Celebrating Craftsmanship, Community Impact and Innovation: CISCO Recognizes 2025 Project Award Winners

February 16, 2026

BURR RIDGE – CISCO brought together Union contractors, public officials, Labor leaders, and community partners to celebrate the very best in Union construction at its Feb. 6, 2026 Annual Meeting. From transformative infrastructure projects and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, to affordable housing developments and community-centered spaces, this year’s honorees showcased the craftsmanship, innovation, safety excellence, and collaboration that define the strength of the Union construction trades across the region.

New Construction – Chicago (Above $20M)

Construction of the Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino and Hotel was recognized as Project of the Year in CISCO’s New Construction – Chicago (Above $20M) category, highlighting not only the scale and quality of the development, but also the collaborative spirit, made possible by General Contractor O’Neil-BOWA Construction.

While the project itself stands as a showcase of craftsmanship — from its self-performed 16-story concrete structure and high-end finishes to advanced VDC modeling and safety coordination — the heart of the celebration centered on the people behind the work.

In accepting the award, W.E. O’Neil Senior Project Executive Herb Dawson emphasized the success of the multi-million-dollar development was rooted in partnership and Union Labor.

“On behalf of W.E. O’Neil Construction and the Board, we couldn’t do this without the skilled trades and the Unions,” Dawson said. “Projects like this are done with a village.”

Dawson noted the significance of the milestone for both companies. W.E. O’Neil, now celebrating 100 years in business, brought a century of experience to the complex, multi-phase build. Meanwhile, BOWA Construction, founded in 2009, continues to expand its footprint in large-scale developments.

“We’re just amazed at where we’re at at this point in time — working on multi-million-dollar projects with a great partner in W.E. O’Neil Construction,” BOWA Construction Project Executive Lee Fantroy added. “This was a wonderful project with a great client.”

The project not only delivered a state-of-the-art entertainment and hospitality destination, but also generated significant community impact — exceeding its DBE participation goal and creating hundreds of Union construction jobs, along with more than 1,000 permanent positions.

Ultimately, the Project of the Year honor reflects more than structural achievement. As Dawson stressed, it represents what can be accomplished when experienced contractors, strong partnerships, and highly skilled Union tradespeople come together to build something transformative for the region.

New Construction – Suburbs (Above $20M)

The Replacement Power Plant at the Elgin Mental Health Center was recognized as the Project of the Year in CISCO’s New Construction – Suburbs (Above $20M) category, honoring a complex infrastructure upgrade that now delivers reliable, cost-effective heating and power to the facility’s 53-building campus, completed by Clark Construction.

The project included installation of three 500-horsepower dual-fuel steam boilers, relocation of a 1,200-horsepower boiler, three 1,500-watt diesel generators, new maintenance and vehicle storage space, and the decommissioning of the aging existing plant. Crews navigated difficult site conditions — including active and undocumented underground utilities — through careful hand excavation, use of spotters, and innovative rerouting solutions to maintain uninterrupted service across the campus. Strategic temporary power feeds also ensured successful testing and commissioning of new MEP systems despite transformer delivery delays, keeping the project on schedule.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, the new facility clears the way for demolition of the former plant and future development of recreational amenities for the Elgin community, including athletic fields, playgrounds, and walking trails.

Accepting the award, Clark Construction Systems Executive Archie Gallup emphasized that the achievement was a true team effort.

“We could not do this without our trade partners like Aldridge Electric and F.E. Moran,” Gallup said. “I also want to thank the Illinois Capital Development Board and the state of Illinois for giving us this opportunity.”

Gallup’s remarks highlighted the collaboration between skilled Union contractors, trusted Union trade partners, and state leadership that made the project possible. The work was completed with an exemplary safety record — zero lost-time or recordable injuries — underscoring the professionalism and discipline of the local Union workforce.

This honor ultimately reflects more than mechanical upgrades; it represents the strength of partnership and public investment in modern, resilient infrastructure that will serve both the campus and the broader community for years to come.

New Construction – Chicago Or Suburbs (Below $20M)

The House of Glass training facility, developed by Ironworkers Local 63, was honored as the Project of the Year in CISCO’s New Construction – Chicago Or Suburbs (Below $20M) category — a recognition that celebrates both its striking design and its purpose-driven mission to train the next generation of skilled Union ironworkers. The general contractor was Skyline Construction.

The state-of-the-art facility was built to provide apprentices with hands-on experience installing complex glass curtain wall systems, including the building’s own signature hourglass-shaped curtainwall. The project demanded advanced layout techniques, meticulous craftsmanship, and collaborative problem-solving to ensure structural integrity, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. Completed with zero accidents and a strong safety culture, the building also reflects a commitment to sustainability and workforce development.

