with the OSHA Partnership Program, and was instrumental in building the STEP Program for the local chapter.

At Shingobee, Janet is the Safety Director and is the backbone of our highly successful safety program. Her energy, enthusiasm, and leadership make her stand out in an industry that is traditionally dominated by men. She promotes a positive image for ABC and for Shingobee.

Congratulations to Janet on this well-deserved honor!

The Minnesota chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors is a statewide association representing 375 merit contractors and construction-related firms across Minnesota and North Dakota. Shingobee has been an active member of ABC for twenty years. For more information, visit www.mnabc.com.

Janet Artmann

Marriott Projects Nearing Completion

November 2007

Shingobee is managing construction of two very different Marriott hotel projects this fall.

A new Courtyard by Marriott is being constructed in the Arbor Lakes development in Maple Grove, MN. Finishing touches are being completed on the exterior, and the entire project is scheduled for completion in December. This project is being built for a private developer client; see article below for more detailed information.

Work is also nearing completion on a major renovation of the Marriott City Center Hotel, located in the heart of the business district in downtown Minneapolis. A complete update of the hotel entrances and 5th floor lobby, restaurant, and bar has been completed, and renovation of the 4th floor banquet and prefunction areas is nearly complete. This property is owned and managed by Marriott Hotels Corporation.

Shingobee's Hotel Construction Experience

Courtyard by Marriott, Arbor Lakes

Marriott Minneapolis City Center

Retail Building Under Way in Big Sky, Montana

Fall 2007

Construction began in September on Shingobee's first project in the state of Montana, the Goode Place Building in Big Sky.

Located in the city's new master-planned town center, the retail building will be 6,200 sf in size and is planned for four tenant spaces. The project is scheduled for completion in January.

Shingobee's Retail Construction Experience

Construction photo, November 07

First Retirement Planning Center Completed for US Bank

Fall 2007

Shingobee recently completed a two-part remodel for US Bank, creating their first Retirement Planning Center at a branch facility in Edina, MN.

The first phase included demolition of pre-existing office space to construct the 3,800 sf retirement planning center. The second phase consisted of remodeling the former 7,800 sf retail branch facility. The branch was able to remain open for business during the remodel.

The center is designed to be casual and relaxing, a place where people will feel comfortable talking to a financial advisor about their retirement. It includes a small auditorium space where regular seminars will be hosted on retirement topics.

Shingobee's Financial Institutions Experience

Addition / Remodel for Hometown Federal Credit Union

Fall 2007

Hometown Federal Credit Union, headquartered in Owatonna, MN, engaged Shingobee to undertake a 3,400 sf addition and complete remodel of their existing 6,800 sf facility. Construction started in late August and is scheduled for completion by the end of December. The Credit Union is remaining open for business during this remodel.

Shingobee's Financial Institutions Experience

United Prairie Bank Under Way in Mankato

Fall 2007

A new three-story, 29,200 sf bank building is under way in Mankato, MN, for United Prairie Bank. Construction on the steel-framed structure started in August and is scheduled for completion Spring 2008. The exterior is to be clad with Dark Ironspot Velour face brick and 153 tons of Northern Buff limestone quarried and fabricated in Mankato by Vetter Stone Company. The curtainwalls and windows are framed with anodized aluminum in champagne color and filled with reflective bronze glass. The drive-under auto bank will have four full service lanes and ATM. The building's interior features eight foot tall cherry doors and cherry trim, marble tile and terrazzo floors, and a water fountain feature in the main lobby.

This is the second facility Shingobee has constructed for United Prairie Bank; the first was completed in Spicer, MN, in 2003. Both projects were designed by HTG Architects of Eden Prairie, MN.

Shingobee's Financial Institutions Experience

Recent Project Completions

Fall 2007

Shingobee has completed or is nearing completion of a number of great projects for our clients in recent months. Here are the highlights.

Two satellite uplink facilities for DirecTV - a major remodel of an existing facility in Oakdale, MN, and a new facility in Big Lake, MN. (For security reasons, we are unable to display photos of the projects.)

A two-building mixed use office and retail development, Village on Quebec, in New Hope, MN.

A new building for Adam's Pest Control in Medina, MN. The two-story, 13,350 sf building houses the company's offices, warehouse, and garage/maintenance area for company vehicles.

Grand Auto & RV Wash, an auto service center near Grand Casino in Hinckley, MN.

A 30,000 sf addition for Talon Innovations, an international high-tech manufacturer of semiconductor components located in Sauk Rapids, MN.

The second phase of renovations to the community building at Eastman Park in St. Cloud, MN, providing an outdoor splash pool, landscaping, and new park features.

Holiday Stationstores: New store construction in Ramsey and St. Michael, MN, and remodels in Clearwater, Chaska, Rush City, Cold Spring, and St. Bonifacius, MN.

A 9,300 sf building and 16,000 sf play area for KinderCare Learning Center in Rogers, MN.

Renovation of a 60,000 sf former Nash Finch grocery store building to accommodate Gander Mountain in Rochester, MN.

Demolition and reconstruction of McDonald's restaurants in Wayzata and St. Cloud, MN.

A new SuperAmerica convenience store with car wash in Elk River, MN.

A 6,000 sf retail building at Crossroads Mall in St. Cloud, MN.

Expansion and renovation of a Super Mom's warehouse / distribution facility in St. Paul Park, MN.

An addition / remodel of Qwest Telecommunications' facility in Isanti, MN. See article below.

Numerous tenant improvement projects: Golden Glow Tanning in Eden Prairie, MN; Cornerstone Vision Clinic and U.S. Home Source Realty, St. Michael, MN; Big Lake Dental Specialists, Big Lake, MN; Custom Search, Plymouth, MN; StarCor Credit Union, Becker, MN; Mountain Mudd Espresso, New Hope, MN.

A rec facility for Ain Dah Yung Youth Center in St. Paul, MN.

Village on Quebec, New Hope

Adam's Pest Control, Medina

Talon Innovations, Sauk Rapids

Eastman Park Community Center, St. Cloud

Holiday Stationstore, St. Michael

KinderCare, Rogers, MN

Gander Mountain, Rochester

McDonald's, Wayzata

SuperAmerica, Elk River

Odawa Casino Resort Opens its Doors

July 2007

The $140 million, 290,000 sq. ft. Odawa Casino Resort in Petoskey, Michigan, opened to the public in June and held its official Grand Opening July 25.

Constructed by Shingobee Builders, in a joint venture with Clark Construction of Lansing, Michigan, the Odawa Casino Resort features a 135,000 sq. ft. main floor that houses 1,500 slot machines and other gaming areas. The property features three restaurants, a night club, sports bar, and a 1,000-person capacity show room which features headline entertainment. The facility was constructed to be environmentally friendly, with state-of-the-art HVAC and air replacement systems, and other green features.

Odawa Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

Petoskey News-Review article: Casino wows crowds

Heartland Credit Union Completed

July 2007

Shingobee recently completed the new headquarters building for Heartland Credit Union in Inver Grove Heights, MN, and the facility opened to the public on July 30. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will be held on August 15.

Groundbreaking for Qwest's Isanti Office Addition

June 2007

On Monday, June 4th, 2007, members of Isanti commissions and boards and Qwest Communications employees gathered to break ground for an expansion of Qwest's Isanti Office building.

View article on groundbreaking

Work Begins on New Courtyard by Marriott in Maple Grove

January 2007

Shingobee has begun construction of a new Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in the Fountains of Arbor Lakes development in Maple Grove.

The four-story block and precast hotel will house 115 guest rooms and support functions, with an indoor pool and outdoor spa. Designed for business travelers, the hotel will include a full-service restaurant, bar, and buffet; and will offer state-of-the-art connectivity amenities for guests. Construction will include all new site improvements - parking, walks, landscaping, on-site utility services, and tie-ins.

