industry insights

San Diego-based general contractor T.B. Penick & Sons has reached a key milestone with the topping off of Las Vegas’ first all-rental apartment high-rise, according to an announcement last week from developer Southern Land Co.

The 22-story Capella, situated in the Symphony Park neighborhood, is set to feature 272 rental units upon completion. The residences will include a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouse suites. Residents will enjoy sweeping views of the Las Vegas Strip, downtown, and the nearby mountains. Apartments will be outfitted with movable kitchen islands, upscale finishes, and smart home technology for modern convenience.

In addition to its residential offerings, Capella will incorporate around 16,250 square feet of space for retail and dining establishments, the release noted. Details on the overall project cost were not disclosed.

Capella’s development is part of a broader expansion in Symphony Park by Southern Land Co., which also includes Bria, a 275-unit mid-rise multifamily community. Both Capella and Bria are on pace to welcome residents next summer. This latest wave of development follows Southern Land’s earlier venture in the area, the Auric residential project, which debuted in 2021.

“The introduction of Bria and Capella advances our vision of transforming Symphony Park into a leading urban district where luxury living intersects with arts and culture,” said Tim Downey, founder and CEO of Southern Land Co., in the release. “The topping off of Capella marks a significant step toward making that vision a reality.”

Bria and Capella will each offer an array of upscale amenities, including resident lounges, co-working spaces, concierge services, and cutting-edge fitness centers with yoga studios. Outdoor features will include a resort-style pool with private cabanas, a hot tub, and a poolside lounge equipped with an outdoor bar, large-screen TVs, and grilling stations. Pet owners will appreciate the addition of a dedicated dog run.

The Symphony Park district spans 61 acres and is home to several high-profile cultural institutions, such as The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, and the Discovery Children’s Museum. Additional projects in development for the neighborhood include the Las Vegas Art Museum, an AC Marriott Hotel, the mixed-use Origin at Symphony Park project, and the Cello Tower condominium.

Las Vegas Also Investing in Affordable Housing

On the opposite end of the housing spectrum, an initiative is underway to convert Las Vegas golf clubs into affordable housing developments.

According to a report by the local ABC affiliate, both the Royal Links Golf Club and Desert Pines are being transformed into affordable housing. The report details how the Desert Pines Redevelopment Project recently received $25 million in funding for the first phase of infrastructure, courtesy of State Infrastructure Bank. Nonprofit Urban Strategies and developer McCormack Baron Salazar will oversee the project.

“Nevadans deserve ample access to affordable and attainable housing options, and I’m proud to support the largest affordable housing project in Nevada history through the State Infrastructure Bank,” said Governor Joe Lombardo.

The state said the first phase of the Desert Pines redevelopment will cost around $57.3 million and $450 million overall.

When finished, the community will consist of 1,082 affordable multi-family homes and 280 market-rate homes. Other planned features of the community include:

• A 10,000 square-foot community center
• A 10,000 square-foot early education center
• A 30,000 square-foot job training center
• 75,000 square-feet of commercial space

“Nevada is in the midst of a housing crisis, and we are doing everything we can at the State-level to build more affordable places for families to live,” said Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine.

Whether it’s a luxury apartment or an affordable, multi-family development, housing projects of all shapes and sizes share a common need for accurate data. You need to know what’s already in the ground before putting a shovel in the ground, and you need to be able to keep track of progress as the development moves along.

GPRS supports housing developments through our comprehensive suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services. We Intelligently Visualize The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to mark out the utilities that GPRS locates?

No, GPRS will locate and mark all utilities for you. We have a variety of tools and markers we can use to highlight the locations of utilities, underground storage tanks and whatever else may be hiding.

Can you locate sewer pipes in addition to evaluating their integrity?

Yes! Our SIM- and NASSCO-certified Project Managers use Video Pipe Inspection (VPI) technology equipped with sondes, which are instrument probes that allow them to ascertain the location of underground utilities from an inaccessible location. This allows them to use electromagnetic (EM) locating to map sewer systems at the same time they’re evaluating them for defects.

GPRS deployed our precision concrete scanning services to help solve a mystery at a nearly 200-year-old church.

GPRS Project Manager Andrew Machemer was called out to Christ Episcopal Church in Downtown Reading, Pennsylvania, to examine a curious looking stone block that crews noticed when they were beginning renovations on the building’s exterior.

Christ Episcopal Church was founded in 1762 and is the oldest English-speaking congregation in Reading. The present building was built between 1825-1826 and designed by American architect Edward Tuckerman Potter, whose claims to fame include the Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut, and Nott Memorial Hall at Union College.

The church today features many Neo-gothic elements which were added during a major renovation in 1847. In 2020, the church was awarded a grant from the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office to stabilize and protect the masonry of the buttress walls supporting its steeple and historic façade.

When these ongoing restoration efforts uncovered the strange stone, church historians dug into the archives looking for an explanation.

“I believe they found a newspaper article from the Reading Eagle from the 1820s,” Machemer explained. “They found an old mention of a ten-inch by six-inch copper time capsule at this exact spot, but nobody at the church currently had any knowledge about it. So, they wanted to scan the block and see if anything was there.”

While GPRS’ concrete scanning and imaging services aren’t regularly utilized for historical investigation, this isn’t the first time we’ve been asked to look for a time capsule embedded within the walls of a historic Pennsylvania church.

Machemer deployed multiple tools to examine the block and surrounding masonry, including a metal detector and an electromagnetic (EM) locator.

But it was the concrete scanning GPR antenna that produced the most promising data.

“[We found] what clearly looks like what we think would be indicative of a metallic object fitting the description of what they had thought existed,” Machemer said. “So, the data looks very promising of an object being inside that concrete slab.”

The church was thrilled by what Machemer discovered.

The Reading Eagle – the same newspaper in which church historians uncovered the initial evidence of the time capsule – covered Machemer’s findings in an article which you can read here. And the church is now planning on excavating the object and – if it really is a time capsule – opening it during their bicentennial celebration in 2026.

