The Benefits of Using Beet Juice for City Roads

Innovative Deicing Solutions: The Benefits of Using Beet Juice for City Roads

February 27, 2025
By: Matias Mendez, P.E., Ph.D., Director, Geotechnical and Pavement Services, WSB

The use of salt as a deicing agent on roads has been a common practice for decades. However, it comes with significant drawbacks that cannot be overlooked. The corrosive nature of salt contributes to the deterioration of infrastructure such as bridges and roads, and vehicles, causing costly repairs and replacements. The runoff of salt after winter weather can have detrimental effects on the environment too, affecting vegetation, aquatic ecosystems, and wildlife. Rock salt has also proven to be less effective in single digit temperatures, or when temperatures dip below zero degrees. With these concerns in mind, city governments are increasingly exploring alternative solutions to ensure road safety during winter months.

One promising alternative is the use of beet juice, derived from the sugar beet. Increasingly recognized for its eco-friendly properties, beet juice significantly improves the efficacy of ice melting solutions when mixed with brine. The sugars in beet juice lower the freezing point of water more effectively than salt alone, allowing it to work even at lower temperatures. Its viscous nature helps the brine adhere better to road surfaces, reducing the need for frequent applications.

There are several advantages to using beet juice for deicing. Beet Juice is less corrosive than salt, aiding in the resiliency of city infrastructure such as bridges and roads. The use of beet juice in a deicer provides a range of benefits that make it a compelling alternative to the standard salt brine. While both methods are effective at melting ice, beet juice’s lower environmental impact and reduced infrastructure damage, paired with the enhanced performance in lower temperatures provide a strong case for its adoption and helps ensure safer roads even in the most severe winter conditions.

For city staff seeking proficient management of all aspects of road maintenance, WSB offers expert assistance and comprehensive pavement management planning. Our experienced team can help municipalities with deicing strategies, road repairs, and long-term infrastructure planning. With WSB’s support, cities can ensure their roads remain safe, functional, and sustainable throughout the winter months and beyond. Contact WSB today to learn more about optimizing your city’s road maintenance program.

Matias, Director of Geotechnical and Pavement Services at WSB, leads drilling and soil testing operations and creates detailed geotechnical reports. With extensive experience in field and lab testing of construction materials per ODOT specs, Matias is vital to our team. He has worked on numerous projects in Oklahoma, including roadways, bridges, retaining walls, and private developments, specializing in both simple and complex geotechnical engineering projects.

[email protected] | 504.919.1866

Matias Mendez Larrain
Strength Under Pressure

Strength Under Pressure

February 26, 2025

WSB’s role in emergency relief & management.

When communities face uncertainty or destruction, a variety of teams emerge to swiftly work to restore normalcy, including civil engineers. From day-to-day environmental challenges to natural disasters, WSB’s expertise in infrastructure recovery plays an essential role in helping communities bounce back. Through various emergency relief and management efforts, our team leverages technical know-how and innovative solutions to promote safety and efficiency in the regions we serve from coast to coast.

From snow drifting management to environmental improvement efforts, WSB offers solutions that maintain the stability and resilience of infrastructure in the face of emergencies.

Snow Drifting Management

Engineering solutIONS for winter challenges

In regions prone to severe winter weather, snow drifting can bring entire transportation networks to a standstill. High winds push snow into drifts that can block highways, railways, and access roads, creating hazardous conditions for travelers and first responders. In addition to impacts to travel, snow drifting also increases maintenance and fuel costs for local departments of transportation.

To mitigate these effects in the Midwest, WSB utilizes advanced software to analyze snow drifts and wind, as well as design solutions, allowing our team to proactively identify and address problem areas. Using natural and synthetic snow fences, berms, and road designs that incorporate strategic cuts and embankments, our team works with departments of transportation to ensure that critical routes remain accessible during snowfall. This foresight eases the effect of winter’s harsh impacts and ensures safer roadways and cost savings for the community.

Hurricane Relief and Recovery

Building resilient communities

When hurricanes strike, they leave behind a trail of devastation: downed power lines, collapsed bridges, blocked roads, and more. Coastal communities are often the most at risk, necessitating a robust emergency response strategy. WSB works hand in hand with emergency response teams to prioritize restoration in hurricane-affected areas. Our team recently partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to assist communities in Florida in recovering from the effects of Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. This included managing cut and toss operations, debris removal, and signals and generators, as well as electronically documenting roadway conditions using GIS technology, prioritizing the reopening of the most critical routes.

