Environmental Stewardship and Infrastructure: What Project Leaders Need to Know About Protected Species

July 18, 2023

By Alison Harwood, Director of Natural Resources

When it comes to infrastructure projects’ impact on local environments, understanding how a project could affect native species – including those that trigger Section 7 consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is critical. Section 7 consultation impacts any project with a federal nexus – meaning it receives federal funding, requires a federal permit, will be built on federal land, etc.

Those building the infrastructure of tomorrow want to protect our environment today.

Here are some considerations when navigating the Endangered Species Act to ensure projects are completed efficiently and without undue regulatory delay.  

What ESA protected species have the most significant impact on infrastructure projects?

One recent species of note impacting many projects is the northern-long eared bat, which was recently moved from a threatened to endangered species by the USFWS. The bats, which make their habitat in the cavities and crevices of trees, affect projects that require tree removal in certain parts of the country. Because almost every major infrastructure project requires tree removal, this recent designation is altering timelines and planning for many projects.

In the Midwest, the rusty patched bumble bee, which lives in sandy, wooded areas, also affects many projects. Because of where the bees winter, it limits the season in which many projects can move forward.

The type of species that could impact a project depends heavily upon what region of the country the project is in, what ecosystems are impacted, and the kind of project.

How is it determined if a project would harm ESA protected species?

Every project has an impact on the local environment, no question, but the USFWS considers a project through the lens of how it could adversely affect a protected species. That could mean killing, injuring, disturbing habitat, or modifying a creature’s natural behavior.

What tools are best to help determine what impact a project will have on ESA protected species?

The USFWS provides an Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) tool that can search by county. From there, project managers can see any federally protected species in the county, as well as their habitat.

Just because a species is protected in a county, doesn’t mean the project will be affected by the ESA.  For example, IPaC review of a project in Hennepin County, Minnesota would flag protected species in the Mississippi River. If a project is not near the Mississippi River, it’s unlikely that the project would affect protected river species. So, the type of project and where it’s located within a county plays a significant role.

What’s more, as project leaders plan, many are incorporating meaningful environmental stewardship components into projects, like planting native species, for example, which help mitigate negative impacts and bolster ecosystems.

Acting Early is Critical for Project Success.  

Timelines vary based on a project, its location, and species affected. Components of a project may be limited to certain seasons when a species isn’t present, which is known as an “avoidance measure.” Moreover, for some ESA species, you may only be able to survey during limited periods of the year, and if you miss that opportunity, you must wait until the timeframe comes back around again. Ensuring you are on top of timelines prevents unnecessary project delays. Permitting could also require a longer, more complicated process if avoidance measures cannot be taken. That may mean getting a “take permit” – a process which can take a year or more.

Starting an evaluation early means having a better understanding of what is required under the ESA and helps avoid undue delays or regulatory surprises.

Planning early, getting information as soon as possible on how a project impacts protected species, looking at the best season for a project, and coordinating with regulatory agencies will ensure a project is ahead of the curve.  

Alison is a Senior Environmental Scientist and leads the Natural Resources group. She has over 11 years of experience in the natural resources field, including wetland and avian surveys, permitting, alternatives analysis, and environmental documentation for projects in both the public and private sector. She has coordinated with permitting and environmental review agencies on several large transportation projects and has developed relationships with regulators and a depth of knowledge of the regulations that help expedite the permitting process.

3 Ways Communities Can Support Small Business

July 17, 2023
By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning, WSB

Every community is different, but all are competing to be a destination for business growth and investment. Communities rely on businesses to help support and diversify their property tax base, provide goods and services for existing and future residents, and contribute to a strong, local economy.

What can communities do to attract small businesses to their city, and help them thrive, expand, and grow? Here are three things city leaders can do to help set them apart.

Be a Liaison for Businesses & Help Connect Them to Vital Resources

From small start-ups to large manufacturers, there are numerous resources out there to support business investment and expansion, but many businesses may not know where to go to take advantage of these funding opportunities. That’s where city leaders can come in.

Having city personnel designated to act as a liaison and help businesses navigate the state, federal, and local programs available is mutually beneficial for businesses and communities. Many of these programs can be confusing and for many businesses, having an expert who can help them understand and take advantage of the numerous opportunities available can be the difference maker in deciding where they start their small business.

Convene Businesses to Demonstrate a Continued Investment in Their Success

Once a business chooses your community, that’s not the end of the story. It’s important to continue to strategically engage them for input, foster relationships, and ensure continued open lines of communication.