The facility is being developed by Torgerson Properties of Willmar, MN, a premier hotel and restaurant developer with properties throughout the state and in Florida. Torgerson also owns the Hampton Inn and Staybridge Suites in Maple Grove, and currently has a Holiday Inn and Water Park under construction in Maple Grove.

Completion of the Courtyard by Marriott is scheduled for December 2007.

View construction photos.

The Cornerstone Development Completed

January 2007

Shingobee has completed construction of the Cornerstone development in St. Michael, MN. Located at the southwest corner of County Roads 35 and 19 in the heart of St. Michael, it includes a new building for Thrifty White Pharmacy and a two-story multi-tenant retail/office building.

The Downtown Redevelopment project was initiated by the City of St. Michael in 2004 with acquisition of the site and demolition of existing buildings. During 2004-05, the City conducted a search for a private development firm with whom they could partner for development of the site. Shingobee Real Estate Services was awarded the project in November 2005.

With the assistance of RSP Architects, Shingobee created a two-phase plan: Phase I, retail / mixed-use buildings, constructed in 2006; and Phase II, a senior housing component to be constructed at a later date.

Shingobee developed the initial two-acre site to include a 14,880 square foot two-story multi-tenant retail and office building, and a 10,900 square foot retail pharmacy building. A pharmacy tenant, Thrifty White, already established in the community, was identified as needing upgraded commercial space and became the anchor tenant in the development. The project was named "the Cornerstone" to emphasize the City of St. Michael's goal to develop the site to create a sense of community while maintaining its unique historical small town image.

The Cornerstone site is located on the southwest corner of County Road 19 (Main Street) and County Road 35/State Highway 241 (Central Ave) in St. Michael. The busy site is considered to be the corner of "Main and Main" in the city, and is adjacent to numerous professional buildings, restaurants, an historic church, public and parochial schools, and established businesses.

The design team researched the surrounding community, history, and site to establish the palette of materials and architectural character of the buildings. The design focused on establishing a strong expression at the intersection by bringing the buildings up to the street, emphasizing the connection with pedestrians. The material palette was a combination of traditional materials (brick and stone) combined with modern accents (metal and glass) to develop a composition of buildings that reflected the historic elements with a contemporary edge.

Building arrangements within the site sought to place the buildings adjacent to the streets to screen the parking fields, provide outdoor plazas for both new and existing buildings, and landscaping which kept with the "main street" aesthetic. The site plan included storm water management strategies that utilized "rain gardens" as temporary filtration before entering the existing watershed. Soil corrections were also required due to previous contamination from an old fueling station.

Construction of the project was begun in March 2006. The Pharmacy was occupied in August 2006 and opened for business on August 28. The two-story corner building was completed and ready for occupancy in October 2006. Leasing and build-out of tenant spaces is currently ongoing. A Vision Clinic will be the first tenant to open for business in the building.

The project has been a true team collaboration between the City and its staff, Shingobee's real estate and construction professionals, and the design and engineering consultants involved in the project. Shingobee is proud to have been involved in such a successful venture.

More photos

New Work Awarded and Under Way

January 2007

Shingobee's workload continues to be busy in the midst of the winter construction season. A number of new projects have begun in recent months.

Click on links to view construction photos.

We are constructing two satellite uplink facilities for DirecTV - a major remodel of an existing facility in Oakdale, MN, and a new facility in Big Lake, MN. This is highly specialized, technical construction work, and we are delighted to be partnering with this successful satellite transmission company. (For security reasons, we are unable to display photos of the projects.)

Construction started in October on a new three-story main office facility for Heartland Credit Union in Inver Grove Heights, MN. The 22,000 square foot building will be completed this summer.

Work continues on a two-building mixed use office and retail development, Village on Quebec, in New Hope, Minnesota.

Great progress is being made on the new building for Adam's Pest Control in Medina, MN. This new two-story, 13,350 square foot building will house the company's offices, warehouse, and garage/maintenance area for company vehicles, as well as providing retail space in this prominent location on Highway 55 just west of Hamel, MN.

A building addition under construction for Talon Innovations in Sauk Rapids, MN, will more than double the size of their existing building. The successful growth of this international high-tech manufacturer of semiconductor components necessitated the expansion. The added space will house production, warehouse, and office spaces. Shingobee began working last spring as design/builder, assisting Talon upfront with planning commission approval and easement vacation, and recommended early orders of precast and structural steel to fast-track the construction.

We are continuing work in the Mankato, MN, area with the construction of a new Petco Animal Supplies retail store at the Mankato Heights Plaza Shopping Center. The 15,000 square foot building is expected to be complete in February 2007.

Tenant improvements have begun for the anchor tenant in the Cornerstone building in St. Michael, MN - the Cornerstone Vision Clinic. See accompanying article for more information.

Heartland Credit Union

Village on Quebec

Adam's Pest Control

Talon Innovations

Petco Animal Supplies

Wrap-Up of 2006 Construction Season

January 2007

Shingobee has completed or is nearing completion of a number of great projects for our clients in recent months. Here are the highlights.

Click on links to view photos.

We're putting the finishing touches on the new Public Works Building for the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community near Mystic Lake in Shakopee, MN. See article below for additional information.
A new Fire Station for the City of Sauk Rapids, MN, was completed in September.
Work was recently completed on a 40,000 sq. ft. pre-engineered steel building addition to Standard Iron & Wire Works' existing Sauk Centre, MN, manufacturing facility.
New Holiday Stationstores in Cottage Grove, Blaine, St. Paul, and Monticello; a car wash addition in Mora, MN; and a Holiday Stationstore remodel in Owatonna, MN.
A new free-standing 25,000 sq. ft. retail facility for Northern Tool & Equipment in Blaine, MN, was open for business mid-November.
A new Kwik Trip gas/convenience store with car wash was completed recently in Buffalo, MN.
A beautiful, new 8,000 sq. ft. facility was completed in December for Lake Community Bank, a new branch office in Albertville, MN. They opened for business on Monday, December 18.
Design/build construction of a 25,000 sq. ft. office/warehouse was completed in July for the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant in Monticello, MN. The warehouse portion of the building was constructed in 73 days, start to finish.
A new 6,000 sq. ft. Olive Garden restaurant in Mankato, MN, opened for business in mid-October. The project included demolition of an old restaurant building, construction of the new building, all interior work, and sitework.
A City Hall and Fire Department were completed recently for the City of Rockville, MN.
At Eastman Park in St. Cloud, complete interior and exterior renovation of a brick and stone municipal pool shelter (originally constructed in 1948) into a Community Center, with offices, activity spaces, and meeting rooms.
New McDonald's restaurants in Willmar and St. Cloud, MN; and remodels in Sartell, Chanhassen, Norwood-Young America, and St. Cloud. Several of the remodel projects were for installation of McDonald's new side-by-side drive-thru concept.
A new Culver's restaurant in St. Cloud, MN.
Construction management of a complete interior and exterior renovation of a 27-year-old building for the City of Royalton City Center. Originally built as a medical center, and for some time containing retail spaces, the building now houses the City's administrative offices, Council chambers, and police station, as well as their library and museum.
Work is nearing completion on phased tenant improvements at Corporate Curve in Eagan, MN. This project involved moving and shifting seven tenants occupying 35,000 square feet of space, including a single corporate tenant occupying 22,000 square feet. Tight schedules made this a fun, challenging project, requiring exceptional coordination and communication among the construction team.
Several office tenant improvement projects: a 20,000 sq. ft. space for Holmes Corporation in the Waters VI Business Center (Eagan, MN); buildout for an expansion of Hyrian Corporation's offices in Plymouth, MN; and Waddell & Reed in Plymouth, MN.
Telecommunications remodels throughout Minnesota for Qwest Communications - including Shoreview, Duluth, and Cold Spring.
Exterior remodel of a Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in West St. Paul, MN, to update to the new corporate standards.