The aftermath of a hurricane demands rapid assessments of structural damage and the design of temporary solutions to reconnect communities to essential services. Civil engineers, though often overlooked as responders, play an important role in protecting communities against these natural disasters.

Environmental Investigation and Remediation

Protecting our future

In the chaos of an emergency, environmental risks often take a backseat to immediate recovery efforts. However, those specializing in environmental investigation and remediation know that focusing on these issues are key to long-term community recovery.

WSB’s Environmental Investigation and Remediation team plays a vital role in addressing environmental hazards. From encountering tanks and petroleum spills during roadway construction to providing structural assistance to the U.S. Post Offices in the upper Midwest related to fires or vehicle crashes, asbestos, and more, our team is dedicated to safeguarding public health by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored solutions to mitigate risks. The team works closely with clients, such as DOTs and city agencies to report contamination to EPA associations while providing transparency and thorough investigation. Through these efforts, WSB demonstrates strength and versatility in emergency management. Our commitment to innovation and collaboration means that we’re always prepared to face new challenges and protect our communities.

Resident Problem Reporter

Ensuring safety and transparency through real-time communication

Through innovative technology, WSB has successfully deployed, configured, and automated an integrated resident problem reporter app in Duluth, Minnesota, that allows clear communication between residents and response teams. This system empowers residents by giving them a direct line to report instances as road obstructions and potholes, outages, or damaged infrastructure.

The automated notification email system keeps both the responding team and residents informed about the status of their requests. Using geographic information system (GIS) technology, City teams can prioritize and address the most urgent needs. This proactive approach provides transparency, fosters a sense of security and encourages residents to play an active role in maintaining their community.

A commitment to Community Resilience

In emergency situations, civil engineers and scientists work out of the spotlight, but their contributions are essential. Whether it’s managing snow drifts to keep roadways clear, or addressing environmental hazards post-disaster, it’s the behind-the-scenes efforts of our team that allow communities to rebuild, recover, and thrive.

Overpass Construction

Q&A with Rod Myrick | VP, Strategy & Construction

February 17, 2025

Rod Myrick

Rod is the vice president of strategy and construction with over 26 years of experience as a professional engineer. Rod joined WSB through the acquisition of AE in February 2024. His background includes managing complex projects across federal, state and municipal levels. Rod’s extensive portfolio and close collaborations with the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, has aided WSB’s expansion and presence across the Southeast region. Rod will continue building awareness and forging relationships as WSB continues to establish their presence.

What makes WSB different than other Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) companies?

What makes WSB different is the individuals and talent within our teams nationwide. Our leadership team is deeply committed to enhancing both the professional and personal journeys of our staff every day. We believe their career growth is fundamental to our delivery of quality service and the retainment of staff.

As a solution-driven engineering firm within the AEC industry, we make impactful differences for our clients. This is made possible by our talented and qualified staff, who are central to our ability to continually provide innovative and valuable solutions.

What makes WSB suited to manage the growing needs of the Southeast region?

WSB is best suited to manage the growing Southeast region through our internal resources and innovative solutions. We bring new technology and a high level of expertise to the markets we serve. The Southeast region will benefit from WSB’s focus of identifying key talent to assist with the growth of communities.

What does the future of the Southeast region look like and how can WSB continue to support?

It is exciting to be able to cross-sell and introduce more services to the Southeast region. WSB provides over 50+ services that are new to the region and will be able to support the future of infrastructure for our current and new clients.  

Expanding our footprint is vital for the Southeast region and important for our own growth. As we enter new areas and enhance our expertise, we view the Southeast as an advancing market overflowing with opportunities. This expansion will further solidify our presence and impact.

What is your vision for WSB’s growth?

My vision for WSB is centered around a steadfast commitment to hiring the best staff to support our clients. I am focused on attracting the industry’s best talent, enabling us to expand our reach and effectively meet the growing demands across new regions. At the center of our vision is the empowerment of our team, who are essential in delivering innovative solutions and maintaining the high-quality service that defines WSB. By aligning our growth with these principles, we are dedicated to enhancing WSB’s impact on communities and industries nationwide.

What is one thing you wish people knew about WSB?

One thing I would like for people to know about WSB is all the great people we have on our teams. Across the nation we have staff who are passionate and authentic about the work they do. Additionally, WSB remains a focused engineering firm.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities for WSB?

