Martin Herrenknecht becomes the first European and non-US citizen to receive the US heavy construction industry association's prestigious Moles award.

Herrenknecht was honored for his extraordinary service to the heavy construction industry, and in particular for his efforts in the development and innovation of mechanized tunnelling technology.

Dr. Martin Herrenknecht (left) receives award.

The 2009 prize was presented at The Moles dinner in New York at the end of January and in the presence of some 2,000 decision-makers and representatives of the US heavy construction industry.

Also present was Governor of New Jersey, Jon S. Corzine, who pointed out in his opening speech that investment in infrastructure in the USA is now more urgent than ever, and that the new administration understands the urgency.

The Moles Association is the most important association of decision-makers and representatives of the US heavy construction industry on the country's east coast. The former US President Herbert C. Hoover is also among those who have been honored with the Moles Award in the past.

During the ceremony at the New York Hilton hotel, award-presenter James M. Marquardt said Herrenknecht embodied the entrepreneurial spirit that Americans respect. "Martin Herrenknecht appreciates fair competition, approaches extremely difficult projects with courage and stays on them with perseverance and patience until they reach a successful end.''

In his acceptance speech Herrenknecht thanked the many construction companies specializing in traffic, disposal and supply tunnels that put their trust in Herrenknecht's technology and its engineers and to the association for recognizing his company's many accomplishments. He also used the opportunity to champion tunnels contribution to society.

"Tunnels are key buildings for modern civilization. Investment in these infrastructures increases the 'real' value of cities and economies," said Herrenknecht.

The German TBM manufacturer has a growing list of successes in the United States, including the Californian Arrowhead Tunnel water supply project, the extension of the Los Angeles subway and major sewage projects in Portland, Atlanta and Seattle.

The first of two 6.8m diameter Herrenknecht double shield machines for the extension of Subway Line 7 in Manhattan is currently being assembled at the construction site. The two machines will extend Subway Line 7 by almost 3km along the east bank of the Hudson River. Another TBM delivered by Herrenknecht will work on New York's Second Avenue Subway project which is currently under construction.

Herrenknecht recognized senior management for their long and valued service to him and the company including Gebhard Lehmann, Werner Suhm and Kurt Stiefel. "Without them and our committed employees - now numbering more than 3,000 worldwide - Herrenknecht's success would not be possible.'' He also singled out American branch manager, Jack Brockway, who has contributed significantly to Herrenknecht's success in the US market.

Herrenknecht is also bullish on the North and South American markets, stating they are among the most important future markets for the company, which is why Herrenknecht will strengthen its investment in new plant capacities and employees in the coming years.

The Moles Association
Herrenknecht AG