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International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025: Fund resilience, not disasters Written by: Kristy Buttermore Observed every year on October 13, the United Nations’ International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) spotlights practical ways communities can prevent and lessen the impacts of disasters—before they happen. The 2025 theme is fund resilience, not disasters, a call to shift budgets and decisions toward risk reduction and long-term preparedness rather than costly response and recovery. Why this matters in our communities Across Florida and the Southeast, extreme weather and chronic flooding test local infrastructure, strain budgets, and disrupt daily life. Investing in resilient design, maintenance, and operations reduces loss of life and property—and saves money over the long run by avoiding repeated emergency repairs and service interruptions. That’s the heart of this year’s IDDRR campaign How Matthews | DCCM puts the theme into action Our team helps cities, counties, school districts, agencies, and private owners plan and deliver resilience projects that are buildable, fundable, and maintainable from day one. Funding strategy and grants: We support clients in aligning scopes and schedules with competitive programs (e.g., mitigation and resilience funding) and building phased plans that make the most of limited dollars. Risk and vulnerability assessment: We evaluate drainage, stormwater, and critical assets to identify failure points, prioritize fixes, and phase improvements for the highest return on investment. Resilient civil and site design: From conveyance upgrades and flood-hardening to nature-based solutions and green infrastructure, we design to reduce risk and life-cycle cost. Education and campus readiness: For districts and higher-ed, we plan safe access, circulation, and drainage improvements that keep campuses operating through storms and speed recovery afterward. Delivery with discipline: We integrate permitting, utilities coordination, CEI, and QA/QC so projects move efficiently from concept to plans, bids, and ribbon cuttings. What you can do this October Review your capital plan through a resilience lens—prioritize projects that prevent damage and service disruption. Start with data: commission a focused drainage or vulnerability study to rank near-term fixes vs. larger phased solutions. Engage early: coordinate with stakeholders (public works, schools, utilities, emergency management) to align scopes and windows for construction. Plan funding: pair quick wins with grant-ready phases to maximize competitiveness. Let’s build resilience—with purpose This year’s message is simple: every dollar spent reducing risk today avoids many more spent on the next emergency. If you’re exploring a drainage upgrade, campus improvements, corridor safety, or a multi-phase resilience program, our team can help you scope, fund, design, permit, and deliver it. Start a conversation with Matthews | DCCM—let’s fund resilience, not disasters. additional articles October 10, 2025 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025: Fund Resilience, Not Disasters October 2, 2025 October Is National Community Planning Month September 11, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Brynna Bartlett Promoted to Project Manager August 15, 2025 Back to School Drive Success: Supporting Local Youth at Port in the Storm August 6, 2025 Celebrating Professional Engineers Day Facebook Linkedin Envelope

October Is National Community Planning Month: Planning That Moves From Vision to Groundbreaking Written by: Kristy Buttermore Every October, National Community Planning Month (NCPM) spotlights how planning strengthens safety, resilience, equity, and prosperity. It’s a chance to recognize the people and processes that turn community priorities into action—and to invite the public into the conversation. At Matthews | DCCM, that purpose is our daily practice. We plan with delivery in mind—so ideas become permits, bids, and ribbon cuttings. Why National Community Planning Month Matters NCPM is about education and appreciation: helping residents see how “invisible” planning touches daily life (safe crossings, reliable utilities, attainable housing, shaded parks) and celebrating the professionals and partners who make it happen. The American Planning Association leads the observance and provides resources communities can use to promote local planning wins. Our Planning Services—Built for Implementation Comprehensive, small-area & corridor plans aligned to capital programs Land use & entitlement strategy (rezonings, PUD/PDP updates, development review) Multimodal safety & operations (access management, speed management, ADA, bike/ped networks) Site & campus planning for civic, K-12, higher-ed, and parks/open space Utility & stormwater capacity planning, nature-based resilience, and lift-station strategies Phasing, funding & grant alignment connecting concepts to CIP and near-term “quick wins” Stakeholder engagement (workshops; boards & commissions) and permitting readiness with Florida agencies What Matthews | DCCM Planning Looks Like on the Ground Housing-ready infrastructure – Entitlement roadmaps, utility and stormwater strategies, and site concepts that shorten the path to attainable, resilient neighborhoods. Safer streets and school access – Context-sensitive crosswalks, access management, and circulation plans that reduce conflicts and close ADA gaps. Parks, waterfronts, and main streets – Incremental streetscape/open-space projects that add shade, support local business, and manage stormwater. Campus & civic upgrades – Phased improvements that solve queueing, parking, and drainage while creating welcoming, functional public places. Ready to Plan What’s Next Whether you’re shaping growth, improving access, or enhancing public space, our multidisciplinary team translates community priorities into plans that get built and last. Let’s talk: We can scope a planning effort that fits your timeline and budget, identify near-term wins, and map the funding path to construction. Contact us today to get started. additional articles October 2, 2025 October Is National Community Planning Month September 11, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Brynna Bartlett Promoted to Project Manager August 15, 2025 Back to School Drive Success: Supporting Local Youth at Port in the Storm August 6, 2025 Celebrating Professional Engineers Day July 12, 2025 Celebrating 20 Years of Engineering Better Communities Facebook Linkedin Envelope

Celebrating Professional Engineers Day Each year on the first Wednesday in August, we recognize Professional Engineers Day — a time to celebrate the expertise, integrity, and dedication of licensed engineers across the country. At Matthews | DCCM, we are proud to work alongside an incredible group of Professional Engineers who help build safer, stronger, and more resilient communities. This year, we’re spotlighting a few of our PEs who serve in key leadership roles within the firm. From guiding teams to shaping long-term strategy, their perspectives reflect the values that drive our company forward. We’re honored to feature Billy Almaguer, PE, Vice President of Operations, Alex Acree, PE, Vice President of Production, and Rob Matthews, PE, CEO/President — three leaders whose experience, character, and commitment to excellence continue to shape the success of Matthews | DCCM. What advice would you give to young engineers just starting out in the field? Billy: Big dreams require intentional living. When it comes to your career and potential, remember to show up eager to learn, be diligent and enjoy the ride. Alex: Always be open to learning new skills and taking on new tasks. The more diverse your skill set is the more opportunities you have for growth. Also, make it a priority to obtain your PE license. Rob: Focus on learning as much as you can, as early as you can. Be curious, ask questions, and seek out new experiences. The foundation you build now will shape your growth for years to come. How do you approach mentoring or guiding junior staff in their growth as professionals? Billy: People grow by doing life together. My approach to mentoring junior staff has been to make them part of my day to day work life. By including them in this facet, they get to see how I am growing as a leader. I believe the best way to inspire junior level staff is by being a picture of the destination. Alex: I try to lead by example with a strong work ethic and a humble mind set. I challenge them to think outside of the box as they work towards overcoming challenges with each and every project. Rob: I believe in helping people define their goals and then showing them how to get there. My approach is to lay out a path with clear milestones — to guide, not dictate. I try to be the person who paints the lines on the road while giving them the freedom to drive. What’s one lesson or value that was passed down to you early in your career that you now try to pass on to others? Billy: A former boss of mine always pushed me to present at conferences and to really hone my skills at connecting with people. He would always remind me that no single engineer can do what an army of engineers and technical people can. With that said, I was always encouraged to build relationships with staff and eventually clients.” Alex: Don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help. As engineers, we always want to have the right answer, but sometimes we get too in the weeds with a project and the right answer can seem impossible to find. A fresh set of eyes from the engineer in the office next door can provide a new perspective and ideas to the right answer! Rob: Outwork everyone around you. That mindset was ingrained in me early on, and it’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my career. When you consistently go above and beyond, it sets you apart — and people notice. Thank You to Our Professional Engineers From project management to executive leadership, licensed engineers at Matthews | DCCM play a critical role in shaping the future of our company and our communities. Their technical knowledge, problem-solving mindset, and commitment to excellence are at the core of everything we do. This PE Day, we extend our sincere thanks to all our PEs — for your leadership, your contributions, and the impact you make every day. additional articles August 8, 2025 Celebrating Professional Engineer Day July 12, 2025 Celebrating 20 Years of Engineering Better Communities July 6, 2025 Building the Future: Meet Our 2025 Summer Interns June 23, 2025 Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day June 5, 2025 Celebrating World Environment Day 2025 Facebook Linkedin Envelope