One way to encourage engagement is to hold regular meetings so city leaders can hear directly from the business community about key issues and ideas. Communities can also foster regular communication with digital and email updates from the city on everything from grants to road closures, to key news from local government. It’s a great way to build positive relationships with local businesses!

Communities can also help new businesses by hosting ribbon cutting ceremonies, which offer free publicity, along with informational welcome packets to start a connection with business owners and share key resources.

Explore How You Can Make Your Community a Destination for Business Investment and Growth

Every local leader wants to ensure their community is a great place to live and work, and that means tackling challenges and investing in ideas that make your community an ideal destination for businesses and people.

While there is no one magic solution to solve every problem businesses and communities face, understanding obstacles and exploring creative solutions can help set you apart. Whether that’s ensuring daycare accessibility and affordability for families, investing in livable, walkable cities and public transportation, or ensuring there is plenty of workforce housing – understanding what businesses and workers need, and how the community can support those needs is important.

Furthermore, as businesses explore communities that meet their needs, cities can work with land and property owners to provide information about vacant lots and available retail space. To attract industrial businesses, shovel ready programs run through cities, states, or electric companies can also show what property is available to meet their needs.

How WSB Can Help

Is your community looking to attract new businesses? WSB can help.

We provide city planning with focuses on community and economic development, strategic planning, public engagement, and can even help apply for funding and grants.

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

Prepare Your Community for an Aging Population

July 17, 2023
By Lori Johnson, Sr Professional Community Planner, WSB

When thinking about an aging population, it is becoming increasingly important for local governments to prioritize senior residents. By implementing creative and forward-thinking measures, communities can enhance the quality of life for older adults.

With the demand for senior housing only growing, embracing innovative housing solutions means local governments can create vibrant and age-friendly communities that prioritize the welfare and dignity of senior citizens. Inclusive infrastructure and understanding the diverse demands and needs of seniors can also help set up communities for success.

Here are three ways communities can plan for and invest in solutions that accommodate older adults.

Understand the Value of Multi-Unit, Multi-Generational and Affordable Housing Options

Many communities are adopting and updating zoning ordinances to provide more flexible and affordable housing for seniors.

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), for example, can foster intergenerational connectivity. ADUs are separate, detached, living units located on the same property as an existing single-family home. Many aging individuals prefer to live in proximity to their families for companionship and support. Local governments can revise zoning regulations to accommodate ADUs, allowing seniors to maintain independent living while staying close to their loved ones. Moreover, these additional living spaces are often more cost-effective and provide flexibility in housing options that allow seniors to age in place while preserving their privacy and autonomy.

Repurposing larger, older homes in existing neighborhoods allows you to provide a certain level of care and companionship to older adults in a residential setting. Revisions to existing ordinances will allow single family homes to be converted into multi-family units for senior group care.

Rethink Parking Lots and Open Spaces

When building senior accommodations, another effective approach is to encourage the inclusion of open spaces in the design of structures and sites through specific ordinances requirements. Traditionally, apartment buildings require vast parking spaces, resulting in a sea of concrete that limits green spaces.

By rethinking parking requirements, local governments can convert excessive parking areas into open spaces for the enjoyment of residents. These green spaces provide opportunities for exercise, social interaction and relaxation, contributing to a healthier and happier community for seniors.

Another option for incentivizing the construction of senior housing is to look at ways to reduce the required park dedication fees for senior housing, nursing homes and memory care facilities. Specifically for nursing homes and memory care facilities, it is not common for residents of these facilities to use a community’s parks and open spaces, thus an argument can be made for not requiring park dedication fees for the development of senior facilities.

Build Inclusive Communities & Infrastructure

Local governments can prioritize the needs of senior citizens by ensuring they are listening to and understanding the needs of various populations. Creating walkable neighborhoods with well-maintained sidewalks, installing accessible public transportation systems and fostering age-inclusive community centers can help support a high quality of life for seniors. Such initiatives empower seniors to actively engage in social and recreational activities, reducing isolation and promoting a sense of belonging.

