“We are extremely excited to bring Mathews into the Hardin fold, as we view the merger as favorable to both firms’ growth,” said Hardin Chairman Brantley Barrow.

“The merger offers Mathews the greater resources of a bigger company, which is especially important in these tough times,” David Oellerich, owner and president of Mathews, said in a statement. “It gives us the financial strength and personnel resources to chase some larger projects.”

Mathews Construction, with approximately 40 employees, provides construction management and design/build services. Atlanta-based Hardin has operated in Tampa since 1978. The company’s Tampa unit has approximately 50 associates.

Under the agreement, Hardin is acquiring the Mathews name and company resume and certain projects under construction. Several employees, including some who are working on current projects, will join Hardin’s staff.

“Bringing these two companies together opens up new markets for Hardin and new opportunities for Mathews,” said Page McKee, senior vice president with Hardin. “Mathews can pursue larger projects and Hardin can expand in public-sector markets.”

Hardin also envisions expanding its geographical reach to areas south of Tampa Bay through Mathews’ office in Punta Gorda.