Our thanks to all the clients who entrust us with their construction projects! Congratulations to the teams on these successful projects!

SMSC Public Works Building

Sauk Rapids Fire Station

Standard Iron & Wire Works Addition

Holiday Stationstore, St. Paul

Northern Tool & Equipment

Lake Community Bank

Olive Garden Restaurant

Eastman Park Community Center

McDonald's, St. Cloud

Royalton City Center

"Grand Opening" of Thrifty White Pharmacy in St. Michael

09-26-2006

Thrifty White Grand Opening 09/25/2006

Representatives of Thrifty White, the City of St. Michael , the Chamber of Commerce, and Shingobee Builders helped cut the ribbon to open Thrifty White's new facility.

"Grand Opening" ceremonies were held on Monday, September 25, 2006, at the new Thrifty White Pharmacy in St. Michael, MN. Jerry Morton, Store Manager, expressed Thrifty White's commitment to the community, and their appreciation to the City of St. Michael and Shingobee Builders (the building's developer) for making their new facility happen. Representatives of Thrifty White, the City of St. Michael, the Chamber of Commerce, and Shingobee helped cut the ribbon to open the new facility.

The Thrifty White building is part of the City of St. Michael's new downtown redevelopment, named "the Cornerstone." Located at the southwest corner of County Roads 35 and 19 in the heart of St. Michael, it includes the new building for Thrifty White and a two-story retail/office building. Shingobee was selected by the City of St. Michael in November 2005 as the designated developer for this central downtown corner, and construction began in March 2006. Thrifty White moved into its new building at the end of August; and the corner retail/office building is nearly complete and ready for occupancy. For leasing information, contact Michelle LaGue, Northstar Partners, (952) 465-3300, Email.

View more photos of the Cornerstone development.

Shingobee Builders is proud of its safety record

June 2006

With over 115,000 man-hours logged last year, we had no serious accidents, and zero lost-time cases. For the past several years we have been honored by the National Safety Committee of Associated Builders and Contractors with a Gold Level of Achievement Award in the S.T.E.P. (Safety Training and Evaluation Process) Program. We have also been recognized by ABC's National Business Roundtable with a Construction Industry Safety Excellence Award.

Steven Schultz, Executive Vice President and head of our St. Cloud office, is the Safety Director for Shingobee Builders. He establishes policy, conducts training, and performs periodic jobsite inspections. He reviews all accident reports and is the company's liaison to the workers' compensation company and OSHA.

Steve is an active member of Associated Builders and Contractors' Safety Committee, promoting safe construction practices throughout the state. Recently, ABC and OSHA (Minnesota Department of Labor) formalized a partnership charter agreement that recognizes the importance of providing a safe and healthful work environment in the construction industry. Shingobee participated as a signatory partner in the agreement. [View ABC news release]

Safety is an ongoing priority at Shingobee Builders. All project managers, superintendents, carpenters, and laborers recently completed OSHA 10-hour training. Shingobee Builders' Safety Program is outlined in a Company Safety Policy and the State of Minnesota A.W.A.I.R. Program, which were recently revised and updated.

We have worked diligently with our workers compensation carrier to lower our Experience Modification Rate. We place high importance on accurate record keeping for safety related items (i.e. OSHA 200 logs, employee training logs, MSDS information) and have improved those systems over the past few years.

Our budget for safety equipment has been increased to allow for the purchase of personal protective gear such as fall protection equipment (safety belts and lanyards). We have also purchased videotapes for various training programs, which enables us to check these out to employees for viewing on their own time. We have recently started to utilize computer-based training.

We have made significant improvements in our "self-inspection and audit" program. Our programs have been tailored to be site specific, with training focused on empowering all field employees to be responsible for identifying potential hazards. Jobsite superintendents are asked to conduct regular inspections of their sites, and to notify subcontractors and Shingobee employees of any potentially unsafe conditions and any possible OSHA violations. We have invited OSHA (Consultation Division) onto our sites to conduct complimentary investigations, where they will note any violations, yet no fines are assessed if the problems are abated within 30 days. We have conducted regular site visits with our workers compensation carrier, and have encouraged subcontractors to invite theirs to visit our sites as well.

Jobsite Superintendents are responsible for day-to-day safety practices on their jobsites. Our Superintendents "lead by example," and manage our jobsites with the full backing of the company. They conduct weekly "tool box" safety meetings, maintain documentation and reporting, ensure safety equipment is available and used properly, and are trained to respond appropriately if an accident happens. Safety is on the agenda for all jobsite meetings, and subcontractors are evaluated periodically for their safety performance.

We strive to be proactive in our approach to safety and, as our employees maintain their "safety-first" attitudes, Shingobee Builders will continue to build more successful, profitable, and accident-free projects.

Shingobee Awarded Contract for Public Works Building

SMSC Public Works Building Elevation

The following announcement was released by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community on April 5, 2006.

Shakopee, Minnesota - The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community has awarded a contract to Shingobee Builders, Inc., headquartered in Loretto, Minnesota, for construction of a new Public Works Building at the corner of Dakotah Parkway and County Road 42 in Shakopee.

"We are honored to be selected to build the new Public Works building for the Community. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Tribe has been an important part of Shingobee's success and growth over the years," said Shingobee Chief Executive Officer and founder Gae Veit.

The approximately 60,000 square foot, one-level building will have mezzanines for storage in the bays. The building will house six departments of the SMSC and its Gaming Enterprise: the Print Shop, SMSC Public Works, SMSC Maintenance, and for the Gaming Enterprise: Fleet Maintenance, Property Operations, and the Furnishings Shop. The tan with green accent building will be made of precast concrete panels. Construction will take approximately one year to complete after groundbreaking in spring 2006, with completion expected in early 2007. The building was designed by HTG Architects.

Shingobee has built Dakotah Meadows Mini Storage, Playworks LINK Event Center, Tiowakan Spiritual Center (which won three awards: Project of the Year, Minnesota Construction Association; National Award of Excellence, Associated Builders and Contractors; and the Award of Excellence, ABC Minnesota Chapter), the fire station, the Golf Course Maintenance Building and storm shelters, an addition and remodel of Little Six Casino, and the SMSC Education Department.

All construction contractors selected by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community agree to hire a certain percentage of Native employees. The SMSC is cognizant of the severe economic conditions and widespread unemployment that exists amongst our sovereign people, and therefore, places a moral obligation on contractors for public service projects/contracts to assist in relieving such economically depressed conditions.

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community

The SMSC utilizes its financial resources from gaming and non-gaming enterprises to pay for all of the internal infrastructure of the Tribe, including but not limited to housing, roads, water and sewer systems, emergency services, and essential services to its Tribal members in education, health, and welfare. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community has a charitable giving program which comes from a cultural and social tradition to assist those in need. Over the past several years the SMSC has donated more than $56.5 million to charitable organizations and Indian Tribes, including more than $14.5 million in fiscal year 2005. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, a federally recognized Indian Tribe in Minnesota , is the owner and operator of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Playworks, Dakotah! Sport and Fitness, Dakotah! Ice Arena, and the Dakotah! Training Center for Elite and Competitive Skaters and other enterprises on a reservation south of the Twin Cities.

This press release and other information may be downloaded from the SMSC website at www.shakopeedakota.org.

Construction photos for the project can be viewed here.