Explaining GPRS’ Industry-Leading Concrete Scanning Services

Assisting with historical preservation isn’t the primary way GPRS utilizes our precision concrete scanning services; we’re usually helping contractors, facility managers, architects, and engineers stay on time, on budget, and safe.

GPRS Project Managers utilize GPR scanners to identify materials or voids within concrete slabs. This technology enables precise detection of hidden objects and their exact locations.

GPR is a non-destructive detection and imaging method in which a radio signal is sent into a concrete structure. The radio wave bounces off any material it encounters and creates a reading that displays these “bounces” as hyperbolas. An experienced GPR technician interprets this reading to determine the type of material located.

Scanning concrete with GPR reveals rebar, post tension cables, electrical conduit, voids, and more. This is also an effective method of structural review including concrete slab measurement and rebar spacing.

Concrete should be scanned before any excavation or renovation work begins. This includes coring, drilling, cutting, and any other activities that could compromise the concrete’s strength.

With over 500 SIM-certified Project Managers strategically stationed across the United States, GPRS is a professional concrete scanning company you can rely on to be there when you need us, and to provide you with the accurate data you need to protect your people, your schedule, and your budget.

Our industry-leading accuracy can be attributed to your adherence to the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM).

SIM is the underpinning of our training program, and the concrete scanning and utility locating processes our Project Managers use daily. It’s the first comprehensive specification for professional utility locators and concrete scanning technicians. It aims to raise the quality of subsurface investigations by combining the requirements of experienced-based training, tested technologies, and proven application methods to create an industry standard.

All GPRS Project Managers are required to achieve SIM certification, a process that involves completing a minimum of 320 hours of field training and 80 hours of classroom training. SIM also requires that all utility locates and concrete scans involve the use of multiple technologies, ensuring that the results are repeatable and accurate.

GPRS is so confident in the accuracy of our SIM-certified concrete scans that we introduced the Green Box Guarantee, which states that when we place a Green Box within a layout prior to you anchoring or coring that concrete we guarantee that the area within the box will be free of obstructions.

If we’re wrong, we pay the material cost of the damage.

From unearthing time capsules to protecting the integrity of your concrete slabs, GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPR determine the difference between rebar and electrical conduit?

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) can accurately differentiate between rebar and electrical conduit in most cases. We have an extremely high success rate in identifying electrical lines in supported slabs or slabs-on-grade before saw cutting or core drilling.

Additionally, GPRS can use EM locators to determine the location of conduits in the concrete. If we can transmit a signal onto the metal conduit, we can locate it with pinpoint accuracy. We can also find the conduit passively if a live electrical current runs through it.

The combined use of GPR and EM induction allows us to provide one of the most comprehensive and accurate conduits locating services available.

How is GPR used to identify tendons vs. rebar in a post-tensioned slab?

In post-tensioned structures, we typically find one mat of support rebar near the base of the slab. This mat is generally consistently spaced and remains at a constant elevation. Post-tension cables are generally found above this support mat and “draped” throughout the rest of the structure. The elevation of the cable is usually high near the beams and column lines and drapes lower through the span between beams and column lines. Knowledge of these structural differences allows us to accurately differentiate between components. Our Project Managers will leave you feeling confident in our findings and in your ability to drill or cut without issue.

The State of New York is going nuclear to address its needs to expand its clean energy options.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently released a draft “blueprint” for advanced nuclear power development. According to NYSERDA’s website, the draft blueprint will “advance issues and considerations for the potential deployment of advanced nuclear power generation and potentially leverage federal funding programs, including but not limited to, nuclear planning grants.”

The draft says that more compact advanced reactors “could offer attractive possibilities for New York, with scalability, economic development, low land use and potential applications of process heat... that can complement New York’s buildout of renewables.”

But the draft also cites hurdles such as “technological readiness, costs and environmental justice, among other factors.”

“Nuclear construction risks are real, even for small projects,” Marc Nichol, executive director of new nuclear at the Nuclear Energy Institute, told Engineering News-Record. “Firms want partnerships with government.”

The move comes as New York is facing concerns over its ability to meet the nation-leading energy goals set in its 2019 climate law. The state must reach 70% renewable power by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040 – goals that Gov. Kathy Hochul acknowledged as ambitious during her keynote address at the state-sponsored Future Energy Economy Summit in September.

Despite the hurdles yet to be tackled, Gov. Hochul said completed projects – such as the opening of nation’s first utility-scale offshore wind project last year – show her state is making progress.

“New York is furiously committed to the 2019 climate goals,” the governor said. “We can figure this out.”

But in its reporting, ENR noted that much of the transmission work completed so far has been in upstate regions already using clean energy. Costly upgrades are still needed in New York City and Long Island, which rely on an aging grid powered mostly by fossil fuels.

Cost and supply chain issues are slowing progress at the same time New York is pushing to attract high-tech manufacturing plants that will require extraordinary amounts of power.

“I am doing everything I humanly can to launch the economies of the future; it’s happening right now,” Hochul said in her address. “They all must be powered with sources and our capacity, my friends, is not there right now.”

The Challenges of Converting U.S. Cities and States to Clean Energy

New York isn’t the only state in the U.S. taking ambitious steps toward a future powered by clean energy.

Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower are at the heart of this transformation. However, the road to a sustainable energy future is fraught with challenges. From infrastructural limitations to regulatory hurdles and social equity concerns, achieving a clean energy transition requires thoughtful planning, innovative policy, and significant financial investment.

1. Infrastructure Overhaul

One of the most significant obstacles in the clean energy transition is modernizing the existing energy infrastructure. The current energy grid was designed for centralized, fossil-fuel-based power generation, not for the decentralized nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Integrating renewables into the grid requires upgrades to transmission and distribution systems to handle variable energy flows. Energy storage solutions, such as large-scale battery storage, are also critical to balance supply and demand when renewable generation fluctuates due to weather changes.

Many cities and states must also contend with aging infrastructure. Power lines, substations, and transformers often require replacement or retrofitting to accommodate new technology. These upgrades are costly and time-consuming, often requiring years of planning, permitting, and construction. Without modernized infrastructure, cities risk blackouts or service interruptions as they attempt to transition to clean energy.

