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Discover the Top 10 Charming Small Towns Perfect for Retirees from Granite Construction

Healthcare Provider Update: Offers PPO and HSA-compatible medical plans through Anthem Blue Cross, with employees paying only 19% of healthcare costswell below industry average 1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, Granites low employee cost share and HSA contributions provide a strong alternative to increasingly expensive marketplace plans. Click here to learn more

The American landscape is dotted with small towns that offer a unique blend of nostalgia, tradition, and modern living. These towns provide an idyllic setting for Granite Construction retirees seeking a blend of comfort, culture, and convenience. With populations ranging from under 10,000 to several times that, these towns are characterized not just by their size, but also by their distinct lifestyle and strong sense of community. This exploration takes into account various factors crucial for a fulfilling Granite Construction retirement life, including cost of living, crime rates, healthcare facilities, housing options, and cultural and recreational activities.

1. Greer, South Carolina

Greer, with a population of about 39,000, epitomizes small-town charm with a revitalized downtown area, abundant recreational activities, and a range of cultural events. Its strategic location near Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and Amtrak services enhances its accessibility.

2. Coolidge, Arizona

Set in the Sonoran Desert, Coolidge is a haven for those preferring a desert climate. With just over 14,700 residents, it offers a lower cost of living than the national and Arizona average. The town is also notable for the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and Central Arizona College's community educational programs.

3. Dillsboro, North Carolina

Nestled on the banks of the Tuckasegee River, Dillsboro is a historic railroad town with fewer than 300 residents. Its 19th-century charm is complemented by a variety of arts and crafts centered activities. The cost of living here aligns with the national average, and Asheville is less than an hour away for Granite Construction retirees seeking urban amenities.

4. Fredericksburg, Texas

This town, in the heart of Texas Hill Country, has a rich German heritage. Home to over 100 wineries and designated as a Dark Sky Community, Fredericksburg offers a diverse cultural experience. It is also conveniently located within 70 miles of San Antonio and Austin.

5. Cedar Key, Florida

A quintessential small Florida town, Cedar Key boasts a population of fewer than 900. It is renowned for its tranquil environment, proximity to nature reserves, and a rich seafood culture. The town's low to moderate cost of living is an added advantage.

6. Paso Robles, California

Positioned between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Paso Robles is known for its wineries, vibrant downtown area, and a variety of outdoor activities. It provides a perfect blend of rural charm and urban convenience.

7. Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Located in the Pocono Mountains, Stroudsburg offers a mix of historical and modern amenities with a population of fewer than 6,000. The town is a hub for local arts and crafts and provides various family-oriented activities.

8. Mequon, Wisconsin

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Mequon, near Milwaukee, offers a balance of open spaces and urban amenities. The Village of Thiensville within Mequon is a focal point for community events and local celebrations, enhancing its small-town appeal.

9. Bristol, Vermont

Bristol, with less than 4,000 residents, is a New England town known for its scenic beauty and vibrant community events. It offers a tranquil environment with a historic downtown area.

10. Hamilton, Montana

Hamilton is ideal for active Granite Construction retirees who love the outdoors. With fewer than 5,000 residents, it offers a rural lifestyle with the convenience of a nearby city, Missoula. The town is noted for its historical museum and local college.

These towns offer a unique combination of affordability, safety, wellness, and cultural richness, making them attractive destinations for Granite Construction retirees seeking a simpler yet fulfilling lifestyle. They each provide a distinctive living experience, ensuring that every retiree can find a town that best suits their preferences and lifestyle needs.

A notable trend among retirees, particularly those from high-level corporate backgrounds, is the increasing interest in 'lifelong learning' opportunities offered in small towns. For example, Fredericksburg, Texas, not only offers cultural and wine experiences but is also in proximity to several colleges offering a range of adult education courses. This aligns with a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, which found that individuals over 50 are increasingly enrolling in courses for personal growth, skill development, and intellectual stimulation. This trend underlines the appeal of small towns that provide not just leisure but also avenues for continuous learning and engagement (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022).

Discover the top small towns in the U.S. perfect for Granite Construction retirees seeking a blend of tranquility, cultural richness, and lifestyle convenience. Explore our curated list of destinations, from Greer, South Carolina's charming downtown to Fredericksburg, Texas, a haven for wine lovers and lifelong learners. Uncover hidden gems like Dillsboro, North Carolina, for its historic charm, and Cedar Key, Florida, for its serene coastal life. Learn about each town's unique offerings, including healthcare, safety, and cost of living. Ideal for those planning retirement or seeking a peaceful getaway. Dive into our guide to find your perfect small-town retirement haven.