Michigan Casino Work Outlined by Tribe

May 2006

Shingobee Builders is partnering with Clark Construction of Lansing, Michigan, on construction of a major new casino/hotel project in Petoskey, Michigan. Plans for the project were recently presented to Resort Township board members by Frank Ettawageshik, chairman of The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. The tribe held groundbreaking ceremonies in September 2005, and construction got under way this past March 2006.

Aerial photo 4/27/06

Aerial view of the construction site, taken 4/27/2006

View article in the Petoskey News-Review, April 14, 2006.

View additional construction photos of the jobsite.

Shingobee Projects Recognized for "Excellence in Construction"

March 17, 2006: Shingobee Builders was recognized today by Associated Builders and Contractors with a National Award of Merit, for work on the Como Town Amusement Park project in St. Paul, Minnesota. The recognition of the project was awarded in the "Other General Construction" category of ABC's "Excellence in Construction" awards program.

Project manager Lynn Christiansen and Superintendent Matt Grobel accepted the award at the association's national convention in Las Vegas, NV.

Shingobee constructed the Como Town project from December 2004 through June 2005, working closely with Lancer Management (owner) and Cuningham Group (architect) to provide cost estimating and construction expertise as they developed the unique design for the renovation of the park. The project included sitework, electrical supply, and landscaping for the 3.6-acre site; construction of a 1,700 square foot treehouse, four small buildings, and a 100-seat amphitheater. Construction challenges were presented by extensive underground work in winter conditions, tight schedule and budget, and the unusual construction requirements of the creative design. The project was completed well within the budget, and the amusement park opened on time for the Memorial Day weekend. [more photos]

"Treehouse" feature at Como Town

ABC's awards program recognizes the quality and innovation of merit construction and honors all members of the construction team, including the contractor, the owner, and the design team. The winning projects at the national level are selected from entries submitted from across the country, and are judged on complexity, unusual challenges, completion time, workmanship, innovation, safety, and budget.

In addition to the national award, the Como Town project was recognized by ABC at the chapter level. Shingobee was presented an Award of Excellence at ABC Minnesota's annual awards event in January 2006.

Also at the MN Chapter event, the St. Cloud Regional Airport Air Traffic Control Tower was recognized with an Award of Merit in the Institutional Construction category. Shingobee Builders provided construction management for the St. Cloud Airport's new state-of-the-art Control Tower in 2003-04. Shingobee provided preconstruction phase services, assisting the owner and architect with environmental assessment, site selection, soil investigations, cost analysis, and bidding. The construction phase of the project involved the construction of a seven-story precast concrete tower, along with infrastructure improvements and extensions, and sitework. [more photos]

Shingobee was also recognized at the January Chapter awards event with a Gold Level Safety Training and Evaluation Program (STEP) Award. The program provides companies with an organized approach to analyze and develop safety and loss prevention programs. This is Shingobee's eighth year at the Gold level in this program.

Associated Builders and Contractors is a national association representing more than 23,000 merit shop construction and construction-related firms in 80 chapters across the United States. For more news and information, visit www.abc.org or www.mnabc.com.

Nichole Martini Recognized by MEDA

06-21-2006

Nichole Martini, Shingobee's Corporate Secretary and Human Resources Manager, was named "Volunteer of the Year" by Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA) at their annual awards event on June 13, 2006.

Nichole was honored for her work as Chair of the Silent Auction Committee for the MEDA 2005 Gala. With a change in staff at MEDA, committee chairs jumped in and pulled everything together for the event. Nichole revved up the committee, identified donors, solicited auction items, and created packages of donations for bidding at the Gala.

"Nichole was a key part of the success of the silent auction," says Jan Jordet, Director of Fund Development and Communications at MEDA. "She really took charge and was directly responsible for much of the auction's financial success."

MEDA is a unique nonprofit organization with experienced business development professionals, dedicated to assisting ethnic minority owned companies that are committed to generating long-term growth and profitability. One-to-one counseling, education and training sessions, volunteers and mentors assist entrepreneurs in all aspects of business, start-up, expansion, borrowing and acquisition.

Shingobee Builders was a long-time MEDA client, and now supports the organization as a board company, providing assistance with mentoring programs and other volunteer opportunities.

View Honors page from MEDA Annual Report

Groundbreaking Held for "the Cornerstone" Redevelopment in St. Michael

Groundbreaking: the Cornerstone, St. Michael

Construction of the city of St. Michael's newest commercial development got under way in March. Shingobee held a ceremonial groundbreaking at the site on April 19, 2006, which was attended by representatives from the City Council, Economic Development Authority, Thrifty White Pharmacy, and the design and construction team.

For additional information about the project, see the article below.

To view current construction photos, click here.

Como Town Opens for Second Season

05-23-2006

Como Town Amusement Park opened earlier this month for its second season. Shingobee constructed the new amusement area at Como Park in St. Paul, MN, during the winter and early spring of 2005, and a few improvements were also constructed this spring. The new park has been well received by families in St. Paul and surrounding areas [see news story and photos]. In addition, Shingobee has been recognized with "construction excellence" awards for the project [see news story].

KSTP-TV News Coverage 5/5/2006 - Video

Como Town website

Shingobee Finalizes Plans for "the Cornerstone" St. Michael

Updated 04-19-2006

Shingobee Builders has announced finalized plans for construction of the City of St. Michael's downtown redevelopment, named "the Cornerstone." Located at the southwest corner of County Roads 35 and 19 in the heart of St. Michael, the first phase of work will include development of the entire two-acre site, construction of a new building for Thrifty White Pharmacy, and construction of a two-story retail/office building. Construction is planned to begin in March 2006.

Shingobee was selected by the City of St. Michael in November, 2005, as the developer for this central downtown corner, a site which the City designated for redevelopment. Since that time, Shingobee has worked closely with City staff to obtain the required approvals for construction to begin this month. Shingobee's selection for this project was the culmination of nearly a year of planning efforts on the part of our real estate team, in conjunction with RSP Architects and URS Corporation for land planning and architectural design services.

Plans for the development, named "the Cornerstone," include two buildings totaling 26,000 square feet of space, anchored by Thrifty White drug store, a business currently located within the city that wishes to move to the new development. In keeping with the community's desire to retain its small town feeling, the proposal is to develop buildings with architectural features that create an image of a well-maintained historic building, while also providing an interior space design that permits retailers to accommodate customers and compete with larger retailers.

Corner Building

Thrifty White Building

The Thrifty White building will be a single-story, 10,900 square foot building; the Corner building will be two stories, a total of approximately 15,000 square feet, and will be leased to retail and office tenants. A small plaza area, parking, and landscaping will complete the development of the two-acre site. Construction started in March, and both buildings are expected to be available for occupancy by September, 2006. Senior housing is proposed for a later phase of the project. [Construction photos]

Thrifty White Stores, Inc. is an employee owned group of stores that was founded in 1884 in Jamestown, ND, and operates 72 stores throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. The company has had a store in St. Michael since June 2001. Their desire to participate in St. Michael's downtown redevelopment by relocating their store to this location, in a new building, demonstrates Thrifty White's long term commitment to this community.

Tony Godlewski, Shingobee's project manager for the project, stated, "City staff - most importantly Marc Weigle, Community Development Director; City Engineer Steven Bot; and City Administrator Bob Derus - have had a keen eye and hands-on approach to this landmark kick-off to St. Michael's downtown redevelopment. These individuals have been a wonderful asset to the success of this project. The citizens of St. Michael are very fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and hard-working group of people."

For leasing information, contact Kate Waddick at Shingobee's Loretto office.

New Project Managers Announced

03-16-2006

We are pleased to announce the hire of Bob Sedey and Eddy Dehmer as project managers in our Loretto headquarters office.