Building the Future: Meet Our 2025 Summer Interns Every summer, Matthews | DCCM welcomes a group of bright, motivated students through our internship program—designed to offer hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the AEC industry. Whether they’re out in the field, drafting designs, or supporting project teams, our interns gain practical knowledge while contributing meaningfully to real projects across Florida. Our internship program is more than a summer job—it’s a chance to explore career paths in civil engineering, surveying, planning, landscape architecture, and more. With mentorship from seasoned professionals, exposure to active job sites, and opportunities to work on real-world challenges, our interns leave with the tools and confidence to shape what’s next. We’re excited to introduce our 2025 summer interns and spotlight the energy and perspective they bring to the Matthews | DCCM team. Lauren CastilloI am going into my third year at the University of North Florida where I am studying Civil Engineering. I have been with Matthews | DCCM for a year, and it has been an invaluable experience so far.  Interning has allowed me to apply my technical knowledge from school to real life practices which furthers my interest in the field. Outside of my education, I enjoy reading, going to theme parks and spending time with my loved ones. Lauren has progressed from our internship program and is currently a part of our year-round co-op program. Gill FritzHi, my name is John, but I like to go by Gill. I grew up in St. Augustine and graduated from Nease High School, where I played Baseball. I’m currently a civil engineering major at the University of Central Florida, about to begin my sophomore year. My favorite things to do are surf, fish, and golf. I’m excited to apply what I’m learning in school to real-world projects and gain hands-on experience through this internship. I consider myself respectful, focused, hardworking, and kind. I enjoy working with others and have always been comfortable communicating with people. I’m looking forward to the chance to learn, contribute, and grow through this opportunity. Kasey Van WertI am entering my junior year at the University of North Florida, where I’m pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. This is my first year interning with Matthews | DCCM, and it’s already been an incredible learning experience, especially with Civil 3D. The skills and knowledge I’m gaining here will be invaluable as I continue to grow in my career. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, camping, and being with my family. Jiwon Byun-GarsonI am a rising Junior at the University of Florida, majoring in Civil Engineering. I chose Civil Engineering due to the visible impacts that can be made on communities across all the various disciplines. My experience interning with Matthews | DCCM has been very educational and rewarding so far, and I am looking forward to seeing how much I have grown professionally. In my free time, I enjoy crocheting, practicing music, and Stephen King novels.  Robie MatthewsI am a rising Freshman at the University of Central Florida, and this is my third year interning with Matthews | DCCM. I have an interest in engineering because it is incredibly rewarding to see something you create on a computer with CAD come to life in the form of a real, tangible, building or project. Outside of work or school, hobbies I enjoy are participating in World War II reenactments, reading about history, playing tennis, playing guitar and hanging out with friends. Kelsea KeiserI am going into my senior year at Creekside High School, where I am in the 4th year of the Engineering Academy. This is my first year being an intern and I am excited to spend my summer here. I look forward to applying my knowledge to real-world projects. Outside of my education, I love being on the softball field and have been playing for 11 years. I also love to do art, read, and spend time outside. Ava JenkinsI am a rising senior at Creekside High School, and this will be my first summer interning at Matthews | DCCM! I am in the Academy of Engineering & Environmental Sciences at Creekside, as well as being involved in the ACE program, which has grown my interest in civil engineering over the past three years. I enjoy working on design and find it fascinating to see those designs applied in the real world. Outside of work and school, I love to dance, go swimming, read and spend time with family and friends! At Matthews | DCCM, we believe in investing in the next generation of professionals who will design, build, and improve the communities around us. Our interns are an essential part of that vision, and we’re proud to support their growth and success. To learn more about our internship program and future opportunities, visit: https://matthews.dccm.com/careers/internships additional articles July 6, 2025 Building the Future: Meet Our 2025 Summer Interns June 23, 2025 Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day June 5, 2025 Celebrating World Environment Day 2025 June 2, 2025 Hurricane Preparedness: How Matthews | DCCM Supports Community Resilience May 19, 2025 Community in Action: Spring Sponsorship & Support Highlights Facebook Linkedin Envelope

Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day At Matthews | DCCM, we’re proud to recognize the women on our team who bring skill, perspective, and drive to every challenge they take on. In honor of International Women in Engineering Day, we asked a few of them to share their stories—the experiences that led them to engineering, the projects that have meant the most to them, and what they enjoy most about their work today. Brynna Bartlett, EI Project Engineer Brynna joined the team as an intern in 2021 while completing her degree at UNF before coming on board full-time. Her proudest moment so far? Seeing her very first engineered project make it all the way through permitting and into construction. “Borland Groover is one project I am proud of because it was my first project to get permitted and built as an engineer, and the site had quite a few challenges to overcome. So when it finally made it to construction, I was so excited! Also, with an initial interest in a medical field with my Biology background, it was fun to have the first project I worked on be a medical building.” When asked what she enjoys most about working at Matthews | DCCM, her answer came easily: “I love the culture! Everybody here is always so willing to help! I also enjoy the wide variety of design work we get to do here.” Brooke Lawrence Project Engineer Brooke joined the land development team at Matthews | DCCM in 2022. Her journey into engineering began in high school, sparked by the encouragement of teachers—especially one trailblazing woman who helped her see the possibilities in a male-dominated field. “There were a couple of teachers in high school that inspired me to pursue a career in engineering. One in particular was a woman who was a retired materials engineer, and among a very small percentage of female engineers at the time. She would always point out the different skill sets that women bring to the field and how exciting and fulfilling her career was to her.” One of Brooke’s earliest assignments has become one of her proudest accomplishments: “World Commerce Center Industrial is one project I am proud of. This was one of my very first projects to work on and it was definitely intimidating at the time it was assigned to me, as it is a fairly large site. There were many new skills I learned by working on this site, both in design development and with issues that arose in the construction phase of the project. Getting the permits for this one felt like a huge accomplishment, and even with the challenges and complications that came with it, I am proud to have been a part of it.” Keri Matthews Corporate Advancement Specialist Keri has been a part of the company since the very beginning and has played a vital role in shaping both the culture and trajectory of Matthews | DCCM. From navigating economic uncertainty to helping define the firm’s voice, she has been instrumental in guiding the company’s growth and resilience over the years. Her path to engineering took a few unexpected turns—but ultimately led to a career she never saw coming. “I was an English undecided major at Clemson University for 3 years, because I had no idea what I wanted to do. When my advisor told me I needed to declare a major after being in college for 3 years, I went and talked to various department heads to learn about various career paths. I met with the Industrial Engineering department head who, to my surprise, made engineering sound fun! This was the last thing I expected after touring my dad’s plant as a teenager (he was a Mechanical Engineer), and thinking engineering was very dull and boring. The Industrial Engineer Dept. Head explained that Industrial Engineering was a more human factors engineering that included things like determining optimal schedules and routes for pilots, designing processes and offices for increased efficiency and accuracy, and designing things like software and cars to be more ergonomic and user-friendly. This excited me, and so I became an Industrial Engineer. When I called to tell my dad I decided to be an engineer, he was shocked, as this was the last thing he ever expected me to major in!” Keri’s most meaningful “project” wasn’t a single job—it was keeping the company afloat during the Great Recession. “The project I am most proud of is avoiding bankruptcy and surviving the economic downturn that started at the end of 2008 and lasted for several years. Matthews Design Group had only been open for a few years, grown quickly to 20 people, and accrued a lot of start-up debt. We were 100% private work at the time. When the