Thought Leadership

Asset Management to Enhance Tribal Communities

April 10, 2025
By Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning & Bryan Pittman. GIS Lead, WSB

Empowering Tribal Leaders with GIS Technology

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized asset management across various sectors, providing intuitive, data-driven solutions to manage and optimize resources efficiently. For tribal leaders committed to enhancing their communities, embracing GIS to support tribal asset management can be transformative. This article explores the role of GIS in asset management, the benefits it offers, and how to initiate its use within tribal communities.

Understanding GIS in Asset Management

GIS integrates spatial (location-based) and traditional asset data, creating an interactive map of resources. This comprehensive approach involves collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing data related to infrastructure, land parcels, planning, utilities, and environmental resources.
By geographically displaying asset data, GIS facilitates informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation. By leveraging geospatial technology, tribal leaders gain unique insights into asset location and other available attributes such as type, description, condition, and age, fostering a data-driven approach to capital and maintenance planning.

Benefits of GIS in Asset Management

Enhanced Decision-Making
GIS empowers tribal leaders with critical data to make informed decisions. By visualizing assets and their status on maps, leaders can identify areas needing attention, prioritize investments, and plan for future developments. This data-driven approach ensures resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, leading to improved outcomes for the community.

Improved Resource Allocation
One of the significant advantages of GIS is its ability to optimize resource allocation. Whether managing land use, infrastructure maintenance, or environmental conservation, GIS-based spatial analysis helps in pinpointing precisely where interventions are needed. This precision reduces waste, minimizes costs, and ensures that resources are directed where they will have the most significant impact.

Effective Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular monitoring and maintenance of assets are crucial for sustainability. GIS-based asset management systems enable automated tracking and reporting, ensuring that assets are maintained in optimal condition. Tribal leaders can set up alerts for maintenance schedules, create work orders, monitor asset conditions in real-time, and efficiently manage repairs and upgrades.

Community Engagement and Transparency
Transparency is vital for building trust within the community. GIS platforms and interactive web maps can be used to share information with community members, fostering engagement and collaboration. By providing access to data and maps, leaders can involve the community in decision-making processes, enhancing participation and fostering a sense of ownership.

Disaster Management and Response
In the face of natural disasters, GIS proves to be a valuable resource. By mapping assets and identifying vulnerable areas, leaders can develop comprehensive emergency response plans. Flood and slope vulnerability models can be overlayed with asset locations. GIS facilitates quick response times, efficient resource deployment, and effective coordination during crises, safeguarding community well-being.

Getting Started with Managing Assets in GIS

Implementing GIS to manage assets in tribal communities requires strategic planning and investment. Here are steps to get started:

Assess Current Needs and Capabilities
Begin by evaluating the current state of asset management within the community. Identify the assets that need to be managed, the data available, and the technology infrastructure in place. Understanding your starting point is crucial for a successful GIS implementation and to determine if a more robust asset management system with GIS integration is necessary.

Data Collection and Integration
Accurate and comprehensive data is essential for effective GIS asset inventories. This requires collecting both spatial and non-spatial data, collaborating with stakeholders across departments to ensure completeness. Integrating historical records, real-time updates, and detailed attributes creates a unified and reliable dataset.

Training and Capacity Building
Invest in training for your team to ensure they can effectively use the GIS platform and data collection tools. Providing comprehensive training programs and capacity-building initiatives will empower staff with the skills needed to leverage GIS technology. Partnering with experts like WSB for training can facilitate a smoother transition and enhance proficiency.

Developing a Data Maintenance and Update Plan
Managing asset data in GIS is an ongoing process. Establish a plan for regular data updates and system maintenance to keep the platform functional and accurate. Set up protocols for data collection, monitoring, and reporting to ensure continuous improvement of the system.

Asset Management Planning
Once data is available in GIS or a GIS-integrated asset management system, an asset management plan can be developed that incorporates risk, performance monitoring, financial planning, and life cycle planning. This utilizes asset location and information to create a proactive approach to managing assets over a long period of time, ensuring the right fix and the location at the right time.

