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News

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1/15/2010  -  JANA ROBBINS CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AT TRANSTECH 
 
What were you doing in 1994…? 

This is the year Sr. Transportation Analyst Jana Robbins was hired at Transtech. 

Today at the Walnut office, Sr. Vice President Robert Quintero presented Jana with a plaque commemorating her 15 years of service and dedication to Transtech.  Longevity symbolizes strength and security especially in today’s world, and it’s employees like Jana that have made the successes of Transtech possible.  During the presentation, Robert said, “Jana has always stepped up to the table when needed, time and time again, and we thank her for that.”

When asked about what she remembers most about her tenure at Transtech, Jana noted, “Ali has always hired good, smart people who are professional and friendly.  That’s what I remember most.  For me, the people and the relationships that I’ve built have been the most important things.”

Jana - on behalf of the Transtech family, thank you for all that you have done.  Congratulations on your 15th Anniversary!

  
 

12/14/2009  -  TRANSTECH SPONSORS THE HOLIDAYS

Pomona Christmas Parade
Transtech was a Platinum Sponsor, as well as a participant, in Pomona’s Christmas Parade.  The event was held in the downtown area on Saturday, December 12th, from 10 am – 12 pm.  For more information, click here.
 
                 

Toys for Tots

From December 14 - 18, Transtech will be sponsoring (3) thirty second Toys for Tots radio public service announcements (PSA’s) on AM 870 KRLA.  To listen to the PSA, click here.

 
12/5/2009  -  TRANSTECH'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY & ANNUAL EMPLOYEE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
Transtech is proud to announce that 2009/2010 marks our 20th Anniversary of providing consulting expertise in Southern California.

As part of the year-long festivities, the Transtech family, headed by Founder and President, Ali Cayir, came together at Morton’s – The Steakhouse, in downtown Los Angeles to make merry at the Annual Employee Holiday Celebration.  Below is a pictorial recap.

                                

Happy Holidays from all of us at Transtech!


11/25/2009  -  MISSION 71 PROJECT UPDATE
Below is the latest photo summary of the Mission 71 Project (located at the intersection of Mission Blvd. and State Route 71 in the City of Pomona).
 
The Contractor recently completed constructing a 1,000 ft. water drainage channel located on the northwest quadrant of the project area.  Work included: demolition and excavation, grading, rebar and water fixture installation, and finally the pouring of concrete.
 
Currently, the beginning form of the southbound on-ramp from Mission Blvd. to State Route 71 is taking shape.

Water Drainage Channel
 
             
 
Southbound On-Ramp
 
                          
  
About the Project

Critical to regional transportation infrastructure, the Mission 71 Project removes the existing at-grade intersection allowing for the construction of a new compressed diamond-designed interchange (Mission Blvd. over State Route 71).  When complete, the Mission 71 Project will alleviate congestion, improve traffic mobility and reduce delays. Total project cost is approximately $40 million; construction is estimated at twenty-two months.
 
For more information, visit www.mission71project.com.
 

11/16/2009  -  PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF TRANSTECH, ALI CAYIR, ELECTED TO CSUSB BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Continuing the tradition of Transtech’s philanthropic efforts and supporting communities in which we do business, President and Founder, Ali Cayir, has been elected to the Board of Directors for the Foundation that supports California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). 

Established in 1962, the Foundation’s goal is to support CSUSB’s educational mission by providing quality services that complement the University’s instructional programs.  CSUSB depends upon the Foundation, headed by the Board of Directors, to provide financial support to services that cannot be provided by the State of California.

Congratulations Ali on your charitable efforts and representing Transtech well in the educational community!

For more information, visit http://foundation.csusb.edu/.

    
 
9/21/2009  -  PHOTO RECAP: 2009 LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES (LOCC) ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO 

                                             
 
   
9/9/2009  -  TRANSTECH SNAPSHOT #2 - BOB CARLISLE
Below is the second installment of the quarterly profile series entitled “Transtech Snapshots.”
 
Spotlighted will be Bob Carlisle: 
 
 
 
1. Current capacity and main responsibilities at Transtech?
  • Office Manager - Big Bear Lake Office
  • Project Manager - City of Big Bear Lake Public Works Yard Improvement Project
    • Site yard improvements
    • New 7,600 sf two-story office
    • 7,500 sf warm vehicle steel storage building, cinder storage bins, and site paving additions
  • Conduct land surveys and topographical site plans of area lots in Big Bear.
  • Prepare Project Management, Design & CAD documents for new subdivisions, parcel maps, and grading plans.
  • Design CAD documents for custom homes, home additions and remodels.
2. How long have you been in the industry and why this industry?  Career turning point?
I've been in this Industry since 1980.  My passion has always been architectural design.  Surveying and Civil Engineering is the brother of this vocation and I've continuously worked with, and for, Civil Engineers and Architects since 1980.  The challenge of surveying taught me the power of math which still fascinates me to this day.
 