economic crash hit, work dried up fast at the beginning of 2009. We held on as long as we could before having to let most of our staff go, which was really hard. We could not pay our bills, the banks were coming after us and threatening to sell the paint off our walls, we used up our savings, maxed out our HELOC, and did not take a paycheck for years just to keep the doors open. We were talking to a lawyer about filing bankruptcy. Times were beyond stressful to say the least—all while having a 2½-year-old and newborn baby at the start of it. We knew we had to diversify our client base from just private clients, so we went after the SJC Continuing Services Contract. It was a team effort between myself, Rob, and my dad (who also worked for us at the time). My prior English major background was very helpful, as I helped to write the content and design the layout and pictures of the RFQ, along with helping to create marketing materials and our website. We were so blessed to be selected for the SJC Continuing Services contract! That—and God—is what saved us! This was a turning

Celebrating World Environment Day 2025 Today, we join millions of people around the world in recognizing World Environment Day, a global event established by the United Nations in 1972 to raise awareness and encourage action for the protection of our environment. Celebrated each year on June 5, it’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to care for the planet. This year’s theme, “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration,” highlights the critical need to halt and reverse land degradation—an effort that impacts biodiversity, climate stability, and community resilience. Healthy land ecosystems support food security, safeguard water resources, and protect against natural disasters. They’re the foundation of thriving communities and economies. At Matthews | DCCM, we’re proud to play a role in fostering sustainable practices through thoughtful planning, design, and engineering. Learn more about how our services contribute to healthier communities and resilient infrastructure: matthews.dccm.com/services. Project Feature: Vilano Beachfront Park Our team is proud to play a role in fostering sustainable practices through thoughtful planning, design, and engineering. For example, our work on Vilano Beachfront Park in St. Johns County aimed to seamlessly integrate the preservation of the natural coastal environment with the historic character of the area, creating a unique space for civic engagement and recreation. The project features a 1,300-square-foot pavilion designed to host concerts, educational events, and community gatherings, with innovative rotating panels that open to ocean views or close for events, and lighting considerations to protect local wildlife and preserve community character. As we reflect on the importance of this day, let’s consider the ways, big and small, we can all contribute to restoring and protecting our environment. Whether it’s reducing waste, conserving water, or supporting local conservation initiatives, every action counts. To learn more about World Environment Day and find resources for getting involved, visit www.worldenvironmentday.global. Let’s celebrate World Environment Day by reaffirming our collective commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all. additional articles June 5, 2025 Celebrating World Environment Day 2025 June 2, 2025 Hurricane Preparedness: How Matthews | DCCM Supports Community Resilience May 19, 2025 Community in Action: Spring Sponsorship & Support Highlights May 12, 2025 National Infrastructure Week: Why It Matters and How Matthews | DCCM Is Making a Difference April 29, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Announcing Promotions at Matthews | DCCM Facebook Linkedin Envelope

Hurricane Preparedness: How Matthews | DCCM Supports Community Resilience As a Florida-based firm deeply invested in our communities, Matthews | DCCM understands the critical role that civil engineering, infrastructure planning, and site development play in hurricane preparedness and recovery. With hurricane season spanning from June through November, our team is committed to designing and implementing solutions that help safeguard lives, protect property, and promote long-term resilience. Our Role in Community Preparedness Hurricanes bring intense rainfall, high winds, and storm surges that can challenge even the most robust infrastructure. At Matthews | DCCM, we work with municipalities, counties, and private developers to anticipate these hazards and develop strategies to mitigate their impacts. This includes: Stormwater Management: We design and improve stormwater systems to reduce flooding and ensure efficient water flow during extreme weather events. Utility Coordination: Our team ensures that essential utilities—such as water, sewer, and electric—are properly planned and protected to maintain service continuity and prevent extended outages. Transportation Infrastructure: We provide roadway design and improvement services that consider emergency access and evacuation routes, ensuring safe and efficient travel during and after a storm. Site