Scioto Mile Project Executive Jeff Ruschau.
The dirt is flying at downtown’s Scioto Mile, and Jeff Ruschau couldn’t be happier.
Ruschau is the Project Executive for Messer Construction, the company hired by Columbus Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC) to manage renovation plans in the area. In this role, he oversees day-to-day construction activities, communicates with the project’s stakeholders, and makes sure that project goals are being met. Ruschau has been involved with the project since the early proposal stages, so he’s glad that shovels are finally hitting the ground.
Phase 1 of the project began in June. Most of the initial phase involves roadwork and utilities – some of the basic building blocks for the project. Phase 2, still in the design stage, will address specific elements such as a new promenade, fountains and expanded park space. Renovations are scheduled to be completed in 2011, in time for the city’s bicentennial.
One of Ruschau’s primary responsibilities is to ensure clear, consistent communication between the many entities that have a vested interest in the Scioto Mile. For example, he leads a weekly update meeting with representatives from the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC), MSI (the lead architects), EMH&T (the civil engineering firm), and the Columbus Recreation & Parks Department.
“Team and relationship building is an important part of my job, since there are so many different stakeholders,” said Ruschau. “Communication is key, so in addition to status reports, we evaluate and strategize to make sure that everyone’s on the same page moving forward.”
According to Ruschau, his day-to-day construction management activities focus on four main areas: safety, quality, schedule, and cost. With dozens of workers and thousands of square feet of construction space, managing all of those factors is a significant task. Ruschau’s experience and training, however, have him well prepared for the demands of the job.
“Jeff’s experience and dedication makes him a valuable asset to the project team,” said Ed Mendelson, director of construction services, CDDC.
Ruschau graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in Civil Engineering. A resident of Columbus and member of the Messer Construction team since 1989, he has worked on many local projects including the state capital building, Franklin County office tower, the Ohio Supreme Court building, and several projects on The Ohio State University campus.
In his off time, Ruschau stays busy with family activities involving his four children, and frequently tackles handyman projects around his 1920s-era house. He and his family have been active with the local Easter Seals program for the past five years, and sponsored the organization for a recent grant from the Messer Foundation. The $25,000 grant will help complete construction of a new facility located in Hilliard, Ohio.