Bob Sedey has 30 years experience in commercial and retail construction management, with projects that include Holiday convenience stores and Gander Mountain retail stores, grocery stores, office buildings, and warehouses. He has been retained as a senior project manager and will be responsible for both development and construction management. His background includes employment at Cargill, Inc., Holiday Companies, and Gander Mountain Company; and he has a civil engineering degree from the University of Minnesota .

Eddy Dehmer joins Shingobee with seven years experience managing a variety of project types, including new ground-up buildings, restaurant remodels, and tenant improvements. Recent clients have included Kroll Ontrack, Grubb & Ellis, and CIMA Labs. He will be in charge of developing and managing Shingobee's tenant improvement and general corporate markets. His professional background includes employment at Veit Companies and The Bainey Group, Inc., and a Bachelor of Science degree from North Dakota State University .

Welcome to the Shingobee TEAM!

Recent Project Completions

March 2006

Shingobee has completed a number of significant projects in recent months. Here are the highlights:

The multi-year remodel of several buildings at the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls' convent / retirement home was completed in December [photos]. Interior and exterior remodeling was provided on several buildings, along with site improvements to the grounds and roadways.
A beautiful, new three-story building was completed for St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, a new branch office in Sartell, MN. [photos]
A major remodel of Holiday Companies' corporate office was completed in November. [photos]
"Liquor Hutch," a major addition and renovation of an existing municipal liquor store, was completed in Hutchinson, MN. [photos]
A new Holiday Stationstore in Arden Hills [photos]; as well as Holiday remodels in Wayzata, Duluth, Zimmerman, and Monticello, MN.
A new administration building for MinnCo Credit Union, in Cambridge, MN. [photos] In addition to office and conference facilities, the building contains a community room used for training and meetings.
Addition of a new Famous Footwear store at "The Quarry" mall in northeast Minneapolis. [photos]
New McDonald's restaurants in Becker and St. Paul, MN; and McDonald's remodels in Rogers, Elk River, and Sauk Centre.
An exterior and interior facelift for the Rice Lake Plaza retail center in Maple Grove, MN. [photos]
Telecommunications remodels throughout Minnesota for Qwest Communications - including Cold Spring, Cloquet, Stillwater, and Virginia.
New Dunn Bros Coffee shops in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Champlin, MN. [photos]
Remodel of U.S. Post Office facilities in Baudette, Blaine, and Waseca, MN.
Buildout of a Tropicana Juice Bar at Maplewood Mall, MN. [photos]
Red Lobster restaurant remodels in Burnsville and Maplewood, MN.

St. Cloud Federal Credit

Union, Sartell, MN

Liquor Hutch, Hutchinson, MN

Famous Footwear, Minneapolis

Dunn Bros Coffee, St. Paul

Work Begins on Michigan Casino Project

02-07-2006

Shingobee Builders is partnering with Clark Construction of Lansing, Michigan, on preparations for a major casino project in Petoskey, Michigan. The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, which operates Victories Casino and Hotel in Petoskey, has announced plans for a new casino at a location south of the city. The tribe held groundbreaking ceremonies in September 2005, and construction is expected to begin in spring of 2006.

Shingobee and Clark are working closely with architects Leo A Daly (Omaha, NE) and AmerINDIAN (St. Paul, MN) to provide pricing and value engineering as plans are being finalized. Details are not yet available, but the plan is for the new facility to be a premier entertainment destination for the area. Petoskey is located in northern Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Kudos from Clients

11-03-2005

Michael Shields, AIA, RBC Dain Rauscher:

"I would like to thank Shingobee Builders for making the construction and move to our new office one of the easiest and problem free projects we have had in many years. Shingobee Builders helped us bring this project in on budget and completed it earlier than anticipated. It was great to have my expectations exceeded."

Glenn Baron, Lancer Hospitality (Como Town Amusement Park):

"Everybody in the Shingobee organization, from the President of the company to the Project Manager and the on-site crew stayed involved, communicated regularly and worked tirelessly to ensure that the project was completed on-time and on-budget. They proved to be flexible, creative and equipped with a can-do attitude."

Raymond M. Strege, PE, SEH Architects (St. Cloud Air Traffic Control Tower):

"Shingobee's participation contributed significantly to the success of the project. Thanks to Shingobee's recommendations and management, the STC ATCT has more cab area than ATCT's costing more than twice that of Saint Cloud's. The project was complex and challenging. The outcome, however, was excellent!"

David Solner, Cuningham Group Architects (Como Town Amusement Park):

"Members of Shingobee were extremely valuable in the creation of the new Como Town. From the on-site supervision to the construction workers to your administrative staff in the home office, all went above and beyond to help make the project a success. Details matter in what we do, and Shingobee proved they could handle the details."

Ramsey Retail Center Phase I Completed

11-03-2005

On September 28, 2005, a festive ribbon-cutting celebration was held for the new Coborn's Superstore constructed by Shingobee Builders in Ramsey, Minnesota. As the anchor for the new retail development at Ramsey Town Center, the grand opening ushers in a new era for residents of Ramsey - the ability to shop, dine, and find entertainment close to home.

The event marks the completion of the first phase of a retail development that will eventually total 350,000 square feet of new retail space. The 62,000 square foot Coborn's Superstore offers many convenience features to the local community in addition to groceries - pharmacy, video rental, liquor store, and Little Duke's gas/convenience store, among others.

Representatives of Coborn's and Ramsey at ribbon-cutting ceremony: (L to R, front) Don Wetter, Mark Coborn, Mabel Coborn, Dan Coborn, Jim Norman (Ramsey), Mayor Thomas Gamec (Ramsey), Nathan Tykwinski, David Elvig (Ramsey Council); (L to R, back) Bob Thueringer, Mike Wahlin, Chris Coborn, Mike Wytinski, and City representatives

The first phase of the development also includes three other buildings containing a number of other restaurants and shops such as Subway, Caribou Coffee, Great Clips, and more. [photos]

Shingobee is developing the entire retail component at Ramsey Town Center. The first phase was planned and approvals obtained by Shingobee Real Estate Services, then sold to Solomon Group, who took over leasing and management of the property as construction was getting under way. Plans are in process for Phase II, which is scheduled to be built in 2006.

Ramsey Town Center is a 322-acre mixed-use development which will eventually include housing, offices, civic space, restaurants, shopping, and more. The Center has been purposefully designed to link the combination of uses with pedestrian-friendly foot paths, heavily landscaped roadways, and an expansive system of parks, green space, waterways, and ponds.

"Como Town" Amusement Park Opens to Accolades from Parents and Children Alike

11-03-2005

The reconstruction of the amusement area at Como Park in St. Paul, Minnesota, was completed by Shingobee Builders this past spring, opening for the Memorial Day weekend. Our client was Glenn Baron of Lancer Catering, who was selected by the City of St. Paul to operate the concession for the amusement park, replacing an aging operation that had been there for over fifty years.

Shingobee worked closely with Baron and Cuningham Group Architects as they developed plans for the park last year. Construction occurred during the off-season, during the winter of 2004-05, wrapping up in early summer of 2005. The park features all-new rides and attractions, including a 1,700 square foot "treehouse" feature at the center of the park, with towers, bridges, and slides for climbing, exploring, and sliding. [more photos]

"Treehouse" feature at Como Town

Como Town's opening summer season drew rave reviews. Parents and children alike have given it high marks, and it is one of many new features at Como Park that has substantially increased attendance this year. Shingobee Builders is proud to have been involved in working with the owner and architect to achieve their hopes and dreams for this unique project.

Numerous New Projects Under Way

11-03-2005

Shingobee 's workload continues to be busy as we approach the winter construction season. A number of new projects have begun in recent months.

