Featured Project: Gray Mount Commons Residential Development

Brubacher is honored to be supporting the Gray Mount Commons construction project, transforming a vacant 22-acre site in Elkton, MD, into much-needed new housing. The multi-phase residential development project requires a range of site development services, including site planning, site preparation, bulk earthwork, full-scale utility installation, curbing and paving. With the work now well underway after commencing earlier in fall 2024, Brubacher is focused on providing efficient, innovative solutions that align with the goals of our valued developer client and contribute to the creation of a vibrant neighborhood to meet the surrounding community’s needs.

Brubacher’s strategic approach as site contractor for Gray Mount Commons ensures the seamless progression of work, minimizing delays and streamlining efforts across all project phases. After digging into a project planning process to evaluate the lay of the land, identify potential risks, and assist in working through conservation district compliance, our team began on-site work in mid-October with initial land clearing operations as part of the project’s first of four total phases.

• Phases 1 and 2, which include complete earthwork operations, installation of all utilities (sanitary sewer, storm sewer, water, electric, and communications), and initial paving, are scheduled for completion by April 2025.
• Future phases 3 and 4 are planned for later 2025.

Skillfully Navigating Project Complexities from Day One

The Gray Mount Commons site has presented unique complexities requiring thoughtful planning and collaboration. A primary challenge lies in the site’s soil conditions. Much of the material is unsuitable for structural purposes, necessitating unsuitable soil remediation strategies. Brubacher’s team is working closely with our client and other project partners to develop cost-effective solutions to move material but keep it within the project site, such as over-excavating and repurposing unsuitable soil in non-structural areas. Project Manager Chris S. noted, “This area in Maryland is known to have a challenging soil class. We’ve been working together with our client and others to identify areas where this unsuitable material can be placed while creating a strong foundation for critical parts of the site where homes will be constructed.”

Also related to challenging site conditions, a notable feature of this project is the installation of sewer lines at depths exceeding 20 feet. “Excavating to these depths involves detailed engineering plans and precise execution,” Chris stated. “While not uncommon, these deep excavation solutions require careful attention to safety and a structured approach to keep everything moving efficiently.” Brubacher’s expertise as an excavation company dedicated to safety as a value and experienced in serving the residential sector allows our Utilities team to shine in this aspect of the project.

One additional complexity that Chris and the team are experiencing is weather-related constraints. Because paving operations are planned for the winter months, the team is ready to be flexible in case of particularly wet or frigid conditions that could affect timelines. Brubacher’s experience as a trusted paving contractor positions the team to manage these challenges while staying focused on timely delivery. Chris added, “It’s been great to see everyone approach challenges with a shared sense of purpose and a commitment to finding the best solutions.”

Creating Value & Client Satisfaction through Collaboration

By working closely with developer Kevin Holohan of Lohan Development, partnering engineers, and municipal stakeholders, Brubacher is ensuring steady project advancement while addressing challenges efficiently. “Our ability to handle multiple aspects of site development under one roof benefits the client,” said Chris. “For example, we can move from utility installation to paving without interruption, which keeps the project on track and ensures consistency in execution.”

Being part of the Gray Mount Commons residential development is an opportunity to provide trusted residential construction services and support the development of a thriving community. A solutions-focused approach to addressing each project complexity ensures we are delivering on the client’s needs while maintaining the highest standards of quality. “We’re fortunate to have a client who values collaboration and open communication,” Chris shared. “That relationship really drives the success of this project.”

“Gray Mount Commons marks my second collaboration with Brubacher. I brought them in early as a trusted partner to help navigate the nuances of an outdated site with legacy approvals in need of updates. I know that I can rely on my team at Brubacher to provide the resources needed to work as efficiently as possible and hit schedule milestones that help me as a developer deliver building lots to the end user as quickly as possible. Their deep understanding of the project ensures a clear path ahead so that we can all make progress without delay.  When unexpected problems arise, Brubacher comes with potential solutions to correct the issue and works alongside my engineer to develop a constructable, cost-effective resolution.” Kevin Holohan

The Brubacher team is preparing to carry forward the momentum created throughout phases 1 and 2 into the project’s later phases as we progress through 2025. We are grateful to the Holohan team for their continued partnership, and we are excited for the opportunity to continue providing our signature Insight. On Site. and collaborative approach to ensure a smooth progression of work throughout the coming year.