Exciting Developments in Georgetown as New Tunneling Facility Gets the Green Light!
Gearing up for some serious drilling, Georgetown is buzzing with news of a brand-new tunneling facility that is set to open its doors, bringing both innovation and job opportunities to this vibrant community!
All About Ward and Burke Manufacturing
Ward and Burke Manufacturing, a company hailing all the way from Ireland, is planning to establish a whopping $15 million manufacturing hub in Georgetown. In a recent filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, it was revealed that this massive facility will span nearly 140,000 square feet and is expected to create over 50 jobs!
Having started its journey in 2001, Ward and Burke has been making waves across multiple sectors with its focus on underground infrastructure. The company is well-known for its expertise in specialized construction projects, including tunneling and building caisson shafts. With offices scattered in places like the United Kingdom, Canada, San Diego, and Columbus, Ohio, it’s safe to say they mean business!
A Big Win for Georgetown
Earlier this year, the City of Georgetown awarded Ward and Burke a construction contract worth $62 million for the Berry Creek Interceptor project. This initiative will see the installation of wastewater piping through what is known as micro-tunneling. This innovative technique allows for underground work to be done with minimal disruption to the surface, keeping the community’s day-to-day life as smooth as possible.
What’s Next for Ward and Burke in Georgetown?
In an email to local reporters, Ward and Burke Director Colin Irwin shared the excitement surrounding the new facility, emphasizing that it will support the manufacturing and maintenance of their “extensive plant and equipment fleet.” What does that mean? Simply put, they’re gearing up to ensure top-notch operations and quality services for their projects!
Irwin’s vision for the Georgetown facility is ambitious. He noted that once up and running, they expect to employ a talented range of professionals, including engineers, mechanics, electricians, and fabricators. That’s a pretty diverse lineup! “WBTI primarily utilizes specialty ‘microtunnel’ equipment to install this infrastructure by trenchless means, minimizing the impacts of construction on the community and general public,” Irwin explained in his correspondence.
Why Georgetown?
Georgetown, located just about 30 miles north of Austin in Williamson County, has been experiencing a growth spurt over the last few years, being recognized as the fastest-growing city of its size! It’s no wonder that manufacturing companies are flocking to this charming area. Irwin also pointed out that Georgetown boasts an enviable location—equidistant from their facilities in Columbus and San Diego, making it a strategic spot for their operations.
Laying Down Roots
Earlier this year, Ward and Burke purchased around 38 acres of land valued at approximately $4.3 million for the new facility, laying a solid foundation for the exciting developments ahead. The community can look forward to a collaborative future as the company plans to work closely with various cities and developers in the greater Austin area on critical infrastructure projects, such as major sewer and watermain installations.
A Community on the Rise
With all these plans in motion, excitement is building in Georgetown. The construction of this facility will not only bring job opportunities but also significant investment into the local economy, helping the city maintain its impressive growth trajectory. Residents can eagerly anticipate seeing how this new chapter unfolds in their community!
As Ward and Burke prepares to turn dirt into development, it’s a fantastic moment for Georgetown—one where innovation meets local progress!
