A Purpose-Built Facility to Advance LGT Transport
Located in the Kersten Industrial Park in Gretna, Neb., the Lawson Cryogenic Manufacturing and Repair Facility is more than just a manufacturing space — it’s the realization of a long-held vision. Built for Lawson, the 42,500 SF state-of-the-art facility is designed to fabricate and service specialized trailers used to transport cryogenic liquids, carbon dioxide, anhydrous ammonia, and other specialty gases. In a niche market with limited trailer manufacturers and long lead times, Lawson was created to fill a critical gap — and drive innovation from the inside out.
Designed for Function and Scale
The heart of the facility is its 37,000 SF manufacturing floor, built with a 35-foot clear height to accommodate the scale and complexity of cryogenic trailer fabrication. Outfitted with two 7.5-ton bridge cranes and one 5-ton crane, the space allows for the seamless movement of heavy components from one phase of production to the next.
“The challenge was in the layout of all the equipment and making sure there was enough room for all the different processes,” said Mark Lawlor, Ronco’s Project Manager. “Lawson brought in engineers familiar with the fabrication sequence, and their input was crucial in designing the plant flow and determining crane placement.”
The building’s 3,500-amp electrical service was also intentionally designed to support high-powered fabrication equipment. Specialized paint and detailing areas ensure each trailer meets strict compliance standards while delivering the polished finish Lawson is known for.
“We didn’t want a gigantic, over-the-top footprint,” said Christian Spaccarotella, President at Lawson. “We wanted to use the space efficiently with the right machines to build trailers for the next 40 years.”
Administrative Support for Operational Efficiency
Adjacent to the manufacturing area is a 5,500 SF office suite that supports day-to-day operations without sacrificing proximity to the shop floor. The administrative space includes seven private offices, an open collaborative area, a 481 SF breakroom, and a 196 SF conference room — designed for both comfort and functionality.
“We kept the teams close to the floor but gave them a professional, comfortable space to work,” said Lawlor.
Infrastructure to Support Movement and Growth
Site logistics were another key priority. The facility includes drive-in delivery access to streamlined equipment and material flow, as well as 72,500 SF of 8-foot truck and trailer parking and 23,500 SF of 5-foot parking for employee and visitor use.
The project team also built for the future. The civil design allows for westward expansion, and the building is already outfitted to add a second production line dedicated to aluminum trailer fabrication.
“There’s growth built into the footprint,” said Lawlor. “That flexibility supports Lawson’s long-term vision.”
Built with Purpose and Partnership
For Ronco, the Lawson project wasn’t just another project. It was a relationship. Lawlor first worked with Owner and Founder of LGT and Lawson, Pam Spaccarotella, in 2019 and has supported her vision ever since.
“She’s one of those customers you want to go the extra mile for,” said Lawlor. “She called me when I was between jobs and brought me back on as a consultant. Now she’s entrusted Ronco with two major projects.”
“Lawson is my grandfather’s last name,” added Christian. “We wanted to create a quality company that stands with his legacy. We’re a family business, and we take pride in what we do.”
From specialized equipment handling to smart spatial planning, the Lawson Cryogenic Manufacturing and Repair Facility is more than a warehouse — it’s a platform for innovation and precision in cryogenic transport. It reflects Lawson’s commitment to operational excellence, long-term growth, and a future where high-quality, on-time trailers set a new industry standard.