and Land Development: Our work incorporates the latest best practices in grading, drainage, and erosion control to help sites weather hurricanes and recover quickly. Building Resilience Beyond the Storm Hurricane preparedness isn’t just about reacting to a storm’s immediate impact—it’s about building infrastructure that can withstand future storms. Our approach to planning and design focuses on long-term resilience and adaptability. By integrating sustainable and flexible design elements into our projects, we help communities recover faster and adapt to changing climate conditions. A Shared Responsibility Preparedness is a shared responsibility. As residents and business owners take steps to secure their homes and properties, our team is working behind the scenes to strengthen the backbone of the communities we serve. Together, we can reduce vulnerabilities, support recovery efforts, and ensure that Florida’s communities remain strong in the face of any storm. Helpful Hurricane Preparedness Resources To help you and your loved ones prepare for hurricane season, here are some valuable resources: FloridaDisaster.org – Comprehensive hurricane preparedness information and updates from the Florida Division of Emergency Management Ready.gov/hurricanes – Practical tips and guidance for families and businesses from FEMA National Hurricane Center – Official forecasts, alerts, and tracking maps for current storms St. Johns County & Duval County Flood Zone Maps – Knowing your evacuation zone is essential for staying safe during potential evacuations American Red Cross – Resources for emergency kits, family plans, and disaster recovery assistance For more information on how Matthews | DCCM’s services support hurricane preparedness and resilience, visit our website at www.matthews.dccm.com. additional articles June 2, 2025 Hurricane Preparedness: How Matthews | DCCM Supports Community Resilience May 19, 2025 Community in Action: Spring Sponsorship & Support Highlights May 12, 2025 National Infrastructure Week: Why It Matters and How Matthews | DCCM Is Making a Difference April 29, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Announcing Promotions at Matthews | DCCM April 22, 2025 The Future of Landscape Architecture – Designing for Resilience & Community Facebook Linkedin Envelope

National Infrastructure Week: Why It Matters and How Matthews | DCCM Is Making a Difference At Matthews | DCCM, we believe infrastructure is the foundation of thriving communities. During National Infrastructure Week, we’re proud to stand alongside leaders, agencies, and advocates across the country to recognize the importance of modern, resilient, and equitable infrastructure—and to recommit to the work of shaping it every day. Infrastructure Is All Around Us National Infrastructure Week is a time to reflect on the systems we often take for granted—roads, bridges, water systems, power grids, and public spaces—and to spotlight the urgent need for reinvestment and innovation. It’s also a call to action: to plan, design, and build smarter infrastructure that strengthens communities and supports future growth. As the largest civil engineering firm headquartered in St. Johns County, Florida, Matthews | DCCM plays a leading role in this mission. Our multidisciplinary team of engineers, planners, surveyors, landscape architects, and construction managers delivers tailored, sustainable solutions across the state—solutions that are built to last and designed to serve. What We’re Building, and Why Our work touches every aspect of the built environment: Transportation projects that increase connectivity and safety. Water and wastewater systems that protect public health and environmental quality. Utility infrastructure that supports community resilience and economic growth. Comprehensive site and land development that transforms spaces with intention and purpose. We also specialize in stormwater and drainage solutions, hydrology and hydraulics, program and construction management, and landscape architecture—all essential to building infrastructure that can stand up to Florida’s evolving climate and development pressures. Local Roots. National Impact. Infrastructure Week reminds us that every investment counts—whether it’s a sidewalk improvement in a historic neighborhood, erosion control near a vulnerable creek, or a full roadway extension in a growing county. At Matthews | DCCM, our project footprint is broad, but our roots remain local. We proudly support municipal, county, and state agencies with responsive, on-call engineering and surveying services that deliver real, lasting impact. As part of DCCM—a nationwide network of firms—we bring together local expertise and national resources to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve. Engineering Better Communities—Every Week of the Year While Infrastructure Week is only seven days, our commitment is year-round. We believe that smart infrastructure drives opportunity, equity, and quality of life. And we’re honored to work with our clients and partners to turn vision into reality—one plan, one project, one community at a time. Let’s Build What’s Next, Together. To learn more about Matthews | DCCM’s infrastructure services, visit matthews.dccm.com or contact our team here. additional articles May 12, 2025 National Infrastructure Week: Why It Matters and How Matthews | DCCM Is Making a Difference April 29, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Announcing Promotions at Matthews | DCCM April 22, 2025 The Future of Landscape Architecture – Designing for Resilience & Community April 14, 2025 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month March 24, 2025 Matthews | DCCM Awarded Continuing Services Contract for Putnam County Facebook Linkedin Envelope

