Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Transportation and Construction Solutions
Since 1913, James H Drew has established itself as a premier contractor in the transportation industry, delivering innovative solutions that prioritize safety and quality. Our legacy began with overhead electrical systems for streetcars and evolved through decades of adapting to industry needs, including defense infrastructure during WWII and rural electrification projects. Today, we specialize in guardrail systems, lighting and traffic technologies, and decorative structures, serving the Midwest from strategic offices in Indiana, Missouri, and Tennessee. Our commitment to integrity, reliability, and respect drives every project, ensuring superior results for clients across transportation and construction sectors.With experienced crews and cutting-edge equipment, we tackle complex challenges efficiently while maintaining a focus on customer satisfaction. Our historical expertise in federal interstate highway systems positions us as leaders in guardrail and fence installation, complemented by advanced services like intelligent traffic systems and fiber optics. Through continuous equipment upgrades and a dedication to safety standards, we exceed client expectations while fostering community growth and employee development.
Services
Guardrail Installation
Traffic Signal Systems
Fiber Optic Networks
Ornamental Structures
Intelligent Traffic Systems
Tolling Systems
Weather Monitoring Systems
Handrail Fabrication
Signage Installation
Energy Absorbing Terminals
Details
- Year established: 1913
Highlights and features
- We offer 110+ years of specialized experience in transportation infrastructure
- Our teams use cutting-edge equipment for intelligent traffic systems and fiber optics
- We maintain strict safety standards across all project phases
- Our regional offices ensure rapid response times across the Midwest
- We provide full-service solutions from design to installation
Services
Guardrail Installation
Our Guardrail Division provides comprehensive installation and maintenance of safety barriers for highways and roadways. We offer high-impact guardrails, energy-absorbing terminals, and customized fencing solutions that meet federal safety standards. Our experienced crews serve Indiana, Missouri, and Tennessee with rapid deployment capabilities for both new construction and retrofit projects.
Traffic Signal Systems
We design and implement intelligent traffic systems including smart signals, variable message boards, and roadway weather monitoring. Our technology integrates with existing infrastructure to optimize traffic flow and safety. Services include installation of fiber optic networks, tolling systems, and automated traffic recorders for municipal and state transportation agencies.
Ornamental Structures
Our Structural Steel Division creates custom decorative elements for public spaces and commercial developments. We fabricate and install handrails, steel stairs, and ornamental features that combine aesthetic appeal with structural integrity. Projects include enhancements for motor speedways, convention centers, and urban beautification initiatives.
Fiber Optic Networks
We install fiber optic cable systems and directional boring equipment for transportation communication networks. Our solutions support intelligent traffic management, highway advisory radio systems, and data collection sites. Services include utility hookups for smart highways and integration with existing infrastructure.
Signage Installation
Our team handles complete signage solutions including highway markers, directional signs, and logo displays. We provide installation services for both standard and custom signage requirements, ensuring compliance with Department of Transportation specifications. Projects include right-of-way markers and specialized signage for toll roads and recreational areas.
People
Jon Richards
Electric & Lighting Division
Jon Richards leads our lighting and electrical systems team with over 25 years of infrastructure project experience. He specializes in highway lighting solutions and intelligent traffic system integration.
Darrell Linder
Guardrail Division
Darrell Linder manages guardrail operations with expertise in safety barrier installation. He oversees large-scale projects across the Midwest, ensuring compliance with federal highway standards.
Bradley Vollmer
Guardrail & Signs Division
Bradley Vollmer directs sign installation and guardrail projects in Missouri. His 20+ years in transportation contracting focus on precision execution of complex infrastructure requirements.
David Jones
Guardrail Division
David Jones leads Tennessee operations with specialization in highway safety systems. He coordinates regional projects requiring advanced guardrail and fencing solutions for state transportation departments.
Questions
What services does James H Drew Corporation offer?
We specialize in guardrail systems, traffic signal installation, fiber optic networks, ornamental structures, and intelligent transportation systems for highway and infrastructure projects.
Which states do you serve?
Our primary service areas include Indiana, Missouri, Tennessee, and surrounding regions like Kentucky, Kansas, and Arkansas for transportation infrastructure projects.
How long has the company been in business?
James H Drew Corporation has served the transportation industry since 1913, with incorporation in 1947, making us one of the oldest infrastructure contractors in the Midwest.
What makes your company different?
Our century-long expertise in highway safety systems, combined with modern technology integration and regional operational efficiency, sets us apart in transportation infrastructure delivery.
Do you handle large-scale infrastructure projects?
Yes, we've completed major projects like the Ohio River Bridge ($1.8B) and Indianapolis Motor Speedway enhancements, demonstrating our capacity for complex, multi-state initiatives.
