SADLY.......
more than likely this is the last post on Ernie Caldwell Diaries.
We all know the economics of our times. Contractors are bidding these jobs ever lower just to get the work. Well Mid-State paving bid this to low, cut corners which led to sub-par work and having to repeat and re-do many phases. They owed all the subs well into 6 digits, including my firm. Last Tuesday their bond company took over, Friday shut the project down. Shut all their projects down. Sixty-six people lost their jobs Friday. The owners lose all the equipment and, this is harsh, their homes and cars. The Super on the job lost his house Wednesday.
It was a sad and somber feeling. These clowns have been a pain in my a$$ for a year and a half. But....but, I've been at this job for four and a half years, three have been with these guys. I know them. As we stood around one last time we said, "....hope to see ya around." I had a tear in my eye for them. I still have a job although it will be slim pickins and a struggle for awhile. The Army Corps of Engineers decided they didn't need a full time inspector. So the S. Florida job will be drive down, take a few test and leave. The bond company can decide to let us finish the job. There is little left for my part and I know the job. There is a meeting at noon but.....it's rare not to change out everybody.
Keep your eyes open on the boards, I may need to have a fire sale myself to thin the collection down.
I hope you have enjoyed this thread. It has to one of the longest running (on and off of course). I haven't enjoyed field herping like this in 25 years or so. Thanks to all who took the time to look and post.
See ya round the boards.