The acquisition of AE by WSB marked a significant change from our small company feel to a larger company structure. A challenge for WSB is preserving the close-knit company atmosphere and the camaraderie we have shown to our local communities.

An opportunity for WSB exists in continuing our national presence and becoming the go-to firm for our clients. With our expanded reach, we can identify and address the infrastructure needs across more regions, leveraging our unique brand and collaborative approach.  

You’ve worked in the AEC industry for many years, how has your experience informed how you approach your role at WSB?

How I approach my role is based on an understanding of listening rather than talking. I have learned that it is far better to listen than to talk. You gain more from listening to others than always inputting your thoughts. This was especially true when AE joined WSB.  I’ve spent a lot of time identifying key team members who can help our staff in the Southeast when we need support.  It’s these people who are helping us connect the dots as we grow our presence as WSB.

As vice president of strategy and construction how do you lead the groups you work with and what advice can you give to leaders now and those who come after you?

I lead groups through strategy which is crucial in our operations. Given the number of opportunities open to WSB it is important to understand we cannot pursue every one of them without risking burnout for our team. To avoid this, I focus on opportunities that align with our short-term and long-term goals. This approach further prevents exhaustion and ensures our efforts are made in impactful areas. I lead effective communication to drive our culture through transparency and learning.

Our commitment to staff is to support their goals by providing the necessary resources. To leaders after me understand that WSB has the ability to embrace creativity and entrepreneurship.

The Path to Energy Sovereignty

By Ameer Kian, Sr Project Manager, WSB

Empowering Tribal Leaders with Sustainable Solutions

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, the shift toward renewable energy sources offers unprecedented opportunities for tribal communities to achieve energy sovereignty. This transition not only fosters environmental sustainability but also strengthens economic resilience and enhances community self-reliance. As tribal leaders, understanding the benefits and practical steps to harness renewable energy is crucial for the prosperity of your communities.

The Benefits of Renewable Energy

Adopting renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower can transform the energy dynamics within tribal communities. Here are some key benefits:

  • Environmental Stewardship: Renewable energy significantly reduces carbon emissions and minimizes the ecological footprint, aligning with many tribes’ values of respecting and preserving the natural world.
  • Economic Development: Investing in renewable energy can create jobs for tribal citizens, stimulate local economies, and reduce dependency on external energy sources, keeping more resources within the community.
  • Energy Security: Renewable energy sources are abundant and locally available, reducing vulnerability to volatile energy markets and supply disruptions.
  • Cost Savings: Over time, renewable energy systems can lower electricity bills, providing long-term financial benefits for both individual households and the community at large.
  • Advancing Community Priorities: By investing in renewables, forward-thinking communities can take measurable steps to advance local climate and sustainability goals, becoming model stewards for other tribes.

Understanding How Renewable Energy Works

Renewable energy harnesses natural processes that are continuously replenished. Here’s a brief overview of some common types:

  • Solar Energy: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells. This energy can be used immediately, stored in batteries, or fed into the grid.
  • Wind Energy: Wind turbines capture kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into electrical power.
  • Hydro Energy: Flowing water, typically from rivers or dams, generates electricity through turbines and generators.

Each of these technologies can be tailored to the specific needs and resources of tribal lands, ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy supply.

Achieving Energy Sovereignty

Energy sovereignty refers to the ability of a community to control its energy production, distribution, and consumption. For tribal communities, this means leveraging renewable energy to gain independence from external utilities and creating a self-sufficient energy infrastructure. By doing so, tribes can ensure consistent and affordable energy access, protect their environmental resources, and enhance their economic stability.

Steps to Get Started with Renewable Energy

Embarking on the journey to renewable energy requires careful planning and collaboration. Here are some steps to guide you:

  • Assess Resources: Begin by evaluating the natural resources available on your land. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, wind patterns, and water flow.
  • Engage the Community: Involve community members in the decision-making process to ensure their needs and perspectives are considered.
  • Develop a Plan: Create a comprehensive energy plan that outlines goals, timelines, and budget considerations.
  • Secure Funding: Explore funding options, including grants, loans, rebates, and partnerships with government agencies and private organizations.
  • Implement the Project: Work with experts to design, install, and maintain renewable energy systems.

How WSB Can Help

At WSB, we specialize in guiding tribal communities through the transition to renewable energy. Our services include community solar feasibility analysis and sustainability planning to help you think both short and long-term.

