Building great things

by Clair D. Urbain

When I first learned about the Skywalk glass bridge project on the Hualapai Tribe reservation at the Grand Canyon, it sounded too amazing to be true.

Further research and conversations with developers and promoters indeed proved it to be true, and as you read this editorial, the glass bridge should be rolled into place on its perch overlooking the Grand Canyon.

Although engineered with incredible safety margins and tremendous attention to detail, as of this writing, there is still some hand-wringing over the roll-out process. Whether the rollout is a tremendous success or dismal failure, it is sure to make headlines around the world.

That is perhaps what excites me most about construction projects. No matter what their size, any construction project is about transforming raw materials and site potential into something that should serve mankind and improve our lives in some way, shape or form.

That’s also what makes visiting with people working on these great projects so interesting. Almost without exception, I find them to be professionals who are interesting, thought-provoking and tell-it-like-it-is folks.

It really is all about building great things. These projects stretch the mind and capacities of engineers, designers, owners and contractors. The most successful projects are much more than about the actual building process; it’s as much about the planning, foresight and thought that goes into them in the design phase.

In talking with the designers and contractors on the Skywalk project, it is evident that there has been a real sense of teamwork. Participants admit there have been glitches and challenges; some team members have moved on to be replaced by others. Still, the project progressed.

The Skywalk is much more than a beautiful view of one of the world’s most natural wonders or about an engineering feat that is truly awe-inspiring. It’s about helping a native American people support itself in an area that is so desolate it is breathtakingly beautiful.

To support itself, the Hualapai Nation decided not to take the gaming and casino route to self-sufficiency. Instead, it is opening up some of its most scenic and sacred land for others to experience. The Grand Canyon West project, which entails cultural and educational experiences, offers a greater insight into our country’s history and natural resources.

If you’d like to learn more about the Skybridge project, go to our cover story. There, you’ll find more pictures of this beautiful area as well as links to Web sites that more fully explain the Grand Canyon West project.

Published in the March/April 2007 issue of Contractor Tools and Supplies magazine.

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