How design firms are changing the machine control modeling landscape

July 18, 2023
By Jessica Dugger, Contract Support Lead

Disrupting the traditional process

Machine control modeling has been part of the construction industry for over twenty years, but as the industry faces supply chain challenges and a lack of available labor, the need to streamline and create efficiencies is only increasing. As designers, contractors and teams strive to complete projects efficiently and accurately, new innovations and approaches are changing the way the industry is approaching machine control modeling.

In a traditional approach to machine control modeling, a contractor will receive 2D design information that has to be recreated in 3D. Although there are many benefits that result from this process, there is still too much room for human error, a lack of conflict identification and unbalanced earthwork quantities.

From 2D to 3D

As digital delivery methods continue to drive our industry, our goal is to migrate away from having 2D plans for construction.  In many cases, working off a 2D plan and a 3D model can be controversial, causes confusion and is contradictory.  A deep understanding of the needs of contractors, owners and designers allows us to develop one true source of design information in a 3D model that streamlines the process. Through cutting-edge tools combined with our expertise, we develop a 3D model that is useable in the field for grading model systems.  This is just one of the many construction benefits of developing a single source of truth in a 3D model.  The 3D model serves as the foundation for all information needed to deliver a project because of its accuracy and end user capabilities.

The top  ways design firms are changing the way contractors approach machine control.

Custom Machine Control Files

Contractors have unique needs. They rely on accurate models because it replicates exactly what needs to be built. To support this, we develop custom machine control files that eliminate contractor conversions and modifications. These custom files are usable in Trimble, TopCon and LEICA contractor systems.

Validation of the 3D design on both sides

The use of a 3D model allows for the validation of information within the design platform and the contractor platform (TBC, Magnet) eliminating the need to rerun earthwork. A high-quality 3D model improves project outcomes. Oftentimes, owners will use a 3D design model instead of a standard design model because of the significant benefits. In any construction project, expectations of a contractor are high. A 3D model ensures accuracy and eliminates construction failure or a perception of cut corners from the owner.

Identify errors immediately

When contractors work directly with a team that has a deep understanding of design and field needs, the process is significantly streamlined and more accurate. Once a 3D model is created, errors are identified even after the bid process, providing a more accurate building process before construction even begins.

Relying on models to guide the project

Layout models match grading models. With one mode, there are less surprises in the field. A model also reduces the manhours and survey supplies needed. In the past, a surveyor would layout ‘whiskers’ every 50-feet. A model eliminates this need, resulting in smoother roads and less cording. In addition, communicating with an owner becomes easier.  Owners want to see the completed surface model look exactly like the design.  A 3D model aids in communication and collaboration.

Reduce costs and staff

With greater confidence in grading model accuracy, the changing landscape of operator ability won’t have an impact on projects.  There is less skill required when working with one true source of information. Additionally, with a high-quality 3D model, there is a less likely chance that work progress will not match up. Using this advanced design technology prevents accusations of poor construction, also eliminating the possibility of additional costs to fix issues forced onto the contractor. 

Increase sustainability

Exact quantities and information results in the reduction of materials. Contractors are reliant on a 3D model because they are paid based on the volume of materials calculated by the model. With the model, quantities are precise, eliminating the small extra quantities in the corners that add up quickly. An accurate 3D model prevents an excess or shortage of materials.

Jessica Dugger is a contractor support lead. With over 15 years of experience in both design and construction fields, Jessica has a strong background in the AEC industry. She demonstrates her expertise in many areas including MicroStation, InRoads, Google Earth, Trimble Business Center, Virtual Design, machine control and survey.

jdugger@wsbeng.com | 614.214.4226

Infrastructure Trends: The Art of the Roundabout

July 18, 2023

By Andrew Plowman, SR Project Manager

In just a quarter century, the number of roundabouts has increased 3,000 percent across the country. Roundabouts are growing in prevalence because of how they can effectively, efficiently, and safely move traffic. Numerous designs and geometric shapes allow roundabouts to seamlessly integrate into our transportation infrastructure.  

Below are five facts about roundabouts – an infrastructure trend that’s here to stay.

1. Roundabouts improve safety.

A major reason that roundabouts have grown in popularity is because of their safety record. The designs help prevent serious crashes and fatalities. Slower speeds and the angle at which cars enter roundabouts significantly reduce the probability of head on and T-bone accidents.  Multi-lane roundabouts may have property damage only crashes when they are first introduced, but the chances for fatal or injury crashes drop significantly.  In most cases, crashes at roundabouts are fender benders.  

Pedestrian safety is also improved at roundabouts, although this can be a difficult concept for some to understand.  Most feel that because there is not the presence of a signal telling the motorist when to stop and the pedestrian when to go, that it cannot be safe.  However, there are several reasons the pedestrian crossing experience is improved:

  • Slower speeds
  • Shorter crossing distance
  • Fewer conflict points
  • Navigating traffic from one direction and refuge islands
  • The pedestrian crosswalk is pulled back from the yield line allowing drivers to make a decision at the crosswalk before entering the roundabout

What’s more, because of their safety track record, they score well with many federal programs and are often eligible for grant funding.

2. Roundabouts handle high and low volumes efficiently.

Have you ever sat at a light for what feels like forever, even when there is no other traffic around? Roundabouts solve that problem, providing self-optimizing control. Roundabouts keep traffic moving. Roundabouts handle both high and low volume traffic well.  The effect of a rolling queue creates a situation where delay seems more acceptable to the driving public.  In the early 2000’s, many roundabouts were overbuilt based on the modeling results.  Many multi-lane roundabouts have since been retrofit to simpler geometry, and still perform operationally well. 