What is a Solar Feasibility Analysis?

A solar feasibility analysis is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates the viability of a solar energy project. It includes:

  • Site Assessment: Analyzing the location to determine the best placement for solar panels.
  • Energy Production Estimates: Calculating the potential energy output based on local solar radiation data.
  • Financial Analysis: Estimating the costs, savings, and return on investment for the project.
  • Regulatory Review: Identifying any legal or regulatory requirements that must be met.

How It Helps

A solar feasibility analysis provides tribal leaders with critical information to make informed decisions. It assures that the proposed solar project is practical, cost-effective, and tailored to the community’s needs. With this analysis, you can confidently move forward with a renewable energy project that maximizes benefits and minimizes risks.

Learn more about how our solar feasibility analysis work with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community helped them to secure federal funding to further their renewable energy goals.

Conclusion

Transitioning to renewable energy is a powerful step toward achieving energy sovereignty for tribal communities. By understanding the benefits, how the technology works, and the steps to get started, tribal leaders can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future. Partnering with experts like WSB assures that the journey to renewable energy is guided by knowledge, expertise, and a commitment to community well-being. Let us help you take the first step towards a greener, more self-reliant future.

Ameer leads and executes complex renewable energy projects, with a demonstrated expertise in managing teams, optimizing project lifecycles, and delivering innovative solutions. His project management experience includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment and stakeholder management. He is passionate about renewable energy technologies, such as solar, battery storage and EV charging.

[email protected] | 763.388.3493

geotechnical engineering

6 Essential Insights into Geotechnical Engineering

January 3, 2025
By Mark Osborn, PE, Director of Geotechnical Engineering, WSB

Geotechnical engineering plays a critical role in the stability and safety of structures across various environments. Here are six crucial facts that highlight the indispensable nature of geotechnical engineering.

1. foundation of safety

Geotechnical engineering is fundamental for the stability of structures, often unnoticed but always vital. By studying the mechanics of soil and rock, engineers safeguard everything from high-rise buildings to bridges to sprawling infrastructure.

2. Adapting to Diverse Climates

With operations in states ranging from the arid climates of Texas to the cold of Minnesota, geotechnical engineers tailor their strategies to meet diverse environmental challenges. Soil can be highly unpredictable with a variety of soil types, including sandy, clayey or loamy, even within concise parameters. Geotechnical engineers often make educated predictions and adapt techniques to the unique soil qualities throughout each location. This maintains the structural integrity under varying conditions.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Geotechnical engineering contributes significantly to reducing project costs by optimizing material usage and construction techniques, thereby preventing over-engineering and minimizing the need for expensive repairs.

4. promoting sustainability

This field plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability. Geotechnical engineering and construction impact the environment, which can draw concerns about conservation. By implementing environmentally friendly practices and materials in construction. Geotech supports construction while also helping preserve natural resources, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

5. Innovation in construction

The field is continuously evolving. With new building methods and materials, ongoing geotechnical analysis is required to push the boundaries of what’s possible in construction.

6. Ancient beginnings to urban development

Geotechnical engineering dates back to ancient Egypt. From 2700 BC to now, it has continued to be the cornerstone of our communities. In rapidly expanding urban areas today, geotechnical engineers play a crucial role in building new developments on solid foundations, preventing future issues, and enhancing community safety and functionality.

Click here to learn more about our geotechnical engineering services.

Mark is a registered professional engineer with over 23 years of experience in geotechnical engineering. He oversees project management, prepares geotechnical proposals, and develops client relationships. He is skilled in reviewing soil conditions, authoring design reports, and coordinating drill rig crews. Mark is also a registered monitoring well contractor with the Minnesota Department of Health. He has extensive experience providing geotechnical engineering and project management services for both private and public sector clients. His expertise includes shallow and deep foundation design, pavement design, and slope stability analysis.

[email protected] | 507.649.0381

Mark Osborn

Amplifying Leadership by Advancing Accessibility in Engineering and Engagement

December 3, 2024
By Chhavi Dhingra, Senior Manager of Public Engagement, WSB

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on progress toward accessibility and the work ahead. 

Accessibility—ensuring everyone can participate fully in society—is not just a legal mandate but a moral imperative. People with disabilities contribute far beyond being users of infrastructure. They serve as leaders, trainers, reviewers, service providers and vendors, bringing expertise that enhances project outcomes. This year’s theme emphasizes the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. 

