City Grill

Robert C. Hughes
President/CEO Meyer,
Meyer, LaCroix and Hixson

Alexandria is more insulated from the oil-and-gas volatility in other parts of the state, Hughes says. In 2015, the contractors and engineering firms “that I’m familiar with were very busy and have healthy backlogs. I expect that to carry over into 2016,” he adds. Hughes notes several major projects, including the $22.9-million Rapides Parish Coliseum renovation and Central Louisiana Technical Community College’s $21-million Alexandria Main Campus. In addition, the $82.8-million Fort Buhlow Bridge Project will finish early this year.

Firm in Focus

Ratcliff Cos.
3900 Lee St., Alexandria
CEO: Robert T. Ratcliff Sr.
Employees: 115
Founded: 1927
Texas Work: The firm headed west into Texas for a number of projects. The company completed two elementary schools located in Frisco last year and began work on a junior high school in Alvarado.