Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Construction Solutions in PA
Founded in 1933, Charles J Merlo, Inc. has established itself as a leader in the construction industry, delivering high-quality projects across the Mid-Atlantic Region. Our expertise spans heavy civil and highway infrastructure, earthwork and site development, reservoirs, dams, and flood control systems, as well as specialized railroad, energy, industrial, and mining projects. With a fleet of over 300 pieces of equipment and a team of certified professionals, we combine cutting-edge technology with decades of experience to complete projects on time, within budget, and with an unwavering focus on safety. Our leadership team, including third-generation owner Adam J. Zernick, brings deep industry knowledge and a commitment to innovation that drives our continued growth. Recognized with numerous safety awards, including multiple National Contractors Insurance Risk Control Awards, we maintain rigorous training programs and daily safety protocols to ensure every employee returns home safely.Our long-standing relationships with clients and vendors, built over nearly a century, reflect our dedication to transparency, quality, and community impact. From small private contracts to large federal projects, we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of each client. Our incorporation in 1958 formalized a legacy of stability and excellence that continues to define our operations today. With a proven track record in complex infrastructure development, we remain committed to advancing construction standards while honoring our founding principles of integrity and service.
Services
Heavy Civil & Highway
Earthwork & Site Development
Reservoirs & Dams
Railroad Construction
Energy Infrastructure
Industrial & Mining
Heavy Equipment Hauling
Details
- Year established: 1933
Highlights and features
- We have over 80 years of experience in heavy civil construction.
- Our fleet includes 35 excavators, 20 bulldozers, and 7 cranes.
- We maintain OSHA 10, fall protection, and rigging certifications.
- Third-generation leadership ensures deep industry expertise.
- Daily safety protocols exceed industry compliance standards.
Associations and certifications
- OSHA
- The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
Services
Heavy Civil & Highway
Charles J Merlo delivers comprehensive highway and civil infrastructure projects including bridge construction, roadways, and transportation systems. Our expertise covers full-scale design-build solutions, roadway rehabilitation, and complex structural installations. With specialized equipment and experienced crews, we execute projects ranging from local municipal roads to federal highway contracts.
Earthwork & Site Development
Our earthwork services include large-scale excavation, grading, and site preparation for commercial, industrial, and residential developments. We utilize advanced GPS-controlled machinery to ensure precision grading and drainage solutions. This capability supports subsequent construction phases while meeting strict environmental regulations and sustainability standards.
Reservoirs & Dams
Charles J Merlo specializes in dam rehabilitation, reservoir construction, and flood control systems. Our work includes structural repairs, spillway upgrades, and sediment management solutions. We combine hydraulic engineering expertise with heavy-lift capabilities to address both aging infrastructure and new water resource projects across the region.
Railroad Construction
We provide full-service railroad infrastructure development including track installation, yard improvements, and signal system upgrades. Our capabilities extend to specialized projects like in-floor jack systems and retaining walls for rail corridors. This experience supports both freight and passenger rail networks with safety-certified construction practices.
Energy Infrastructure
Charles J Merlo executes energy sector projects including solar farms, wind energy sites, and power plant foundations. Our work encompasses site preparation, access road construction, and specialized concrete work for energy facilities. We maintain partnerships with major energy providers to deliver infrastructure that supports traditional and renewable energy generation.
People
Charles J. Merlo, Sr.
Founder
Founded Charles J Merlo in 1933 to serve Western Pennsylvania's coal industry. His leadership established the company's core values of quality, safety, and community commitment that continue today.
Charles J. Merlo, Jr.
Former President
Joined in 1975 after aerospace industry experience. Brought engineering and business expertise from Rockwell International and Carnegie Mellon University to expand the company's capabilities and market reach.
Adam J. Zernick
Current Leader
Took leadership in 2021, introducing new team members and equipment investments. His strategic direction maintains Charles J Merlo's competitive edge while continuing the legacy of third-generation family leadership.
Questions
What construction services does Charles J Merlo specialize in?
Charles J Merlo specializes in heavy civil/highway projects, earthwork/site development, reservoirs/dams, railroad systems, energy infrastructure, industrial/mining projects, and heavy equipment hauling across the Mid-Atlantic Region.
How long has Charles J Merlo been in business?
Founded in 1933 by Charles J. Charles J Merlo, Sr., we've provided construction services for over 90 years with formal incorporation in 1958.
What safety certifications does Charles J Merlo hold?
Our team maintains OSHA 10, fall protection, rigging/signal person, and hazard communication certifications. We've received multiple National Contractors Insurance Risk Control Awards for safety excellence.
What equipment does Charles J Merlo own?
We operate 35 excavators, 20 bulldozers, 7 cranes, 20 loaders, specialized drill rigs, rock crushers, 60 pickup trucks, and various attachments and support equipment for comprehensive project execution.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Pennsylvania, we serve the entire Mid-Atlantic Region including projects in Maryland, West Virginia, and surrounding states through strategic partnerships and mobile equipment fleets.
