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International Day for Disaster Reduction

International Day for Disaster Reduction: Fostering Resilient Communities Written by: Rachel Washington The International Day for Disaster Reduction underscores the necessity of mitigating the consequences of disasters on communities, economies, and the environment. It emphasizes a proactive approach that entails identifying and mitigating risk factors, enhancing preparedness, and advocating for resilient infrastructure. Our Dedication to Resilience At Matthews | DCCM, our unwavering commitment to engineering better communities through our comprehensive engineering and planning services is paramount. Here is an overview of how our approach seamlessly aligns with disaster risk reduction: Resilient Infrastructure: We specialize in the development and implementation of infrastructure engineered to withstand natural disasters. Our portfolio includes structures resilient to hurricanes and infrastructure impervious to flood-related damage. Risk Assessment: Our expert team conducts thorough risk assessments, meticulously identifying vulnerabilities within existing infrastructure. Subsequently, we formulate mitigation strategies, proactively fortifying communities against potential disasters. Community Preparedness: Genuine resilience is fostered through community involvement and preparedness. Our collaboration with local communities includes the provision of knowledge and tools essential for effective emergency preparedness. This empowers residents to respond competently during crises, ensuring a coordinated and swift response. Participate in Observing International Day for Disaster Reduction We invite you to join us in raising awareness regarding the significance of disaster risk reduction on this International Day for Disaster Reduction. Let us collectively emphasize the importance of investments in resilient infrastructure and sustainable planning, actively contributing to the development of communities capable of confronting the uncertainties of our world. At Matthews | DCCM, our commitment to the safety of communities worldwide is unwavering. Resilient communities form the bedrock of a more secure future. Please contact us for further insights into our comprehensive disaster risk reduction and resilience-building services. Together, we can construct a safer, more resilient world.  additional articles April 5, 2024 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month: A Tribute To Nature's Canvas​ March 15, 2024 Celebrating National Surveyor's Week February 20, 2024 Bridging Gaps: The Impact of Civil Engineering in Florida's Infrastructure February 8, 2024 Matthews | DCCM's Comprehensive Suite of Solutions January 4, 2024 Project Spotlight: Woodlawn Road Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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Matthews | DCCM Adds Surveying Service Line​

Matthews | DCCM adds Surveying Service Line Matthews | DCCM is proud to announce the addition of Surveying to our firm. We are thrilled to extend this service to our clients, providing them with a more comprehensive solution tailored to their needs. With the integration of surveying services in our firm, we embark on an exciting journey, further solidifying our dedication to addressing our community’s diverse needs. Our team is driven to deliver innovative, precise, and enduring surveying solutions that leave a lasting impact.Starting with the initial survey planning and carrying through to the rigorous data analysis, we will serve as your unwavering partner throughout every stage of the surveying process, guaranteeing outstanding outcomes and client contentment. Our team’s enthusiasm goes beyond the technical aspects. We view each project as an opportunity to collaborate, learn, and grow together with our clients. Your unique challenges inspire us to innovate and find solutions that make a tangible difference. In embracing the world of surveying, we look forward to forging a strong partnership with you, where our dedication to excellence and our passion for delivering precise information will contribute to the success of your projects, big or small. Together, we can explore, map, and shape the world around us with confidence and precision. About Us: Matthews | DCCM was founded in 2005 and has grown to be the largest civil engineering firm based in St. Johns County, offering full-service civil, land development, and transportation engineering services, along with architecture, planning, and landscape architecture services. We are committed to actively working to better our community, and providing unparalleled engineering services to public and private clients throughout the Southeastern United States. Ready to work together? Let’s talk about your project. additional articles April 5, 2024 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month: A Tribute To Nature's Canvas​ March 15, 2024 Celebrating National Surveyor's Week February 20, 2024 Bridging Gaps: The Impact of Civil Engineering in Florida's Infrastructure February 8, 2024 Matthews | DCCM's Comprehensive Suite of Solutions January 4, 2024 Project Spotlight: Woodlawn Road Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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National Planning Month

