A Construction Zone Guardian Angel

by Amit Basnet

Rhonda Simpson has been in the construction industry for 30 years as a driver, owner/operator, and laborer. Over the past five years, she has also gained extensive experience in highway safety setups. Rhonda has been trained as a highway work zone safety traffic control technician (certificate #180006459), has her OSHA 30 operator’s license, maintains a current medical card at all times, and has obtained many other safety certificates and CPR training.

With all her experience and credentials, Rhonda decided to open her own company. She knocked on the RISBDC’s door for assistance and met Amit Basnet, Central RI Regional Director. Amit helped Rhonda to polish her business plan and worked with her to develop pro-forma financials for her start-up. He also advised her on various loan options, connected her with a local Certified Development Company (CDC), and helped with overall loan package development. Rhonda’s loan recently closed; she has all the necessary permits and is in operation.

Hi-Way Guardian provides a safety zone on roadway construction sites protecting those working on the site with a Freightliner Attenuator. The truck is a tier 4 2013 and is qualified for federal and state municipal highway work. It is available for rent with or without a driver.

The fully licensed and insured Freightliner Attenuator’s distinctive features include:

20-foot ballasted flatbed
Rubberized non-skid deck coating
38-inch stake-sides
30 1-inch man pods on both sides with flip-up covers, safety bars, and hooks •
Dual camera backup system with infrared for night vision

Hi-Way Guardian is 100% woman-owned and Rhonda plans to get a Minority Business Enterprise Certification later this year.

This enterprising client is looking forward to catering to her established business relationships with local construction companies as well as new customers. She wishes all a happy, productive, and — most importantly — safe construction season!

Learn more about Hi-Way Guardian by contacting Rhonda Simpson at 401-464-2868 or HiWayGuardian@gmail.com.

If you’re ready to start writing your business success story, attend one of our upcoming workshops or set up a free one-on-one counseling session today. Register at RISBDC.org today.