2. Policy and Regulatory Barriers

Policy and regulation play a crucial role in shaping the clean energy landscape. However, inconsistent regulations at the federal, state, and local levels can complicate the shift to renewables. States have varying renewable energy standards (RES) and goals, with some aiming for 100% clean energy by specific target dates, while others have less ambitious or no targets at all. These differences create a patchwork of policies that complicate regional cooperation and slow progress.

Furthermore, the permitting process for renewable energy projects can be lengthy and bureaucratic. Local opposition, environmental reviews, and land use conflicts often delay solar and wind farm construction. In some cases, renewable energy projects are met with resistance from local communities concerned about aesthetics, noise, or environmental impact. Streamlining the permitting process while balancing community concerns is essential to expedite clean energy deployment.

3. Financial and Economic Constraints

Transitioning to clean energy requires substantial investment. While the cost of solar and wind technology has fallen dramatically over the past decade, the initial capital required for large-scale deployment remains a barrier. Public funding and private investment are both needed to finance the development of renewable energy facilities, battery storage, and grid upgrades.

State and municipal budgets are often constrained, and competition for funding with other priorities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure maintenance can limit the amount of money allocated to energy projects. Federal programs and incentives, such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the CHIPS Act have provided financial support, but there is still a substantial funding gap that needs to be addressed.

Moreover, there is the challenge of ensuring that the costs of the transition do not disproportionately impact low-income households. Renewable energy initiatives, such as community solar projects, aim to make clean energy accessible to all, but affordability remains a concern. Equitable financing mechanisms, such as on-bill financing and energy efficiency grants, are critical to ensure the benefits of clean energy are distributed fairly.

4. Technological Challenges

Technological innovation is a double-edged sword in the clean energy transition. On the one hand, advances in solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage have made renewable energy more cost-effective and efficient. On the other hand, the rapid pace of technological change poses challenges for cities and states trying to future-proof their investments.

Energy storage is a particularly critical challenge. Solar and wind energy are intermittent, meaning they are only available when the sun shines or the wind blows. To ensure a stable energy supply, cities must invest in energy storage systems that can store excess energy for use during periods of low generation. While battery technology is improving, large-scale energy storage solutions are still expensive and have limited capacity.

Another challenge is the development of smart grids and digital technologies to manage the flow of energy efficiently. Smart grids use sensors, automation, and data analytics to optimize energy distribution and predict demand. However, deploying these systems requires significant investment in software, hardware, and cybersecurity measures to protect against hacking and data breaches.

5. Workforce and Skill Development

The shift to clean energy is not just a technological transition but also a workforce transition. Fossil fuel jobs in coal, oil, and natural gas are being phased out, while new jobs in solar, wind, and energy efficiency are being created. However, the skills required for clean energy jobs are often different from those in traditional energy sectors.

Training and reskilling workers to meet the demands of the clean energy economy is essential to ensure a just transition. Workforce development programs and technical training initiatives can help displaced workers find new opportunities in the renewable energy sector. However, the speed at which this transition occurs can leave some workers behind, especially in regions where fossil fuel industries have historically been major employers.

6. Equity and Environmental Justice

Environmental justice is a crucial consideration in the shift to clean energy. Historically, low-income communities and communities of color have borne the brunt of pollution from fossil fuel power plants and industrial facilities. The clean energy transition provides an opportunity to rectify these injustices, but it also raises new equity challenges.

For instance, low-income households may face difficulties in accessing renewable energy options, like rooftop solar, due to high upfront costs or lack of homeownership. Community solar projects and energy efficiency programs aim to address these disparities, but more comprehensive policies are needed to ensure an equitable transition. Furthermore, the siting of renewable energy projects, such as wind farms or solar installations, must be done in a way that avoids displacing vulnerable communities or exacerbating existing inequalities.

7. Political and Public Support

The clean energy transition is inherently political. Policymakers at all levels of government must balance competing interests, from environmental advocates to fossil fuel industry lobbyists. Public opinion also plays a significant role in shaping energy policy. While most Americans support renewable energy development, there are still pockets of resistance fueled by misinformation, ideological opposition, or economic concerns.

Political leadership is critical to overcoming these barriers. Cities and states with strong political will, clear goals, and community engagement are more likely to achieve their clean energy targets. Building public support through education, transparent decision-making, and community involvement can help reduce opposition and accelerate progress.

How GPRS Assists with Clean Energy Projects

The transition to clean energy in U.S. cities and states is a monumental task. It requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors, from upgrading infrastructure to addressing equity issues. Policy reforms, technological advancements, workforce development, and public support all play critical roles in this transformation.

GPRS supports clean energy projects through our comprehensive suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services. From precision concrete scanning and utility locating to 3D laser scanning and progress documentation, we Intelligently Visualize The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPRS locate PVC piping and other non-conductive utilities?

GPR scanning is exceptionally effective at locating all types of subsurface materials. There are times when PVC pipes do not provide an adequate signal to ground penetrating radar equipment and can’t be properly located by traditional methods. However, GPRS Project Managers are expertly trained at multiple methods of utility locating.

What is as-built 3D documentation?

As-built 3D documentation is an accurate set of drawings for a project. They reflect all changes made during the construction process and show the exact dimensions, geometry, and location of all elements of the work.

Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar transformation.

Renovations to the home of Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas will begin in 2025, according to a press release on the club’s website. HKS Architects and Manhattan Construction Group are overseeing the design and construction of the renovations, respectively.

Funding for the project comes primarily from a $182 million public-private partnership between FC Dallas and the City of Frisco.

The stadium – the third-oldest soccer-specific stadium in MLS – has also been home to Frisco ISD athletic events since 2005.

The renovations will “enhance the guest experience by integrating innovative designs, cutting-edge audio/visual technology and a variety of fan-first amenities,” the press release reads.

“When Toyota Stadium opened in 2005, it was a state-of-the-art facility that was ahead of its time, and the stadium’s success has helped pave the way for dozens of other soccer-specific stadiums across the country,” said FC Dallas Chairman and CEO, Clark Hunt. “Today, we are delighted to announce these renovations which will modernize the stadium and elevate the fan experience, once again establishing Toyota Stadium as one of the premier facilities in Major League Soccer.”

