Grant Opportunities for Minnesota Cities

December 4, 2024
By Amy Fredregill, Sr Director of Sustainability, WSB

We would like share news about three upcoming resiliency grant opportunities that can help cities in Minnesota advance their strategic plans, reduce costs and risks, and provide new services to stakeholders.

MN Pollution Control Agency Local Climate Action Grant

The MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has opened applications for the Local Climate Action (LCA) grants. There are two types of grants available: a climate action planning grant and a climate action implementation grant. These grants are available to local governments, Tribes, community-based nonprofits, and schools working on projects to reduce climate pollution and prepare communities for climate change impacts.

The planning grant focuses on developing local action plans to combat and adapt to climate change, including community-wide greenhouse gas emissions data collection through the Regional Indicators Initiative at no cost. The implementation grants fund projects that execute existing climate or sustainability plans, aiming to increase community resilience to climate change and reduce contributions to it.

The maximum grant award for both programs is $50,000, with a match requirement based on community population size. Communities with populations under 20,000 need to match 5% of the grant amount, while those with populations of 20,000 or more need to match 50%. Applications are due by January 9, 2025.

MPCA Community Resilience Implementation Grant

The MPCA is also offering $5 million in grants for non-stormwater and non-wastewater projects to enhance community resilience to climate change. Eligible projects include extreme heat mitigation, hardening public assets against extreme weather, upgrading resilience hubs, improving transportation alternatives, wildfire resilience, public water supply projects, and climate resiliency upgrades to publicly owned housing or community storm shelters. Applications are due by December 19, 2024.

Geothermal Planning Grants

The Minnesota Department of Commerce is launching a new grant program to provide financial assistance for examining the feasibility of geothermal energy systems. Grants of up to $150,000 are available for planning geothermal systems that heat and cool buildings. Eligible applicants include counties, cities, townships, and the Metropolitan Council. The program will launch by the end of 2024, with a public webinar scheduled for December 16, 2024.

Next Steps

At WSB, we specialize in helping communities secure funding and grant opportunities through competitive applications, innovative partnerships, and cost-effective approaches. Recently, we assisted a tribe in securing $5 million from the EPA for a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and helped a city obtain a Solar on Public Buildings grant. Let us know how we can assist you in securing funding to advance your goals.

Amy has nearly 25 years of experience across many industries, particularly energy and agriculture, in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. This experience has provided Amy with a broad background that enables her to meet community and business needs based on the business case for sustainability. By working across interesting systems to simultaneously advance environmental, economic and social goals, she is able to uncover creative solutions. Through her relationship-based approach, Amy meets the unique needs of communities and businesses by working with all areas of the firm to provide comprehensive solutions.

[email protected] | 612.965.1489

WSB strengthens leadership amidst national expansion with strategic hire Corey Johnson

November 19, 2024
Johnson’s role at WSB is valuable as the firm supports clients across the country.

Orlando, Fla. — Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the strategic hiring of Corey Johnson. Johnson supports the firm as director of strategy for digital construction management (DCM).

With 25 years of industry experience, Johnson’s background and expertise make him an asset to WSB. From time as a consultant and solution engineer in civil, to managing design and construction teams, to establishing strong relationships with most Departments of Transportation (DOTs)— Johnson is well equipped to lead WSB to success.

“Corey has a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to provide practical-minded digital delivery,” said Andy Kaiyala, vice president of DCM. “His diverse technical skills coupled with his ability to collaborate with staff and clients is incredibly valuable. The strategic vision, mentorship and guidance Corey provides strengthens the group as we continue to grow.”

In this position, Johnson leads the national effort to expand the firm’s DCM service, prioritizing client engagement to accelerate the adoption of a model-centric future. Additionally, his background and strong relationships support the firm and increase brand awareness.

“I had worked with WSB in the past and always admired how they approached projects,” said Johnson. “WSB is progressive and is targeting the right things to solve real problems. From assembling a strong team to finding solutions for the communities we serve; I knew this would be a good fit.”

