Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Welcome to Omaha, CWS fans!

We are big baseball fans at Prairie Construction – This is one of our favorite times of year in Omaha, and we are so happy to see the series back in full swing this year!

If you are new to Omaha, or you haven’t been back for a few years, things might look a little different to you. There has been a construction boom in Omaha in recent years and Prairie Construction has played a big role in development near the stadium.

If you take a stroll just west of TD America on Cuming St., you’ll see Prairie Construction’s mark throughout Creighton University’s campus, notably the new Facilities Management Building on 18th & Burt St. We’ve also been busy with work in the Medical School and Health Sciences Library on campus as well.

If you head southeast from the stadium, take a trip over the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge to Council Bluffs, IA. It’s a beautiful bridge with a spectacular view of the Missouri River, and it’s fun to be able to say you were in 2 states at the same time – you’ll see the state line marking about halfway across the bridge.

For a little extra fun, make a stop under the pedestrian bridge – yes, that is a giant blue troll! Helping the city transport and install the troll to his new home under the bridge was a fun project for the Prairie Construction team, definitely different from our typical projects.

Enjoy your stay in Omaha, or just your visit downtown, good luck to all the teams, and we hope to see you back in Omaha soon – you never know what will be new by the next time you visit!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Take Time to Appreciate

The Prairie Construction team is looking ahead to a busy spring and summer, we paused recently to share our appreciation for our customers, vendors, partners, subcontractors, and most importantly, our team! Our annual Fish Fry Friday brought everyone together for great food and good conversation.

We are proud that throughout the fall and winter, the Prairie Construction team stayed busy and completed projects on deadline. Our team is skilled and dedicated to bringing excellent, quality craftsmanship to every project.

We are geared up for the busy spring and summer season  – warmer temperatures and longer days are the perfect recipe for productivity.

We didn’t want to miss the opportunity to recognize and thank our amazing team and partners for their dedication to Prairie Construction!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Should You Build or Renovate?

You’ve made the decision – your office or company needs a new space. Maybe you have outgrown the office, or it no longer fits your needs. Or you’re due – maybe overdue? – for an updated, more modern look and feel.

But now the question – should you renovate your existing space, or build a brand-new structure?

The answer is – that depends. It depends on your unique situation, and the reasons for wanting, or needing, the new space.

Let’s take a look at some considerations for both renovating and building new.

Consideration for Renovation:

  • Does the location of your current structure still work for you?
  • If you need more space, can your renovation plans accommodate the new growth that you need?
  • Will your budget accommodate the plans necessary to meet your goals? Will your budget accommodate a new build?
  • Can you maintain day-to-day operations while the space undergoes a renovation?
  • Can your existing space accommodate electrical or plumbing updates necessary to comply with codes?

There are many benefits to building new, beyond just a brand-new space.

Benefits of Building New:

  • Starting from scratch opens the door to design, spacing and floor plan options that might by limited in a renovation project.
  • With a new build, you can incorporate energy and environmental efficient plans and materials that might not be an option with a renovation.
  • As you design your new build, you can be assured your plans will be compliant with all current codes.
  • A new build may be more cost-efficient when you factor that all costs will be upfront, and there will be fewer unforeseen costs that can happen with demolition begins.
  • More sustainable options for an office building, such as modular shipping containers (visit the website to see more), can be considered provided all requirements are met and the space is sufficient.
  • Consider the value. New construction tends to hold its value very well and, and it may have a stronger resale value down the road.

Weigh your options between renovation and new construction. Always consider what is best for your company now and in the future. The Prairie Construction team is ready to help you with your project, give us a call today – we are ready to help!

 

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Impact of an Office Renovation

After repeated snowfalls, and frigid cold, sunshine and above-freezing temperatures always feel refreshing and reenergizing.

The Prairie Construction team has felt that way walking into our office every day since we completed our office renovation in early summer, 2020. We look forward to the day when we can invite you to see it for yourself, but in the meantime, we want to share the impact the newly updated space has had on our team.

After 30 years of helping countless clients with their own renovation projects, it was time for us to do the same for ourselves. We like to think of our office remodel project as a rebrand from within. Our team did a complete remodel of our office space, and with the help of several local partners, we completed a renovation that brings us a renewed enthusiasm, and a great deal of pride. This was something that was key for us as we did not have the same feelings of pride attached to our old offices. Whilst the renovation was being completed, some of our employees worked from home and due to most of them having a good work from home internet speed this was not an issue for our company. However, it is nice to have everyone back in the office.