Planned upgrades include:

• A visually distinctive roof structure which will provide shade for most fans in the seating bowl
• Expanded seating capacity
• Improved ingress and egress
• New concession stands and bathroom locations
• Advanced audio-visual technology
• Upgraded media facilities
• An upgraded field drainage system for more efficient water clearance
• The largest video board in MLS in a soccer-specific venue

Construction will occur in phases, with work on the east side of the stadium slated to begin after the FCS Championship game on Monday, January 6, 2025.

"…I am grateful for the leadership of Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney, the Frisco Independent School District, Frisco City Council, Frisco Community Development Corporation, Frisco Economic Development Corporation and Frisco city leaders for their vision and partnership as we worked through the process to reach this agreement,” said FC Dallas President Dan Hunt. “The new Toyota Stadium will set the standard for modern hospitality and will continue to be a cornerstone of the Frisco community. All of us at FC Dallas are excited for our fans, partners and players to experience this state-of-the-art facility.”

The west side of the stadium will remain operational during the 2025 MLS season. According to the press release, FC Dallas plans to continue hosting MLS matches at the stadium throughout the renovation process. The entire project is expected to be completed in early 2028.

“We are grateful to Clark and Dan Hunt for being part of an already successful public-private partnership that will span the next 30 years,” said Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney. “This stadium was built more than 20 years ago on an empty field which, at the time, seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. Today, Toyota Stadium is synonymous with championships, marquee events and youth development leagues not to mention being home to Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas. We embrace Toyota Stadium as an important part of our history, culture and economic success.”

The History of Major League Soccer’s Soccer-Specific Stadiums

When MLS kicked off its inaugural season in 1996, the majority of its 10 founding teams shared a venue with an American football team.

“When the original business model came together, there was no plan for soccer stadiums,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber told Yahoo! Sports in a 2016 interview. “They thought that MLS would play in everybody else’s large buildings as a secondary tenant.”

According to a 2017 article in Soccer Stadium Digest, the term “soccer-specific” stadium was coined by the late Lamar Hunt, father of brothers Clark and Dan of FC Dallas, and principal founder of MLS, the North American Soccer League (NASL), and the American Football League.

Lamar – who is also credited as inventing the term “Superbowl” as the name for the championship game between the AFL and NFL – came up with the term “soccer-specific” to describe the first purpose-built, professional soccer stadium in MLS. Dubbed MAPFRE Stadium, it opened in 1999 in Columbus, Ohio and served as the home stadium of the Columbus Crew until 2021. Lamar financed the construction of the facility himself.

“The idea behind soccer-specific venues was to create stadiums that were more akin to the European model – spaces facilitating more intimate and engaged fan experiences,” the article in Soccer Stadium Digest reads. “A soccer-specific stadium typically has amenities and scale suitable for soccer in North America, with capacity between 18,000-30,000, seats close to the pitch and at pitch level, and it is often topped by a roof to channel sound and create further intimacy.”

Garber assumed the role of MLS Commissioner the same year MAPFRE Stadium opened, and he spearheaded a league expansion model centered around facility development. The idea was that the league and its member clubs could control ticket and sponsorship revenue if they had their own stadiums.

Toyota Stadium opened in 2005. From 2007 to 2017, ten more soccer-specific stadiums were built for MLS clubs.

Three MLS stadiums opened in 2021 alone, including FC Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, where GPRS’ 3D laser scanning services helped identify discrepancies between what was designed and what was built before these errors could derail the construction of the facility.

Click here to learn more about our 3D laser scanning services. Then click below to schedule a service or request a quote today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of 3D laser scanning?

• Millions of real-world data points—A single laser can capture up to a million 3D data points per second, providing incredibly rich detail of every aspect of your project
• Eliminate error—Individual measurements acquired by tape measures or hand-held devices are subject to errors. Laser scanning is the most accurate form of measurement available, delivering accuracy of a few millimeters or less
• Answers unanticipated questions—How many times have you left the job site only to discover you need a few more measurements? A 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) scanning will capture extra data, eliminating the need to return to the project to answer unanticipated questions
• Reduce change orders and waste—The cost of a laser scan pales in comparison to the cost of change orders and construction delays. Incorporating a laser scan into the design of your project assures accurate and complete information, avoiding costly headaches, clashes and wasted material during the construction phase
• Minimize shut-down times—Laser scanning is quick, safe and non-intrusive – eliminating or minimizing operational shutdowns and client inconvenience
• Increase safety—3D scanning can obtain measurements in hazardous locations while keeping workers out of harm’s way

What is LiDAR?

LiDAR is a remote sensing method used to generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of an object and its surface characteristics. Much like radar systems that employ radio waves to measure objects, LiDAR uses lasers to calculate the distance of objects with light pulses from 3D laser scanners, gathering 3D information about an object.

What is as-built documentation?

As-built 3D documentation is an accurate set of drawings for a project. They reflect all changes made in during the construction process and show the exact dimensions, geometry, and location of all elements of the work.

Designing and constructing energy-efficient research laboratories present unique challenges due to the specialized requirements of these facilities.

Laboratories are among the most energy-intensive building types, consuming significantly more energy per square foot than typical office spaces. This high energy demand arises from the need for precise environmental controls, specialized equipment, and stringent safety standards.

Achieving energy efficiency in such settings requires a comprehensive approach that addresses design complexities, technological integration, regulatory compliance, and operational practices.

High Energy Consumption in Laboratories

Research laboratories require controlled environments to ensure the accuracy and integrity of experiments. This necessitates advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, often operating continuously to maintain specific temperature, humidity, and air quality standards. Additionally, equipment such as fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and analytical instruments contribute to substantial energy usage. For instance, fume hoods, which are essential for ventilating hazardous fumes, can consume as much energy as three to four homes annually. The continuous operation of these systems leads to high energy consumption, making energy efficiency a critical concern in laboratory design.