3. Biggest industry challenge you foresee in the future?
I believe environmental issues will challenge our profession for many years to come. Also, technological advances always keep everyone on a learning curve.
 
4. Best part of working at Transtech?
I have a vast pool of expert and professional Engineers, Surveyors, Project Managers and Land Planners at my side and on my team that I can utilize when needed.  I appreciate the respect that I have received from my colleagues and the feeling is mutual.
 
5. Where did you attend college and what degree/ professional certifications have you earned? 
  • San Bernardino Valley College majoring in Architecture
  • Riverside City College for Land Surveying in 1995-96 
  • I have an LSIT certificate, and work under the direction of my Licensed PE/PLS peers within our company.
6. Your first job was?
  • My first real job was in the Engineering Department of the HPE/MUSKIN Corporation in Colton, Ca.  I did:
    • Mechanical drafting (by pencil)
    • Research & development of new products we produced & sold to major retailers
    • Research & development of swimming pool filtration products, artificial Christmas trees, and OHV off-road (2 wheel, 3 wheel & 4 wheel vehicles).
    • Injection molding tool & die design drafting.
7. Most influential people?
My high school drafting teacher, Mr. Cann.  While other students were given assignments and scheduled tasks to work through during the year, Mr. Cann gave me the freedom to choose my own projects, which helped build self-confidence.
 
8. Lessons learned along the way?
I've always felt that a good product for a good price was my middle name.  I have also learned over the years that my wife, and probably yours, are correct almost 98% of the time.
 
9. Favorite hobbies and activities to do outside of work?
I enjoy playing my acoustic guitar, riding my motorcycle along winding mountain roads, photography, and watching my son, Preston, grow into adulthood.
 
10. Anything else you would like to add?
It is wonderful to do what you enjoy for a living.  I totally love my work and the challenges, rewards, satisfaction and fulfillment that it brings.  The bonus is that I respect and admire my peers.  Transtech supports worthy causes and I respect that quality in a company.
 
         
 
9/4/2009  -  TRANSTECH PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT ON KRLA 870AM
On September 1st and 3rd, Transtech sponsored a 30-second drunk driving Public Service Announcement (PSA) on KRLA 870AM
 
To listen, click here.

8/17/2009
  -  2009 LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES (LOCC) ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO 
Transtech will be attending the League of California Cities (LOCC) 2009 Annual Conference & Expo from September 16-18, 2009 at the San Jose Convention Center in San Jose, CA.    The theme for this year’s Conference & Expo is “strong cities - strong state - strong nation.”
 
The LOCC is an association of California city officials that collaborate to improve their professional skills, improve their understanding of municipal related issues, exchange information, and bring together and utilize resources so they may influence policy decisions that affect cities.
 
For more information regarding Transtech’s attendance, contact Melissa Sandoval at (909) 595-8599 Ext. 131 or melissa.sandoval@transtech.org.
 
To learn more about the LOCC, visit www.cacities.org.

     

8/14/2009
  -  TRANSTECH TO SPONSOR PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT ON KRLA 870AM
On Tuesday and Thursday, September 1st and 3rd, Transtech will be sponsoring a 30-second drunk driving Public Service Announcement (PSA) on KRLA 870AM.

Here is how the PSA will read:

“Transtech would like to remind everyone listening this Labor Day weekend, California highways will be busy with motorists traveling to and from family and friends.  Make sure you and your family have a safe and sober way home, and please, never drink and drive.

This Public Service Announcement is brought to you by the team at Transtech, located at 624 Brea Canyon Road, in Walnut - part of the community since 1989. 
 
For your Civil Engineering, Land Development, and Transportation Planning needs, call (909) 595-8599 or visit online at www.transtech.org.
 
That’s Transtech, where Ali Cayir, Robert Quintero, and the Transtech team wish you and your family a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!”
 

8/3/2009
  -  BEACH CITIES TRANSIT (BCT) ROUTE 109
Transtech recently provided Beach Cities Transit (BCT) with Transportation Planning and Community Outreach expertise involving the realignment of Route 109.  The BCT system supports the cities of Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and El Segundo.