The Future of Landscape Architecture – Designing for Resilience & Community Written by: Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, and Rachel Washington April is World Landscape Architecture Month (WLAM), a time to recognize the role of landscape architects in shaping our communities, infrastructure, and environment. As urbanization accelerates and climate challenges intensify, the importance of sustainable, resilient, and human-centered landscape design has never been greater. At Matthews | DCCM, we integrate landscape architecture with civil engineering, planning, and environmental expertise to create projects that are both functional and beautiful. From stormwater solutions to walkable urban spaces, landscape architects are redefining how we experience and interact with the built environment. The Evolving Role of Landscape Architects In modern development, landscape architects work beyond traditional parks and gardens. Their expertise extends to: ✔️ Climate-Resilient Design – Mitigating heat islands with shade trees, improving air quality by saving protecting and saving existing trees and strategically planting new trees. ✔️ Smart Growth & Urban Planning – Designing mixed-use developments that prioritize people over cars and considering long term implications for future projects in the area. ✔️ Green Infrastructure & Stormwater Management – Implementing native grasses in stormwater facilities, providing bioswales, using permeable sidewalks and prioritizing solutions that minimize runoff and reducing flood risks by slowing down storm water on site. ✔️ Transportation & Public Space Enhancement – Enhancing roadways with traffic calming landscape medians, locating trails near but far enough away to protect natural plant communities, We strive for thoughtful, people-first ecological integrated designs. Sustainable Design in Action: A Case Study One example of our landscape-driven approach is the St. Johns County Butler Park project. This is a popular boat and kayaking launch park in the area along the Matanzas River. Our designs upgraded the existing park by integrating new parking, sidewalks, boat ramps, and kayak launch surfaces. Our team carefully designed the new elements around multiple large Live Oaks, Red Cedars, and clusters of Sand Live Oak trees. We also replanted and restored degraded uplands and wetlands with native vegetation. Another accomplishment was the creation of dry detention areas in the center of the park to double as a recreational area when dry, and storm retention during rain events. Looking Ahead: The Future of Landscape Architecture As cities expand and climate challenges increase, landscape architects will play a key role in shaping sustainable, adaptable, and resilient communities. At Matthews | DCCM, we are committed to designing with purpose—creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally and socially responsible Want to collaborate on your next landscape-driven project? Contact us today! additional articles May 12, 2025 National Infrastructure Week: Why It Matters and How Matthews | DCCM Is Making a Difference April 29, 2025 Celebrating Growth from Within: Announcing Promotions at Matthews | DCCM April 22, 2025 The Future of Landscape Architecture – Designing for Resilience & Community April 14, 2025 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month March 24, 2025 Matthews | DCCM Awarded Continuing Services Contract for Putnam County Facebook Linkedin Envelope

Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month Written by: Kristy Buttermore April is World Landscape Architecture Month (WLAM)—a global celebration of the impact landscape architects have on shaping vibrant, sustainable, and functional spaces. Established by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), WLAM highlights the profession’s role in designing everything from public parks and urban greenways to resilient infrastructure and outdoor gathering spaces. At Matthews | DCCM, our Landscape Architecture team brings creativity, collaboration, and a deep respect for the environment to every project, whether it’s enhancing a local community space or integrating sustainable solutions into large-scale developments. To celebrate, we asked Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, Director of Landscape Architecture; Sinem Bilgin, Senior Landscape Designer; and Gloria Mura, Architectural Drafter, to share their stories, design philosophies, and insights into the projects that make them proud. Their passion for blending beauty, function, and