Jay Dee Contractors

History


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Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation Since 1965

At Jay Dee Contractors, our history is a testament to the unbreakable spirit and passion that defines us today. From day one, we’ve pushed the boundaries of innovation, overcoming challenges and delivering groundbreaking underground construction projects that stand the test of time.

Timeline

Since 1965, Jay Dee has not only delivered impressive underground construction projects but also built a legacy of leadership, innovation, and family-driven values. Our culture of craftsmanship and perseverance is reflected in notable projects like the Little Calumet Leg, Thornton Transitional Reservoir, and University Link Light Rail.

John J. DiPonio turned his vision into reality, building a heavy civil tunnel construction company from the ground up.

1965

Incorporation of Jay Dee Contractors, Inc.

John J. DiPonio turned his vision into reality, building a heavy civil tunnel construction company from the ground up.

1965

John J DiPonio becomes President

Jay Dee takes on its first pipe jacking project in Chicago, Illinois, marking another milestone in underground innovation.

1968

MWRDGC - Crawford Avenue

Jay Dee takes on its first pipe jacking project in Chicago, Illinois, marking another milestone in underground innovation.

Following John J. DiPonio’s passing, the company evolved, splitting into two corporations, Jay Dee Contractors and Jay Dee Contractors of Illinois. Together, they forged a dynamic joint venture that spanned five years, carrying forward a legacy of innovation, resilience, and expertise in heavy underground construction.

1975

Incorporation of Jay Dee Contractors of Illinois

Following John J. DiPonio’s passing, the company evolved, splitting into two corporations, Jay Dee Contractors and Jay Dee Contractors of Illinois. Together, they forged a dynamic joint venture that spanned five years, carrying forward a legacy of innovation, resilience, and expertise in heavy underground construction.

After the passing of John J. DiPonio, Joseph took the helm as President, ushering in the next generation to carry forward the Jay Dee legacy.

1976

Joseph Lynch becomes President of Jay Dee Contractors

After the passing of John J. DiPonio, Joseph took the helm as President, ushering in the next generation to carry forward the Jay Dee legacy.

The two companies reunited as Jay Dee Contractors, paving the way for the next generation to drive the legacy forward with fresh vision and unstoppable momentum.

1981

Merging of the Jay Dee's

The two companies reunited as Jay Dee Contractors, paving the way for the next generation to drive the legacy forward with fresh vision and unstoppable momentum.

Jay Dee pioneers Milwaukee’s first concrete segment tunnel, marking a major milestone in underground construction.

1988

MMSD Crosstown 8 Collector System

Jay Dee pioneers Milwaukee’s first concrete segment tunnel, marking a major milestone in underground construction.

Tom Diponio

1988

Tom DiPonio becomes President

The second generation steps up, ready to lead Jay Dee into the next era of success.

As Jay Dee grew and expanded, we needed a headquarters to match our momentum. That’s when we built our first standalone office and yard, owned, designed, and built to fuel the future.

1989

Construction of Jay Dee Headquarters on Schoolcraft Road

As Jay Dee grew and expanded, we needed a headquarters to match our momentum. That’s when we built our first standalone office and yard, owned, designed, and built to fuel the future.

Jay Dee kicks off its first Design-Build project, combining innovation with efficiency to deliver results.

1992

Mobil Oil Beaumont Refinery

Jay Dee kicks off its first Design-Build project, combining innovation with efficiency to deliver results.

After 24 years of leading with vision and dedication, Mary steps down as Chairman.

1999

Mary M Leonard, widow of John DiPonio retires

After 24 years of leading with vision and dedication, Mary steps down as Chairman.

Jay Dee breaks new ground with its first major rock tunnel project in Chicago, setting a new standard in underground construction.

2000

Thornton Transitional Reservoir

Jay Dee breaks new ground with its first major rock tunnel project in Chicago, setting a new standard in underground construction.

Securing its first contract over $100 million, Jay Dee solidifies its position as a powerhouse in the tunnel construction industry.

2001

Calumet Tunnel System - Little Calumet Leg

Securing its first contract over $100 million, Jay Dee solidifies its position as a powerhouse in the tunnel construction industry.

Jay Dee pioneers its first modern Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) TBM project with a concrete segmental liner, redefining precision in tunnel construction.

2003

Big Walnut Augmentation/Rickenbacker Interceptor - Part 1

Jay Dee pioneers its first modern Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) TBM project with a concrete segmental liner, redefining precision in tunnel construction.

Jay Dee takes on its first mass transit project, expanding its expertise and shaping the future of urban mobility.

2009

University Light Rail Tunnel - Link Contract U230

Jay Dee takes on its first mass transit project, expanding its expertise and shaping the future of urban mobility.

Jay Dee tackles its largest U.S. project to date, setting a new benchmark for scale and ambition in the industry.

2013

Northgate Link Extension - Contract N125

Jay Dee tackles its largest U.S. project to date, setting a new benchmark for scale and ambition in the industry.

Mike DiPonio

2018

Mike DiPonio becomes President

Jay Dee crosses borders with its first project in Canada, marking the start of a new chapter in international expansion.

2018

Coxwell Bypass Tunnel

Jay Dee crosses borders with its first project in Canada, marking the start of a new chapter in international expansion.

John DiPonio

2025

John T DiPonio becomes President

The third generation steps up, bringing fresh vision and energy to lead Jay Dee into the future.

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1968
1975
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1981
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1989
1992
1999
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2001
2003
2009
2013
2018
2018
2025

Come Work With Us

At Jay Dee, we collaborate, innovate, and recognize hard work. Every team member plays a vital role in our success, and we make sure the job is never boring—except when it comes to tunneling! Discover what life is like at Jay Dee.

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