BCT Route 109 operates between 6 am – 10pm servicing: Redondo Beach Riviera Village, Pier Ave. in Hermosa Beach, Downtown Manhattan Beach, Downtown El Segundo, Plaza  El Segundo, the Metro Aviation Green Line Station, and the LAX City Bus Center.

BCT’s fixed routes are designed to facilitate the use of public transit for commuter, work, and school trips, and provide an alternative to car travel for recreational trips.

For more information, contact Hal Suetsugu, Vice President, at (909) 595-8599 Ext. 143, or hal.suetsugu@transtech.org.

       
 
  
7/29/2009  -  PICO RIVERA TRANSPORTATION NEEDS ASSESSMENT 
Transtech is currently conducting a Transportation Needs Assessment for the City of Pico Rivera.  When complete, strategies will be identified for increasing public transportation opportunities within the community with special emphasis on seniors, students, and the disabled.  Efforts to date include the planning and execution of (2) public workshops and the production and dissemination of bi-lingual community notices and surveys.
 
             
 
7/13/2009  -  CORONA PARKING STRUCTURE GRAND OPENING 
In partnership with the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) Transtech is proud to announce the Grand Opening of a new parking structure on July 16, 2009, at the North Main Corona Metrolink Station.  The 1,065 parking space, six-story concrete structure is located on Blaine St. in the City of Corona. The structure includes two elevators, two entrances/exits, and a connecting bridge to an over-crossing.  Transtech has provided Construction Management expertise for this $25 million project which began in January 2008.
 
For more information, contact Craig Melicher at craig.melicher@transtech.org.

                   

7/6/2009
  -  UPDATE: 2009 MTA CALL FOR PROJECTS
The results are in for the MTA's 2009 Call for Projects!  Transtech has successfully secured more than $20 million in funding for local Cities, with an average award of $2.5 million/project.  Project types include:
 
Regional Surface Transportation Improvements (RSTI)
          City of Carson: 405/ Avalon Blvd. Access & Congestion Relief Project
          City of Inglewood: Florence Ave. Regional Corridor Improvements  |  Century Blvd. Mobility Improvement Project

Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
          City of Baldwin Park: Metrolink Parking Resource Management Demonstration Project  

Bikeway Improvements
          City of Baldwin Park: South Baldwin Park Commuter Bikeway Project

Transit Capital
          City of Azusa: Intermodal Transit Center & Parking Facility
          City of Redondo Beach: Intermodal Transit Center

Transportation Enhancement Activities (TEA)
          City of Azusa: Gateway Transportation Enhancement Demonstration Project
 
To receive more information, contact Transtech's funding expert, Hal Suetsugu, at hal.suetsugu@transtech.org or (909) 595-8599 Ext. 143.
 
 
6/25/2009
  -  TRANSTECH SNAPSHOTS - MIKE ACKERMAN, PE, RCE 
To gain an insight and unique perspective of the people that make Transtech tick, the company would like to announce a new quarterly series entitled “Transtech Snapshots.”
 
Profiled will be Mike Ackerman, PE, RCE:
 
 
 
1. Current capacity and main responsibilities at Transtech?
  • Construction Manager/Resident Engineer: Viaduct Blvd. Realignment (between 2nd Street and 3rd Street), San Bernardino 
  • Project Manager/Construction Manager: San Bernardino Metrolink Parking Structure 
  • Project Manager: Huntington Beach Downtown Specific Plan Infrastructure Cost Estimate 
  • Specification Editor: Fullerton Parking Structure and CSUSB Health Center 
2. How long have you been in the industry and why this industry?  Career turning point?
I have been a practicing Project Engineer for the past 15 years.  I’ve worked in the Aerospace, Environmental, and Transportation industries.  I ended up in Civil Engineering serendipitously after I didn’t get a raise one year and Caltrans was hiring.
 
3. Biggest industry challenge you foresee in the future?
State of the economy and environmental issues.
 
4. Best part of working at Transtech?
 Transtech has a great team to work with, and the work itself is challenging, exciting, and diverse.
 
5. Where did you attend college and what degree/ professional certifications have you earned?
  • University of Iowa: BSME (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering)
  • Registered Civil Engineer: State of California

I am also certified in: Land Development Desktop, Basics of Project Scheduling with SureTrak Project Manager, Subdivision Map Act, Asphalt Concrete Inspection and Rehabilitation Strategies, California Work Zone Inspection, “High Speed”, Caltrans On the Job Training, Field Office Procedures Course, Construction Program Management Workshop, Asphalt Pavement Fundamentals: Design, Construction, and Rehabilitation, Water Pollution Control Compliance on Construction Sites for Resident Engineers, Caltrans Resident Engineer Academy, MicroStation, Dealing with Difficult People, Sexual Harassment Prevention / Civil Rights Training, Permits Plus System Administration Training, and Permits Plus System Utilization Training.