Furthermore, as communities adopt diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, they must also think about how this relates to their seniors. For seniors, their needs are not universally the same, and communities must consider cultural practices, income, religion, and medical care needs when planning on how to accommodate a growing senior population. Mental health must also be considered and providing increasing levels of services for residents as they age is critical, especially for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

How WSB Can Help

Local governments play a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of senior citizens. At WSB, we can help communities craft ordinances that meet the needs of any city as it relates to senior housing, whether it be ADUs, group care homes, or multi-family housing. We have experience with financing tools housing developers use to ensure the end product is affordable for seniors. We can also help identify and secure grant funding for key affordable housing and accessible infrastructure projects.

At the end of the day, all of us will be impacted by our aging population, whether for ourselves, for a parent or for a loved one. Communities must work collaboratively and think creatively to ensure a high quality of life for our nation’s aging population.

Lori has more than 25 years of experience working in a municipal planning department, having worked her way up through the planning department at the City of Blaine to become their city planner. She has worked in all aspects of city planning activities including project management, site plan and application review, public participation and long range planning.

[email protected] | 612.364.3029

League of Minnesota Cities Conference

Gaining valuable insights at the League of Minnesota Cities Conference

Bart Fischer, Senior Public Administrator, WSB

WSB recently attended the annual League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) Conference in Duluth. At this conference, more than 600 city officials and staff attended from different cities in Minnesota. LMC is a membership organization dedicated to promoting excellence in local government. The goal of the conference is to join city officials from across the state to develop new skills, discover ideas and show love for our cities. This year’s theme was “City Love.”

City officials and staff are incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to their cities and communities. As we thought through how we could engage with conference attendees, while also gathering valuable insights, the “City Love” theme brought us to two prompts: “What do I love most about my city?” and “If I had a million dollars for my city I would….”  We displayed two boards with the different questions at the exhibit hall and below is what we heard.

What do I love most about my city?

We received a number of different responses to this question; however, they all shared common themes. What city officials and staff love about their cities is their community. The people, diversity, infrastructure, and nature of a community is what people care about. City officials and staff work diligently to create a safe community with a high quality of life. Several of the responses reflected on open spaces, parks, trails, lakes, and wetlands.

What do I love most about my city

It is crucial to understand this information because it matters when making decisions for the future of the community. When city officials and staff are providing their best to their community it grows and strengthens the city.

WSB works to grow with them, and we want to strengthen our cities infrastructure through partnership. Understanding what is important to the people we work with allows us to better serve a city’s unique needs. We incorporate our client’s values to build what is next in infrastructure.

If I had a million dollars for my city I would…

On this board, the many responses reflected similar ideas, and all revolved around making their city better. Responses talked about infrastructure, parks, landscaping, safety, and economics.

If I had a million dollars for my city I would

Gathering this information, our team reflected on how WSB can play a role. We have collaborated with different communities to support their needs for nearly 30 years. Throughout this time, we’ve found that in many cases, one of the largest barriers to completing projects is funding. We work with cities to find a way to get their infrastructure projects completed from start to finish.

Following the conference, it was interesting to reflect on the collective responses from each question.  While many cities share similar needs and thoughts, the scale and specifics vary greatly because of their unique characteristics, geography, and constructs.  

Bart Fischer has over two decades of experience in public administration. Throughout his tenure, he’s worked in five Minnesota communities as the city or assistant city administrator. Bart joined our firm in 2019 as a senior public administrator and focuses on lending his public service expertise to our clients.

[email protected] | 651.485.1839

Three Ways Operational Models are Bringing Innovation & Value to Construction Projects

July 12, 2023
By Andy Kaiyala, VP of Construction Technology & Controls

In the world of civil engineering, the success of a construction project hinges on efficient planning, precise execution, and effective management. Fostered by new technology, the creation of operational and constructible 3D models is bringing innovation to construction projects and greater value to stakeholders. WSB is at the forefront of advanced technology which brings innovative solutions for clients.

Creating an Operational Model:

In the past three years, WSB has focused strategic energy on the creation of operational models, bringing the digital future to construction projects. But how do we define an operational model, and what makes them important?

Operational models take projects to the next level, providing construction and management information which improves the overall project. Operational models visualize the relationship between engineering data time, construction sequence, logistics, asset management and cost. This valuable information allows project stakeholders to make informed decisions, forecast costs, optimize resource allocation, and manage project timelines.

The Benefits of Using an Operational 3D Model

How do operational models improve construction projects? Here are three ways they are revolutionizing our industry.

