

2025 Award Winners and Nominees

Project Name
UTTR 9 MSM Igloos

Description
The UTTR 9 MSM Igloos project exemplifies excellence in concrete innovation through its precise construction techniques, advanced quality control measures, and sustainable execution. Designed as a highly specialized missile storage facility, the project required meticulous attention to detail to meet stringent military standards. Each magazine featured dedicated mechanical rooms and was staffed by 15 employees divided into three specialized crews, ensuring a structured, sequential workflow. The project also demanded the exact placement of 50 embeds per structure, requiring an exceptionally high level of precision.
A key contributor to the project’s success was Geneva Rock, an NRMCA producer member, which supplied high-quality concrete tailored to meet the project’s demanding specifications. To optimize efficiency and consistency, an on-site batch plant was established, reducing material transport emissions and allowing real-time quality control adjustments. Geneva Rock’s Quality Control team conducted frequent air and slump checks to maintain mix uniformity and performance consistency throughout the project.
The concrete mix achieved a 5,000 PSI standard with a 100% reinforcing tie-in, preventing shifting during placement. Advanced laser-guided screeds ensured precise floor elevations, meeting a floor flatness (FF) of 40 and a levelness (FL) of 35, exceeding industry benchmarks. Total station LIDAR readings and survey technology were used to verify compliance with tight tolerances, ensuring an exceptionally level and durable final product.
To enhance sustainability and efficiency, the project team strategically minimized material waste, achieving a yield variance under 2.5% on more than 2,000 cubic yards of PCCP. A Class B concrete finish was applied, with all tie holes patched to meet owner specifications. No concrete pavement was rejected or subjected to pay deductions, demonstrating the effectiveness of the project’s stringent quality control protocols.
Despite significant schedule adjustments, the team’s proactive coordination with electrical, mechanical, and precast trades ensured a smooth workflow. Each pour followed a pre-pour checklist, signed off by all trades involved, guaranteeing compliance before placement. Geneva Rock’s expertise in mix uniformity and placement precision played a vital role in keeping the project on schedule while maintaining superior quality standards.
Evidence
The UTTR 9 MSM Igloos project is a model of concrete innovation, quality control, and sustainability, aligning with the highest standards of performance and resilience. Its advanced construction techniques, strict placement methods, and sustainable material management set it apart as a worthy recipient of the Concrete Innovation Award.
Performance Excellence
This project’s execution far surpassed typical industry standards. The air-bearing slabs required exceptionally stringent flatness and levelness tolerances, necessitating cutting-edge laser-guided screed technology. Geneva Rock’s use of precision-controlled concrete placement ensured that the project met all specifications without rework. Total station LIDAR readings were employed to confirm consistent levels, with a slope tolerance of just 0.05% and a maximum deviation of only 0.06 inches—a remarkable achievement in precision concrete construction.
Strength, Durability, and Resilience
The 5,000 PSI concrete mix, reinforced with a 100% tie-in system, enhanced structural integrity, ensuring long-term durability and resilience. Rigorous quality control testing at every stage confirmed that the concrete met or exceeded all project specifications. The floor flatness (FF 40) and levelness (FL 35) not only ensured compliance with owner requirements but also optimized operational efficiency for military use.
Sustainability & Carbon Reduction
The project demonstrated a commitment to reducing embodied carbon through:
• On-site batching, minimizing transportation emissions and improving efficiency.
• Optimized material usage, achieving a yield variance of less than 2.5%, reducing waste.
• Precise placement methods, eliminating rework and unnecessary material use.
• Advanced measurement tools, ensuring consistent performance while minimizing excess consumption.
Recognition & Awards
The exceptional execution of this project was recognized with the ACI Intermountain Chapter Excellence in Concrete Award in 2024, a testament to its industry-leading quality, precision, and sustainability efforts.
The UTTR 9 MSM Igloos project represents the future of high-performance, sustainable concrete construction, integrating advanced quality control, innovative placement techniques, and environmentally responsible material management. This level of innovation and execution makes it a standout candidate for the Concrete Innovation Award.
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