Design Challenges

1. Ventilation Requirements: Laboratories necessitate high ventilation rates to ensure occupant safety and maintain air quality. Traditional constant air volume (CAV) systems provide a steady airflow, but they can be energy intensive. Implementing variable air volume (VAV) systems, which adjust airflow based on real-time demand, can enhance energy efficiency. However, designing VAV systems that meet safety standards while reducing energy consumption requires careful planning and advanced control strategies.
2. Thermal Loads: The heat generated by laboratory equipment adds to the building's thermal load, increasing cooling demands. Effective strategies to manage this include optimizing equipment placement, utilizing energy-efficient devices, and implementing heat recovery systems to reclaim and reuse waste heat.
3. Lighting: Laboratories require high-quality lighting for detailed tasks. Incorporating energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED fixtures, along with daylighting strategies, can reduce energy consumption. However, balancing natural light to avoid glare and maintain consistent illumination levels is essential to ensure both energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Technological Integration

Advancements in building technologies offer opportunities to enhance energy efficiency in laboratories:

• Building Automation Systems (BAS): Integrating BAS allows for centralized monitoring and control of HVAC, lighting, and security systems. These systems can optimize energy use by adjusting settings based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions
• Energy Recovery Systems: Implementing energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) can capture waste energy from exhaust air and reuse it to condition incoming fresh air, reducing the load on HVAC systems
• Renewable Energy Sources: Incorporating on-site renewable energy generation, such as solar panels, can offset a portion of the laboratory's energy consumption, contributing to sustainability goals

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards

Laboratories must adhere to stringent safety regulations, which can sometimes conflict with energy efficiency measures. For example, reducing ventilation rates to save energy must not compromise air quality or occupant safety. Collaborating with safety experts during the design phase ensures that energy-efficient solutions comply with all necessary regulations.

Operational Practices

Beyond design and construction, operational practices significantly impact a laboratory's energy efficiency:

• Equipment Management: Encouraging the use of energy-efficient equipment and ensuring regular maintenance can prevent energy wastage. Implementing equipment scheduling and utilizing standby modes during non-operational hours can further reduce energy consumption
• Occupant Behavior: Training laboratory personnel on energy-saving practices, such as closing fume hood sashes when not in use and turning off unused equipment, can lead to substantial energy savings

Case Study: All-Electric Research Laboratory in New York City

A notable example of addressing these challenges is the construction of an all-electric research laboratory in New York City.

According to Propmodo, this facility has become a pioneer in integrating energy-efficient design within the constraints of an urban environment. By utilizing advanced HVAC systems, energy-efficient lighting, and renewable energy sources, the laboratory achieves high performance while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. This project demonstrates that with innovative design and technology integration, it is possible to construct energy-efficient laboratories even in densely populated urban settings.

GPRS supports construction projects of all shapes and sizes through our comprehensive suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to mark out the utilities that GPRS locates?

No, GPRS locates and maps all the utilities we mark out for you. We have achieved and maintain a 99.8%+ rate of accuracy when conducting utility locates.

What deliverables does GPRS offer when conducting a video pipe inspection?

GPRS is proud to offer WinCan reporting to our Video Pipe Inspection (VPI) clients. Maintaining sewers starts with understanding sewer condition, and WinCan allows GPRS Project Managers to collect detailed, NASSCO-compliant inspection data. GPRS Project Managers not only inspect the interior condition of sewer pipes, laterals, and manholes – they can also provide a map of their location. The GPRS Mapping & Modeling Department can provide detailed GPS overlays and CAD files. Our detailed WinCan/NASSCO reports contain screenshots of the interior condition of the pipe segments that we inspect, as well as a video file for further evaluation, documentation, and/or reference.

If it seems like new electrification projects are everywhere these days, you’re not imagining things. According to Electrical Construction & Maintenance Magazine (EC&M), the electrical industry is closing out a banner year in 2024.

“Combined, the 2024 EC&M Top 50 (contractors) logged a record $51.737 billion in revenue… Up nearly 18%... That was the sharpest year-over-year revenue increase on record for the cohort.” – EC&M Magazine

Led by the continued surge in new data center construction (for the seventh year running), 93% of the Top 50 contractors reported either meeting their revenue expectations (36%) or exceeding expected earnings (57%). Just 7% of the top electrical contractors in the U.S. say they did not meet their revenue goals, and a full 60% said they kept their profit margins steady through 2023.

Rounding out the top five electrical market segments were manufacturing, health care, wind and solar renewable energy, and power utilities/transmission/delivery. Manufacturing and health care were repeats in the top sectors category, but renewables and utilities crept into the top five. This shift could represent more seismic movements in the industry, as retail, private office, and hotels were dead last, oil, gas, and chemical “fell away,” while renewables saw a sizeable uptick and residential and government projects made their presence felt.

Many of the top contractors cited their ability to maintain flexibility and diversity in project scope as a key to their success. For instance, several contractors feel that data centers now qualify as “core infrastructure” projects and remain bullish on that front. However, they are pushing to diversify, in both project and geographical scope. One top contractor has invested their energies into the municipal water and wastewater space in Texas, citing a lighter labor load and longer-running jobs as part of the attraction.

Another is diversifying into battery production facilities, automotive, and other hyperscale (in excess of 100 MW) projects as they move away from health care. And one of New York’s biggest contractors is replacing its sluggish commercial construction portfolio with renewables and green energy projects.

“We’re seeing clients consider more initiatives, like microgrids, fuel, cells, solar, hydro, and fully electric buildings.” – Anthony Mann, President and CEO of E-J Electric Installation Co.

With all this electrification going on, the #1 challenge cited by top contractors is attracting and retaining a talented, skilled workforce. 82% of electrical contractors added workforce in 2023 and 91% expected to continue increasing their team in 2025. 86% agree that labor shortages are complicating their efforts to scale and diversify, which tracks with the rest of construction industry overall.

The biggest of the hiring challenges is finding and retaining skilled electrical foremen. Some of the contractors cite the retirement of older workers and difficulty in retaining a greener workforce to season them.

“The skill set on the job site is not what it used to be. We have a history in the industry of rewarding great craftsmen with supervisory roles, and now we’re losing more of those foremen and adding lower-skilled people. The weakest link is the front-line field supervisor.” – Greg Padalecki, CEO, Alterman, Inc.

