Historic Growth at Gannett Fleming Continues with BB&A Acquisition

Gannett Fleming has acquired Chicago-based transportation firm Bowman, Barrett & Associates Inc. (BB&A). The 30-year-old consulting firm now operates as BB&A, a business group of Gannett Fleming.

“This marks Gannett Fleming’s third acquisition in the past six months, and each new addition strategically positions us to thrive in a rapidly changing marketplace,” said Bob Scaer, PE, Gannett Fleming chairman and CEO. “BB&A’s record of delivering excellence to their clients and nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurism is in perfect alignment with our mission. We are constantly seeking innovative and sustainable solutions in every market we serve.”

BB&A’s team has worked on transportation operations, transit and rail, structures, construction management, and aviation projects across the greater Chicago area and the Midwest. In the coming year, this group will combine with the existing Gannett Fleming Chicago office to create a powerhouse team of smart mobility experts. 

“While our name is changing, our core principles remain the same as we join Gannett Fleming,” said Jim Daum, PE, former president of BB&A and now a vice president at Gannett Fleming. “This move will allow us to immediately offer a full suite of engineering services to our clients, combining local expertise with national resources.”

BB&A has been a trusted advisor to many Chicago-area clients, including the Illinois Department of Transportation, Metra, the City of Chicago, the Illinois Tollway, Class I Railroads, and local governments. 

“We’re passionate about developing thought leaders in the engineering industry,” said BB&A’s retiring co-founders Louis Bowman, PE, and John Barrett, PE, SE. “Our team paired with the resources of Gannett Fleming will do just that, helping clients solve their pressing infrastructure challenges.”