National Planning Month Written by: Rachel Washington As we continue into October, we recognize it as National Planning Month—a dedicated time to acknowledge the art and science of urban and regional planning. At Matthews | DCCM, we view planning as the cornerstone upon which resilient, sustainable communities are crafted. From conceiving eco-conscious cities to preserving the natural beauty of our landscapes, our team of experts is steadfast in our commitment to shaping a brighter, more sustainable future. The Essence of Planning Urban and regional planning is a complex process that profoundly shapes the character of our communities. It involves carefully managing land use, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental considerations to create spaces that are both functional and sustainable. These spaces are not just physical landscapes; they represent the places where people live, work, and thrive. Our Expertise in Action At Matthews | DCCM, we take pride in our role as stewards of intelligent, sustainable planning. Our team, comprised of seasoned planners, architects, and engineers, collaborates seamlessly to develop innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by communities today. Here’s a glimpse into how our expertise contributes to the world of sustainable planning: Urban Regeneration: We excel at transforming underutilized areas into vibrant urban centers. These revitalized spaces are thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse needs of residents and businesses, breathing new life into communities. Transportation Planning: Our specialization lies in crafting transportation networks that are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible and accessible. These networks alleviate congestion, reduce emissions, and improve mobility for all. Environmental Responsibility: At Matthews | DCCM, we champion green infrastructure, sustainable construction practices, and the responsible preservation of natural resources within our planning processes. This unwavering commitment reflects our dedication to the environment. Community Engagement: Inclusive planning is at the heart of our approach. Actively involving the community at every stage ensures that their voices are not just heard but valued. This fosters a profound sense of ownership and pride in the final outcomes. At Matthews | DCCM, planning is more than just a profession; it’s a commitment to shaping a better world. We invite you to connect with us today to explore our comprehensive planning services. Together, let’s chart a path toward a brighter future for your community—one marked by thoughtful planning and sustainable development. additional articles April 5, 2024 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month: A Tribute To Nature's Canvas​ March 15, 2024 Celebrating National Surveyor's Week February 20, 2024 Bridging Gaps: The Impact of Civil Engineering in Florida's Infrastructure February 8, 2024 Matthews | DCCM's Comprehensive Suite of Solutions January 4, 2024 Project Spotlight: Woodlawn Road Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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Project Spotlight: Marketplace Road

Project Spotlight: Marketplace Roadway Written by: Chris Buttermore and Rachel Washington St. Johns Marketplace, located off SR 207 in St. Augustine, has experienced substantial changes to both the infrastructure and development. We are proud to have contributed our expertise in master infrastructure design and permitting to facilitate the division and development of the entire marketplace property into individual parcels. Our comprehensive services encompassed the establishment of a robust backbone roadway system, featuring two main roadways: Marketplace Drive and Resort Way. Key Facts About the Project Chris Buttermore, PE, is the project manager.  Projects on this site are currently under construction. Design included site layout, grading and drainage design, utility design, and landscape and irrigation design. Marketplace Drive spans an impressive length of approximately 4,000 feet, running parallel to I-95. This road was meticulously designed to accommodate traffic needs, initially configured as a 4-lane divided urban section tapering into a 2-lane urban section. To enhance safety and accessibility, both sections of Marketplace Drive are equipped with curb and gutter infrastructure, while a dedicated multi-use path has been incorporated to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists. Stretching over approximately 2,000 feet, Resort Way complements the overall transportation network within the development. Primarily designed as a 2-lane urban section, Resort Way seamlessly connects to the RV Resort/Campground, while also extending the convenience of the multi-use path to its users. With the successful completion of Marketplace Drive and Resort Way, our team addressed the immediate transportation needs for the development, which also establishing a framework for sustainable growth. These roads serve as essential roadway, facilitating seamless access to a multitude of commercial ventures and attracting a diverse range of businesses. As the marketplace property continues to evolve and welcome new developments, we remain committed to upholding the highest standards of design and permitting. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the infrastructure supports the growth and prosperity of the marketplace, making it a desirable destination for businesses and individuals alike. Our Experience From conception to completion, we can provide a total solution to meet your needs. Matthews | DCCM combines strategic planning, experience, creativity, and an integrated approach to each project to ensure project success. Our experts guide clients in overcoming regulatory hurdles and avoiding costly pitfalls from initial planning and engineering through implementation and post-project performance monitoring. Our firm is FDOT pre-qualified in the following work groups: 3.1 – Minor Highway Design 3.2 – Major Highway Design 7.1 – Signing, Pavement Marking and Channelization 10.1 – Roadway Construction Engineering Inspection 13.6 – Land Planning/Engineering In need of our civil engineering, landscape architecture, or architecture services for your project? We would be happy to partner with you! additional articles April 5, 2024 Celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month: A Tribute To Nature's Canvas​ March 15, 2024 Celebrating National Surveyor's Week February 20, 2024 Bridging Gaps: The Impact of Civil Engineering in Florida's Infrastructure February 8, 2024 Matthews | DCCM's Comprehensive Suite of Solutions January 4, 2024 Project Spotlight: Woodlawn Road Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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Enhancing Traffic Safety: A Civil Engineer’s Perspective

Enhancing Traffic Safety: A Civil Engineer’s Perspective Written by: Rachel Washington As cities like St. Augustine continue to grow and traffic congestion becomes increasingly prevalent, ensuring the safety of road users has become a paramount concern for civil engineers. Traffic safety encompasses a broad range of factors, including road design, traffic management, and public awareness. Civil engineers play a crucial role in promoting traffic safety awareness and create innovative solutions to create safer road environments. Road Design Civil engineers are responsible for designing and developing road infrastructure that prioritizes safety. This involves analyzing traffic patterns, considering vehicle and pedestrian interactions, and implementing appropriate design elements. Key considerations include: Intersection design: Engineers strive to design intersections that minimize conflict points, enhance visibility, and regulate traffic flow. Roundabouts, for instance, have been proven to significantly reduce the severity of accidents. Pedestrian safety: Sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and signalized crossings are examples of infrastructure elements designed to protect vulnerable road users. Road markings and signage: Proper signage and road markings are essential for guiding drivers and improving overall road safety. Engineers ensure these elements are clear, visible, and compliant with relevant standards. Traffic Management Civil engineers work on developing strategies to manage traffic effectively and mitigate potential hazards. They employ various tools and techniques, such as: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Utilizing technology like traffic cameras, sensors, and real-time data analysis helps engineers monitor traffic flow, identify congestion, and respond promptly to incidents. Traffic signal optimization: Engineers optimize signal timings to enhance traffic efficiency, reduce delays, and minimize the likelihood of accidents. Speed management: Implementing speed management measures, including speed limits, speed humps, and speed cameras, helps control vehicle speeds, preventing accidents caused by excessive speeding. Public Awareness Creating a culture of traffic safety requires not only infrastructure improvements but also active public involvement. Civil engineers, with the support of planners, play a crucial role in raising awareness among road users by: Education campaigns: Collaborating with local authorities, engineers organize campaigns to educate drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists about safe practices, traffic rules, and the importance of sharing the road responsibly. Community engagement: Engineers actively engage with local communities, conducting workshops, town hall meetings, and surveys to understand their concerns and incorporate their feedback into road safety initiatives. Partnerships with law enforcement: Collaborating with law enforcement agencies to enforce traffic regulations, crack down on violations, and conduct awareness programs fosters a sense of accountability and compliance among road users. Traffic safety awareness is a multi-faceted endeavor that demands collaboration between civil engineers, local authorities, and the public. By implementing innovative road designs, optimizing traffic management systems, and fostering a culture of public awareness, civil engineers are instrumental in creating safer road environments. Ultimately, our efforts aim to reduce the occurrence of accidents, minimize injuries, and save lives. At Matthews | DCCM, we understand the significance of traffic safety and are dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions to enhance road user protection. Our team of experienced civil engineers, roadway designers, and planners combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of local traffic dynamics to deliver customized road design and traffic management solutions. We prioritize collaboration with local communities, authorities, and stakeholders to ensure that our projects align with their needs and aspirations. Together, let us create a safer and more sustainable transportation infrastructure, where every journey is a secure and enjoyable experience for all. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your traffic safety goals. additional articles August 15, 2023 Enhancing Traffic Safety: A Civil Engineer's Perspective July 31, 2023 Celebrating National Professional Engineer (PE) Day July 24, 2023 Employee Spotlight: Chris Buttermore, PE, Transportation Lead July 3, 2023 How Roadway Engineering Has Advanced Over Time June 30, 2023 Meet The Matthews | DCCM Summer 2023 Interns​ Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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Celebrating National Professional Engineer (PE) Day

Celebrating National Professional Engineer (PE) Day Written by: Rachel Washington National Professional Engineer (PE) Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of professional engineers and honor their invaluable contributions. Within the vast field of engineering, civil engineering stands out as a cornerstone discipline that shapes our built environment. From designing and constructing infrastructure to ensuring public safety, civil engineers play a vital role in enhancing the quality of our daily lives. Join us as we celebrate National PE Day, the PEs here at Matthews | DCCM, and recognize the excellence in engineering that keeps our world moving forward. The Importance of Civil Engineers Civil engineers are integral to the development and maintenance of our infrastructure, including roads, bridges, buildings, water/wastewater systems, and transportation networks. These highly skilled individuals bring their expertise and technical knowledge to various industries and sectors, contributing to the development, maintenance, and improvement of our infrastructure, systems, and technologies. Here are some key reasons why civil engineers are crucial for the progress and well-being of our society: Infrastructure Development: Civil engineers are responsible for designing, planning, and constructing infrastructure projects that support our communities. From designing efficient road networks to creating sustainable buildings, civil engineers transform concepts into tangible assets that enhance our daily lives. Public Safety: One of the primary responsibilities of civil engineers is to prioritize public safety in their designs. They analyze factors to ensure that infrastructure projects meet stringent safety standards. Civil engineers play a vital role in minimizing risks associated with natural disasters, ensuring that buildings and infrastructure can withstand various hazards. Environmental Sustainability: With a growing focus on sustainability, civil engineers contribute to minimizing the environmental impact of infrastructure projects. They design and implement systems that promote energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and renewable energy integration. By incorporating sustainable practices, civil engineers help create a greener and more environmentally friendly future. Transportation Planning and Development: Civil engineers are instrumental in developing transportation systems that facilitate efficient movement of goods and people. They design roadways, bridges, and public transportation networks to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and reduce congestion. Civil engineers also play a crucial role in the planning and implementation of sustainable transportation solutions, such as bike lanes and mass transit systems. Water/Wastewater Resources Management: Civil engineers are involved in managing and optimizing water resources to meet the needs of communities. They design water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and stormwater management solutions. By incorporating innovative techniques, civil engineers help conserve water, prevent pollution, and mitigate the impact of floods and droughts. Urban Planning and Development: Civil engineers contribute to the planning and development of sustainable cities and communities. They collaborate with architects, urban planners, and policymakers to create livable spaces, incorporating green infrastructure, efficient land use, and smart city technologies. Civil engineers ensure that urban environments are designed to be functional, environmentally friendly, and conducive to a high quality of life. Professional Engineers at Matthews | DCCM National Professional Engineer Day provides a special occasion to recognize and celebrate the achievements of engineers, specifically our civil engineers. It is a time to appreciate their dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. Let’s meet the PEs at Matthews | DCCM: Rob A. Matthews III, PE: President and Principal-in-Charge. Rob has over 25 years of experience in land development and provides an innovative approach and expertise to all phased of land development, civil engineering, and environmental and regulatory permitting. Billy Almaguer, PE: VP of Culture and Innovation. Billy has 22 years of experience and has specialized skills in wetland and nutrient load modeling and stormwater master planning. Alex Acree, PE: VP of Production. Alex has 