  1. Improves stakeholder communication. Stakeholders access and utilize the same details and data by leveraging an operational model. This shared information minimizes delays, conflicts, and confusion, promoting better collaboration and coordination among project participants.
  2. Optimizes project resources. By creating an operational model, WSB and its stakeholder partners are able to use resources efficiently and effectively. Specifically, by considering cost data, alternative material options, and supplier details, operational models help identify cost-effective solutions, preventing unnecessary expenses and delays, while streamlining project timelines.
  3. Brings continuity and transparency across the entire life of a project.  A 3D digital environment helps mitigate conflict through the introduction and visualization of a project. Essentially, a project is digitally “built” before anyone is in the field. Moreover, the shift from traditional 2D paper to 3D digital models ensures continuity across the entire lifecycle of a project. From design and construction to operation and management, a 3D operational model allows for real-time updates and seamless communication, fostering efficiency and reducing errors.

Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position. The role was developed in response to the growing availability of project delivery methods, including Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) and progressive design build.  The entire AEC industry is recognizing the value of a more transparent process that’s being driven by digital delivery. With Andy’s expertise, WSB will guide our clients through a process that mitigates risk and reduces conflict for all stakeholders.

Exploring Alternative Intersections and Interchanges in Texas

June 27, 2023

By Tina Brown, Sr Professional Engineer, and Jignesh Thakkar, Director of Traffic and ITS in Texas

As Texas’ population grows and traffic increases, mobility and safety at intersections deteriorate. The strain on the current infrastructure, along with increasing construction and right-of-way (ROW) costs, highlights the need for early planning and exploration of innovative solutions. The application of alternative intersections and interchanges, to enhance traffic operations and prioritize safety, is becoming more popular throughout Texas.

Alternative Intersections and Interchanges Explained:

Alternative intersections and interchanges are innovative transportation designs that improve traffic flow, safety and efficiency. Unlike traditional intersections and interchanges that rely on conventional traffic signal or stop-controlled configurations, alternative designs introduce unique geometric layouts and operational strategies. By reimagining how vehicles interact, conflict points and intersection delays can be reduced, and pedestrian and cyclist safety can be enhanced, all while increasing overall capacity. These alternative designs may include roundabouts, diverging diamond interchanges (DDI), restricted crossing U-turn intersections (RCUT), and displaced left turn intersections (DLT).

These solutions are typically implemented in areas with high traffic volumes and delays and/or areas with high crash rates, providing practical solutions to address the transportation challenges.

Comprehensive Analysis of Alternative Intersections and Interchanges:

During the planning and development of alternative intersections and interchanges, WSB’s planners and engineers consider data such as turning movement volumes for both passenger vehicles and trucks; pedestrian and bicycle use; crash history; and existing geometry, traffic control devices and ROW to conduct preliminary traffic and safety assessments when determining viable alternatives.

Two main goals drive identification of alternative(s) – mobility and safety.

For mobility, the FHWA tool Capacity Analysis for Planning of Junctions (CAP-X) is used to determine the alternative’s performance related to improved traffic operations (Level of Service, travel time and vehicle throughput). The safety assessment includes the traditional KABCO scale analysis, as well as using the FHWA tool Safety Performance Intersection Control Evaluations (SPICE) to predict the safety performance (crash frequency and severity) of various alternatives and traffic controls.

Once the preferred alternative(s) are identified, additional detailed analysis is conducted to compile evaluation information and benefits of each. This includes an Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE) to further analyze and determine the appropriate configuration and traffic control. Detailed safety analysis is performed using FHWA data-driven analysis tools such as Interchange Safety Analysis Tool Enhanced (ISATe) and Interactive Highway Safety Design Model (IHSDM). The alternative(s) are then screened to determine a recommended alternative that fits within the project budget and accomplishes the goals for the project.

Stakeholder Engagement for Public Safety and User Awareness:

The biggest challenge with alternative intersections and interchanges is public perception and interaction. Each location has its challenges, and the solutions must be tailored to the local jurisdiction. The public and stakeholders are essential in determining a preferred alternative, and obtaining input early in the project development process is crucial. Public use of these transportation facilities can also be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the traffic patterns and movements associated with alternative intersections and interchanges. WSB develops 3D visualizations to help the public and stakeholders understand the proposed configuration and associated traffic patterns.  Additionally, our engineers design clear and understandable signing and striping to help users safely navigate the lanes and turns.

Why WSB?