Accepting the award, Ironworkers Local 63 Business Agent and Political Director Fletcher Holmes focused his remarks on gratitude and the broader vision behind the project.

“On behalf of Ironworkers Local 63 and our leadership here today, I’d like to thank Local 63’s Executive Committee and CISCO’s Board members for this honor, along with the men and women of Local 63 who have the vision to help us grow,” Holmes said.

Holmes described the House of Glass as more than a training center — calling it “a beacon of hope.” Visible from Interstate 290, he noted that the building has quickly become a recognizable addition to the city’s landscape.

“When you drive down I-290, you see it — it’s a beautiful building and a beautiful addition to Chicago’s skyline,” he said.

His comments underscored that the project represents not only architectural innovation, but also opportunity — a highly visible symbol of Union craftsmanship, workforce development, and a forward-looking commitment to strengthening the trades for generations to come.

Infrastructure

The Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project was named Project of the Year in CISCO’s Infrastructure category, recognizing the sweeping transformation of Chicago’s busiest rail corridor and the collaborative effort behind its success

Delivered by Walsh-Fluor Design-Build for the Chicago Transit Authority, the project replaced century-old infrastructure with modernized track, stations, and a new Red-Purple Bypass flyover. It also reconstructed six miles of track and opened four fully ADA-accessible stations, blending high-capacity design with architectural elements that reflect the surrounding neighborhoods. Beyond construction excellence, the project generated thousands of Union jobs, directed hundreds of millions of dollars to DBE contractors, and supported workforce development initiatives.

Accepting the award, CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and the partners who made the project possible.

“We are so grateful for this recognition of this project, of which we are so proud,” Leerhsen said, thanking CISCO’s Board of Directors, the Walsh-Fluor design-build team, the design team of record Stantec, as well as the dedicated CTA staff who worked on the initiative for years.

Leerhsen highlighted the opening of the four new stations as a defining moment. For many residents, it marked the first time they could fully access their neighborhood stations due to ADA improvements.

“It was absolutely a highlight of last year to open these four stations and to see people in the neighborhood — who have not been able to access those stations for their entire life — be able to access them because they’re now ADA accessible,” she said.

She also discussed the broader significance of the project, noting it came during a critical period as the CTA advocated for transit funding from the Illinois. The completed stations, she said, stand as visible proof of what sustained public investment can deliver.

“Now, we are able to look at these four breathtaking stations as a testament to what investment in public transit can look like,” Leerhsen said, adding that the project’s success helped reinforce the case for continued funding.

She also thanked the skilled Union workers and contractors whose skill and dedication brought RPM Phase One to completion, emphasizing that the recognition belongs to the entire team that helped modernize one of the city’s most vital transportation corridors.

Rehab

The renovation of the La Grange Park Public Library was honored as Project of the Year in CISCO’s Rehab category, recognizing a transformation that turned a deteriorating facility into a vibrant, modern community hub by general contractor Leopardo.

Originally initiated to address serious structural issues caused by a failed exterior envelope — including water intrusion and rusting supports — the 30,000-square-foot project evolved into a comprehensive rehabilitation. The redesigned space now features a soaring atrium, welcoming colors, expanded natural light, upgraded HVAC systems, ADA-compliant accessibility improvements, and enhanced building controls. Completed on time and under budget, the project maximized public investment through bond funding and a state construction grant, while maintaining a zero-incident safety record supported by innovative QR-code tracking and weekly safety trainings.

Accepting the award, Leopardo Project Manager Ryan Rojas emphasized both gratitude and community impact. “I say ‘thank you’ to the CISCO Board for recognizing this incredible project and the lasting impact it will have on the La Grange Park community,” Rojas said.

He noted that what began as a necessary repair ultimately became a full-scale transformation designed to serve residents for generations. “This rehab was a necessary repair, driven to a full-fledged transformation of the space. It’s designed to serve, inspire and bring the community together,” he explained..

Rojas credited the success of the renovation to the collaborative efforts and craftsmanship of Union trades, along with strong partnership from the La Grange Park Public Library District.

“This was all made possible through the craftsmanship, collaborative agenda, and safety of our Union trade partners, as well as the La Grange Park Public Library District,” Rojas added.

His emphasized the project represents more than a building upgrade — it stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through skilled Union labor, thoughtful design, and a shared commitment to strengthening community spaces.