WSB strives to advance accessibility in every facet of our work. A landmark project with Minneapolis Public Works involved designing the city’s first—and the nation’s second—shared-use street with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant features. 

Recognizing that accessibility goes beyond structural changes to include digital tools, equitable communication, and inclusive urban planning, our Public Engagement team at WSB helps develop materials that address barriers such as low vision, hearing impairments, motor skill challenges, and neurodiverse conditions. Collaborating with digital technologists, we use tools like ArcGIS StoryMaps, Survey123, and Collector for ArcGIS to develop accessible websites, story maps, and web applications compliant with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

The ADA’s recent mandate to expand the scope for digital accessibility improvements for state and local governments highlights the importance of rethinking accessibility in a digital-first world. Additional information on ADA requirements for digital communications is available here. 

Accessibility is about creating a world where everyone can thrive, and WSB is committed to this vision by championing accessibility in both design and communication. 

Chhavi is a transportation engineer and public engagement professional with nearly two decades of experience. She excels in developing sustainable policies, practices, and communication strategies, and has a proven track record in leading stakeholder management for transportation and transit projects. Chhavi has contributed to numerous road transportation planning projects worldwide, focusing on engagement, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and strategic communications to address the mobility and accessibility needs of disadvantaged communities.

[email protected] | 917.328.3588

Chhavi Dhingra
solar

The MN Solar on Public Buildings Program for a Sustainable Future

November 11, 2024
By Ameer Kian, Sr Project Manager, WSB

The Minnesota Legislature established the Solar on Public Buildings (SPB) Grant Program in 2023, allocating $4.3 million in grants to local governments within Xcel Energy’s service territory. Administered by the Department of Commerce, this program aims to promote solar energy systems on public buildings, supplementing Federal Tax Credits.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, and federally recognized Indian Tribes in Minnesota, excluding school districts within Xcel Energy’s service territory. The grants cover up to 70% of project costs for solar arrays on public buildings, with a capacity of up to 40kW or 120% of the building’s annual energy consumption. The application deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.

For more information on this program, you can visit the MN Department of Commerce website here: Solar on Public Buildings / Minnesota Department of Commerce – Energy.

Strategic Benefits of the SPB Program

The Solar on Public Buildings Grant Program enables cities to reduce energy costs, lower carbon footprints, and demonstrate commitment to renewable energy. Economic efficiency is achieved through financial incentives and long-term energy savings. Solar energy’s environmental impact includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel reliance. Adopting solar positions local governments as sustainability leaders, enhancing community pride and fostering innovation.

How WSB Can Help

WSB has successfully applied for and received funding for our clients from the first round of this program earlier this year. We can assist in the following areas:

  • Streamlining the RFP process and completing the Readiness Application, ensuring compliance with the grant application requirements
  • Prioritizing locations for grant consideration based on energy usage data and solar feasibility
  • Identifying system and City eligibility for additional funding via Federal Clean Energy Tax Credit Elective Pay system
  • Navigating through complexities with Community Solar Garden subscriptions and eligibility requirements
  • Estimating PV system size, annual production and assessing utility grid capacity based on publicly available tools
  • Providing guidance on solar best practices and setting up a successful RFP process for contractor selection

In addition to the Solar for Public Buildings RFP, WSB has experience in and can support local municipalities and governments in their energy and sustainability goals by:

  • Writing zoning ordinance updates to align city code with EV and Solar infrastructure
  • Drafting and implementing Climate Plans to secure funding for solar and renewable energy and helping design EV Charging infrastructure
  • Writing grants to obtain energy efficiency funds and conduct equitable community outreach to drive future climate focused investments

For more information on WSB’s experience and services in Sustainability, please visit our website: Sustainability – WSB Seeking more sustainable solutions.

Conclusion

The SPB Program empowers local governments to lead in sustainability. With WSB’s expertise, cities can navigate the grant process, maximize funding, and implement impactful solar projects. This program not only reduces energy costs and environmental impact but also positions cities as leaders in innovation and sustainability. Embracing this program is a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future. Contact us today to get help starting the application process.

Ameer leads and executes complex renewable energy projects, with a demonstrated expertise in managing teams, optimizing project lifecycles, and delivering innovative solutions. His project management experience includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment and stakeholder management. He is passionate about renewable energy technologies, such as solar, battery storage and EV charging.