3. Roundabouts significantly improve access management in busy corridors.

In areas where there are many driveways and businesses along a corridor, it can be difficult for exiting traffic to turn left onto busy streets.   The implementation of a roundabout corridor allows left turns to be eliminated while access is maintained and for drivers to make a U-turn.  This creates a safer and efficient corridor.

4. Roundabouts have growing buy-in from the public.

When communities begin building roundabouts, there can be a fair amount of skepticism and concern from the public. As more communities adopt roundabouts and more drivers have successfully used them, that skepticism is significantly reduced.  

In communities that are new to roundabouts, a robust public engagement strategy is executed to educate the public. Public engagement tactics often include modeling, educational materials, visualizations and myth busting presentations that dispel the myths and provide education about the roundabouts, .

5. There are times when roundabouts are the wrong design choice.

While roundabouts are a growing trend, they aren’t right for every situation. Areas with high traffic volumes in one direction, with limited left turns on or to the side street, may not be ideal for a roundabout, as appropriate gaps may not be created. If roadways are already designed for traffic signals with multiple lanes, it may be more efficient to install traffic lights as opposed to redesigning a street for a roundabout.

Roundabouts are growing in popularity for a reason and are here to stay. Efficient traffic flow, improved safety, and operational efficiency make them a smart infrastructure choice for many communities.

Roundabouts move people and communities forward. 

Andrew is a transportation project manager and lead design engineer with over 20 years of experience who has designed more than 80 roundabouts. He is involved in all aspects of roundabout design, including geometrics, traffic operations, staging, and adhering to ADA standards. He has educated communities on the benefits of roundabouts and their safety for managing traffic. Andrew has also shared his professional knowledge nationally at international roundabout conferences.

Community

Q&A with Travis Wieber | VP of Transportation

July 18, 2023

Travis Wieber is the Vice President of Transportation at WSB. Travis joined our firm in 2022 and leads our transportation efforts throughout the Midwest. Wieber will also play a large role in our expansion of staff and services in the Fargo, North Dakota geographic market this year. 

Q: You joined our firm just over a year ago.  What about WSB attracted you?

There were several factors that influenced my decision to join WSB.  My background has always been in consultant engineering, and I knew it would be a great opportunity to be a part of a successful and growing organization. I knew that WSB had tremendous talent and it was a team I wanted to be part of. Meeting Jon Chiglo, our COO, and Bret Weiss, our CEO, proved that this was the right place for me. I was impressed with their leadership and vision for the company and how it influences us now and in the future.

Q: What factors have contributed to the growth of WSB and our expansion into North Dakota?

Currently, there is a lot of work to be completed in the engineering industry and companies that are performing have a big opportunity in front of them. I strongly believe that WSB is that company.  Our clients understand that we will deliver successfully. It’s why we often have repeat work. Our successful delivery has significantly contributed to our growth and allows us to attract new talent and expand in new locations, like North Dakota.

Q: How has transportation been advancing in North Dakota?

The state has seen steady growth over the years. WSB is changing the way our industry delivers projects through advanced project delivery and have an opportunity to bring this approach to the North Dakota market, much like we’ve done in Minnesota and Texas.

Q: Why is the North Dakota market important to the growth of WSB?

The North Dakota market has a stable economy and is investing heavily in infrastructure. North Dakota is also a very energy dependent state with robust funding. While it may not be the size of our other markets, it provides us with an opportunity to build a strong talent pipeline with our college relationships (Go Bison!) and grow our client footprint. The market has a vast number of engineers, surveyors, and planners available who can help us deliver in any of our markets or regions. The expansion into this market will influence our workload and diversifies our business offerings.

Q: What makes WSB best suited to support infrastructure needs across the Midwest?

As a full-service design firm, we have access to every area of expertise within our company ‘walls.’ Our roots are in the Midwest which has allowed us to learn from our client base and take this knowledge with us to new markets.  We take a bold approach to the way we work, and I find that exciting. We don’t take the same approach as everyone else and that’s a big differentiator for us.

Q: What does the future of WSB look like?

We will experience growth and will expand our regional footprint. The model we built in Minnesota is applicable to other areas of the country.  We’ll use this model to bring all our services into the Fargo and Bismarck areas. Taking steps regionally and diversifying our geographies creates opportunities. We believe in building what’s next in infrastructure and our passion, drive and innovation will guide that.

Q: How will you support the growth of WSB throughout the Midwest?

One of my biggest focuses as we experience growth throughout the Midwest is to ensure that we’re collaborating with each other across geographies. Our talent extends throughout the U.S. That’s the great thing about the way we work. Project teams don’t always need to be working in the same office. We’ll focus on putting the best teams together to support our clients’ needs across our organization.

Q: What are the strategic goals for the North Dakota market?

We will grow our existing relationships with the state and city market clients. We are well-positioned to support the infrastructure needs of our partners across the state. Our expanded Fargo office really emphasizes our commitment to the community.  We’ll be building our talent through strategic hires that will be able to support the needs of our clients throughout the Midwest. 

Q: What do you wish our clients knew about WSB?

I wish more of clients knew the depth of services we offer and the approach we take to solving complex challenges. We strive to be a one-stop shop providing comprehensive solutions with great customer service.

Travis wieber

How we are leveraging technology to improve project delivery, add value to projects, and reduce risk is a focus across our firm. We have a great story to tell and I’m looking forward to sharing that with new and existing clients alike.

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.

klindquist@wsbeng.com | 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.

ljohnson@wsbeng.com | 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.

bfisher@wsbeng.com | 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.

tbrown@wsbeng.com | 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.

jthakkar@wsbeng.com | 469.854.7723

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