Residential

The residential development of Sheffield of Lincoln Park was recognized as the Project of the Year in CISCO’s Residential category, honoring the transformation of a half-acre parking lot into a vibrant, mixed-use community asset. The general contractor was Leopardo/UJAMMA JV

The 86,500-square-foot, six-story building delivers 63 affordable housing units, first-floor retail space, second-floor public parking, and sustainable design elements that meet Chicago’s rigorous environmental standards. Completed on time and within budget, the project incorporated advanced 3D modeling to resolve structural and mechanical conflicts prior to construction, low-carbon concrete and LED lighting to meet energy efficiency goals, and a customized, tech-enabled safety plan that resulted in zero incidents. Traffic was carefully rerouted to minimize neighborhood disruption, and minority- and women-owned business participation goals were successfully achieved.

Accepting the award, Leopardo Residential Business Unit Vice President Steve Sebastian reflected on the collaborative effort behind the 36-month build.

“This was a great 36-month project for Leopardo and our JV partner UJAMMA for our client the Chicago Housing Authority,” Sebastian said, highlighting the strong partnership between Leopardo, UJAMMA, and the Chicago Housing Authority, underscoring the teamwork required to deliver a complex affordable housing development in a dense urban setting.

Leopardo’s recognition affirms not only the project’s construction excellence, but also the shared commitment of its partners to expand quality, affordable housing and strengthen Chicago communities through thoughtful, community-focused development.

Community Impact Award (1 of 2)

For the fourth time, the CISCO Executive Board exercised its discretionary authority to present not one — but TWO Community Impact Award acknowledgments. The first recipient was the DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center.

Designed and constructed by Wight Construction, the DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center represents a transformative investment in behavioral health care, integrating mental health and substance-use services for youth and adults in a calming, trauma-informed environment. Built within an active health campus on an accelerated schedule, the facility reflects thoughtful design, strong stakeholder collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to safety — achieving zero lost-time incidents across more than 60,000 work hours.

Accepting the recognition, Wight Construction Design & Construction President Jason Dwyer expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to deliver what he described as a long-overdue and vital community resource.

“On behalf of my whole team with Wight Construction, I want to say how honored and fortunate we are to have had the opportunity to work with such an amazing client as the DuPage County Health Department and DuPage County,” Dwyer said. “This is an important project in the community and something that’s been long overdue. The health department’s doing such great work.”

Dwyer encouraged attendees to visit the DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center and learn more about its mission, while emphasizing that the project’s success was made possible through collaboration with Union trade partners.

“We couldn’t do this project without all of our Union trade partners here in the room,” he said. “So thank you all for the support you have given us in helping to make these projects become reality.”

Adding to the recognition, CISCO’s Allen noted the leadership behind the initiative, offering special acknowledgment to Deb Conroy, DuPage County Board Chairwoman. Allen highlighted her long-standing commitment to mental health and substance abuse initiatives and credited her advocacy — alongside many others — for helping bring the Crisis Center to reality.

The DuPage County Crisis Recovery Center receiving CISCO’s Community Impact Award honors more than its construction excellence; it recognizes the collective leadership, advocacy, and skilled Union craftsmanship that made a critical behavioral health resource a reality for DuPage County residents.

Community Impact Award (2 of 2)

The Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center was recognized as a CISCO Project of the Year recipient, honoring a state-of-the-art, community-centered facility that brings accessible wellness services to the Humboldt Park neighborhood and surrounding communities, with a Community Impact award.

Delivered by ALL Construction Group as design-build partner, the 47,000-square-foot center features a structural steel superstructure, load-bearing masonry, complex trapezoidal curtainwall, and diverse wellness amenities — including therapy and lap pools, an indoor track, fitness studios, childcare, and physical therapy spaces. The project was completed within budget and with an excellent safety record, reflecting meticulous coordination and a strong safety culture.

Accepting the award, ALL Construction Group President Luis Puig reflected on both the challenges and rewards of a long career in construction.

“I’d like to thank CISCO for this award,” Puig said. “After being in the business for 40 years, it’s always nice to get an award and be recognized for your work.”

With humor, Puig acknowledged the pressures contractors face. He joked that mental health is especially important in the construction industry because “your mental health is always tested in this business.” But he added that moments like this make the hard work worthwhile.

“Then you are recognized with an award like this from CISCO, and you realize it’s all worth it,” he said.

Puig also expressed gratitude to the client, thanking Humboldt Park Health for placing its trust in ACG to deliver such an important community asset. He closed by recognizing his team for their dedication in bringing the “beautiful, successful project” to life.

His remarks underscored that the award celebrates not only construction excellence, but also perseverance, teamwork, and the shared commitment to building facilities that strengthen community health and well-being.