Articles

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

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

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

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

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

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