WSB: Your Partner in GIS-Based Asset Management

Embarking on the journey of GIS-based asset management can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. WSB has a team of experts specializing in GIS technology and asset management solutions tailored to tribal communities. Our professionals can help you assess your current needs, implement the right GIS platform, and provide ongoing support to maintain and optimize your system.

At WSB, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities within tribal communities. Our approach is customized to ensure that GIS asset management aligns with your specific goals and enhances community well-being. We offer comprehensive training, data integration services, and continuous support to ensure your GIS system is robust and effective.

By partnering with WSB, tribal leaders can leverage the power of GIS and asset management to drive informed decision-making, improve resource allocation, and foster community engagement. Together, we can build a sustainable and prosperous future for your community.

Embrace the potential of GIS and asset management and let WSB guide you every step of the way.

Advancing Infrastructure with Premier Materials Testing and Geotechnical Services

By Matias Mendez, PE, PhD, Director of Geotechnical and Pavement Surfaces, WSB and Eddie Hernandez, Director of Construction Engineering & Inspection, WSB

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development and infrastructure, precise materials testing and geotechnical services are essential for success. At WSB, we offer robust, efficient, and reliable testing services that cater to the dynamic needs of clients across the country. Our commitment to excellence, advanced technology, mobility, and prompt service delivery sets us apart as leaders in the field.

Unmatched Mobility and Accessibility

One of our top priorities is our unparalleled mobility. With subject matter experts across the country, we can support clients in any region, ensuring timely and accurate data without logistical challenges. Whether you’re in a bustling urban center or a remote area, our team provides geotechnical evaluations and materials testing right where you need them. Our versatile drilling fleet, equipped for different terrains and project demands, ensures we can adapt to any site conditions efficiently.

Prompt and Reliable Service Delivery

We understand that time is critical in the construction industry. Delays in testing and analysis can significantly impact project timelines and budgets. At WSB, we are committed to offering prompt and reliable service delivery. With a dedicated team of experts, accredited laboratories, specialized equipment, technology, and efficient processes, we can commence work at your earliest convenience, driving your project forward with efficiency and eliminating unnecessary delays.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

While our materials testing and geotechnical services are at the forefront, WSB boasts a portfolio of over 50 additional service offerings designed to support various aspects of your project. These diverse service lines enable us to thoroughly assess client needs, allowing us to tailor our deliverables to ensure client satisfaction. From environmental assessments and structural analysis to construction management and quality control, our multidisciplinary firm handles diverse project requirements, providing you with the convenience of working with a single reliable partner.

Why Choose WSB?

Our highly experienced staff bring extensive knowledge to every project, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, and our investment in cutting-edge technology and continuous improvement processes keeps us at the forefront of industry advancement. We prioritize the unique requirements and challenges of each project to support its individual needs.

As you embark on your next project, trust WSB to provide the expertise and support necessary to achieve excellence in construction and infrastructure development. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and contribute to the success of your projects.

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.

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

February 17, 2025

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.

Complying with ADA Requirements for Digital Documents and Web Tools

May 1, 2025
By Ryan Earp, Director of Public Engagement and Chhavi Dhingra, Public Engagement Sr Manager, WSB

In April 2024, the Department of Justice released a rule updating and reinforcing accessibility standards for state and local government websites and mobile apps under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This update is intended to guarantee that individuals with disabilities can have equal access to vital government services and information online. These new digital ADA requirements require all websites and mobile applications provided by state and local governments to follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA standards. This means nearly all public documents, forms, and permits must be made fully accessible to people with disabilities. State and local governments with populations of 50,000 or more have until April 24, 2026, to comply with these requirements, while those with populations under 50,000 and special district governments have until April 26, 2027.

Summary of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA standards:

• Visual Accessibility: Ensure sufficient contrast, headings and labels, resizable text, text spacing and text alternatives for images.
• Auditory Accessibility: Provide captions and/or audio descriptions for multimedia content.
• Keyboard Navigation: Make all functionality operable through a keyboard interface (not just via a mouse).
• Usability & Understandability: Offer clear navigation, predictable operation, and understandable text.
• Error Handling: Help users avoid and correct mistakes with clear instructions.
• Robustness & Compatibility: Maximize compatibility with assistive technologies.

