From the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico: Solving Water Issues

September 19, 2024
By Karla Lopez, Senior Graduate Engineer, WSB

Creating Sustainable solutions for diverse environmental conditions.

From daily life to supply chains and beyond, water plays a key role in our world, especially in Texas. In the Lone Star State scarcity like droughts is a common issue in some areas, and more regular rainfall is quite common in others. Comparatively, states like Minnesota far more regularly experience flooding from heavy rains or snowfall which require different ideas and solutions for water management.

Water Allocation and Project Resiliency

Water resource management is critical for every city, especially in arid climates like Texas. Ensuring infrastructure can withstand inclement weather while following natural drainage paths is key. As engineers, we strive to design and implement drainage systems to collect and convey stormwater runoff to minimize the likelihood and impact of floods on communities, infrastructure and properties. Initial project planning includes improvising and adjusting the land around the site while attempting to mimic the existing natural drainage pattern using storm drains and other techniques However, a lack of proper infrastructure can inhibit proper drainage systems.

When infrastructure development begins it requires copious amounts of planning. First, surveying is required to ensure the infrastructure is not being built in a floodplain zone. Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other agencies are used to model existing water levels as a metric for the new project to prevent an increase in flooding. One of the primary goals in using these maps is to ensure that the project does not increase the previous amounts of water discharge. Caution must be taken to prevent increases in water quantities at any construction site. Additionally, in areas like Texas, the infrastructure needs to withstand natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and coastal flooding.

Improving Water Quality

Infrastructure is only one facet of the issues different communities face. Water purification is a key component of water management, especially when dealing with dirty water. Before collected water is discharged into a river or lake, it goes through different cleaning processes, like filtration ponds, rain gardens and more. Some communities may have proper drainage systems but may not have up-to-date purification systems. This can lead to disparities in the quality of water between different communities.

Differing Climates from State to State

In making state to state comparisons, projects in Texas and Minnesota must work with regulations in both states. Texas is under near-constant threat of a lengthy dry season due to the heat and rare rains. Texas relies heavily on groundwater resources, but due to water scarcity and drought problems the state is facing, the groundwater is depleting. Thus, the regulations in Texas are not as strict as Minnesota’s rules, but that is a double-edged sword. Less regulations can lead to more pollution of water or greater deterioration while more regulation in Minnesota requires far more planning and permitting which slows down projects.

Minnesota, meanwhile, manages the threat of flooding, requiring a thoughtful approach to drainage. There is heavy reliance on watershed assessments which are taken incredibly seriously, especially with the massive number of lakes in the state. Exceptional care is taken to prevent the Land of 10,000 Lakes from becoming polluted due to old or malfunctioning infrastructure.

Tackling Water Issues from Rains to Droughts

Engineering and water management is both an art and a science that requires a careful approach to account for a variety of factors. This is true whether a project is being built to withstand a hurricane or ensuring a project does not cause heavy snowfall to flood neighboring homes. The United States makes up a wide variety of climates with an equally wide variety of potential water related issues that need to be navigated. Like with the varying communities in Texas, all construction projects need to be treated with care whether facing droughts or heavy rains or somewhere else in between.

Karla brings a wealth of experience in environmental engineering and climate resilience to her role as a Senior Graduate Engineer at WSB. Prior to joining the team, she was a research fellow at the NOAA Center for Earth System Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST) and an intern at Duke Energy focusing on environmental compliance. Her work has consistently centered around supporting community resilience, particularly for underserved communities, through advanced hydrology, hydraulics, and water quality modeling. Karla’s unique approach combines social sciences with engineering to enhance the quality of life in local communities, reflecting her deep commitment to integrating technical expertise with community needs.

Major Milestone Achieved in EPA Grant Funding

September 18, 2024

WSB’s Sustainability Division has successfully helped secure $5 million in EPA grant funding for the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin. This funding will enhance building efficiency, develop and install 1MW of solar electricity infrastructure and increase local workforce capacity for renewable energy on Tribal lands.

The application, developed in collaboration with the Tribe’s Grants Administrator, was selected as one of 33 recipients from a competitive pool of over 100 applications. This success highlights the comprehensive and compelling nature of the proposal, which demonstrated significant potential for advancing the Tribe’s goals of energy sovereignty and reducing negative environmental impacts.