“Our approach to mitigating the shortage is organic development of a diversified workforce. There’s a general lack of awareness of opportunities in the industry, so we’d like to make underutilized groups more aware of them. The industry has outgrown the traditional avenues for hiring for electrical roles.” – Ron Mortimer, Senior Vice President Commercial Strategy, ArchKey Solutions

Many of EC&M’s Top 50 are undertaking new initiatives to draw new tradespeople to the craft in an attempt to “bridge the gap… and produce a steady supply of skilled professionals to meet our project demands,” says Gaylor Electric’s CEO, Chuck Goodrich.

No one sees those demands easing anytime soon. Plus, the requirement for project labor agreements (PLAs) on any federally funded project exceeding $35 million adds another layer complexity to recruiting and retention and could increase labor costs. But the top contractors are evenly split as to whether the impact of PLAs will be positive or negative on their bottom lines.

Another federal initiative that is being met with enthusiasm is the outpouring of Infrastructure and Jobs Act moneys into the sector. EC&M found that 2023-2024 saw a “change in thinking” about how infrastructure spending would impact revenue. Fewer companies cite infrastructure monies as driving new project revenue, but 61% report a 0-5% impact on their bottom line, up 13% from 2022.

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Of those anticipating an infrastructure impact, EV charging installers lead the pack, along with renewables and electrical grid improvements. 56% of contractors expect to enter the EV and renewables markets in 2024-2025.

“The level of activity being talked about is higher than in the past, and we’re at our high in terms of revenues,” he says. “Not too many developers are saying the cost of money is giving them pause.” – John Axelson, Hunt Electric, Inc. President and CEO.

While supply chain issues have finally eased, “the situation requires adaptations on all ends,” according to EC&M, including the need to adapt to income AI applications. At present, most in the industry are studying AI “from a more rudimentary angle,” and are mainly using it for analyzing data. The sector seems more interested in how other technologies, like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) might impact their jobsites.

The biggest use for AR and VR technology as the contractors see it is in training, planning, and collaboration.

Overall, the biggest takeaways from 2023 moving into 2024 for the electrical industry look like a changing landscape re: types of projects requiring updated, more technical skill sets, retaining experienced workers, and attracting new tradespeople who want to be in the electrical contracting space long-term in their career.

It seems, at least for the top contractors on EC&M’s list, they’re going with the flow into a more prosperous future.

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GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World® for the Power, Solar, Wind, EV, Transportation and Commercial Construction industries, among others. What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

How does GPRS help electrical contractors?

GPRS assists electrical contractors by providing precision utility locating, concrete scanning, and 3D site visualization. Their services help identify buried utilities, structural elements, and potential obstructions, minimizing risk, reducing costly delays, and enhancing project safety. Contractors benefit from accurate as-built models and CAD deliverables for project planning and execution. Explore GPRS’s services for electrical contractors here.

Does GPRS support work in the green energy sector?

Yes, GPRS supports green energy projects, including wind, solar, and other renewable energy developments. Their services include utility mapping, crane path scanning, and infrastructure analysis, which reduce risk and improve project timelines. Their 3D laser scanning and BIM deliverables aid in site planning, ensuring precise execution. Learn more about their green energy support here.

How does GPRS support the installation of EV infrastructure?

GPRS supports EV infrastructure development with underground utility mapping, concrete scanning, and 3D visualization services. By accurately locating utilities and identifying structural barriers, they streamline EV charger installation, minimize delays, and reduce safety risks. Their work supports leading EV networks like Tesla and ChargePoint. Discover more about GPRS’s role in EV infrastructure here.

The construction industry is a fast-paced environment. Deadlines are tight, margins are narrow, and the pressure to deliver on time is relentless.

While speed is often seen as a competitive advantage, prioritizing it above all else can result in significant issues. From compromised safety to higher costs and diminished quality, the consequences of rushing construction projects are both immediate and long-term.

A recent Construction Dive article highlighted the top concerns of structural engineers, revealing that the push for speed is a major factor influencing project outcomes. As industry professionals seek to accelerate timelines, understanding the potential pitfalls of haste becomes essential for developers, contractors, and stakeholders alike.

Safety Risks and Worker Well-Being

One of the most concerning consequences of prioritizing speed in construction is the increased risk to worker safety. Rushing through tasks often results in overlooked safety protocols, insufficient site inspections, and incomplete hazard assessments. Workers are more likely to skip essential safety measures or use improper tools and equipment when deadlines are looming.

According to Construction Dive’s reporting, structural engineers have expressed growing concern over rushed schedules, especially in large-scale infrastructure projects. Without adequate time to review site conditions or ensure that safety measures are in place, the likelihood of on-site injuries and fatalities increases. This issue not only threatens the well-being of workers but also exposes construction firms to potential lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) highlights that falls, struck-by incidents, and equipment-related accidents are among the "Fatal Four" causes of construction site fatalities. When workers are pressured to move quickly, these risks are amplified. Mitigating them requires more than adherence to OSHA standards—it demands a cultural shift that prioritizes safety over speed.

Compromised Quality and Structural Deficiencies

Speed-driven construction often sacrifices quality. When contractors are pressured to meet aggressive timelines, attention to detail can falter. Materials may not be installed according to manufacturer guidelines, and inspections may be rushed or skipped altogether. This can lead to latent defects, such as improper concrete curing, misaligned structural components, or undetected cracks and leaks.

Structural engineers are increasingly wary of fast-tracked projects, especially those that reduce the time allocated for engineering reviews. Without sufficient time for thorough analysis, there is a greater risk of structural deficiencies that may only become apparent after project completion. Defective construction can result in costly repairs, delays, and even catastrophic failures.

Design changes often occur during construction. When speed is a priority, these modifications may not be fully vetted. Coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors can break down, leading to inconsistencies in plans and execution. These issues can be difficult to identify until after the project is complete, at which point remediation costs skyrocket.