The firm first launched DCM in spring of 2023. Since then, the service area and team of experts continue to grow as the firm partners with national brands, raising awareness about the model-centric future for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

WSB, Minneapolis-Based Design and Consulting Firm, Announces Acquisition of Meshek & Associates, LLC

November 12, 2024
Meshek’s footprint strengthens WSB’S presence in the southern U.S.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — WSB LLC (“WSB”), one of the nation’s fastest growing infrastructure engineering and consulting firms, today announced the acquisition of Meshek & Associates, LLC. (“Meshek”), a specialized civil engineering firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The strategic addition of Meshek will strengthen WSB’s service offerings and presence in Oklahoma.

“WSB is evolving into a national brand,” announced Bret Weiss, WSB’s president and CEO. “Oklahoma is making significant investments in its infrastructure, boasts a growing economy, and ranks among the top states for job creation, which gives us access to a robust talent pool. Meshek enjoys an excellent reputation and is an ideal fit with our culture and entrepreneurial spirit. We are excited to expand on their success by providing additional services.”

The acquisition of Meshek brings three offices and more than 50 employees into WSB. Combined, WSB now operates over 50 offices with more than 1,500 employees nationwide to serve its clients across the government, commercial and energy markets.

“WSB is a robust and expanding company that aligns perfectly with Meshek and our clients,” stated Brandon Claborn, CEO of Meshek. “For many years, we have been dedicated to providing top-tier service to our clients. By joining WSB, which shares this unwavering dedication, we are excited to gain additional expertise and resources to serve our clients and enhance their strengths and achievements by offering additional services.”

WSB and Meshek will work together to develop a single go-to market approach as WSB in early 2025. This represents WSB’s third acquisition in the last 13 months. In September 2023, the firm acquired Oklahoma-based EST, a 350-person transportation infrastructure engineering firm and in February 2024, WSB acquired Florida-based AE Engineering, a 180-person construction, engineering and inspection (CE&I) firm.

Morrissey Goodale advised Meshek & Associates in connection with the transaction.

WSB opens new office in Orlando, establishing strong roots in the southeast region

November 7, 2024

As the firm continues to nationally expand, WSB is prioritizing its investment in the southeast.

Orlando, FL — WSB, a rapidly-growing design and consulting firm, has opened a new office located at 6220 Hazeltine National Dr., Suite 116, Orlando, FL. This strategic move marks a pivotal moment in the firm’s nationwide expansion efforts, reflecting a commitment to growing roots in the vibrant Southeast.

The firm wants to emphasize its commitment to the local communities it serves. This location enhances the firm’s ability to provide exceptional services to clients in the region and strengthens its brand presence across the southeastern United States.

“Opening our office in Orlando is a crucial part of our national growth strategy,” said Chris Nolen, director of contract administration. “We are thrilled to extend our expertise and services to the region and look forward to strengthening our relationships with the local community.”

WSB is prioritizing the needs of the communities it serves while expanding brand awareness from coast to coast. The new Orlando office is a testament to the firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

The firm first entered the southeastern region in early 2024 after acquiring AE Engineering, a high-growth transportation infrastructure engineering firm based in Jacksonville. Since then, the firm continues to grow and supports projects nationwide.

Orion Solar Belt Project: Powering the Future with Google’s Largest Solar Investment

October 23, 2024

We are excited to be part of the Orion Solar Belt project, a remarkable 900 MWdc solar power-plant that recently began commercial operations in Texas. Our team contributed to this project by conducting the survey and providing full civil, hydrology, and pile plan design for this initiative.

As Google’s largest solar energy investment to date, this project will power the company’s data centers in Ellis County, Texas, and plays a vital role in their commitment to achieving carbon-free energy by 2030.

Notably, this project included Google as a primary off-taker and complied with the domestic content provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, enabling them to secure an additional 10% investment tax credit. It utilized 1.3 million American-made solar modules from First Solar, domestic steel from Gerdau Steel in Midlothian, Texas, and components from Nextracker Inc., predominantly produced in the U.S.