17 years of experience and is the lead over all land development projects at Matthews | DCCM. His expertise includes analysis and design of stormwater management systems, watershed analysis, and pond siting analysis and reports. Chris Buttermore, PE: Transportation Lead. Chris has 17 years of experience and is the lead over all transportation projects at Matthews | DCCM. His expertise includes roadway engineer, MOT engineer, and S&PM engineer on many FDOT, county and city projects. Fred R. “Rudd” Jones, Jr., PE: Senior Project Manager. Rudd has over 35 years of experience in the engineering and construction industry. His experience includes civil and agricultural engineering, Water Control Districts plans, Master Plan and DRI Planning, Major Drainage and basin studies, roadway drainage, and stormwater management facilities. Tyler Smith, PE: Senior Project Manager. Tyler has 10 years of experience as a civil and roadway engineer. He has specialized skills in designing roadway and transportation systems which have included widening, milling, and resurfacing, intersection improvements, and interchange design. Scott Knowles, PE: Senior Professional Engineer and QA/QC Manager. Scott has 26 years of experience in all phases of land development engineering. He has specialized experience in Geographic Information System (GIS) databases, and in pump and power systems design for sanitary and stormwater lift stations. On National PE Day, let’s acknowledge the remarkable contributions of civil engineers, including our own PEs, and their unwavering commitment to excellence. Their expertise, innovation, and dedication shape our built environment, enhance public safety, and promote sustainable development. By celebrating civil engineers, we recognize their vital role in advancing infrastructure, improving transportation systems, managing water resources, and creating sustainable communities. additional articles July 31, 2023 Celebrating National Professional Engineer (PE) Day July 24, 2023 Employee Spotlight: Chris Buttermore, PE, Transportation Lead July 3, 2023 How Roadway Engineering Has Advanced Over Time June 30, 2023 Meet The Matthews | DCCM Summer 2023 Interns​ June 26, 2023 Matthews | DCCM Welcomes Daniel R. Pickett, AIA, as Director of Architecture Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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How Roadway Engineering Has Advanced Over Time

How Roadway Engineering Has Advanced Over Time Written by: Rachel Washington and Tyler Smith, PE Roadway engineering is the branch of civil engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of highways, bridges, and other roads. Roadway engineering is a vital part of our infrastructure, and it plays a crucial role in our economy and our way of life. The history of roadway engineering dates back to the early days of human civilization. The first roads were built by the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. These early roads were made from large stones that made for a bumpy ride. Over time, early roadway engineers started to build roads in layers with larger stones on the bottom and gravel on top to fix this issue. Later, ideas like raising the center of the road which we call the “crown” and adding roadside ditches were added to account for stormwater. The Roman Empire then built the first highway system in the world, and the Chinese built the first bridge. In the modern era, roadway engineers deal with similar issues as the past, but have other increasingly complex problems that require sophisticated solutions. Today, roadway engineers must deal with a variety of challenges, such as traffic congestion, limited resources, and environmental impact. Despite these challenges, roadway engineering has made great strides in the last decade. New innovative ideas such as diverging diamond interchanges and advances in technology such as camera vehicle detection for traffic signals are becoming normal. Computer software has also allowed engineers to model traffic congestion, design cost effective highways, and provide advanced utility/drainage systems. Thanks to advances in technology, roadway engineers are now able to design and build highways that are safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. Looking to the future, it is clear that roadway engineering will continue to play a vital role in our society. As we face new challenges such as autonomous vehicles, aging infrastructure, and climate change, roadway engineers will need to adapt and innovate to ensure that our transportation infrastructure remains safe and sustainable. The field of roadway engineering is constantly evolving, and it will continue to be a critical component of our society’s infrastructure for many decades to come. Matthews | DCCM has extensive knowledge and experience with roadway design projects and coordinating transportation projects in general. With a focus on safety, maintainability, and efficiency, our engineers and technical staff work smart to improve transportation facilities and overall quality of life for its users while keeping a focus on the project budget. Previous successful roadway and transportation projects that Matthews | DCCM has been involved in range from small scale, local roadways and driveways to larger scale major collector and limited access highway improvements. These improvements included milling and resurfacing, widening, new roadways, signing & pavement marking improvements, safety improvements, drainage upgrades, utility work, and anything else you can expect to encounter within a roadway corridor. Matthews | DCCM provides economical and long-lasting solutions to transportation infrastructure and mobility challenges.  Learn more about our Transportation Lead, Chris Buttermore, PE, and Senior project Manager, Tyler Smith, PE.  additional articles June 5, 2023 Project Spotlight: Stillwater June 2, 2023 Matthews | DCCM is a Best Firm to Work For! June 1, 2023 Project Spotlight: Beaver Toyota May 24, 2023 Everything You Need To Know About Land Development In Civil Engineering April 17, 2023 Creating A Landscape That Is Environmentally Friendly Facebook Linkedin Envelope