[email protected] | 763.388.3493

Professional Engineers Protect Public Health, Safety and Welfare

October 15, 2024
By Jim Stremel, Sr Professional Engineer, WSB

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the pressure on public infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of population growth, environmental changes, and technology has never been greater. As we navigate these challenges, the role of professional engineers in the public sector has become indispensable. These engineers are at the forefront of designing, constructing, and maintaining the essential systems and structures that serve our communities, from roads and bridges to water treatment facilities and sewer collections systems.

Employing a professional engineer for modernizing infrastructure seems like a logical requirement, but few people understand how licensure is related to the profession. Similar to how doctors view the Hippocratic oath, professional engineers are not only dedicated but required to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Professional engineers bring a blend of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and strategic planning to the table. They are not just problem solvers but also visionaries who foresee needs and challenges in the future. For instance, the integration of smart technologies into infrastructure projects can enhance efficiency and sustainability. Imagine roads that charge electric cars as they drive, or bridges equipped with sensors to monitor health and safety in real time. These are no longer figments of imagination but real possibilities with modern engineering.

However, the path to modernizing public infrastructure is fraught with complexities. Engineers must navigate regulatory environments, budget constraints, and the need for public consensus. Moreover, the ethical implications of large-scale engineering projects require careful consideration to ensure sustainable and equitable solutions. This balance between innovation, practicality, and ethics is where professional engineers truly excel.

Collaboration is another crucial element. By working closely with government officials, community leaders, and the public, engineers help to ensure that projects not only meet technical specifications but also serve the broader community interests. This collaborative approach fosters transparency and trust, which are essential for the successful implementation of any public project.

At WSB, we understand the critical role that professional engineers play in public infrastructure. Our team of experts is dedicated to partnering with government agencies to deliver innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Whether it’s revitalizing aging infrastructure or pioneering new projects, WSB is equipped to help navigate the complexities of modern engineering challenges. With our comprehensive services and commitment to excellence, we are here to support our partners in building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.

By leveraging our expertise, WSB not only contributes to the physical landscape but also to the well-being and progress of the communities we serve. Let us help you turn visionary plans into reality, ensuring that today’s infrastructure can meet tomorrow’s demands.

Jim is a registered Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience in civil engineering, design development, and project management. As a civil site design engineer, Jim has worked in all phases of the design and construction process from schematic design, design development, permitting, to administering the bidding process, and construction administration.

[email protected] | 612.419.1549

Benefits of Industrial Parks for Communities

October 15, 2024
By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning & Economic Development, WSB

Industrial parks serve as vital engines for economic growth and development within local communities. By concentrating manufacturing and industrial activities within a designated area, cities and towns can better manage resources, isolate transportation impacts, and promote innovation. These industrial zones facilitate the clustering of businesses, which can lead to increased utility efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the fostering of symbiotic relationships among companies. Moreover, industrial parks can attract additional investments, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies through increased demand for retail commercial services and housing.

Effective planning of industrial parks is crucial to maximize their benefits. City planners should conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to identify suitable locations, considering factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, availability of utilities, infrastructure capacity, and potential environmental impact. Zoning regulations need to be tailored to accommodate the specific requirements of industrial activities while ensuring the surrounding communities are protected from potential nuisances. Additionally, incorporating green spaces and sustainable practices can enhance the environmental and social appeal of these areas, making them more attractive to businesses, workers, and nearby neighbors.

Initiation and development of successful industrial parks requires a multi-faceted approach. Cities may consider offering incentives such as tax increment financing, abatements, or streamlined permitting processes to attract businesses. Collaborating with universities and vocational institutions can also drive innovation, attract start-up business prospects and provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the industrial sector. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in financing and managing these projects, ensuring that both public interests and private sector expertise are leveraged effectively. Moreover, community engagement is essential to address any concerns and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of the city’s residents.

WSB staff can provide valuable assistance in the planning and development of industrial parks. Our team of experts brings a wealth of experience in community planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. We offer comprehensive services, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to master planning and project management. By partnering with WSB, cities can ensure that their industrial park projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with their long-term economic and community goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each city we work with.

Kim is a planning professional with over 30 years of experience overseeing a variety of complex planning projects. She has worked in high growth communities with developers and the public on entitlements for residential development and attracting business to the city.

[email protected] | 763.287.8303

Kim Lindquist
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