GARY, Ind. - Indiana, known as the Crossroads of America, ranks #1 in the country for the number of pass-thru highways. Each year, 724 million tons of freight move through the state. Indiana also ranks #1 for the shortest distance to the median center of the US population, affording access to most of the US in less than 24 hours. This central location is the primary reason companies like Kaplan Trucking invest in the State. Kaplan Trucking has been an industry leader in steel transport since 1934. In 2014, seeking to improve their original 3,900 SF Gary, IN facilities, Kaplan Trucking retained LEE Companies, Commercial Construction Managers, to oversee the expansion. LEE Companies carefully phased and scheduled the expansion so that business was never interrupted and continued daily throughout the entire process. The renovation doubled the site parking capacity and transformed the facility’s interior from a congested space into a highly organized open-concept office. The updated state-of-the-art 7,600SF terminal is contemporary, light-filled, and perfectly aligned to the daily workflow of employees, drivers, and guests. The modern minimalist exterior features steel siding, perfect for the steel city. LEE Companies is currently assisting Kaplan is in another improvement to their Northwest Indiana terminal - 50 dedicated circuits for semis. This effort, commonly called shore power, allows truck drivers access to power without the traditional idling. Shore power is estimated to save up $3/hour and ultimately means lower fuel and maintenance costs in addition to quieter, cleaner air. This measure is both environmentally and economically sound, while keeping driver comfort and retention at the forefront. “Dave Ferrante and his team at Kaplan Trucking exemplify the highest levels of corporate citizenship and it’s been a pleasure working with them to improve their facility in Gary and the environment in general,” said Patrick Lee, president of LEE Companies.