News
On 17 April, process engineer Maario Tahvinov of BLRT Valukoda and NOBE site manager Raimo Raudsepp had good reason to climb onto the roof of the new foundry building – the topping-out ceremony of the BLRT Valukoda production facility was taking place.
According to Estonian folk tradition, the topping-out ceremony is held once the load-bearing roof structure (rafters) has been completed and all major construction works have been finished. As part of the tradition, a wreath is placed at the highest point of the building, signalling that the builders are ready to present the completed stage of work and inviting the owner to lay the festive table to mark the occasion. It is believed that a properly conducted ceremony brings good fortune to the building and appeases the household spirit.
This time, representatives of both the general contractor and the client jointly brought the wreath down from the roof, symbolising cooperation between the parties. Marking the occasion, speeches were delivered by Algerd Andruškevitšus, Member of the Management Board of BLRT Grupp, Harri Rõõpson, Head of General Construction at NOBE, and Margus Miller, Elder of Kohila Parish.
“A key stage of construction has been completed, and the building has taken on the dimensions and appearance of the future plant. Behind this lies a considerable amount of work, extending far beyond drawings and calculations. The construction team had to contend with harsh and changeable weather, as well as other challenges. The result reflects strong organisation, precision, and the contribution of everyone on site. There is still much to be done, but based on current progress, we are confident that the final outcome will meet our expectations,” said Algerd Andruškevitšus.
Harri Rõõpson also acknowledged the efforts of the construction team: “The past winter, with its severe cold, truly tested us, at times requiring creative and unconventional solutions. Nevertheless, we can now confirm that the challenges have been successfully overcome. It has been a privilege for us to act as the general contractor on this project. We thank both the client and the Kohila Parish authorities for constructive, results-oriented cooperation — this kind of partnership is the foundation of a successful construction process.”
Margus Miller noted that the construction of the new plant is a significant development for the region: “Local authorities can create favourable conditions for development, but ultimately it is businesses that must have the courage and strategic vision to invest in their future and that of the local community. The new BLRT Valukoda plant is a clear example of how industrial development brings renewed vitality and employment opportunities to the region.”
According to both the contractor and the client, the project is progressing in line with schedule. Completion of the new plant is planned for late summer.