Work continues for a number of our ongoing clients:

New McDonald's restaurants under way in Becker and St. Paul; and McDonald's remodels in progress or planned in Monticello, Rogers, Elk River, Sauk Centre, and Sartell.
A new Holiday Stationstore in Arden Hills [photos]; Holiday remodels in Duluth, Zimmerman, and Virginia, MN; and a major remodel of Holiday's corporate offices in Bloomington [photos].
Qwest Communications - telecommunications remodels throughout Minnesota, including Cold Spring, Cloquet, Stillwater, Hopkins, Virginia, Silver Bay, Windom, Oak Grove, and Le Sueur.

Holiday Corporate Office Remodel

We've begun a second project for MinnCo Credit Union, a new administration building in Cambridge, MN. [photos]

And a second project for the St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, a branch office in Sartell, MN. [photos]

An exterior facelift is under way for the Rice Lake Plaza retail center in Maple Grove, MN. [photos]

St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, Sartell

Work continues on the multi-year remodel of several buildings at the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls' convent / retirement home [photos].

As always, we have several retail and restaurant projects under construction:

new Dunn Bros Coffee shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul
construction of a Famous Footwear store in Minneapolis [photos]
expansion of the municipal liquor store in Hutchinson, MN
Red Lobster restaurant remodels in Burnsville and Maplewood, MN

We've recently been awarded a number of public projects as well:

two new buildings in Rockville, MN: the City Hall, and a Fire Department building
a new fire station in Sauk Rapids, MN
a number of U.S. Post Office remodels, in Baudette, Bagley, Blaine, and Waseca, MN

Projects Completed

11-03-2005

In addition to projects featured elsewhere, Shingobee has completed many significant projects in recent months. We can't list them all, but here are the highlights:

Applebee's restaurants in Delano and Monticello. We've constructed four Applebee's in the past year. [photos]
Dunn Bros Coffee shops in Chaska and Inver Grove Heights, MN, and Hudson, WI. We have completed eight Dunn Bros in the past two years. [photos]
Holiday Stationstores: new store in Brooklyn Park; car wash addition in Duluth; remodels in Duluth (Grand Avenue store), Monticello, and Rush City; and an office building at Holiday's gasoline truck terminal in Newport, MN [photos]
New McDonald's restaurants in Coon Rapids and Andover, MN [photos]

McDonald's, Coon Rapids

Build-out of elegant, new offices for RBC Dain Rauscher overlooking Lake Minnetonka in Wayzata, MN [photos]
A new branch office for MinnCo Credit Union in North Branch, MN. [photos] MinnCo is based in Cambridge, MN, where we are currently constructing an administrative building for them.
Telecommunications projects for Qwest Communications in Burnsville, Windom, Virginia, St. Cloud, and other locations
Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in Savage, MN. The building is the company's new prototype for construction nationwide. [photos]
Our second project for Regency Beauty Institute, in Minnetonka, MN. [photos] Our first project for Regency was completed last year in St. Cloud.
TGI Friday's restaurant in Eden Prairie, MN [photos]

MinnCo Credit Union, North Branch

Our thanks to all the clients who entrust us with their construction projects! Congratulations to the teams on these successful projects!

Shingobee-Sponsored Charity Event Raises $13,590 for Ronald McDonald House

10-13-2005

Charitable donations totaling $13,590 were recently delivered to Ronald McDonald House of the Twin Cities by representatives of Shingobee Builders, Inc. Donated funds were raised at a charitable Golf Outing / Client Appreciation event celebrating Shingobee's 25th anniversary, held August 29, 2005. Over 70 of the company's clients and associates made contributions to Ronald McDonald House for participation in the event, as well as at a live auction and raffle that were held at the event.

A highlight of the event was the attendance of 7-year-old LaKota Plafcan, with her parents Steve (a Shingobee Superintendent) and Debbie Plafcan. Lakota was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in September 2002, she has had numerous complications since, and her family (from St. Cloud , MN ) made use of the facilities at Ronald McDonald House for several months during her treatment.

"Ronald McDonald" was also in attendance at the event, lending his sense of humor to motivate the golfers on the course. The event was held at Burl Oaks Golf Club in Minnetrista, MN.

Shingobee representatives Gae Veit (CEO), Keith McDonald (President), and Mike Melton (Director, Market Development) recently presented the donations collected at the event, totaling $13,590, to Meg Katzman, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities, Upper Midwest. Ronald McDonald himself again joined the festive presentation!

The Ronald McDonald House provides a home-away-from-home for families of children who are being treated for cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Shingobee Builders chose Ronald McDonald House as the beneficiary of their anniversary event because of their long-standing business relationship with McDonald's Corporation.

Shingobee Celebrates 25th Anniversary

"25 Years and Building"

03-11-2005

March 2005 marks 25 years since Gae Veit founded Shingobee Builders, Inc. Looking back on the company's first 25 years, it's not difficult to identify the values and strengths that leveraged Shingobee's success - a sense of adventure, entrepreneurship, willingness to take risks, and perseverance.

Even with assistance from the Small Business Administration and government programs, it took years to get the fledgling general contracting business off the ground. But perseverance eventually led to projects for the government and for corporations like McDonald's and U S West, who were interested in supporting a start-up business.

Recognition began to come in for the adventurous female minority entrepreneur who was building a successful business in the male-dominated commercial construction industry. Gae Veit and Shingobee were frequent business news subjects in local and national publications, and the company's success was recognized by a number of organizations, culminating in 1991 with national recognition from the Department of Commerce, presented by President George Bush.

Shingobee's success was recognized by many organizations, including national recognition in 1991 from the Department of Commerce, presented by George and Barbara Bush.

In 1995, Keith McDonald took the reins as President of Shingobee Builders. Since that time, the company has continued to succeed and grow to become one of the leading construction companies in the region. Much of Shingobee's success can be attributed to Keith's strong beliefs in the well-established value system that the company has had since its inception. Shingobee has built its business on the strong foundations of integrity, fairness, and respect. Its clients know they can rely on the people of Shingobee Builders to act on these values every day.

Looking forward

The values and strengths that have brought Shingobee to this point will continue to carry it forward into the future. Shingobee Builders is poised at the beginning of a new frontier in its history. As it focuses on obtaining and creating work that results from partnerships and relationships with developers, architects, corporate owners, and others, the characteristics that brought it to this point continue to ensure success. Thriving on the real-time challenge of turning an opportunity into reality; the integrity of its employees in all of their relationships; the perseverance to make new ventures work and see them through. are all evident in the current evolution of the company.

As Shingobee continues to build on its valued existing client relationships, it is venturing into new areas. The company is currently leading development projects in Ramsey, Lino Lakes, and others.

Shingobee is venturing into new areas to provide added value and service to its clients and partners.

Its partnerships with key architectural firms have generated negotiated work in the financial and entertainment sectors. They are able to offer the added value of real estate and construction management services to their multi-site clients, like restaurants. They bring value to an owner in the early planning stages for a facility, by being able to bring the right professionals and consultants to the table to make the project work.

The coming years hold the promise of tremendous growth, and Shingobee looks forward to the opportunity to expand the service and value that they provide to their clients and partners.

THANK YOU

As Shingobee moves forward, we extend a special thanks to the companies that have been and continue to be our most valued relationships. We work with many corporations, architectural firms, and developers on an ongoing, repeat-business basis. This is the foundation of our business, and we understand its value and importance to our continued growth. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to those of you whose confidence in our employees translates into successful partnerships and lasting friendships. On behalf of all of us at Shingobee, Thank you!

Recognition for Security State Bank of Howard Lake Project

The Security State Bank of Howard Lake, completed by Shingobee Builders in 2003, has been honored with an Award of Merit from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Minnesota. The award was presented at ABC's annual "Excellence in Construction" event, held January 28 in Minneapolis.