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Project Spotlight: Stillwater

Project Spotlight: Stillwater Written by: Rachel Washington Stillwater is a thoughtfully designed community for individuals aged 55 and above located in St. Johns, FL. Lennar, the trusted homebuilder, is responsible for constructing the houses in this neighborhood. Situated alongside an impressive 18-hole golf course created by Bobby Weed, the development showcases Next Gen® homes and offers a wide range of amenities tailored to meet the needs of active adults. Moreover, residents have the advantage of being close to Durbin Park, which provides convenient access to various shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as easy access to Jacksonville through Highway 9B and Interstate 95 nearby. Key Facts About the Project Alex Acree, PE, is the project manager. Learn more about him here. Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, is the landscape architect. Learn more about him here. Project is currently under construction. Design included site layout, grading and drainage design, utility design, and landscape and irrigation design. Previous image Next image Matthews | DCCM is providing professional civil engineering, master planning, and landscape architecture services for the Stillwater residential development. This exclusive age-restricted community comprises 550 single-family and multifamily duplex units, complemented by an impressive 18-hole golf course and its accompanying amenities, infrastructure, and roadway design. The meticulously planned amenities include a spacious 18,828 square foot clubhouse building, a well-appointed 2,109 square foot aquatics building complete with a pool, a convenient 600 square foot driving range, concession, and restroom facility with dedicated driving range bays, and a 9,098 square foot maintenance facility. Furthermore, the development offers a range of recreational amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. These amenities encompass a sprawling 2.5-acre driving range, two full-size tennis courts, two full-size pickleball courts, a bocce ball court, and an expansive special event lawn space. The scope of our team’s involvement extended beyond design, as we took charge of coordinating the intricate permitting process with various entities, including St. Johns County, St. Johns Water Management District), JEA, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Moreover, Matthews | DCCM assumes the responsibility of certifying the completed construction. Senior Construction Inspector, Mike Silverstein, is the lead for this phase of the project. This entails conducting routine site visits throughout the construction phase, meticulously reviewing all testing documents, and performing a comprehensive as-built review. Our diligent oversight ensures that the development adheres to the highest standards of quality and safety, as well as meeting all necessary regulatory requirements. https://youtu.be/NvLTPR4sh1s Our Experience From conception to completion, we can provide a total solution to meet your needs. Matthews | DCCM combines strategic planning, experience, creativity, and an integrated approach to each project to ensure project success. Our experts guide clients in overcoming regulatory hurdles and avoiding costly pitfalls from initial planning and engineering through implementation and post-project performance monitoring. Our firm is FDOT pre-qualified in the following work groups: 3.1 – Minor Highway Design 3.2 – Major Highway Design 7.1 – Signing, Pavement Marking and Channelization 10.1 – Roadway Construction Engineering Inspection 13.6 – Land Planning/Engineering In need of our civil engineering or landscape architecture services for your project? We would be happy to partner with you! CONTACT US

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Project Spotlight: Beaver Toyota