The future is bright for even more alternative intersections and interchanges to be added in Texas. WSB staff includes planners and engineers with extensive experience in alternative intersection and interchange analysis and design. In Texas, we have recently designed a roundabout at RM 1826/RM 967 in Driftwood, Texas, that has yet to be constructed and are also currently helping develop a single-lane roundabout directly in front of the City of McKinney’s new Municipal Complex.

In addition to the increased demand for alternative intersections and interchanges, technology advancement plays a key role, and WSB is at the forefront of advanced project delivery. WSB staff possess a high level of expertise in all project phases and use innovative technology in the design, construction and operation of all projects.

Tina has 35 years of engineering experience and has performed project management, planning and engineering design on numerous large-scale corridor transportation and bridge projects. Additionally, she was a construction inspector on two large roadway projects in the Austin area while directly employed by TxDOT. Her knowledge in traffic control plans, interchanges and much more enables her to curate exceptional plans that best fit the needs of clients and communities.

[email protected] | 512.6360304

Jignesh has over 19 years of experience in traffic and transportation engineering services. He has managed numerous traffic engineering projects for medium to large-scale developments for public and private-sector clients. His extensive experience in transportation analysis, simulation and design software well-equips Jignesh for a variety of transportation projects.

[email protected] | 469.854.7723

Bridge

Strengthening Infrastructure Resilience: U.S. DOT PROTECT Grants Program

June 12, 2023
By Amy Fredregill, Sr Director of Sustainability and Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning, WSB

In an era of increasing climate volatility and the looming threat of natural disasters, safeguarding our infrastructure is paramount for communities. Recognizing this urgent need, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has unveiled one of the latest grant opportunities under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) grant program aims to protect roads, bridges, ports, passenger rail, and pedestrian facilities from the damaging impacts of storms and other natural disasters. By supporting projects involving the hardening, raising, or relocation of roads and bridges, these grants empower communities to fortify their vital assets against future climate-related disasters.

PROTECT Grant Specifics

The PROTECT program aims to enhance the resilience of the country’s surface transportation system against climate change impacts. It provides up to $848 million in discretionary grant funding for projects that reduce long-term costs, prioritizes risk reduction through nature-based solutions, and improve equity by addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities. Applications are open until August 18, 2023, and grant recipients at all levels of government are encouraged to apply; this deadline will come up quickly so interested communities are encouraged to start conversations about this important program. The program will contribute to job creation, improve safety, and ensure infrastructure is built to withstand extreme weather events.

Many municipalities have ongoing initiatives that lack adequate financial resources to realize their vision entirely. With the PROTECT grants, communities can access additional funding to accelerate the completion of critical projects. This funding may also be used for planning efforts or implementation of technology.

The Importance of Utilizing Grants

The importance of grants in infrastructure development cannot be overstated. They provide an invaluable lifeline, enabling municipalities to undertake essential projects. By leveraging funding, cities can address pressing infrastructure needs, enhance safety measures, improve operational efficiency, reduce their climate impact and minimize disruptions, all while simultaneously advancing related goals in a community’s Comprehensive Plan like economic development and public health. Grants empower communities to adopt a proactive approach, ensuring they stay ahead of potential challenges.

WSB: Your Dedicated Partner in Grant Application

WSB understands the significance of securing resources to build a resilient infrastructure. With extensive experience, WSB guides municipalities through the intricacies of grant applications, ensuring proposals align with the program requirements and stand out in a competitive landscape. WSB recognizes that grant writing demands an investment of time and resources and is here to assist municipalities in unlocking the funding necessary to protect their transportation infrastructure, enhance community safety, and foster sustainable development.

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.

[email protected] | 612.965.1489

Shannon has spent over a decade advancing asset management at local, state, and national levels by serving on asset management committees, advisory panels, and project management teams. While working at MnDOT, Shannon directed the agency-wide asset management planning including projects, research, policy, innovation, strategic planning, and implementation in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

[email protected] | 651.492.9291

Shannon McGrath Director of Asset Management
Natural Resources water testing

Managing Data and Technology to Improve Resilience in Natural Resources

June 12, 2023
By Emily Ball, Forestry Program Manger and Bill Alms, Project Manager, WSB

WSB understands the importance of managing natural resources in cities. As cities grow and expand, managing natural resources, such as waterways, forests, and green spaces, can be complex and daunting. However, by leveraging smart technologies and innovative approaches, cities can make informed decisions and ensure the resilience and sustainability of their natural resources.