The new bank building is a high-profile facility in the small lakeside town of Howard Lake, serving the community with not only a new bank, but also providing space for a medical clinic and coffee shop. Shingobee and the building's designers were recognized for the exceptional level of detail and customization and the quality of implementation. [View additional project photos and information]

Accepting awards: Eric George, Shingobee Superintendent; Tony Godlewski, Shingobee Project Manager; Phil Blasko, HTG Architects; Janet Forstrom, Interior Designer; John Forstrom, Bank President

ABC's awards program recognizes the quality and innovation of merit shop construction and honors all members of the construction team, including the contractor, the owner, and the design team responsible for the project. The winning projects are selected from entries submitted from throughout the state of Minnesota, and are judged on complexity, unusual challenges, completion time, workmanship, innovation, safety, and budget.

Shingobee Builders was also recognized at the event with a Gold Level Safety Training and Evaluation Program (STEP) Award. The program provides companies with an organized approach to analyze and develop safety and loss prevention programs. This is Shingobee 's seventh year at the Gold level in this program.

Pier 1 Imports Completed in Mankato

Shingobee Builders has completed construction of a new Pier 1 Imports store in Mankato, MN. This is the third Pier 1 retail store constructed by Shingobee; the others were tenant improvement projects in St. Cloud and Eden Prairie, MN, completed in 2003.

[Additional photos]

The new Mankato store is a 10,800 square foot freestanding addition to Mankato Heights Plaza, a new strip mall featuring dozens of stores and dining, owned by Inland Commercial Property Management. The building was constructed of masonry with a storefront of EIFS and glass; interior finishes are primarily drywall and ceramic tile flooring; mechanical and electrical were provided design-build. Pier 1 took occupancy and began installing fixtures and shelving on January 17, 2005. The opening of the store is planned for February 4.

The Pier 1 stores are the latest additions to Shingobee's lengthy resume of retail construction projects. Click here for a listing of retail projects completed by Shingobee.

Como Zoo Amusement Park Project Awarded

Shingobee Builders has been awarded construction of improvements to the Amusement Park at Como Zoo in St. Paul, MN, for Lancer Management Services of Eagan. The project will provide demolition and total reconstruction of the three-acre amusement area, including sitework, electrical supply, landscaping, and construction for all-new rides and attractions at the Park, located adjacent to the Como Park Zoo.

Lancer Management, which provides food service and concessions throughout Como Zoo and Conservatory, was awarded the contract to modernize and run the family amusement park following a City bid process last spring. The owner has been working with Cuningham Group Architecture, with assistance from Shingobee Builders, to develop and refine the design for the new park.

Yet to be officially named, the center of the new attractions will be a themed adventure island, with the look of a play area constructed by kids from "found" materials, including a 2,000 square foot treehouse and a variety of activities. Three other buildings will be constructed on the site for restrooms, ticketing, services, and costumes. There will be a 100-seat amphitheater and fourteen new rides, plus numerous carts and tents.

Sitework at the park began in December. The main areas of the park will be completed and the park is expected to open by June 2005.

Como Zoo is a free city zoo located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1897, it is open every day of the year, including holidays, and hosts over one million visitors annually.

Restaurant Market Continues to Grow

As mentioned in a previous news article, the casual dining / restaurant market has been a busy area for Shingobee Builders in recent years. As one of the premier contractors for restaurant construction in Minnesota, we are continuing to grow and build our resume of experience with restaurant construction. Some recent highlights:

Construction of a new T.G.I. Friday's restaurant at Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN, started in December. This 7,500 square foot interior buildout is Shingobee's first project for Carlson Restaurants Worldwide. [View photos]

We have provided three recent projects for McDonald's Corporation: a new restaurant in Big Lake, MN; the addition of a McDonald's restaurant to a Quick Mart convenience store in Avon, MN; and remodel of an existing McDonald's in Monticello, MN.

We recently started construction of our second Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, located in West St. Paul, MN. Our first Applebee's was completed recently in Rogers, MN. A third project has been awarded for construction in Delano, MN, in spring 2005. [View photos]

See our previous article for more restaurant projects completed by Shingobee in 2004.

Applebee's in Rogers, MN

Wrap-Up of 2004 Projects

A number of significant projects were completed by Shingobee Builders during the latter part of 2004. Here are some highlights:

A new main Post Office building for the city of Prior Lake, MN [more photos]

Citizens State Bank of Montrose, Montrose, MN: See previous article and photos

A maintenance building and shelter buildings for the new golf course near Mystic Lake Casino, Prior Lake, MN [photos]

U.S. Post Office, Prior Lake, MN

A new 16,000 square foot dance studio for the "Just For Kix" dance program, in Sartell, MN

Remodel and addition of a car wash at the Holiday Stationstore in Champlin, MN [photos]. Shingobee completed a total of fourteen Holiday Stationstore projects in 2004, including two new-construction projects in Chaska and Shakopee, MN. The remaining projects were remodels, seven from former Tom Thumb convenience stores, two from former SuperAmerica stores, and three of existing Holiday Stationstores. [See previous article.]

Just For Kix Dance Studio, Sartell, MN

Several projects for Qwest Communications involving building systems upgrades for their telecommunications systems facilities. Projects were located throughout the state of Minnesota, from Duluth to Minneapolis and various out-state locations.

Addition and remodel projects for two Bremer Bank facilities in St. Cloud, MN

Two renovation projects for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in St. Cloud, MN

A Dunn Bros Coffee Shop (our sixth) in West River Commons on Lake Street in Minneapolis. We've been awarded another Dunn Bros in Inver Grove Heights, MN, which will be starting soon.

A remodel project at the Todd County Jail in Long Prairie, MN

Renovation of the Biology and Chemistry Labs at St. Cloud Technical College

Congratulations to our project teams who made these projects successful!

And our sincerest thanks to our clients who continue to entrust their construction projects to us!

Bobbie Fern Development Project Awarded

Construction of a significant redevelopment project in north Minneapolis was recently awarded to Shingobee Builders. The project is the renovation of a three-story building located at 927 West Broadway in Minneapolis, including the addition of an elevator, new windows, new first-floor meeting rooms, finished office space on two floors, and site work on an adjoining parking lot.

This is a turn-of-the-century building that has had its second and third floor windows boarded for ten years. Its rehab will be very symbolic for the West Broadway neighborhood. It is privately owned by Bobbie Fern, a committed redeveloper/owner. The project is receiving financial assistance from the City of Minneapolis, including an "Empowerment Zone" loan.

Shingobee expects to begin construction in March 2005, with completion scheduled for September 2005. The building improvements are being designed by HTG Architects, Eden Prairie.

Ramsey Retail Center Gets Go-Ahead

The City Council of Ramsey, Minnesota, recently gave final approval to the first phase of a retail development at Ramsey Town Center. Shingobee Builders is the developer for the retail center, which is to be anchored by a 62,000 square foot Coborn's grocery store. Construction of the retail center is expected to begin next March, and it is expected to be open for business during the summer of 2005. With all phases completed, the project is planned to add 350,000 square feet of new retail development to the City of Ramsey.

Ramsey Town Center is a 322-acre mixed-use development which is slated to include more than 2,400 housing units, 460,000 square feet of office and civic space, and more. The community is a combination of carefully designed uses linked to pedestrian-friendly foot paths, heavily landscaped roadways, and an expansive commitment to parks, green space, and exterior waterways and ponds.

Ramsey Town Center information

Ramsey Retail Center construction photos

Ramsey Town Center construction photos

Como Zoo Cafe Project Awarded

Shingobee Builders was recently awarded construction of a new Café at Como Zoo in St. Paul. The project is the last component of the new Visitors Education Resource Center, nearing completion on Aida Place, just north of the Zoo Conservatory. It is Shingobee's first project with Lancer Hospitality, which provides food service and concessions throughout Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.