The new space showcases our ability to create functional spaces that are not only efficient and attractive but also gives the strong first impression that any company wants to portray. If an office space has been closed for months now, it might be possible that there are mold formations in certain places. This might require the intervention of Mold Remediation Experts who can help you restore the property back to its former glory. Following this, all renovation procedures can be continued. It might be important to keep in mind that office spaces should always be welcoming and positive to maintain a healthy and friendly environment for employees, as well as visitors. In order to achieve this, choosing every office component, including equipment, supplies, and furniture carefully (visit https://www.officemonster.co.uk/ to select furnishings for your office) might be essential. The right choice of these elements and items, if made carefully, can elevate the aesthetics of a workspace. Additionally, it is important for the old and unused furniture to be gotten rid of – especially in a way that does not in any way harm the environment. To this end, roll off dumpster rentals could be utilized by construction companies to get rid of material waste.

Coming back, our team members feel a sense of pride and renewed enthusiasm when they walk into the bright, updated, and professional space.

The project gave us an opportunity to showcase our creativity and innovative ideas. We collaborated with local artist Jan Milam from Art on Location, to create unique, custom prints featuring some of our recent construction projects that hang in our conference room. We love the strong statement they make to our guests, clients and team members.

Our only regret is that we didn’t do this project earlier! Have you considered an office renovation or upgrade? Give the Prairie Construction team a call – we are ready to help!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News, Industry News

Looking Ahead to 2021!

As we look back on 2020, I think everyone can agree the year didn’t necessarily go the way we planned it!

No one could have predicted a pandemic that would close businesses and put many aspects of our lives on hold the way they were in 2020.

But it’s a new year, and as we look ahead we can revisit plans that were put on hold in the last year. If your plans to remodel, or build a new home or office, stalled in 2020, the Prairie Construction team may be able to help with your plans.

If you are ready to move ahead with your construction needs, the Prairie Construction has some tips to keep in mind to ensure your 2021 project, big or small, is successful:

  • Don’t be afraid to ask a contractor for referrals. Or ask your friends and family for a recommendation.
  • Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company has a solid reputation.
  • Choose a company that has experience with projects similar to yours.
  • Work with a company that has a good understanding of architectural design.
  • Choose a contractor or construction company that will manage your project from start to finish so you don’t need to find subcontractors.

More than anything, trust your instincts. Choosing the right company for your project will make the process successful and enjoyable. Contact the Prairie Construction team to discuss your projects for 2021!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News, Uncategorized

Happy Holidays from the Prairie Construction Team

As we close out what has been a most unusual year, we look back with appreciation for our amazing team of dedicated professionals. You make Prairie Construction who we are, and we appreciate your dedication, loyalty, and commitment to serving our clients with professionalism and excellence every day.

Thank you to all of our subcontractors and partners. We appreciate your shared commitment to quality craftsmanship and excellent service on every project.

And to each of our clients – thank you for trusting the Prairie Construction team with your construction needs. It has been our pleasure to work with you and we are grateful for the confidence you have in our team.

As we welcome 2021, we look forward to working with each of you on exciting new projects!

We wish you the very best of the holiday season, and a very happy New Year!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Go Green with Gift Wrap

The Holidays are here, the most wonderful time of the year. Shopping, decorating, baking, and checking your lists twice. So much to do, so much anticipation.

But before you think about wrapping the gifts, consider this. Not all wrapping papers and gift bags are recyclable.

The City of Omaha recently started a new garbage and recycling, and program coordinators and conservationists are optimistic this will lead to a renewed enthusiasm for recycling. The extra-large, wheeled carts make recycling easy and convenient.

In the flurry of gift-giving and unwrapping, you may think all wrapping paper can be recycled together. But that is not the case. Just because they are paper doesn’t mean they can go in the recycling bin.

Wrapping paper that is metallic, glittery or textured is not recyclable; adding it to a bin of recyclables can contaminate the entire bin. While you may have bought your recipient a pretty thoughtful gift, like a diploma frame, from Jostens (you can read more about the shop here), the glittery wrapping paper may not make the gift seem as thoughtful. But if you really wish to present yourself as a thoughtful person, then why not go green with your wrapping?

If you’d like to do your part to Go Green and recycle this holiday season, here are a few tips to consider for your gift wrapping.