The funding is expected to open new possibilities for the Tribe. WSB looks forward to supporting future Tribal clients in their pursuit of sustainability goals.

For more details on the grant awards, please visit the EPA’s official announcement.

From Coast to Plains: WSB’s Commitment to North Dakota’s Future

September 12, 2024
By Anthony Sommerfeld, PE, Project Manager, WSB

In a nation as vast as ours, understanding and addressing the unique needs of every community is a formidable challenge. In North Dakota we face challenges with aging infrastructure and managing urban growth while preserving our rural landscape. It requires a blend of broad national experience with a deep, personal appreciation of local nuances. As WSB invests in our municipal service offerings in North Dakota, we bring with us a commitment that is twofold – leveraging our national knowledge to empower local communities, while rooting our efforts deeply in the local culture and needs.

Embracing our Local Roots

We understand that the heart of North Dakota isn’t just found in its expansive plains or the rugged badlands, but in the spirit of the people who call it home. As we continue to grow our presence in Fargo and Bismarck, our goal is to intertwine WSB’s comprehensive expertise with North Dakota’s local ethos. Our investment is not just about growing our firm, but about nurturing the communities we serve with tailored solutions that respect their heritage and ambitions.

A Personal Connection with Professional Depth

Choosing WSB means opting for a partner who not only offers a wide array of services but understands why each project matters on a personal level. Our decision to deepen our roots in North Dakota stems from a recognition of the state’s burgeoning potential and the unique challenges faced by its communities. Our engineers and professionals, many of whom hail from the region, bring with them not just technical expertise, but a personal investment in the community’s growth and well-being.

Understanding and Integrating into North Dakota’s Social Fabric

WSB’s approach is heavily anchored in the understanding that local insights lead to more sustainable and accepted solutions. Our team members, many of whom grew up in the very communities they now serve, bring a nuanced understanding of what it means to live and work in North Dakota. This intrinsic knowledge guides our projects, ensuring they not only address infrastructural needs but also enhance the community’s way of life.

The WSB Advantage

With WSB, communities across North Dakota can access a spectrum of services tailored to their unique environmental, economic, and social landscapes. From infrastructure engineering to environmental consulting, our offerings are designed to advance local priorities with national-level expertise. Now is an opportune time for local leaders to explore what a partnership with WSB could mean for their community’s future.

As we invest in North Dakota, our commitment is clear: to deliver not just projects, but progress. To not just work in North Dakota, but to work with North Dakota, understanding its heart, and enhancing its communities with every project we undertake.

Connect with Us at the North Dakota League of Cities Conference

We’re thrilled to announce that WSB will be participating in the upcoming North Dakota League of Cities Conference. Come find us at booth #44, where we’re eager to engage with you. I’m looking forward to exploring the unique challenges your community faces and discussing how we can tailor our support to meet your future needs.

Anthony Sommerfeld is a Professional Engineer specializing in municipal engineering, with over a decade of experience in design and construction. Throughout his career, Anthony has played a pivotal role in master planning and leading design teams for both new developments and reconstruction projects. His approach to each project combines innovation with goal-oriented perspective, and consistently seeking effective solutions. Anthony’s dedication and skill in managing complex projects have made him a valuable leader in the engineering community.

WSB hires Shawn Poe, strengthening leadership in Colorado

September 4, 2024
Poe’s leadership will solidify the firm’s municipal service offerings in the Colorado/California region.

Denver, Colo. – Fast-growing firm WSB today announced the hiring of Shawn Poe. Based out of the firm’s Denver office, Poe has been strategically selected as director of municipal services to strengthen the service offering across the firm.

In this role, Poe will lead the firm’s efforts in expanding services to municipalities in Colorado. He will grow and strengthen relationships with public agencies not only in the state of Colorado, but in regions Shawn is familiar with and WSB supports.

“I was looking for an opportunity to grow with a firm, and WSB perfectly aligned,” said Poe. “I was drawn in by how visionary the firm is, and I value building relationships and supporting communities. I look forward to bringing my experience to WSB to build what’s next in infrastructure.”

Poe comes to WSB with nearly 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors in both Colorado and Texas. Throughout his career, he has supported communities across the nation as a city engineer and a director of public works. His involvement in professional organizations, including his role as a former president of the APWA Texas Chapter and current role on the board of the APWA Colorado Chapter, make him an asset to WSB.