6. Your first job was?
  • Project Engineer: Litton Life Support in Davenport, Iowa. 

I was the Project Engineer for the design of cryogenic coolers utilized in infrared night vision equipment for military vehicular and aircraft applications.

7. Most influential people?
My peers.
 
8. Lessons learned along the way?
Treat everyone fairly.  Good survey is the base for good design.
 
9. Favorite hobbies and activities to do outside of work?
Tennis.
 
10. Anything else you would like to add?
Transtech has a wonderful team and is a great place to work!
 
   
5/18/2009  -  PHOTO RECAP: CALIFORNIA CONTRACT CITIES ASSOCIATIONS'S (CCCA) 50TH ANNUAL MUNICIPAL CONFERENCE
 
                        

4/16/2009
  -  NEW SERVICE OFFERING & EXPERTISE  -  WATER RESOURCES ENGINEERING
Transtech is pleased to announce a new service offering and expertise – Water Resources Engineering – headed by Vice President Dave Ragland, PE, LS. 
 
Transtech now offers a wide range of hydrology, hydraulics and water resources engineering expertise for project design, development and implementation. Transtech conducts studies of surface water hydrology, hydraulics and designs flood control systems.  Storm water management studies can also be provided as well as hydro-modification impact assessments, drainage facility design and construction management.
 
We resolve complicated engineering and environmental issues with local communities, counties, and State and Federal environmental permitting agencies.
 
For more information click here, or download the Expertise Summary (PDF icon below).
 
To contact Dave Ragland, call (909) 384-7475 Ext. 105, or email at david.ragland@transtech.org.

   
 
4/13/2009  -  CALIFORNIA CONTRACT CITIES ASSOCIATIONS'S (CCCA) 50TH ANNUAL MUNICIPAL CONFERENCE
In the spirit of renewing our valued relationships with current Client Cities, as well as starting new ones, Transtech will be attending the California Contract Cities Association’s (CCCA) 50th Annual Municipal Conference from May 14 - 17, 2009, at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort in Indian Wells, CA.  The theme for this year’s Conference is “Exploring Solutions to Preserve our Cities.”

The CCCA is a collection of Member Cities united for a common cause.   Its mission is to serve as a rallying unit for Cities contracting municipal services.  Through conferences, seminars, education, and exchange of ideas and information, the CCCA combines resources to positively influence policy decisions.  The CCCA’s goal is to insure its Member Cities receive the best municipal services at a minimum cost.

For more information regarding Transtech’s attendance, contact Melissa Sandoval at (909) 595-8599 Ext. 131 or melissa.sandoval@transtech.org.
 
To get a sense of Transtech's current and past Client Cities, click here.

And to learn more about the CCCA, visit www.contractcities.org.

           
 
4/10/2009  -  PRESIDENT OF TRANSTECH RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS HONOR
Transtech is proud to announce our Founder and President, Allen "Ali" Cayir, will be awarded with an Ellis Island Medal of Honor in New York on May 9, 2009.  Past honorees include a star-studded list: Muhammed Ali, Hilary Clinton, Yogi Berra, Mario Cuomo, Joe DiMaggio, Michael Douglas, Gloria Estefan, Lee Iacocca, John McCain, Wayne Newton, Colin Powell, Rosa Parks, Frank Sinatra, George Steinbrenner, Norman Schwarzkopf, and many more.  
 
Established in 1986 by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO), the Ellis Island Medal of Honor pays tribute to our Nation’s immigrant heritage, as well as individual achievement in fostering respect and understanding for America’s ethnic diversity.  The creation of NECO was based on the conviction that diversity of the American people is what makes this nation great.  Its mission is to honor and preserve this diversity, and to foster tolerance, respect and understanding among religious and ethnic groups.
 
The Ellis Island Medals of Honor are awarded annually to distinguished individuals.  A person meeting the criteria for the award exemplifies a life dedicated to community service, preserves and celebrates the history, traditions, and values of his/her ancestry group(s), builds bridges between ethnic, racial, and religious groups in the U.S. and/or abroad, and shares his or her personal and professional gifts for the benefit of humanity. 

Congratulations Ali!