  • Look for wrapping paper that is made of recycled paper. Not only is this type of paper recyclable, using recycled materials prevents them from ending up in a landfill.
  • Do not include wrapping paper that is metallic, glittery or velvety. These need to be separated from paper and thrown in the trash, or saved to be used again.
  • Ribbon, bows and glittery cards are not recyclable. These should be separated and discarded into the garbage, or saved to be used again next year.
  • Crush recyclable wrapping paper into a ball – it’s more likely to be recycled.
  • When you shop for wrapping paper, opt for those made of recycled papers and avoid recyclable papers.
  • Consider reusing papers and gift bags from previous years, and save salvageable gift wrap as you unwrap gifts this season.
  • When you are wrapping, using only enough paper to cover the gift, minimizing scraps and excess that are discarded.

This season, remember one of the best gifts we can all give is the gift of conservation. Wishing you and yours the very best of the season!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

‘Tis the season for holiday decorating and trimming the tree. The Holidays are here! If you like fresh cut Christmas trees listen up…..

Keep your tree watered A fresh cut tree will suck up more and more water the longer it remains in your home. For it’s first drink mix one cup sugar and one quart warm water then be sure to water regularly. The sugar mix is similar to sap to fool the tree.

Here are some other Christmas tree safety tips from the Prairie Construction team to ensure you and your family enjoy a safe holiday season.

  • Fresh is best. Visit a tree farm to cut your tree as opposed to a pre-cut tree from a lot or retail location. If cutting your own isn’t an option, check for brittle needles on a pre-cut tree and choose one with flexible needles instead.
  • Use a sturdy stand. Choose a stand that is big enough for your tree and will hold you tree firmly in place. A wider or taller tree may require a bigger tree stand.
  • Safe lighting. Make sure any lights you put on your tree are in good working order with no broken bulbs or frayed or split cords. Older lights, even in working order, should be disposed of for newer, safer lights. And leave the lights on to enjoy them, and turn them off before going to bed for the night.
  • Keep away from heat. A dry tree can catch fire if it is too close to a heat source. Avoid putting a real tree next to a heat vent, television, lamp or candle.

And remember Water Water Water.

Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy new start to the new year from Prairie Construction.

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Giving Back this Holiday Season

The pandemic of 2020 has brought changes for all of us, but for some the impact has been significant. Failed businesses, lost jobs and illnesses have had devastating effects on many people in our community.

In the spirit of giving back to the community, if you’re able, we encourage giving to those who have been significantly impacted by the pandemic and here’s a great opportunity.

The Food Bank for the Heartland is hosting a Food Drive this Saturday, December 5. The community is encouraged to donate non-perishable food items or monetary donations in a drive-through event at the Food Bank located at 10525 J St. in Omaha from 9 am to 12 pm. Click here to see the most-needed items.

Collecting non-perishable food is the purpose but monetary donations are always encouraged and appreciated as they can be stretched further. Donated funds made to The Food Bank for the Heartland are used to purchase food items that are most needed, including fruits, vegetables, and perishable items including dairy and meat products. Learn more about the drive-through Food Drive or other donation options to the Food Bank for the Heartland here.

Each year the need increases, and demand is always highest at the holidays. This year, the need is even greater as thousands of children are learning from home and missing school-provided meals.

If you’ve never given to The Food Bank for the Heartland before, now might be your time, a few dollars go can go a long way. Thank you.

 

Posted on By JM Online Categories Company News

Thanksgiving Greetings from Prairie Construction

For the Prairie Construction team, Thanksgiving is more than turkey and stuffing and football. It is a time to reflect on all that we are thankful for. And this year, more so than ever.

In a year of unexpected changes and uncertainty, we have so much to be grateful for.

We appreciate each member of the Prairie Construction team. Your loyalty and dedication are invaluable. You have worked hard, adjusted to safety protocols and provided excellent service to each of our clients throughout a year of certainty.

We are grateful for the many vendors, partners and subcontractors that we have been fortunate to partner with, this year in particular. Thank you for your collaboration, and shared dedication to meeting the client’s needs, providing quality service, and completing projects on deadline.

Thank you to each of our clients. We are grateful for the trust you have in the Prairie Construction team. Thank you for your business, and your referrals. We look forward to serving and working with you in the future!

2020 has taught us to expect the unexpected, and roll with punches. Thank you to each of you who have worked with us and helped us throughout the year. We wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving!