OVERVIEW
A national fuel and convenience provider with highly recognized large truckstop formats made a strategic decision in 2021 to add diesel to their forecourt. The 52-sites that were selected were located across the United States and were multi-branded. The scope involved running an underground diesel pipe from an existing tank or UDC to the forecourt and replacing select forecourt dispensers with gas and diesel combination units. Estimated duration for the construction was 2-3 weeks per site.
INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE ABOVE AND BELOW GROUND
JF Professional Services (JFPS) was brought in and quickly developed a series of milestones and deliverables that segmented a complex process into measurable success criteria. The 52 individual projects were managed with a consistent program approach yielding synergies in overall program planning and execution.
An unforeseen wrinkle in the process was the onslaught of COVID-19, which affected everything from technician availability to how municipal permitting was accomplished. Through the weeks of due diligence, it became apparent that the finely honed communication and online transparency would come to play an even greater role in the procurement and execution phases during the pandemic. Lead times increased as supply chains adjusted. Virtual meetings took place, allowing remote Sponsors and Compliance team members to “see” the sites and make decisions based on conditions.
ORGANIZATION
Engineering Oversight: JFPS provided expertise on the piping layouts, diesel dispenser placement, and electrical scope to limit the cost and operations impact of construction while maximizing the accessibility of the diesel product for the client’s customers.
Visibility and Real-Time Reporting: Using the proprietary cloud based JFPS tool suite, a series of secured, highly customizable, proprietary data sheets available 24X7 online to authorized team members were created.
Cross-Functional Communication: Sponsors, client compliance members, and other key stakeholders were in constant communication with the JFPS team. As conceptual drawing progressed, they were reviewed during weekly calls. This allowed immediate “sign-off” on the drawings, which were then submitted for permits.
Procurement Options: JFPS was tasked with end-to-end procurement for the project. This included contractor bidding and selection as well as equipment procurement and logistics management.
Capital Budget Management: At program concept, JFPS provided a program-level “order of magnitude” initial budget for capital allocation. This was followed by site-specific final budgets upon completion and approval of the Scope of Work and Construction Drawings for each site.
Construction Management: JFPS managed the construction and safety standards for all contractors involved in the project. This included on-site preconstruction meetings, weekly construction report development and review, collection of JSAs, and administrative oversight for each project.
SHORT AND LONG-TERM BENEFITS
With visibility and real-time reporting, the Sponsors were able to have instant access to key data. If questions arose, having the single point of contact allowed them to get answers quickly, rather than funneling through multiple people on the ground.
As the pandemic created additional hurdles, the schedule of deliverables was clearly conveyed and agreed upon. This allowed the Sponsors to be able to report accurately to their executive team and manage the expectations impacted by external factors.
KEY COMPETENCIES
SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT
These enhanced efficiencies promoted clarity for decision making and overall execution.
CONTRACTOR NETWORK
JFPS has access to in-house regional technician teams, various travelling regional teams, a National Projects Team, and a nationwide, fully vetted contractor network.
INVITATION TO BID
Using the Invitation to Bid form allowed the client to view a uniform financial comparison amongst contractors.
INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND RESPONSE
As with any major construction project, there are times when the unexpected occurs.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
All scope development and construction occurs within these regulations with appropriate permitting, documentation, testing, and inspection.
SCALABILITY & COVERAGE
We pride ourselves on being the national leader while keeping a strong local presence. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current facility or build a new one, we are equipped to handle projects of all sizes. All of our team members are professionally trained and specialize in the services they offer. Our partners can expect a customer-centric approach centered on adding value to the distribution, construction, service, training, and technology solutions we provide.