Increased Project Costs and Rework

Ironically, the quest for speed in construction often leads to higher costs. While the intention is to reduce labor hours and meet deadlines, the reality is that mistakes caused by haste frequently require costly rework. Rework includes tearing down and rebuilding flawed components, replacing substandard materials, and fixing systems that were improperly installed.

Industry research has shown that rework can account for as much as 5-15% of a project's total cost. For large infrastructure projects, this can mean millions of dollars in unexpected expenses. The financial impact is compounded when delays caused by rework push back project completion, leading to penalties for late delivery.

Fast-tracked projects often fail to allow sufficient time for design review and clash detection. Without adequate time for these processes, unforeseen design conflicts emerge during construction, resulting in costly on-site changes. Digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) can help identify potential clashes, but when speed is prioritized, these processes may be abbreviated or skipped entirely.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Material Shortages

A fast-track approach requires precise coordination with suppliers and subcontractors. However, supply chain disruptions—such as material delays, labor shortages, or equipment backorders—can derail even the most well-intentioned project timelines. In an environment where just-in-time delivery is standard practice, any disruption can cause cascading delays.

Material shortages, like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, further complicate speed-driven schedules. Contractors may be forced to source alternative materials or accept substandard options, leading to quality issues down the line. Additionally, expedited shipping and last-minute sourcing come at a premium, driving up project costs.

Reduced Collaboration and Communication Breakdowns

Effective communication is essential for any construction project. However, when speed takes precedence, communication can become fragmented. Team members may be less inclined to raise concerns or seek clarification for fear of causing delays. As a result, miscommunication can lead to errors, rework, and disputes.

Collaboration between structural engineers, architects, and construction managers is vital. Without clear lines of communication, design flaws can go unnoticed until they become major issues. Fast-track projects often have less time for coordination meetings and fewer opportunities for collaborative problem-solving, increasing the likelihood of misunderstandings and errors.

Regulatory Compliance and Legal Exposure

Compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations is non-negotiable in construction. However, when speed is the primary goal, there is a tendency to cut corners or "overlook" certain regulatory requirements. Insufficient time for permit approvals and inspections can lead to non-compliance, which in turn results in fines, work stoppages, and legal battles.

Construction Dive reports that regulatory compliance is a key concern for structural engineers who see fast-tracked schedules as a threat to code adherence. Construction firms that bypass necessary approvals or fail to conduct proper inspections face significant liability. Legal exposure extends to project owners, developers, and subcontractors, who may all be held responsible for non-compliance.

How to Mitigate the Risks of Speed-Driven Construction

Given the significant risks posed by speed-focused construction, it’s essential to implement measures that prioritize safety, quality, and efficiency. Here are some strategies to strike a balance between speed and precision:

1. Plan Realistic Schedules: Avoid "crash scheduling" and instead create timelines that account for design reviews, inspections, and site preparation.
2. Invest in Technology: Use tools like BIM to detect design clashes early and ensure proper coordination among stakeholders.
3. Prioritize Safety Training: Emphasize safety as a core value, provide ongoing training, and encourage workers to report hazards without fear of retribution.
4. Build Contingencies: Allocate time and budget for potential disruptions, including rework, delays, and supply chain issues.
5. Enhance Communication: Foster open communication among architects, engineers, and contractors, and schedule regular collaboration meetings.
6. Commit to Regulatory Compliance: Designate a compliance officer to oversee regulatory adherence, permit approvals, and inspection protocols.

How GPRS Helps Keep Construction Projects On Time, On Budget & Safe

GPRS can help keep your projects not only on schedule, but also on budget and safe through our suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services.

Dig, cut or core with confidence knowing our SIM-certified Project Managers accurately located and mapped all buried utilities on your jobsite. We use state-of-the-art technology, including ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) locating to tell you where it’s safe to break ground – and where doing so could have disastrous consequences.

Our 3D laser scanning and mapping & modeling services visualize everything on your site – including what’s above and belowground – so you can plan efficiently.

And all this accurate, actionable data is at your fingertips 24/7 thanks to SiteMap^® (patent pending), our project & facility management application that provides accurate existing conditions documentation to protect your assets and people.

From skyscrapers to sewer lines, GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPRS utility locating services find PVC piping and other non-conductive utilities?

GPR scanning is exceptionally effective at locating all types of subsurface materials. There are times when PVC pipes do not provide an adequate signal to ground penetrating radar equipment and can’t be properly located by traditional methods. However, GPRS Project Managers are expertly trained at multiple methods of utility locating.

How is GPR used to identify tendons vs. rebar in a post-tensioned slab?

In post-tensioned structures, we typically find one mat of support rebar near the base of the slab. This mat is generally consistently spaced and remains at a constant elevation. Post-tension cables are generally found above this support mat and “draped” throughout the rest of the structure. The elevation of the cable is usually high near the beams and column lines and drapes lower through the span between beams and column lines. Knowledge of these structural differences allows us to accurately differentiate between components. Our Project Managers will leave you feeling confident in our findings and in your ability to drill or cut without issue.

What deliverables can GPRS’ 3D laser scanning, and mapping & modeling services provide?

We can provide 3D modeling in many formats such as:

• Point Cloud Data (Raw Data)
• 2D CAD Drawings
• 3D Non-Intelligent Models
• 3D BIM Models
• JetStream Viewer

Customizable Deliverables Upon Request

• Aerial Photogrammetry
• Comparative Analysis
• Deformation Analysis
• Digital Drawings of GPR Markings
• Floor Flatness Analysis/Contour Mapping
• New Construction Accuracy Analysis/Comparative Analysis
• Point Cloud Modeling Training Webinars
• Reconciliation of Clients 2D Design Drawings
• Reconciliation of Clients 3D Design Model
• Structural Steel Shape Probability Analysis
• Template Modeling
• Volume Calculations
• Wall Plumb Analysis

Concrete cutting, drilling, and coring are essential tasks in commercial construction projects, and they come with significant safety hazards that must be mitigated for worker and jobsite safety. General contractors must be aware of these risks to protect workers, avoid costly delays, and comply with safety regulations.

What are the five biggest risk factors on a jobsite when cutting into concrete? Potential electrocution, an incurable lung condition, and hearing loss are just some of the risks that must be addressed before you cut, core, or drill into a concrete slab.

