Lane Kimble

New WisDOT materials testing policy change in effect with May letting

May 9, 2025 by Lane Kimble

WisDOT has implemented a materials testing policy change regarding missed Quality Verification (QV) Testing.

The policy includes potential loss to contractors if the notification outlined in the document is not provided, prior to the placement of concrete.

From WisDOT:

WisDOT, in consultation with FHWA WI-Division developed the “MISSED TEST MEMO” (linked below.) The basis for the memo is a refocused emphasis by all parties on prevention of missed tests.

If no QV testing is conducted in a lot, QC sampling and testing cannot be used for acceptance. Guidance within the memo was developed using existing WisDOT Standard Specification language.

The “MISSED TEST MEMO” includes the addition of a semi-formalized Material Placement Notification (MPN) to address the “missed test” finding from the FHWA Concrete QA Assessment.

The MISSED TEST MEMO is effective with the May 2025 bid letting; however, please be advised that WisDOT Standard Specification 106.1.1 and 106.1.2 already required the contractor provide notification of material sources and required engineer approval PRIOR to incorporating materials into the work. These requirements remain unchanged with the memo.

Please read the memo HERE: MEMORANDUM: Concrete QMP – Missed QV Tests

You can send any questions to WTBA Director of Engineering Matt Grove at mgrove@wtba.org.

WTBA contingent gains valuable insights, connections at ARTBA Federal Issues Program

May 8, 2025 by Lane Kimble

WASHINGTON, D.C. — WTBA’s reach and influence extends well beyond the state’s borders, a fact on display in the Washington, D.C. this week.

Executive Director Steve Baas joined former Board presidents Jim Peterson, Jeff Parisi, and HNTB Wisconsin Vice President Andy Kowkse for ARTBA’s Federal Issues Program and the Transportation Construction Coalition Fly-In.

The group heard from Congressional staff, economists, and industry leaders on key developments that will shape the federal transportation reauthorization bill.

The current version (the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) expires in 2026. Congress started working in earnest on reauthorization this year.

“We’re a nation of builders. You don’t talk about ‘rebuilding America,’ you just do it,” CNN political commentator Scott Jennings told the gathering during his keynote luncheon speech. Jennings called for permitting and workforce reforms in addition to long-term, stable investments.

Kowske, meanwhile, participated in and graduated from ARTBA’s Industry Leaders Development Program. The ILDP trains and equips emerging leaders to be more effective advocates in our priorities. Past ILDP graduates include Dan Weinkauf, Elise Nelson, and Lane Kimble.

Kowske has been with HNTB since 2004 and has served as project manager on the massive Zoo Interchange reconstruction. He is also helping lead HNTB’s work on the Stadium Interchange portion of the upcoming I-94 East-West project.

Celebration of life planned Friday for Tim Musson, 73

May 7, 2025 by Lane Kimble

Timothy David Musson passed away Monday, May 5, 2025 at the age of 73.

Tim was owner of the fourth-generation Musson Brothers, Inc., a role he took on when his father passed away in 1982, according to his obituary.

Tim worked to expand operations from Musson’s origins in Rhinelander to winning WisDOT highway contracts in southeast Wisconsin and across the state.

Tim also launched Musson’s pipeline division in the mid-1990s, expanding into other states.

Tim’s family described him as kind, generous, charming and charismatic. He enjoyed travel and “most certainly liked to live life at the edge, and to the very fullest.”

Family and friends will hold a celebration of Tim’s life Friday, May 9 at 1 p.m. at Holiday Acres Resort in Rhinelander.

Attire is casual so guests can be comfortable and enjoy their time together “remembering the good ol’ days.”

WTBA extends its deepest sympathies to Tim’s family, friends, and colleagues.

M3 Insurance acquires Babcock Solutions

May 6, 2025 by Lane Kimble

Two WTBA Associate member companies are combining forces to provide an even better experience for clients.

M3 Insurance announced late last month it acquired Babcock Solutions. Brad and Kim Babcock formed the company in 2012 and have provided surety bonds to many WTBA members.

Babcock solutions will integrate into the M3 brand over the coming months.

“Welcoming Babcock Solutions to M3 is pivotal for our surety practice,” M3 CEO Mike Victorson said. “Their legacy of trusted relationships and expertise aligns with our promise to deliver unmatched value to clients. Together, we’re not just expanding services, we’re raising the bar for what’s possible for our clients.”

Joining M3 will allow staff to continue building “trusted relationships” and expand its reach across Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and the Upper Peninsula, Babcock says.

Babcock and M3’s Director of Surety Travis Schreiber are both heavily involved in the WTBA, serving on the Associate Council and attending many association events.