PLANK.

qxd:Layout 1 1/19/09 1:03 PM Page 218

PLANK LLC
Plank LLC often works in partnership with Highbridge
Development, an affiliated real estate development
firm, to deliver comprehensive in-house services.

Plank’s Design/Build Focus

Plank Construction Services LLC has developed a strong position in the industry as a leading design/build
operation, serving a variety of clients throughout the Northeast and beyond.

By Kate Burrows is created on relationships through trust and honesty. We

P lank Construction Services LLC has been in busi-

ness only since 2001, but founder and President
John Roth’s extensive industry experience has
allowed the firm to rapidly develop a reputation for suc-
cess. Plank has positioned itself as a reliable design/builder
feel owners want and expect quality and are willing to pay
a fair price. This philosophy has created a tremendous amount
of relationships and repeat customers.”

Project Planning Initiatives

that serves clients throughout the Northeast.
“We are heavily invested in the design/build market, and
are fortunate to have a talented staff, including an in-house
architect and engineer,” Roth explains.
The firm changed direction soon after its inception to
focus on private work. “We changed our emphasis primari-
ly because of the market,” Roth explains.
Plank LLC
www.plankllc.com “There were fewer public projects and
HQ: Schenectady, N.Y. more general contractors bidding for the
Employees: 50 same job.
Services: Design/builder and
general contractor “This drives the margins down and
John Roth, founder and presi- creates a confrontational work atmosphere.
dent: “We are heavily invested It also forced contractors to sacrifice quality
in the design/build market, and
are fortunate to [employ] a tal- in order to create profit. We elected to
ented staff.” work in an environment where business
Plank focuss on a commitment to its clients through project
planning. “In order to construct a project on time and under
budget you need to commit to and develop a plan on paper
well before you step foot on site,” Roth says.
“Once on site, you need to have the management team
qualified to execute your plan. Our project management
team is one of the best in the area.
“They are dedicated individuals that are always looking out
for the client’s best interest,” Roth adds.
One area that Plank has excelled in is pre-engineered
metal buildings. “Our in-house design team has become
extremely efficient in designing pre-engineered buildings
to conform to an owner’s vision and our concrete and steel
division has kept us competitive,” Roth asserts. “We have
become one of the largest pre-engineered metal building

218 ■ WWW.CONSTRUCTION-TODAY.COM ■ FEBRUARY 2009