sustainability is at the heart of what we do—and we’re excited to highlight their perspectives. What inspired you to pursue a career in landscape architecture? Eric: Shortly after graduating at UF, I was working full-time in agricultural research and considering going back to graduate school. I read an article in a “magazine” (it was 1994) about the profession. I researched more and decided it was the thing to do, got accepted at VT, and followed through to now. Sinem: I was 19… and I was interested in every form of art since early ages. One day, I saw Martha Schwartz’s project “The Bagel Garden” at one of my mom’s magazines and something clicked. She was my first inspiration then Andrea Cochran, Zaha Hadid, Diana Balmori, Gaudi, Frank Lloyd Wright followed. Gloria: My parents are chemical engineers, so my first job was as a project designer of treatment water plants in Venezuela. Those 7 years of experience in the water treatment plants’ design were my first touch with the importance of the environment. I have always been passionate about nature and art, and my degree in architecture provided me with the opportunity to blend my experiences and knowledge with environmental stewardship. Improving community spaces can be incredibly fulfilling. How would you describe the role of a landscape architect/designer to someone unfamiliar with the field? Eric: The job is overall rewarding and can be a life long profession to be proud of. What is difficult is trying to design a space everyone will enjoy. That’s usually not practical, but it is a goal. It is impossible to know everything, so don’t kid yourself, after 20+ years I learn something new every week. Sinem: Creating ART on land. Gloria: A professional who plans and designs outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, campuses, and residential areas. Creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments, we blend art and science to design spaces that are both beautiful and practical. Designs are sustainable and environmentally friendly, frequently incorporating native plants and eco-friendly materials. We tackle issues such as drainage, erosion, and accessibility to create safe and usable spaces. We collaborate with architects, urban planners, and civil engineers to integrate their design projects. Can you walk us through your typical process when starting a new project? Eric: I meet with clients and our civil engineers or planners to come up with a design for the site. We coordinate in the house for a week or more to produce a concept. That concept gets refined and sent off for further approval. Eventually we have an approved plan for construction and construction administration. Sinem: In an ideal case, it starts with site program then selection of the right site for the owner. After we do the site analysis and inventory, concept plan finds its place with adjustments of code limitations of the site’s location. This is how it starts. Gloria: Meeting client requirements is crucial for a successful landscape project.  Site analysis: check existing conditions, soil quality, existing vegetation, drainage, visualize topography, walk through the site using Google Earth maps, and survey’s plan. Select native Vegetation to fit the site, and also keep the client informed about the Selected Vegetation. Develop the construction Documents, ensuring that the Specifications and details required for your drawings are included. Then, review them with the Planner and civil engineers before submission. What’s a project you’re especially proud of, and why? Eric: Currently, I am happy with the progress at Christ Church. I helped create two unique artificial turf play areas which double as a storm water catchment area. One play area is a 100’ long by 45’ wide football shape. The turf color will be brown with 2’ wide finger laces running down the middle. The other area is a 20’ diameter baseball with colored turf to match a baseball, 1’ wide red laces over a white turf play area. Sinem: Memorial Park on Monument Road. I worked on this project with COJ and I used only native plants. It is a hard to find in Jacksonville, a beautiful and artistic park. I worked on both landscape and irrigation design of Memorial Park. We played with the topography and created a approximately 10’ high oval grass hill. This is my favorite part of the park. At that time, I was expecting my second son. Every time I pass by this park, it reminds me of my belly during that time. When I drive by, I see children rolling down the hill and it makes me so happy to watch the functionality of this park. Gloria: I’m proud of all the projects that I have worked on, but recently I’m working on a multifamily development of more than 13 acres, which is challenging due to the tree mitigation, and how to create a new space for human beings with minimum impact on our environment. But my favorite so far are the Amenities area of Grand Reserve East at Palm Coast, also the Christ’s Church Mandarin-Athletics field. How do you balance aesthetics with function and sustainability in your designs? Eric: We make sure to use native plant material and a few basic rules. Use large trees where they have