Project Spotlight: Beaver Toyota Written by: Rachel Washington Matthews | DCCM is providing civil engineering and landscape architecture services for the new Beaver Toyota dealership project. Situated within the St. Johns Marketplace on SR 207 in St. Augustine, Florida, this project plays a crucial role in the overall master plan for the marketplace. The Beaver Toyota dealership occupies a substantial 28-acre site and boasts an impressive 137,000 square foot facility that serves as both a dealership and a service center. With its extensive size and modern design, this facility is poised to offer an exceptional experience to customers and meet the growing demands of the automotive market. One of the key aspects of the project is the careful planning and design of the 17.5-acre paved area. This will serve as the vehicle display area, vehicle storage area, customer parking, and on-site drive aisles, allowing for an organized and efficient flow of traffic within the dealership premises. Our civil engineering expertise comes into play as we ensure that the design optimizes space utilization, traffic circulation, and parking requirements while adhering to local regulations and industry standards. Key Facts About the Project Chris Buttermore, PE, is the project manager. Learn more about him here. Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, is the landscape architect. Learn more about him here. Project is currently under construction. Design included site layout, grading and drainage design, utility design, and landscape and irrigation design. The Beaver Toyota project stands out for its multifunctional nature, going beyond the traditional concept of a dealership. In addition to the dealership itself, the site incorporates various amenities and facilities that enrich the overall experience. Among the notable features on-site are a daycare, salon, warehouse building, dog park, putt-putt golf course, and a patio area. Furthermore, an open-air pavilion and pier have been strategically designed to take advantage of the picturesque view provided by the large pond located in the back of the site. Our Landscape Architecture team played a crucial role in designing a central amenity area that serves as a focal point for the site. This area offers a range of amenities to enhance visitors’ enjoyment. It includes a bark park for furry companions, a beautifully landscaped tropical patio with shaded eating areas, and a three-hole putt-putt course for entertainment. To ensure comfort, the area is adorned with red shade sails, gracefully arched elm trees, large medjool date palms, and clusters of native sabal palms, providing ample shade and a visually pleasing environment. At the center of the amenity area, a serene fountain creates a relaxing ambiance, further accentuated by its nighttime illumination. Additionally, the amenity area will benefit from the presence of local food truck vendors, offering a diverse culinary experience to visitors. This project showcases a unique approach, integrating various amenities and facilities within the auto dealership site. By blending functionality, aesthetics, and entertainment, the project aims to create a welcoming environment that caters to the diverse needs and interests of customers. The landscape design team’s careful planning and attention to detail have contributed to the creation of a vibrant and enjoyable space that adds value to the overall dealership experience. https://youtu.be/BJDe61aFDqQ Our Experience From conception to completion, we can provide a total solution to meet your needs. Matthews | DCCM combines strategic planning, experience, creativity, and an integrated approach to each project to ensure project success. Our experts guide clients in overcoming regulatory hurdles and avoiding costly pitfalls from initial planning and engineering through implementation and post-project performance monitoring. Our firm is FDOT pre-qualified in the following work groups: 3.1 – Minor Highway Design 3.2 – Major Highway Design 7.1 – Signing, Pavement Marking and Channelization 10.1 – Roadway Construction Engineering Inspection 13.6 – Land Planning/Engineering In need of our civil engineering or landscape architecture services for your project? We would be happy to partner with you! CONTACT US

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Everything You Need To Know About Land Development In Civil Engineering

Everything You Need To Know About Land Development In Civil Engineering Written by: Rachel Washington and Alex Acree, PE Land development is a branch of civil engineering that involves the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects on undeveloped land. It is often referred to as site development or site engineering. The land development field includes a wide range of activities, from the construction of small residential projects to the development of large commercial and industrial facilities. Land development projects can be divided into three broad categories: Land development for residential purposes Land development for commercial/industrial purposes Land development for public purposes Each type of land development project requires a different approach and a different set of skills. This article will give you an overview of what you need to know about land development in civil engineering. What is Land Development? Land development is converting undeveloped land into developed land for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It involves land surveying, landscape design, grading, paving and drainage, and infrastructure construction such as roads, utilities, and other facilities. Land development is a multi-step process that includes the following components: Feasibility analysis: This involves analysis of zoning laws, regulations, and land use policies to determine the best use of the land and identify possible constraints to development. As part of the feasibility analysis, things to consider include geotechnical borings to verify underground soil conditions, environmental surveys to verify the presence