Benefits for Residents and Cities

Implementing the new ADA digital requirements is not just a legal obligation—it’s a powerful opportunity for cities to foster inclusivity and equity. By making websites and mobile apps accessible, cities give residents with disabilities equal access to critical services, resources, and information. This strengthens civic engagement, improves public trust, and enhances the overall user experience for everyone. Embracing these standards signals a city’s commitment to serving all its residents with dignity and fairness, while also reducing legal risks and positioning the city as a leader in digital innovation and accessibility.

Addressing Digital Accessibility: Challenges and Support

While the new digital ADA requirements bring exciting opportunities for greater inclusion, implementing WCAG 2.1, Level AA compliance can be complex for cities. Many municipal websites contain content that spans decades, making it difficult to manage and maintain accessibility, and updating a broad range of digital content—such as websites, mobile apps, and public documents—can require significant time and resources. Municipalities must not only revise existing materials but also ensure that all future content aligns with accessibility standards. Training staff on these requirements is also essential for long-term success.

How WSB Can Help

WSB’s Public Engagement team, certified in ADA communications, is here to make this transition smooth and effective for you. We offer a comprehensive suite of services—from auditing websites and mobile apps, web-published documents, and multimedia content to remediating documents for accessibility and training staff on how to create accessible digital materials. Our team can support the development of inclusive and plain language communication strategies tailored to your community. These services are designed to help you quickly get on track to full compliance.
.Here is how we can help:

• Digital Accessibility Audits: Identify areas within your websites and mobile apps where your current communications might not be accessible.
• Content Organization and Archiving: Review, organize, and streamline your digital content by identifying what should be retained, updated, or archived. Provide user-friendly templates and best practices to ensure that all future documents are created with accessibility in mind.
• Accessible Document Creation/Conversion: Make all public-facing documents, including PDFs, PowerPoint presentations, and Word files plain language, properly color contrasted and compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies.
• Accessible Social Media Messaging: Ensure your social media content includes alt text for images, closed captions for videos, and plain language messaging.
• Public Feedback Mechanisms: Establish opportunities like surveys and helplines for individuals with disabilities to offer feedback on accessibility.

Contact us today for a free initial accessibility assessment. We will assess your city’s website, mobile app (if any) and web-published documents, providing you with an inventory of accessibility needs helping you form the foundation of your action plan.

In addition to these offerings, WSB can support you in navigating compliance with evolving accessibility regulations and standards. By staying ahead of legislative changes, our team ensures that your digital presence aligns with the most current requirements. Leveraging cutting-edge tools and technologies, we aim to not only meet but exceed accessibility expectations, enhancing the overall user experience for all individuals. Together, we can build a more inclusive digital environment that resonates with diverse audiences and drives meaningful engagement.

*Level AA of the WCAG represents an intermediate level of accessibility, legally required for many websites. It improves upon the basic Level A requirements with an additional 20 criteria aimed at making content adaptable, readable, and easy to navigate for users with various disabilities.

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.

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.

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.

Funding for Transportation Projects – Lessons Learned

September 16, 2024
By Mary Gute, Sr Transportation Planner, WSB

It’s been almost 3 years since the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), aka Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was passed by President Biden in November 2021. The law authorized $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending between 2022 – 2026.

Since 2021, there have been multiple solicitations for federal programs delivering transportation infrastructure funding. Several things have become apparent to those who’ve applied or considered applying for these funds, including:

• Extensive competition for funds. Many times more dollars are requested than are available and only a small fraction of applications are funded.
• Completing applications is complicated, time intensive, and requires specialized skill sets (e.g., ability to complete benefit/cost analyses that comply with federal guidance). Time intensive for staff or a consultant to do the work.
• Timelines to develop applications are tight; usually just 30-90 days after notifications of funding opportunities are released.

Given this reality, it is important to go into pursuit of IIJA funds with eyes wide open. Below are some ideas for venturing into IIJA funding or if you’re planning to re-submit a previously unsuccessful application.