Designed by Cuningham Group Architecture, the new Café has a full service kitchen and 78-seat dining room, as well as outdoor dining. A coffee island sits adjacent to the serving line in the center of the Café. Completion is scheduled for late January 2005. [View photos]

Como Zoo is a free city zoo located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1897, it is open every day of the year, including holidays, and hosts over one million visitors annually.

Citizens State Bank of Montrose Completed

Owners Kim and Catherine (Birdie) Jackson accept a commemorative plaque from Shingobee's Tony Godlewski

Shingobee Builders recently completed construction of a new facility for Citizens State Bank in Montrose, MN. The bank occupies about half of the 10,000 square foot, single-story building, which also includes two tenant office spaces. The Bank celebrated with grand opening festivities on October 30 and November 3.

The building features brick, cultured stone, and EIFS exterior construction, and warm-colored finishes and custom maple furnishings and casework in the bank's interior. Construction was completed in a six-month period beginning last April. Shingobee's Rick Wold supervised the construction, and Tony Godlewski managed the project. The building was designed by HTG Architects, with interior design by Eminage.

Project photos

Dedication Festivities at St. Cloud Airport Control Tower

A dedication ceremony was held Tuesday, August 24, 2004, for the new Air Traffic Control Tower at the St. Cloud Regional Airport. Shingobee Builders completed construction of the new facility this past spring. The Airport has been working on the federal approvals process, and the Tower is expected to be staffed and operational on November 1, 2004.

Shingobee was selected for construction management of this project in early 2002. The Airport sought to use Construction Management rather than the General Construction bid/build format, stating their desire to have a construction team member involved early in the process. Shingobee provided preconstruction phase services, assisting the owner and architects with environmental assessment, site selection, soil investigations, selection of building systems, cost analysis, and bidding. The construction phase of the project involved the construction of the seven-level precast concrete tower, along with infrastructure improvements and extensions, and sitework.

The team that installed the communications systems in the new tower extended its praise for the effective construction process provided by Shingobee, led by Project Manager Lynn Christiansen and Superintendent Rick Wold:

"The team expressed what a beautiful and well constructed facility it is. They stated the tower is the most spacious and well designed tower project we have seen. Shingobee's Construction Team was available to immediately assist with electrical wiring support, wind mast installation, and other small items that were handled "on the spot". the new St. Cloud Air Traffic Control Tower is, by far, one of the best built (structural) and best looking (cosmetic) towers, RVA has been affiliated with."
                                                                       Larry D. Shields, Manager
                               Communications Engineering and Installation Division
                                                                 Robinson Aviation (RVA), Inc.

Shingobee Assists Holiday Stationstores with Remodel of Tom Thumb Stores

When the Tom Thumb chain of convenience stores closed in Minnesota earlier this year, Holiday Stationstores took advantage of the opportunity to purchase several of the sites for Holiday locations throughout the state. Shingobee assisted Holiday Stationstores with the conversion of seven of the stores, providing remodeling of the facilities prior to re-opening.

Shingobee also provided construction of two new Holiday Stationstores, in Chaska and Shakopee, MN, earlier this year, and is currently providing a carwash addition and remodel of an existing Holiday Stationstore in Champlin, MN.

Holiday Stationstores is an ongoing, valued client for Shingobee Builders. an example of our commitment to "Continuing Relationships." Our work together as a TEAM provides benefit to both firms.

In a recent letter, John Baregi, Manager of Engineering at Holiday Stationstores, was quoted,

"Shingobee Builders has proven to be a continued leader among contractors we team with. Your attention to detail and quality control enhance and mirror the image we seek. Our most recently completed projects again prove that teaming with Shingobee Builders was the right choice. We look forward to building many more stores together as we broaden our image and outreach to communities both local and out-state."

Leech Lake Tribal College Under Way

Construction is well under way for the first phase of a new campus for Leech Lake Tribal College in Cass Lake, MN. Construction started this past spring with a festive groundbreaking ceremony and powwow.

The college is currently housed in a variety of spaces in older buildings in the downtown area of Cass Lake. The new facility, when complete, will bring together all of their classrooms, faculty, staff, library, and support services in one location. The first phase of construction is a classroom building, one wing of the planned new campus, which is designed to look like a thunderbird from the air.

The Leech Lake Tribal College provides a unique opportunity for local area students to obtain a quality education, prepare for careers and professional employment, and provides a direct benefit to the local economy. Shingobee Builders is proud to be associated with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and its Tribal College institution.

Multi-Year Remodeling Under Way for Franciscan Sisters

Shingobee has started work on a multi-million-dollar remodeling project that is expected to extend into 2006 for the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota. In a series of phases, numerous buildings at the convent will receive mechanical and electrical upgrades, accessibility improvements and additions, life safety modifications, and sitework improvements. The buildings include housing, elderly care, community and fitness centers, chapel and meeting spaces.

Shingobee was selected for this project last year, following a proposal / interview process. We worked with the architect, YHR Partners of Moorhead, MN, during the design phase, as they refined plans for the phased renovations. We are pleased to be a part of the project team for this important project!

Banks Completed, Published

Shingobee Builders has recently completed a number of financial institutions in rural Minnesota communities:

Citizens State Bank of Clara City

Citizens State Bank of Clara City was completed this past spring; grand opening festivities were held during June and July. The building is a two-story structure on a city block in downtown Clara City (western Minnesota). Four older buildings and numerous foundations were removed to make way for the new facility.

United Prairie Bank was completed in Spicer, another western Minnesota city, last November, with opening celebrations in January. The project is a new building on a previously undeveloped three acre parcel on the south end of town. It has a design that reflects the lake lodge image popular in the area, with a fireplace and two-story stone chimney; exterior stone, face brick and dimensional shingle roofs.

Shingobee completed a second project for Citizens Bank & Trust in Hutchinson, Minnesota, last December. A complete remodel of their main office in downtown Hutchinson was constructed in phases, to allow the bank, as well as the trust and insurance offices in the building, to remain open during construction. Shingobee previously built a branch office building for Citizens Bank & Trust in 2000.

Citizens Bank & Trust

Security State Bank of Howard Lake was recently featured on the cover and in an article about bank design in Northwestern Financial Review. Shingobee completed construction of the 20,000 square foot building, which included a medical clinic and coffee shop in addition to the bank space, in the fall of 2003.

A new facility for Citizens State Bank of Montrose is nearing completion this fall. The single-story, 10,000 square foot building will include two retail tenant spaces to be constructed at the same time.

Shingobee Builders is delighted to be collaborating with the design firm of HTG Architects on the construction of all of these financial institutions.

Casual Dining Continues to Build

The casual dining market continues to grow and build. This is good news for Shingobee Builders, one of the premier builders in this market in Minnesota. We have built and remodeled McDonald's restaurants in over 30 locations, and provided construction services for numerous other restaurant companies, many of whom are now appearing or expanding in this area. Shingobee has partnered with several in recent months:

Construction started recently on a new Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar in Rogers, Minnesota.

We've completed five Dunn Bros Coffee Shops in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and are starting work on a sixth in the Uptown area of Minneapolis.

Recently completed a build-out for Zyng Asian Grill in Eden Prairie, a franchise that is new to the Twin Cities metro area.

Built a new Culver's Restaurant in Waite Park, Minnesota.

Zyng Asian Grill

Constructed a Buffalo Wild Wings as part of the West Point Retail Center in Saint Cloud, Minnesota.

Completed a number of tenant improvement projects in the Saint Cloud area, including House of Pizza, Pacific Wok, Home ward Bound Pizza, Dairy Queen/Orange Julius/Kettle Korn, and others.

It's a fun, fast-paced market and Shingobee's TEAM makes it happen!

US Bank Burnsville - LEED Gold Certified