To learn more, visit www.neco.org.
 
To view the entire press release, click here.
 
   

4/8/2009
  -  2009 MTA CALL FOR PROJECTS
Transtech is currently preparing applications for a number of Cities in Southern California for Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) 2009 Call for Projects.  Project types include:

•  Regional Surface Transportation Improvements
•  Signal Synchronization & Bus Speed Improvements
•  Transportation Demand Management
•  Bikeway Improvements
•  Pedestrian Improvements
•  Transit Capital
•  Transportation Enhancement Activities

The Call for Projects application process is competitive whereby local agencies in Los Angeles County who provide transportation infrastructure may submit grant applications for transportation funding.  By federal and state statutes, the MTA is required to prepare a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for Los Angeles County.  They then use the Call for Projects process to program discretionary local, state, and federal revenues to local jurisdictions to implement regionally significant transportation projects.  The Call for Projects is the process that MTA uses to solicit, rank, and fund regional transportation projects requested by local jurisdictions.

Transtech has successfully prepared funding applications which consistently ranked in the top 10 of the approved projects list. In the most recent MTA Call for Projects (2007), Transtech obtained over $29 million approved budget for our client’s projects including the Cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, Commerce, Inglewood, Lawndale, Pomona, and others. Transtech also assisted several cities in obtaining more than $19 million in federal appropriations and earmarks.

Transtech’s grant writing services are enhanced by integration with engineering services to facilitate an integrated project design. In the past few years, Transtech has facilitated over $100 million in funds for our clients' public works projects and transportation improvements. This expedites project start-up and completion, and ensures compliance with funding requirements.

For more information, contact Hal Suetsugu at hal.suetsugu@transtech.org or (909) 595-8599 Ext. 143.

 
3/5/2009  -  The preliminary design phase is ahead of schedule for the City of Big Bear Lake's Public Works offices, warm vehicle storage building floor plans and elevations, as well as the overall site plan layout.
 
During these tenuous times, Big Bear Lake is just one of many cities in Southern California that trust Transtech's expertise and professional consulting services.  To learn more how Transtech can assist you, contact any member of our distinguished Management Team
 
Transtech - a Leader in Delivering Municipal Solutions.

  

2/27/2009
  -  Transtech is proud to announce it will be co-sponsoring along with Coca-Cola, AT&T, Time Warner Cable and others, an Inland Empire community event on March 14, 2009, presented by the Joe Baca Foundation and co-hosted by Major League Soccer's Chivas USA . 
 
The Joe Baca Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of youth and families by promoting programs and services that stress the importance of education, health, and more.  For more information, visit www.joebacafoundation.com.  
 


1/21/2009
  -  Check out the latest updates for the Mission 71 Project.
 
12/19/2008  -  Transtech honored its valued team for Years of Service and recognized the Employees of the Year.
 
Years of Service:
1)  Craig Melicher, PE, Vice President, 17 years  
2)  Victor San Lucas, Public Works/ City Engineer, 10 years
3)  David Ragland, LS, PE, Vice President, 5 years
4)  Ibrahim Bakirci, PE, Project Manager, 5 years
5)  Jeffrey Kao, PE, Plans Examiner, 5 years
6)  Matt Sert, Human Resources Manager/ Accountant, 10 years
 
    
 
Employees of the Year:
1)  Jana Robbins, Sr. Transportation Analyst
2)  Thomas Stafford, Director of Communications/ Program Manager
3)  Jeffrey Kao, PE, Plans Examiner
3)  Jackie Funk, Administrative Assistant
 
   

12/16/2008
  -  Transtech is currently preparing the Transit Center Feasibility Study for the City of Bellflower. 
 
The City will be provided data and analysis regarding the feasibility of constructing an intermodal Transit Center in Bellflower to:
 
1)  Increase mobility and accessibility for commuters
2)  Achieve significant regional connectivity
3)  Help meet the region’s travel demand
4)  Improve the environment and quality of life in the City and region
5)  Enhance economic development in the City’s Downtown District
 
The focus of the study is to determine the need for a Transit Center in Bellflower, to support the development of transit connectivity of the commercial Downtown District to the existing Metro Rail Green Line system, and to develop a conceptual design for the project. 
 
  

12/6/2008  -  On a beautiful, sunny December afternoon highlighted by a majestic view of the San Gabriel Mountains and a visit from Santa, Transtech celebrated its annual Holiday Party with staff and their families at the Pacific Palms Resort. 

      

12/3/2008
-  Transtech's contact information is now upda