Does your project align with program goals? In addition to criteria related to state of good repair and safety, these transportation funding programs include criteria related equity and environmental justice; climate change, resilience, and the environment, and economic impacts and job creation. Even top tier projects won’t be funded if it doesn’t score well against the majority of a program’s merit or project outcome criteria.

If your project, as it now stands, won’t score well on some of these criteria, is it possible to make adjustments for a more competitive application? Can your community commit to using more sustainable building materials that would align with environmental criteria? Is it possible to incorporate more elements that could be used by bicyclists or pedestrians? Or would it be possible to commit to hiring a certain percentage of disadvantaged business enterprises when constructing the project? Please be aware that if your application includes these elements and you receive funding, your agency will be expected to include them when developing and constructing the project.

Does your project have a defensible and high Benefit- to Cost Ratio? Many projects struggle with achieving a competitive benefit to cost ratio that withstands the scrutiny of federal reviewers. Often, submitted benefit cost analyses are adjusted downwards after being submitted. It’s imperative that applicants submit projects with defensible and high ratios (at least 1:5). If your project isn’t meeting these metrics, can it be adjusted to remove some project elements that are not helping the ratio, but are driving up the cost?

Are you waiting to submit your project until closer to 2026? If so, know that solicitations for some programs are now coming out for multiple years at a time. This means that even though we’re not even half-way through the law’s 5-year timeframe, some programs will have just 1-2 additional solicitations. It is also worth noting that available funding for some programs is considerably less than initial solicitations.
The IIJA program provides local communities with funding to complete important infrastructure projects. However, as we’ve learned, it can take considerable time and resources to develop a competitive application. Deciding to pursue these funds should be done so with realistic expectations and sound strategies.

WSB has experts in project funding to help you evaluate and submit applications. If you’d like to discuss project funding needs, please contact Amber Adams or Mary Gute for transportation specific projects.

Funding for Water Service Line Replacement

September 16, 2024
By Justin Babcock, Water Service Line Program Leader, WSB

Introduction to Funding Opportunities

The Minnesota Department of Health has recently updated its guidelines on securing funding for replacing lead and galvanized water service lines. This initiative follows the comprehensive inventory phase and is a critical step towards ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water across the state. The available funds, as outlined by the Minnesota Drinking Water Revolving Fund, demonstrates a commitment to public health and infrastructure resilience.

Available Funding and Eligibility

The initiative offers a robust financial support structure. It includes a 100% grant for replacing privately owned portions of lead or galvanized water service lines. Additionally, it provides grants and a 0% interest rate loan for addressing the publicly owned segments. Remarkably, public water systems that are granted loans will receive further grants to repay these loans upon project completion.
Eligibility for this funding extends to a variety of water systems including:

• Publicly owned municipal systems
• Regional Water Systems
• Privately owned systems in condominiums and manufactured home parks
• Nonprofit, noncommunity systems such as schools, daycare centers, churches, and retreat centers

Project Eligibility and Prioritization

Priority is given to projects that enhance public health, ensure an adequate water supply, and assist financially needy communities. Eligible projects include those undertaken alongside watermain replacements or as stand-alone lead service line replacements.

Application Process

The process for cities to secure funding is methodical and includes several key steps:

1. Project Listing: Place the project on the Minnesota Department of Health’s Project Priority List.
2. Intended Use Planning: Ensure the project is on the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority’s Intended Use Plan.
3. Funding Application: Apply for funding from the Minnesota Drinking Water Revolving Fund.
   It’s important for cities to adhere to the deadlines for these steps to ensure their projects are considered for funding.
   

Staying Informed

The Minnesota Department of Health proactively sends notifications about the funding process to relevant municipal officials. This ensures that all potential beneficiaries are well-informed and can prepare their applications in a timely manner.

Partner with WSB for Expert Support

At WSB, we understand the complexities involved in navigating these funding processes. Our team of specialized grant writers and consultant engineers is equipped to guide communities through every step of the funding journey—from advancing projects on the priority list to coordinating compliance with fund requirements during and after construction.

Our experience ensures that your projects not only gain the necessary funding but are also executed efficiently and successfully. Partnering with WSB means ensuring that your community’s water service lines are safe and sustainable, thus protecting public health and securing a resilient infrastructure.