Imagine Toledo 75 years ago, a city on the cusp of change, with infrastructure waiting to be built. This is where the Geddis story begins.
In this post, we’ll take you on a journey through the history of Geddis Paving & Excavating, from our founder’s first backhoe to the projects shaping NW Ohio today. Along the way, you’ll discover the values, work ethic, and innovation that have made Geddis an industry leader in excavation, paving, and more.
The Early Days: Robert Geddis Sr. and a Vision for Toledo
The year was 1946. World War II had just ended, and Americans were ready to build. This was the year that Robert Geddis Sr. founded Geddis Brothers Paving, the company that would one day become Geddis Paving & Excavating.
Armed with a single backhoe and a handful of dedicated employees, Robert Geddis Sr. set out to make his mark on Toledo. In those early days, no job was too small. Geddis Brothers Paving took on residential driveways, small commercial lots, and whatever else came their way. They built a reputation for quality workmanship, integrity, and a commitment to their clients.
As the years went by, Geddis Brothers Paving grew. They took on bigger jobs, hired more employees, and invested in new equipment. But no matter how much they grew, they never lost sight of the values that Robert Geddis Sr. instilled from the very beginning.
Becoming Geddis Paving & Excavating: The 1970s and Beyond
In 1976, Geddis Brothers Paving took a big step forward. The company incorporated and became Geddis Paving & Excavating. This wasn’t just a name change; it was a signal to the world that Geddis was ready to take on any challenge.
With the new name came new capabilities. In addition to paving, Geddis now offered a full range of excavation services, site work, and utility installation. They had the expertise and equipment to handle any size job, from small residential projects to large commercial and municipal contracts.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Geddis played a key role in shaping the infrastructure of Toledo and the surrounding area. They paved miles of roads, installed countless miles of water and sewer lines, and helped prepare sites for new development.
It was during this time that Robert Geddis Jr. took the helm of the company. Under his leadership, Geddis continued to grow and adapt to the changing needs of the region.
Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
Like any business, Geddis Paving & Excavating has faced its share of challenges over the years. Economic downturns, changing market demands, and increasing competition have all put pressure on the company at various times.
But through it all, Geddis has remained resilient. During tough economic times, they pivoted to focus more on public sector work, securing contracts with municipalities, counties, and state agencies. When new technologies emerged, they invested in training and equipment to stay ahead of the curve.
This adaptability has been key to Geddis’ long-term success. By being proactive and strategic, they’ve been able to not just survive, but thrive. Since 2004 alone, the company has expanded its business by over 400%.
Shaping the Region: Notable Projects and Partnerships
Over the past 75 years, Geddis Paving & Excavating has left its mark on countless projects across NW Ohio. But some stand out as particularly noteworthy:
| Client | Project |
| University of Toledo | Multiple road, parking lot, and utility projects |
| City of Toledo | Ongoing road maintenance and repair contracts |
| Lucas County | Major infrastructure projects like the Lucas County Recreation Center |
| Bowling Green State University | Site work and paving for new buildings and facilities |
| Toledo Public Schools | Paving and site work for new school construction and renovation |
These projects showcase the scale and complexity of the work that Geddis is capable of. They also highlight another key aspect of the company’s success: partnerships.
Geddis has always believed in the power of collaboration. They work closely with other contractors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders to ensure that every job is completed to the highest standards. These partnerships have been integral to Geddis’ ability to tackle major projects and contribute to the region’s growth and development.
The Geddis Difference: What Sets Us Apart
In an industry full of competitors, what makes Geddis Paving & Excavating stand out? There are a few key things:
- Family-owned and operated: Geddis is now in its third generation of family leadership. This continuity has allowed the company to maintain its core values and commitment to quality over the decades.
- Deep community roots: Geddis isn’t just located in NW Ohio; it’s a part of the community. The company and its employees are invested in the success and well-being of the region.
- Sustainable practices: Geddis operates its own asphalt and concrete recycling facility, allowing them to reuse materials and minimize waste. They’re always looking for ways to be more efficient and environmentally responsible.
- Proven reliability: Geddis has a track record of completing projects on time and on budget. They understand that every day of delay costs their clients money, so they work diligently to stay on schedule.
- Skilled team: From the leadership team to the crews on the ground, Geddis is made up of skilled professionals who take pride in their work. Many employees have been with the company for decades.
These differentiators have earned Geddis a reputation as a go-to contractor for projects big and small. When clients choose Geddis, they know they’re getting a partner they can trust.
Carrying the Legacy Forward: The Future of Geddis
As Geddis Paving & Excavating looks to the future, one thing is certain: the company’s core values and commitment to excellence will remain constant. But that doesn’t mean Geddis is content to rest on its laurels.
The company is actively investing in the next generation of leadership. Younger members of the Geddis family are being groomed to one day take the reins, ensuring that the company’s legacy will continue.
At the same time, Geddis is staying at the forefront of industry technology and practices. They’re continually upgrading their fleet with state-of-the-art equipment, from the latest paving machines to advanced GPS systems for precise grading and excavation.
Geddis is also exploring new markets and service offerings. As the needs of the region evolve, the company is poised to adapt and expand to meet those needs. Whether it’s new types of infrastructure projects or emerging areas of development, Geddis will be there.
Why Choose Geddis for Your Next Excavation or Paving Project
With over 75 years of experience, Geddis Paving & Excavating has proven itself as a leader in the industry. But more than that, they’ve proven themselves as a trusted partner to their clients.
When you choose Geddis for your next project, you’re getting:
- Expertise: There’s no substitute for experience, and Geddis has it in spades. They’ve seen and done it all, and they know how to handle any challenge that comes their way.
- Full-service capabilities: From excavation to paving to site work and beyond, Geddis offers a complete range of services. They can handle every aspect of your project, no matter the size.
- Proven results: Geddis has a portfolio of successful projects and satisfied clients. They’ve worked with major institutions, municipalities, and private companies, delivering quality results every time.
- Communication and collaboration: Geddis believes in transparent communication and close collaboration with their clients. They keep you informed every step of the way and work with you to ensure the project meets your exact needs.
- Quality and efficiency: With Geddis, you can trust that the job will be done right the first time. Their attention to detail and commitment to efficiency ensures that your project will be completed to the highest standards, on time, and budget.
Ready to experience the Geddis difference for your next excavation or paving project? Contact our expert team today for a consultation and see why we’ve been a trusted NW Ohio excavation company for over 75 years. Let’s build something great together!
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