“Shawn’s experience is going to directly benefit our clients,” said Monica Heil, vice president of municipal services. “He can advocate for and understand the needs of our public infrastructure. Shawn’s guidance will expand our services in the Colorado municipal market, allowing us to most efficiently and effectively support communities.”

The firm first entered the Colorado market in 2017. After recent acquisitions, WSB continues to grow nationally, expanding service offerings and building relationships with communities from coast-to-coast.

WSB Receives National Award of Merit in Transportation

September 4, 2024

Each year, the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) recognizes outstanding projects in various disciplines that exemplify the principles of Design-Build Done Right®.

DBIA recently announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s (MnDOT) $75 million Highway 52 Zumbrota to Cannon Falls Design-Build project received the 2024 National Award of Merit in the Transportation (Other than Aviation) category. WSB supported MnDOT and this project through the Alternative Delivery General Engineering Consultant Contract (GEC) developing the Contract bidding documents and as the Owners Contract Administration Verification team providing quality management, contract administration, inspection, materials testing and plant inspection.

As a result, this project is automatically a nominee for the DBIA National Award of Excellence in the same category. Only one winner is selected for this award making it the highest honor in each category. Merit winners and Excellence winners will be announced during the awards program at the 2024 Design-Build Conference & Expo in Dallas, TX on November 7.

Click here for more information on the project.

Click here for DBIA’s full announcement.

WSB expands leadership team with strategic hire in Colorado region

August 30, 2024

George Prien will support multiple divisions across the firm as director of data integrity

Denver, Colo. – WSB, design and consulting firm, announced today the strategic hiring of George Prien. Based out of the firm’s Denver location, Prien has joined as director of data integrity.

With 16 years of industry experience, Prien’s expertise lies in data analysis and management. Prien has a background in both GIS and survey, making him well-equipped to support the firm as director of data integrity.

“George’s talent and technical experience in the industry is impressive, and he has been a staple in the energy division for years,” said John Gerlach, vice president of energy utilities. “With connections in Colorado and Houston and a diverse background, he will support our firm well. I am confident with George’s leadership we will continue to advance technology in the energy sector, providing even better services for our clients.”

In this role, Prien works in the energy utilities division— driving technology and data integration into the energy space. Working alongside WSB’s GIS and survey teams, he will oversee the integration of these services. This supports the firm’s initiative to remain an industry leader through advanced project delivery.

“I love building teams, and I have a passion for data,” said Prien. “To combine both interests and support a firm that is already well-established with diverse services is incredibly exciting. I appreciate that WSB is technology driven and the forward-thinking vision embedded in their culture. There are endless opportunities at WSB, and I look forward to my role in helping this firm forge ahead.”

With two acquisitions in the last year, WSB has doubled in size. The technology-driven firm continues to expand services in regions across the country and lead the industry.

Land Development and Planning in Tribal Communities

August 30, 2024
By Jay Adams, Proposal and Tribal Client Manager, WSB

Optimizing resources for community growth and infrastructure.

Over 40% of the land in Oklahoma is made up of tribal communities and 38 federally recognized tribes call the state home, including the Kickapoo Tribal Community. The large presence of tribal communities within the state increases the importance of coordination and collaboration on construction projects. In addition, recent legislation is encouraging development in and around this land. With so many players, it is extremely important to have clear coordination and concise communications. These Tribal Nations, just like any other government, regularly seek out grant funding for development purposes. The Kickapoo filed for grant funding after identifying a variety of infrastructure improvements needed within their community, including improving land usage and building renovation.

Improving Land Usage

With newly acquired grant funding, the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma identified the need to update their wastewater treatment sites. Wastewater treatment lagoons, like the ones used on their land, require far less maintenance than other water treatment systems. However, communities that rely on these lagoons struggle with odor problems, especially during warm weather and the inability to develop the large spaces occupied by the lagoons. To rectify this problem, our team noted that the current sewage system needed to be expanded. Using the new lift stations, the lagoons will be drained, and all of the sewage and contaminants flushed through newly installed pipelines to an existing mechanical wastewater treatment plant.

To improve efficiency for current and future projects, we created a detailed land survey with aerial mapping to identify the exact locations of all new installations as well as any potential issues that could negatively affect the system expansion. Furthermore, the removal of the lagoons combined with the land survey will provide the Kickapoo Tribe with new opportunities to develop previously unusable land for agricultural, residential or industrial purposes.

