BOSTON – November 12, 2024 – Kaplan Construction, a WBE general contractor and construction management firm providing comprehensive building programs across Greater Boston, today announced its work on Castle Island Brewery in South Boston has earned an Excellence in Construction® (EIC) from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Massachusetts. The EIC awards program is the industry’s leading competition that honors both general and specialty contractors for world-class, safe, and innovative construction projects. Kaplan was awarded the Eagle Award, an honor reserved for work that stands above the rest. It recognizes overall excellence in project execution, craftsmanship, safety, innovative elements and challenges, and client satisfaction. This marks the 10th time Kaplan has received the Eagle Award.
Nearly 300 ABC members gathered at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Norwood on Thursday, Nov. 7 to recognize and celebrate the very best construction projects their companies have to offer. This year’s applicant pool was particularly competitive, with each winner selected for the high standards of craftsmanship, safety, and quality delivered by talented merit shop workers using the efficient merit shop approach.
Located within an existing industrial building, Castle Island Brewery South Boston features a 4,000 SF main tasting room with seating for 220 people, a retail area, and a 1,900 SF private event space which can accommodate up to 140 people. A quarter of Castle Island’s new space accommodates the brewing operations, including a brewhouse and seven 10-barrel tanks. The new location opened for business in September 2021.
During construction, Kaplan uncovered unexpected conditions in the century-old building, including an unusually thick concrete slab, underground obstructions, and deteriorated plumbing. These findings required collaboration with the structural engineer and significant adjustments, including replacing plumbing and rebuilding several walls. Other key challenges included working within the building’s compact footprint and overcoming the impacts of COVID-19.
The Massachusetts Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors is the largest construction trade association in the Commonwealth, representing nearly 500 local general contractor, subcontractor, and supplier and associate companies that employ over 20,000 workers throughout Massachusetts.
The project team members for this project include:
- Client: Castle Island Brewing Company
- Developer: National Development
- Construction Manager: Kaplan Construction
- Architect: Joe the Architect
- MEP/FP Engineer: BLW Engineers
- Structural Engineer: Souza True & Partners