Chicago Tube & Iron Industrial Facility

The value in the design-build approach stems from Opus’ ability to work as a cohesive team. Even in our early meetings, it was not just the project managers present, but the architect as well. By having all parties at the table, there was never a question about our goals or the outcomes of our meetings.
Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
There is tremendous value to Opus’ integrated team. No matter what issues arose, they brought us options to consider. They work very tightly and have incorporated our team in the overall project, allowing us to function together at a very high level.
Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
Opus has been involved with our building since the original hole was dug. They’ve done a good job at every point along the way, so there was no reason to go in any other direction for our latest expansion.
Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
Our goal was to make the expansion reflect the look and feel of the construction at our other buildings. Opus visited several locations and looked at pictures as a starting point to ensure we reached this goal.

Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
As obstacles arose, whether in dealing with the city, county or simply construction issues, Opus’ expertise and professionalism came into play. They made it very easy for us to navigate these waters even though it isn’t what we do every day.
Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
Opus understands the importance of communication. We had weekly project update meetings where we had the opportunity to study and analyze our input, along with their suggestions, to arrive at the best solutions for the total project cost.

Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
Our company continues to grow and if we have an opportunity for another project here or at any of our locations, I would highly recommend Opus be involved.

Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«
From a logistical standpoint, this expansion allows us to reorganize the flow of our materials through our warehouse and become more efficient. With Opus’ help, this project has made the warehouse a more worker-friendly environment.

Bruce Torgerson
General Manager – St. Paul Division
Chicago Tube & Iron
«

Case Study

Partnership Drives Innovative Modernization of Chicago Tube & Iron Facility

Chicago Tube & Iron (CTI) selected Opus to bring creative and innovative solutions to expand its Eagan, Minnesota warehouse, and give the 40-year-old facility a much-needed facelift. The award winning renovation, completed October, 2013, demonstrates how the fully integrated Opus DB³ approach fosters collaboration that leads to better results.

CTI already had confidence in the Opus team's ability to work as a valued partner. Opus designed and built the original Eagan warehouse in 1970, and two subsequent additions over the years. Opus's willingness to commit to a guaranteed cost and schedule cemented a repeat partnership for CTI's latest expansion.

Operating under a finite budget number, Opus worked closely with CTI corporate to define a scope that would meet the business's evolving needs while making the most of limited resources. Open communication between all parties fostered trust, and together, Opus and CTI made several smart decisions to increase the aesthetic and functional value of the renovation and the 42,000-square foot addition.

To create a building that looked new, without the cost of new construction, Opus utilized an Exterior Insulation Finishing System. In keeping with the architectural design of CTI's newly constructed headquarters in Romeoville, Illinois, Opus selected a three-color scheme for the exterior and reconstructed the main lobby to a more attractive, contemporary aesthetic. Prominent signage was added to the front entry and south end of the building. The bathrooms and break room were also updated, and 6 overhead doors and warehouse mechanical and irrigation systems were added.

Remarkably, CTI remained fully operational during the fast-track, 9-month construction schedule. The Opus team paid close attention to the needs of local managers throughout the process, sequencing renovations and brainstorming best methods to complete construction efficiently, with minimal disruption to operations. Ultimately, the partnership allowed CTI to remain at their current location, helping to retain employees.

Opus was recognized by the Design-Build Institute Upper Midwest Region's Excellence Award for Rehabilitation/Renovation/Restoration for this project.
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