Granite Launches $80M Infrastructure Project in Forney, Texas
Granite Construction Company, one of the nation’s largest diversified infrastructure contractors and construction materials producers, has been awarded an $80 million contract by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to carry out a significant roadway improvement project in Forney, Texas. The project, which will focus on upgrading a section of Farm to Market Road 548 (FM 548), is funded through state sources and will be recognized in Granite’s first-quarter Committed and Awarded Projects (CAP).
This major infrastructure investment is aimed at transforming a critical transportation corridor in the fast-growing North Texas region. Specifically, the work will be conducted on FM 548 between north of U.S. Highway 80 and Windmill Farms Boulevard, a highly trafficked section of road that plays a vital role in local and regional connectivity.
The planned upgrade involves converting the existing asphalt roadway into a concrete-paved thoroughfare with additional travel lanes to accommodate the increasing volume of vehicles. As the population of Forney and Kaufman County continues to rise, this project is a proactive response to both current and anticipated traffic demands.
Meeting the Needs of a Growing Community
Forney, located in the eastern portion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, has seen substantial growth in recent years. According to census data and regional planning forecasts, Kaufman County is among the fastest-growing counties in Texas. As residential, commercial, and industrial development expands across the region, infrastructure upgrades are essential to sustain the area’s momentum and quality of life.
Granite’s upcoming work on FM 548 addresses one of the most pressing concerns for the City of Forney: traffic congestion in its busiest commercial zone. The road currently struggles to handle peak-hour volumes, causing delays and raising concerns about safety and accessibility. By expanding the roadway and enhancing drainage systems, the project is expected to deliver long-term benefits to commuters, residents, and local businesses.
Scope of Work and Technical Specifications
The comprehensive scope of this project demonstrates Granite’s capabilities in managing large-scale infrastructure improvements. The job includes installing over 200,000 square yards of 10-inch concrete pavement, a durable and long-lasting solution designed to withstand high traffic volumes and the demanding Texas climate.
In addition to the pavement upgrades, the project includes the construction of more than 40,000 linear feet of new storm drainage infrastructure. These improvements will ensure the roadway remains resilient during heavy rain and extreme weather events—an increasingly important factor given the state’s vulnerability to severe storms and flash flooding.
Granite’s work will also involve traffic management planning, erosion control, and coordination with utility providers, as is typical with TxDOT roadway projects. All efforts will be made to minimize disruptions to local traffic during the construction phase, with phased construction schedules and detour planning expected to be implemented.
Strategic Fit for Granite’s North Texas Operations
This contract aligns closely with Granite’s long-term strategic objectives in the North Texas market. The company has established a strong presence in the region, supported by local offices, material production facilities, and a skilled workforce.
“Our home market strategy in North Texas is complemented perfectly by this strategic project,” said Steve Kaesler, Granite Vice President of Regional Operations. “It fits well with our core competencies and is a result of capitalizing on other wins in the nearby area. We’re proud to deliver work that not only aligns with our strengths but also has a meaningful impact on growing communities.”
This project adds to Granite’s expanding portfolio of TxDOT contracts and reaffirms the company’s reputation as a trusted partner for large infrastructure projects in Texas. In recent years, Granite has successfully completed numerous highway, bridge, and site development projects across the state, with a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability.
Economic and Social Impact
Beyond the technical execution, the FM 548 upgrade will play an important role in the ongoing economic development of Forney and the surrounding areas. Improved roadway infrastructure makes the city more attractive for commercial investment, residential development, and job creation. It also enhances the daily lives of residents by reducing commute times, improving road safety, and increasing overall mobility.
Moreover, the project is expected to create jobs during the construction phase and contribute to local economic activity. Granite’s team will work closely with TxDOT and local stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of the project are fully realized, both during and after completion.
Supporting Sustainable Infrastructure
Granite is committed to sustainable construction practices that reduce environmental impact while delivering long-term value. On this project, the company will implement strategies to reduce material waste, minimize emissions from construction equipment, and manage stormwater responsibly.
The use of concrete pavement, which has a longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs compared to asphalt, supports sustainability goals by reducing the frequency of repairs and minimizing future resource use. Additionally, the improved storm drain system will help manage runoff and protect the local environment.
