TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2009

Minnesota's Doran Construction defies odds, boosts its business during real estate slump

by Midwest Real Estate News Reports
Minnesota

The commercial construction industry isn't exactly thriving these days. But that doesn't mean that every Midwest-based construction firm is struggling.

In fact, Bloomington, Minn.-based Doran Companies has been doing big business in both September and October.

Kelly Doran, the company's founder and chief manager said that in September and October the construction arm of Doran Companies added more than $20 million in new business.

Most significant among the projects gained are new construction of Menard's Superstores in Nebraska and Iowa; the building of Doran's own Sydney Hall student housing project in the Dinkytown area of the University of Minnesota; a remodeling project for the City of Eden Prairie, Minn.; and a retail store build-out for Maurices at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn.

The company also recently expanded its staff. Joining the Doran Companies team as construction superintendents are:

Michael Biedenbender, who comes to Doran Construction with eight years experience as a construction foreman/superintendent and most recently worked for the Menomonee Falls, Wis., construction firm of Thomas & Egenhoefer, Inc. While employed at Thomas & Egenhoefer Michael supervised construction and remodel projects of several Menards and Kohl's department stores.

Melvin Garrels, arrives with more than 20 years experience as a carpenter and 14 years as a field superintendent for Doran Construction predecessor Muir-Doran Construction and most recently Verdi Construction of Plymouth, Minn.

In addition, Doran Management has hired Teya Warren as director of residential management. Teya, who has 10 years experience as a property manager and most recently was employed by Presbyterian Homes and Irving Properties in Minneapolis, will assume building management and leasing responsibilities for the 125-unit Sydney Hall student housing project at the University of Minnesota.

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