Building Renovations

In addition to wastewater treatment, the Tribe received grants dedicated to refurbishing older buildings. To better use available land and infrastructure, the Kickapoo Tribe partnered with WSB to create a plan to redevelop an old equipment building. The old storage building will be redesigned and updated for future use as an office building for the Tribal Government’s information technology staff. To aid in this venture, WSB is coordinating with an architecture firm to provide initial drawings and architectural maps for the building.

Throughout this process, the Kickapoo Tribe find value in working with a full-service firm to support their growing infrastructure needs throughout their community. As many systems impact one another, the ability for in-house expertise has allowed them to better utilize funding and resources across their community and better plan for future expansions.

Planning For the Future

The access and availability to grants is an opportunity for not only the Kickapoo Tribe, but other Tribal Nations across Oklahoma and the U.S. With more resources than ever before, tribal communities can better position themselves to support the infrastructure needs of their communities.

Jay leverages over 39 years of transportation expertise in his role as Proposal and Tribal Client Manager at WSB. His extensive background includes leading projects within the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and pioneering ITS GIS Systems nationwide. As ODOT’s former Tribal Liaison, he facilitated key partnerships with 38 Federally Recognized Tribes, significantly advancing transportation projects. His technical skills in GIS and asset management, combined with his public service experience including 12 years on the Mustang City Council and roles as Mayor and board chairman, equip him to effectively manage diverse client relationships and proposals.

[email protected] | 405.815.3654

Designing and Improving the Snake River Bridge

August 28, 2024
By Carl Osberg, PE, Director of Structures, WSB

Meeting Traffic Demands and Environmental standards with aesthetic sensitivity

As with many instances of aging infrastructure, the bridge across the Snake River to the East of Pine City, MN reached a point in its lifespan where it needed to be redesigned and replaced. Construction projects like bridges require focused attention to a variety of elements to not only ensure the bridge is sound and long lasting, but also to ensure no concerns are created like blocking off access from boats or environmental concerns. The Snake River Bridge scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2024 provides a superb example of the many facets that make up bridge design.

Meeting Traffic Needs

One point of consideration for bridges are current and future traffic needs. Previously, if farm equipment needed to cross from both sides of the bridge there would be issues. With the newest designs, the addition of extra wide shoulders allows for traffic to flow whether by car or larger. Through traffic forecasting, a bridge design can meet the needs of the current levels of traffic and those estimated for up to 40 years of potential population growth in the area. This project’s analysis deemed additional lanes unnecessary so long as the extra wide shoulders were included. Ensuring the bridge is only as big as is needed will save considerable time and money.

Considering Environmental Data and Concerns

In bridge design, gathering hydraulic data about the river is imperative to ensure that not only will the bridge be able to handle expected seasonal water depths and the speed of the river’s flow, but also to ensure that any bridge design avoids negatively impacting the areas downstream. For example, the updated trail on either side of the bridge included designs for updated drainage ponds and piping to prevent the road and nearby residences from being affected during heavy rains.

When tearing down an existing bridge, care must be taken to ensure that the river is not polluted, and animal habitats are not unnecessarily impacted. Specifically for the Snake River project, remnants of an older bridge still remained and new designs included removal. For both environmental concerns and financial reasons, the Snake River Bridge was designed with the impetus of ensuring durability and expandability. Not only is the bridge made to last, but also if population growth surpasses estimates the bridge can be more easily expanded to fit the new needs rather than torn down and rebuilt again.

To meet environmental and safety concerns, plans for a path underneath the bridge were included in the design that will grant extra protection for drivers, pedestrians, and the local wildlife once the bridge is completed and put to use. Accessible paths allow for foot traffic of both people and animals to maneuver safely without needing to cross the street.

Reducing Costs

Steps were taken through data gathering and design to limit unnecessary costs. These aspects include adding contingencies in relation to the soil and bedrock. Through geotechnical data gathering, it was identified that there are high levels of bedrock close to the surface in the construction area. Building with bedrock is difficult and attention was given to include contingencies on how to handle different bedrock or soil conditions during construction to ensure the project does not stop and cost money and time. Additionally, to limit excess costs geotechnical data was able to be acquired by drilling through the old bridge and into the soil rather than using a barge. Using a barge for data gathering would have drastically increased costs.

