Innovative asphalt scientist recognized

The Ontario Hot Mix Producers Association (OHMPA) recognized the best and brightest at its annual Fall Asphalt Seminar earlier this month.

The late Keith Davidson was heralded for his dedication to the science of asphalt research and engineering support which has led to the introduction of several asphalt emulsion technologies in Canada.

He was awarded posthumously the Dr. Norman McLeod Award for Innovation in Road Building. The award, named in honour of Dr. McLeod, Canada’s most accomplished asphalt innovator, celebrates the pursuit of innovation in the hot mix asphalt industry.

Keith Davidson was the Director of Technology and Product Development for McAsphalt Industries Limited.

Four asphalt plants received the 2015 Trillium Awards and eight plants were recertified.

Introduced in 2002, the Trillium Award recognizes the best of the best in the production of asphalt. Recipients must meet exceptionally high standards in seven categories which are appearance, operations, environmental, safety, permitting and compliance, community relations and industry participation.

The four newly awarded plants are Miller Northern Limited – Boeing 300 Portable Drum Plant; Miller Northwest Limited – Cedar Rapid 8-28 Portable Drum Plant; C. Villenueve Construction Co. Ltd. – Astec Plant (in Hearst, ON); Dufferin Construction – London Asphalt Plant. 

Trillium Award status is granted for a three-year period at which time the plant may reapply for recertification. Asphalt plants named for recertification were Miller Northeast Limited – Terex Drum; Miller Paving Limited – Markham Richmond Hill and Brechin Asphalt Plants; Miller Group Norway Astec Double Drum Plant; Smith Construction CMI 300, Huron (Chatham) Asphalt Plant and Miller Northwest Limited – Sandy Beach Drum Plant.

“OHMPA producer members work hard to ensure that they are good neighbors and stewards of the environment,” said OHMPA executive director Vince Aurilio. “The Trillium award was created to recognize those plants that go beyond the ‘gold’ standard already required by industry regulations. To date, 68 plants have earned the Trillium Award and 47 have been recertified. That speaks highly of our members and Ontario’s asphalt industry.”

OHMPA congratulates this year’s award winners and heartily thanks them for their passion and commitment to quality asphalt pavements.