St. Louis contractor promotes senior project manager amid major renovations and regional bids

Executive Update: Narup Elevated to Senior Project Manager at a St. Louis General Contractor

In a move aimed at strengthening project leadership, Tarlton, a St. Louis–based general contractor, has promoted Josh Narup to Senior Project Manager. Narup joined the firm as a project engineer in 2016 and brings more than two decades of construction experience to the role. His work includes multiple projects at Washington University in St. Louis and the award‑winning core and shell renovation of the former St. Louis Post‑Dispatch Building, located at 900 N. Tucker Blvd. in the Downtown North Insight District.

Background and Responsibilities

Narup has advanced through the ranks since joining Tarlton, contributing to a range of projects at major local institutions. He is an active member of Tarlton’s internal process improvement committee and internal quality control committee, underscoring a hands‑on approach to project efficiency and quality. He earned a Bachelor of Science in construction management and design from Southeast Missouri State University, reflecting a formal foundation in both field execution and planning.

Historic Preservation and Notable Projects

In addition to leading new work, Narup has helped navigate complex projects such as modernizing historic structures. The firm has completed a two‑year, $27.2 million restoration of the city’s Old Courthouse, including abatement and updates to building systems while preserving historic elements.

Regional Market Context and Diversification

Leadership at the firm notes that the St. Louis metro region’s strength lies in diversification. Regional development is broadening across sectors such as transportation and logistics infrastructure (airports, highways, distribution facilities), health care and life sciences, data centers and mission‑critical facilities, and ongoing development in multifamily and institutional work. A major regional project highlighted is the Lambert International Airport expansion, a multi‑billion‑dollar effort that includes consolidating terminals, an onsite garage, and roadway improvements.

Notable Regional Projects and Industry Momentum

Other large‑scale initiatives in the region include a 1.8‑billion‑dollar expansion of a fighter jet manufacturing facility to support advanced assembly and post‑assembly operations, and a statewide program by a water utility investing more than $500 million to replace aging infrastructure and upgrade treatment facilities to improve reliability and resilience. In the health care sector, a 14‑story, 200‑bed pediatric hospital is under construction with expansions in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units, as well as dedicated spaces for cancer and cardiology care, with completion expected in 2027. There is continued momentum in advanced manufacturing, higher education, energy and power, commercial and institutional sectors, and multifamily housing.

Operational and Market Challenges

Industry observers note ongoing challenges such as higher material costs, though some pricing has stabilized. Long lead times remain a factor for certain electrical gear and mechanical equipment, and the uncertain interest‑rate environment continues to pose financing hurdles and potential project delays. These dynamics complicate the ability to predict backlog and resource needs, even as overall market activity remains robust.

Legacy Work and Community Impact

The Old Courthouse project, a cornerstone of local historic preservation, demonstrates the balance between preserving legacy architecture and integrating modern systems. The earlier phase involved renovations to the historic courtrooms, financed through a dedicated preservation effort.

Outlook

Industry leaders project continued growth in the St. Louis AEC market through 2026 and beyond, with a forecast of substantial construction activity across transportation, healthcare, education, and commercial sectors. The leadership emphasizes that “There will be much to build in St. Louis for years to come,” signaling ongoing opportunities for firms involved in design and construction.

Key Facts and People (Summary)

The following summarizes roles and projects highlighted in this update:

FAQ

Who was promoted to Senior Project Manager?

Josh Narup was promoted to Senior Project Manager at the firm.

What notable renovation is associated with Narup?

He contributed to the core and shell renovation of the former St. Louis Post‑Dispatch Building and led work on Washington University projects.

What is the Old Courthouse restoration known for?

The project involved a two‑year, $27.2 million restoration that preserved historic elements while updating building systems.

What are major regional drivers mentioned?

Expansion of Lambert International Airport, a large aircraft facility expansion, and significant investments in water infrastructure and health care facilities are cited as drivers of regional diversification.

What challenges are highlighted for the construction industry?

High material costs, long lead times for key equipment, and financing hurdles due to interest‑rate uncertainty are noted as ongoing challenges.

Key Features