A Completed Project With Aesthetic Appeal

Bridge designs like the one used for the Snake River Bridge meet the needs of the communities that use it, protect against environmental impacts to the water, soil and local animals, reduce costs, and provide a timetable to ensure the bridge will be constructed and reopened without delay. Even down to forgoing the usual plain rectangular shapes and including parabolic arches to for little additional funds to make the bridge more attractive and not stand out so much against the beautiful environment around it. Creating not only a finished usable bridge, but one that is attentive to the various needs of the community, the land it sits on, and the river it crosses are what bridge design is all about.

Carl is Director of Structures, and he brings a deep comprehension of MnDOT’s guidelines and protocols for bridge and transportation projects. His extensive experience includes leading studies, engaging with the public and stakeholders, assessing environmental impacts, and overseeing both preliminary and final design stages. Carl has a track record of designing over 70 bridges throughout Minnesota, along with a variety of other structures such as retaining walls, noise barriers, tunnels, and sign structures. His profound knowledge and proven expertise in structural design make him an essential leader, adept at guiding decisive actions and advancing significant projects.

[email protected] | 612.219.3524

WSB elevates leadership in the Southeast

August 27, 2024
Amidst national expansion, the design and consulting firm strengthens leadership in the newly expanded region.

Jacksonville, Fla. – Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of leadership in the Southeast region. This is part of WSB’s aggressive growth strategy to build a national firm that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.

The firm acquired AE Engineering, a high-growth infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida, in February 2024. Through this acquisition the firm has gained several offices throughout Florida, Geogia and North Carolina.

“Infrastructure is booming in the southeast, and in turn so has our growth,” said Rod Myrick, Vice President of Strategy & Construction. “We have many leaders in this region who have been driving forces of our expansion. These individuals represent our firms dynamic, strong core of difference makers that support our clients, and I’m proud to recognize promotions throughout the region.”

WSB has elevated several leaders within the southeast region to support its newfound growth. Promotions in the southeast region include:

Andres Atehortua | Director, Contract Administration
Ricardo Baraybar | Director, Contract Administration
Udin Dwarica-Ogeer | Director, Quality Assurance
William Glennon | Director, Contract Administration
Eduardo Hernandez | Director, Contract Administration
Van Mason | Director, Contract Administration
Julian McKinley | Director, Contract Administration
Christopher Nolen | Director Contract Administration
Michael Russo | Director, Materials
Christopher Sweat | Director, Contract Administration

“I am thrilled for our firm to support more communities across the nation,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “The southeast is heavily investing in infrastructure, and AE Engineering has built phenomenal relationships with communities throughout the region. As we forge ahead together, I am excited about the expanded services we can bring to the southeast. Our teams have been collaborating across various divisions to provide the best services for our clients while building what’s next in infrastructure.”

Founded in Minnesota in 1995, the growth of WSB has been significant. With offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Colorado/California, Texas/Oklahoma and now the southeast, the firm supports communities across the nation. Today, WSB offers services in more than 50 areas, to seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation.

WSB strengthens Texas survey team with new director

August 21, 2024
The firm strategically hires leadership to facilitate expansion in the south.

Houston, Texas – Design and consulting firm WSB announced today the strategic hiring of Michael Hodgkinson. Based out of the firm’s Houston office, Hodgkinson joins WSB as director of survey operations.

Hodgkinson has a strong background in the industry with over 30 years of experience in survey. His close relationships with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other industry leaders are valuable to the firm as it continues to grow nationally.

“Michael was selected for this position for a variety of reasons,” said Brad Oswald, director of survey. “He comes to WSB with a wealth of industry knowledge, and his relationships in the region will help us expand our service offerings throughout the state. I’m really excited to watch our division thrive under Michael’s leadership.”

This is the first time the firm will offer survey services of this scale in Texas, and Hodgkinson will be instrumental in its growth. In his position, Hodgkinson will oversee survey operations and business development throughout the state. He will primarily focus on building the firm’s team in Texas and expanding into new market spaces, such as municipal, renewables and energy markets, in the south and southeast regions.

“I see potential for growth at WSB, both internally and nationally,” said Hodgkinson. “I am passionate about building and strengthening operations. I look forward to applying my experience in my new role to support the firm.”

Strengthening the firm’s Texas presence will support national expansion. After doubling in size through two acquisitions in the past year, the firm has increased its service offerings and reach across the United States.