For more information, visit: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/google-backed-orion-solar-belt-farm-opens-in-the-us/ar-AA1sDOXm

WSB promotes Kelly Selman to oversee the firm’s Texas transportation and construction engineering and inspection efforts

October 2, 2024

As senior vice president, Selman will lead WSB’s transportation and construction engineering and inspection divisions in Texas

Melissa, Texas – Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that Kelly Selman has been promoted to senior vice president of Texas. Selman, who previously led WSB’s transportation efforts throughout Texas, will now oversee and manage both the transportation and construction engineering and inspection (CE&I) divisions.

As senior vice president of Texas, Selman will oversee the firm’s growing portfolio of public and private transportation and construction clients. His role aims to strengthen and expand the firm’s transportation and CE&I services and solutions throughout the state. For years, WSB has been delivering engineering services in Texas, but the elevated role for Selman will help to support the fast growth within the region, strengthen existing and new client relationships, and build on the firm’s local expertise.

“In 2023, we gained an industry infrastructure leader in Kelly Selman,” said Jon Chiglo, chief operating officer at WSB. “The experience, leadership and drive that Kelly brings to WSB has quickly enhanced our offerings in Texas. I am confident that Kelly will elevate our CE&I services in Texas and lead our strong teams.

Selman took on the role of vice president of transportation at WSB in 2023, concentrating his efforts on addressing the state’s infrastructure needs. Prior to joining WSB, Selman spent nearly six years at EST as Texas regional manager and 32 years at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in a variety of roles including area engineer, director of operations, director of TP&D, and district engineer of Dallas.

“WSB is advancing our industry and changing the way we deliver for our clients,” said Selman “This is the perfect opportunity to take our expertise in 3D design in Texas. I’m thrilled to be leading these two key areas for WSB and I’m excited to support more clients across the state.”

As division lead for the firm’s transportation and CE&I teams in Texas, Selman will oversee WSB’s bridges and structures, roadway design, traffic engineering, transportation planning, right of way, transit planning and intelligent transportation systems, construction management, survey, materials testing services and more.

Selman is replacing Brad Martin, vice president of construction at WSB. Martin retired on September 27. “On behalf of WSB, I would like to thank Brad Martin for his commitment, leadership and contributions to our firm,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO at WSB. “From the moment he joined WSB, he was a dedicated leader to our staff and a committed consultant to all our clients. On behalf of all our staff and leadership, we wish Brad nothing but the best in retirement.”

WSB invests in Arkansas office, elevating training and evaluation standards

September 27, 2024

The firm announces a new office in the state to better support communities in the region.

Conway, Ark. – Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the opening of a new office located at 1335 Covington Pk Dr, Conway, AR 72034. This facility is set to serve as a hub for advanced training and operator qualification (OQ) of third-party contractors, underscoring WSB’s commitment to enhancing service quality and safety in pipeline operations across the state.

The new facility will primarily focus on the specialized training and evaluation of fusion processes essential in polyethylene (PE) pipe installations — a critical component in modern pipeline infrastructure. The facility is equipped to conduct comprehensive training on a variety of techniques such as manual butt fusion, hydraulic butt fusion, socket fusion and the use of electro fusion tees and couplings. This hands-on approach ensures that third-party contractors across Arkansas are well-versed in pipeline construction and maintenance techniques.

Beyond third-party contractor evaluation, the new space is designed to better support how the firm’s inspection staff are trained and evaluated. Moving away from traditional computer-based knowledge assessments, the facility features workstations that simulate real-life scenarios. This practical training environment allows staff to sharpen their skills effectively, ensuring they are well-equipped to uphold and surpass the stringent standards required in pipeline inspection and safety.

“This space represents a transformative leap in our training capabilities,” said Rick Bradway, distribution utility inspector. As master evaluator, Bradway will be critical in overseeing the facility. “By simulating real-world scenarios, we can ensure our staff not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards required in our industry today. It’s about building a future-ready workforce that can tackle any challenge with confidence.”

The establishment also reaffirms its long-term commitment to the Arkansas community. WSB has worked on several projects throughout Arkansas since 2020. Investing in this region allows expanded service offerings in more than 50 complementary areas to better contribute to the state’s infrastructural development.

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.

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.