of wetlands or endangered species, and tree surveys to ensure no significant or specimen tree on the property. All of these items can have an impact on land development. Site planning: This involves designing the layout of the project to maximize efficiency and take into consideration the existing topography, existing infrastructure, natural features, and local regulations. Project design: This involves the detailed design of the various components of the project, such as roads/access, parking areas, utility lines, stormwater management, and other related infrastructure. Construction: This involves arranging construction activities and ensuring quality control and safety during the construction process. Certifications to the issuing agencies are required after construction, which include specific documents such as testing reports and as-built surveys. Landscaping: This involves designing the final visual appearance of the project to create an aesthetically pleasing environment. The Process of Land Development Land development projects require careful planning and execution and involve a series of steps to be completed for the project to succeed. Site Analysis: This is the first step in land development. It involves analysis of the area to determine the site’s potential and inform the design process. This involves studying the soil type, topography, land uses, and zoning regulations of the site. Land Use Planning: This step involves determining the best use of the land in line with the area’s regulations and maximizing the land’s potential. Engineering Design: This step involves designing the infrastructure and other systems needed to support the project. This includes roads, utilities, stormwater management, and other related infrastructure. Environmental Assessments and Permitting: This step involves assessing the project’s potential impact on the environment and obtaining the necessary permits to proceed with the project. Construction: This step involves the actual construction of the project, including any excavation, grading, and construction work needed. Landscaping: This step involves designing the final visual appearance of the project, including any landscaping and planting that may be needed. Once these steps have been completed, the land development project is ready for occupancy. The Importance of Land Development Land development plays an important role in urban areas, providing land for housing, commercial and industrial activities, and public facilities such as roads, parks, and schools. In addition, land development projects can revitalize neighborhoods, improve the quality of life in the area, and stimulate economic growth. The expertise of civil engineers is essential when it comes to land development projects. Civil engineers have the knowledge and experience to assess a site and create an effective design for the project. They can also suggest solutions for any problems arising during the process. Civil engineers are responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective completion of land development projects. Land development is an important part of civil engineering and plays a major role in the growth and development of cities. Civil engineers are key to the success of these projects, as their expertise and experience can help ensure the project’s successful completion and the efficient use of land. The Benefits of Land Development Land development has many benefits, including economic, environmental, and social. Environmental and economic resources can be conscientiously conserved by adequately managing and developing land. Economic Benefits: Land development projects provide a range of economic benefits, including creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and boosting local businesses. Social Benefits: Land development projects improve the quality of life in surrounding communities by providing better housing, public facilities, and access to services. Environmental Benefits: Land development can provide many environmental benefits, including reducing air and water pollution, conserving natural resources, and restoring wildlife habitats. The benefits of land development projects are wide-ranging and can help to create a better quality of life for those living in and around the development, as well as provide economic and environmental benefits to the wider community. Civil engineers are key to ensuring the projects are managed to the highest standards and achieve the desired outcome. The Challenges of Land Development Land development projects can be complex and challenging. Civil engineers play an important role in managing the challenges of land development. Some challenges include: Environmental challenges: Civil engineers must consider the potential environmental impacts of a project and use best practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the development. This includes incorporating water, habitat, and energy conservation into the plans. Financial challenges: Budgeting is important to land development. Civil engineers must ensure that the project is within the set budget while meeting the standards and requirements of the local authorities. Social challenges: Land development projects can have a wide range of impacts on the local community, from public health and safety to changes

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