Selecting a small town for retirement is akin to choosing the perfect wine from a well-curated cellar. Just as a connoisseur selects a wine that suits their palate, balancing notes of flavor, aroma, and vintage, so too does a retiree choose a town that harmonizes with their lifestyle, interests, and needs. Each town, like each bottle of wine, has its unique character and charm. From the historic and culturally rich streets of Fredericksburg, Texas, reminiscent of a robust, aged Bordeaux, to the tranquil, seaside serenity of Cedar Key, Florida, echoing the crisp freshness of a Pinot Grigio, the choice caters to the diverse tastes of those seasoned in life and looking for the perfect blend of comfort, culture, and community in their retirement years.

What type of retirement savings plan does Granite Construction offer to its employees?

Granite Construction offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

How can Granite Construction employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Granite Construction employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Granite Construction match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Granite Construction provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) accounts, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Granite Construction 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Granite Construction 401(k) plan is in line with IRS regulations, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for the current year.

Can Granite Construction employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Granite Construction allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Granite Construction 401(k) plan?

The Granite Construction 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can Granite Construction employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Granite Construction employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, typically during open enrollment or through the HR portal.

Is there a vesting schedule for Granite Construction's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Granite Construction has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which means employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

What happens to Granite Construction employees' 401(k) accounts if they leave the company?

If Granite Construction employees leave the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) funds to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Granite Construction plan, subject to plan rules.

Are there any fees associated with the Granite Construction 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative and investment fees associated with the Granite Construction 401(k) plan. Employees should review the plan documents for specific details.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Granite Construction provides a comprehensive retirement benefits package, which includes the Granite Construction Profit Sharing and 401(k) Plan. This plan is a defined contribution plan, where employees can voluntarily contribute a portion of their pre-tax earnings towards their retirement. Granite Construction offers a 401(k) matching contribution that is 100% of employee contributions up to 6% of compensation, with employees becoming eligible for this match after six months of service (JobzMall) (SEC.gov). In addition to the 401(k) plan, Granite Construction offers a Profit Sharing Plan, which is tied to company profits. The profit-sharing contributions are discretionary and vary depending on the company's earnings (SimpleQDRO). Employees who work for Granite Construction for 10 years or more may also qualify for a pension plan, which complements their retirement savings (JobzMall). Furthermore, Granite Construction provides an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), where the company contributes newly issued stock or cash that is used to purchase shares for the employees. This further enhances the retirement benefits available to employees

Restructuring Layoffs: Granite Construction has undergone a significant restructuring effort across its operations throughout 2023-2024. The company reported adjusting its leadership and operational segments to align with market trends, which resulted in notable workforce reductions and asset divestitures (World Construction Network). The adjustments have been positioned as necessary to navigate economic pressures, supply chain disruptions, and increased labor costs. This news is crucial due to the current economic climate, as companies in the construction sector are especially vulnerable to market volatility and regulatory changes. Addressing these layoffs is vital to understanding the broader trends in construction employment and their ripple effects on communities and the economy.

Granite Construction offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) under their 2012 and 2021 Equity Incentive Plans. These stock options are performance-based and are made available to employees as part of their compensation packages. Granite (GVA) employees are eligible to participate in the company's equity awards based on their role and performance, which align with the company’s strategic financial and non-financial goals (Last10K) (SEC.gov). Stock options and RSUs at Granite Construction are available to both managerial and supervisory personnel, aiming to enhance retention and reward significant contributors to the company's success (SEC.gov) (SEC.gov). In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Granite Construction (GVA) continued offering RSUs and stock options as part of its performance-based incentive structure. These RSUs vest over a defined period, typically contingent on meeting certain performance criteria or service durations (SEC.gov). Eligible employees include salaried personnel, primarily those in management roles across the company’s diverse sectors (Granite Construction). The incentive programs are designed to align employee interests with shareholders, promoting long-term growth and value creation

Medical Plans: Granite Construction offers comprehensive healthcare benefits, including options like PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) and HSA (Health Savings Account) plans. Anthem Blue Cross is a major provider for Granite's medical coverage, offering various plan structures such as HSA plans with high deductibles (e.g., $3,000 deductible). Employees typically have access to preventive care, primary care, and specialist visits with coverage based on plan selection. Acronyms and Healthcare-Related Terms: PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Employees can choose providers within a network for lower out-of-pocket costs. HSA (Health Savings Account): Employees may contribute pre-tax dollars to an account for healthcare expenses. COBRA: Coverage continuation for employees after employment termination or certain life events. Open Enrollment: The annual period where employees can select or change their benefit elections. Recent Employee Healthcare News: Granite Construction has updated its benefit offerings to comply with federal healthcare reform laws, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In 2023 and 2024, employees have been encouraged to use online benefits platforms like Workday for enrollment. 100% company-paid health insurance for some employee categories continues to be a key benefit, particularly for those enrolled in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) that integrate with HSAs.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Granite Construction at , ; or by calling them at .

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