Data Collection

The first step in managing natural resources in a smart city is to know what resources you have before starting a project. This involves taking an inventory, analyzing, and determining the critical first steps. Once this information is collected, organizing it for informed decision-making is essential. GIS and WSB’s Datafi software can assist with developing base inspection forms and identifying trends.

Budgeting

One of the challenges of managing natural resources in a smart city is dealing with a vast amount of data. To make sense of it all, it’s crucial to migrate data in a way that allows for informed decisions. Budgeting for the ongoing management of natural resources and creating a budget cycle is also necessary. In the context of natural resources, this means collecting initial data on what resources need to be managed. For instance, stormwater asset management programs can predict when stormwater ponds need maintenance and how much it would cost. WSB offers a program called SWAMP – Storm Water Asset Management Program which is a web-based app that allows for customized prioritization of annual storm water BMP inspection and maintenance activities that can help drive budget planning. 

It’s essential to note that data cannot be static in a smart city and should be continually updated based on what’s happening in the field. Many data applications allow for smart phone or tablet updates in the field by staff. This approach allows cities to avoid constantly reinvesting in data gathering.

How WSB can help

Managing natural resources is a challenging task. However, by leveraging smart technologies and innovative approaches, cities can make informed decisions and ensure the sustainability and resilience of their natural resources. WSB can assist cities in identifying the best way to store and manage data, budget, make strategic decisions, coordinate with state agencies, diversify species, and promote climate-smart forestry and canopy cover. By taking these steps, cities can ensure their natural resources’ longevity for future generations.

Emily is a ISA Certified Arborist, MN Tree Inspector that brings 20 years of experience, primarily in community forestry. She has extensive experience in contract administration, management of staff, AmeriCorps members and contractors, budget and grant management, plan review, tree health and condition inspections, outreach and education. She works closely with partner organizations, staff, and the community to educate, manage natural resources and provide excellent customer service.

[email protected] | 651.318.9945

Bill is a project manager in WSB’s Water Resources Group serving clients with their water resources engineering needs. His experience includes planning, design, and construction management, research and inspection of municipal storm water systems, hydrologic, hydraulic, and water quality modeling, watershed permitting submittals, and development plan reviews. He is a technical resource in watershed policy, planning, and capital improvement budgeting.

[email protected] | 952.388.4188

Asset Management Maturity Scale

June 12, 2023
By Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning, WSB

Infrastructure asset management is the process of operating and maintaining assets throughout their lifecycle; managing performance, value, and risk to achieve organizational objectives. Many communities face significant challenges in maintaining assets and aging infrastructure, from roads to bridges to water and sewer systems. As infrastructure ages, it becomes more expensive to maintain and repair. In some cases, it may even become necessary to replace it altogether.

Why Asset Management Matters

Without an asset management strategy in place, jurisdictions struggle to manage their assets, resulting efficiently and effectively in communities failing to utilize data to understand their inventory, maintenance needs, and replacement requirements. Asset management is crucial as it minimizes risks and expenses while maximizing resource utilization, reducing maintenance costs, enhancing infrastructure service reliability, prolonging infrastructure lifespan, and facilitating informed decision-making for infrastructure investments.

Fully Integrated & Proactive Asset Management Makes All the Difference

Proactive asset management requires jurisdictions to follow the fundamentals of asset management. We developed a maturity scale to share these fundamentals which can be used by any organization that owns, operates, and/or maintains infrastructure assets. The purpose of this scale is for an organization to identify what current efforts are in place and what steps of progression are needed to move them toward full, proactive asset management. Knowing where to start and the road ahead is crucial to ensure the efficient use of resources and enhance the overall quality of their infrastructure.

When working with organizations to create and implement asset management fundamentals, we focus on a structured and continuous approach. It begins by ensuring the right stakeholders are involved and creating a cultural shift to move from a reactive to a proactive approach. Successful asset management creates a centralized system of record, helping to reduce risk and uncertainties, allowing for a greater shared asset to data, and ensuring organizations can seamlessly collaborate across departments to improve public services. Our dedicated team takes a holistic approach with multidisciplinary experience to guide clients through asset management maturity.

Shannon has spent over a decade advancing asset management at local, state, and national levels by serving on asset management committees, advisory panels, and project management teams. While working at MnDOT, Shannon directed the agency-wide asset management planning including projects, research, policy, innovation, strategic planning, and implementation in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

[email protected] | 651.492.9291

Shannon McGrath Director of Asset Management
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