WRH, the heavy civil contractor whose recent work has involved development of Cedar Rapids’ permanent flood protection system, has rebranded as Wendler Inc. and will relocate its headquarters to the city’s NewBo District by the end of the year.
The company announced the name change on Aug. 5, marking a return to its original identity.
Founded in 1973 by Glenn Wendler, the firm will now operate under the Wendler Inc. name, with updated branding and a redesigned website at wendlerinc.com.
“Wendler is the name many people knew us by,” said Jamie Rich, president of Wendler Inc. “This rebrand isn’t about changing who we are. It’s about making it easier for our partners and our community to recognize us, and to know the role we play in building and protecting Iowa communities.”
The company purchased the Geonetric Building at 415 12th Ave. SE in June for $6.8 million and is currently renovating the second floor for its 35-person executive, estimating, and project management teams.
Wendler plans to move into the space by the end of 2025. Its operations, maintenance, and fabrication divisions will continue to be based in South Amana.
All current tenants of the Geonetric Building, including Geonetric and NewBoCo, are expected to remain in the facility.
Wendler is currently leading several major infrastructure projects in Cedar Rapids, including the $30 million Reach 2, Phase 1 segment of the city’s Flood Risk Management Project with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The company is also constructing the $14 million second phase of Horizontal Collector Well No. 7, near the future site of the Alliant Energy LightLine Bridge.
“Standing on our new front steps and seeing the floodwall we helped build is a reminder of why we do what we do,” said Kurt Reihmann, chief operating officer at Wendler. “Cedar Rapids has trusted us to deliver critical infrastructure, and now we’re doubling down on our commitment to this community by making it our home.”