1. Silica Dust Exposure

Silica dust is released when concrete is cut, drilled, or ground. Inhalation of respirable crystalline silica can lead to silicosis, a debilitating lung disease. Long-term exposure is also linked to lung cancer, kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Key Statistics:

• According to OSHA, over 2.3 million U.S. workers are exposed to silica dust annually, with construction workers being at the highest risk.

• The permissible exposure limit (PEL) set by OSHA for respirable crystalline silica is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, averaged over an 8-hour shift.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Use Wet Cutting Techniques: Applying water at the source reduces airborne silica dust.

• Ventilation and Dust Collection Systems: Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) captures dust at its source.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure workers wear N95 respirators or other approved respiratory protection.

• Training and Monitoring: Educate workers on the dangers of silica dust and monitor air quality on-site.

Industry Insight:

"Employers must prioritize engineering controls and respiratory protection to prevent silica exposure. Compliance with OSHA’s silica standard is non-negotiable for worker health and project success." — John Howard, Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

2. Equipment-Related Injuries

Concrete cutting and coring require powerful equipment like saws, drills, and coring machines. Misuse or equipment failure can result in severe injuries, including cuts, lacerations, and amputations.

Key Statistics:

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that "contact with objects and equipment" is one of the top five causes of workplace injuries in construction.

• Saws and drills account for a large share of construction-related amputations, with power tools listed as a leading cause.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Regular Equipment Inspections: Conduct daily inspections for worn blades, damaged cords, and other mechanical defects.

• Operator Training: Ensure only trained personnel operate concrete cutting and coring equipment.

• Use Machine Guards: Equip tools with guards and safety switches to prevent accidental contact.

• Emergency Stop Mechanisms: Install easily accessible emergency stop buttons on all machinery.

Industry Insight:

"Well-maintained equipment and proper operator training are critical. Small lapses in safety procedures can have life-changing consequences for workers.” – Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)

3. Electrical Hazards

Concrete cutting and coring can inadvertently strike live electrical conduits embedded in concrete walls, floors, or slabs, posing a risk of electrocution or electrical burns.

Key Statistics:

• Electrocution is one of OSHA’s "Fatal Four" causes of construction worker deaths, accounting for 8.6% of all construction fatalities annually.

• More than 30,000 non-fatal electrical injuries are reported each year in the U.S., according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Utility Locating: Use ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or electromagnetic detection to identify electrical conduits before cutting or coring.

• De-energization Procedures: Shut off and lock out electrical systems in the work area.

• Insulated Tools and Equipment: Use insulated tools and avoid conductive materials.

• Training and Awareness: Ensure workers understand the risk of electrical hazards and the importance of pre-cutting inspections.

4. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

The use of saws, drills, and coring machines generates high-decibel noise that can cause hearing loss over time. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dB) can lead to permanent hearing damage.

Key Statistics:

• The CDC reports that approximately 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels annually.

• OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) for workplace noise is 90 dB over an 8-hour shift, with a recommended action level of 85 dB.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Hearing Protection: Require workers to wear earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs.

• Noise Barriers and Soundproofing: Use sound barriers or enclosures around loud equipment.

• Job Rotation: Limit worker exposure to high-noise areas by rotating assignments.

• Noise Monitoring: Conduct noise exposure assessments using dosimeters and ensure compliance with OSHA’s hearing conservation program.

Industry Insight:

"Hearing loss is cumulative and irreversible. Implementing a hearing conservation program is vital to protect workers in construction environments." — Dr. Richard Neitzel, Associate Professor of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan

5. Structural Instability and Collapse

Cutting or coring concrete can compromise the structural integrity of the material, potentially leading to partial or total collapse. This risk increases when cutting into load-bearing elements or working in confined spaces.

Key Statistics:

• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) highlights "structural collapse" as a leading cause of fatalities in construction.

• OSHA’s Confined Space Standard mandates specific procedures for working in confined spaces where collapse hazards exist.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Structural Assessment: Consult structural engineers before cutting into load-bearing elements.

• Shoring and Bracing: Use temporary supports to prevent collapse.

• Controlled Cutting Techniques: Use controlled demolition methods, such as wire saws, to maintain structural integrity.

• Confined Space Procedures: Follow OSHA’s Confined Space Entry Standard to protect workers in enclosed areas.

Industry Insight:

"Structural stability must be assessed before any cutting activity. Collaborate with structural engineers to avoid unintentional damage that can compromise safety." — Sarah Blake, Senior Structural Engineer, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Concrete cutting and coring are inherently risky activities. However, with proper planning, worker training, and adherence to safety protocols, the risks can be significantly reduced. Mitigating the five risks detailed above helps to ensure a safer work environment. By integrating industry best practices, general contractors can protect workers, maintain regulatory compliance, and avoid costly project delays. Prioritizing worker safety is not only a legal obligation but a moral responsibility that enhances operational efficiency and project outcomes.

GPRS sponsors Concrete Sawing & Drilling Safety Week each January to help construction companies keep their teams safer. We bring our safety experts to you January 27-31, 2025. Click below to learn more about this complimentary concrete safety training and schedule your CSDSW talk.

GPRS’ precision concrete scanning & imaging services saved a contractor from coring through banded post tension cable – preventing tens of thousands of dollars in damage and keeping everyone on site safe in the process.

GPRS Senior Project Manager Brad Oberklaus was called out to a multi-story bank building in downtown Spokane, Washington, where the client was tasked with coring through a post-tensioned concrete slab to run plumbing and electrical.

“Rebar was less of a concern, but they wanted to avoid it, if possible,” Oberklaus said.

What is Post-Tensioned Concrete?

Post-tensioned systems consist of a series of high-strength steel cables embedded within concrete slabs that, once stressed, support the loads imposed on the slabs. The cables are commonly called “tendons.”

Post-tensioned cable systems reinforce concrete, allowing structures to require fewer beams, longer clear spans, more slender elements, and thinner slabs. This helps to reduce the amount of concrete required for construction, also reducing the weight and height of the building. Lower building weight and height can contribute to savings in terms of facade and mechanical system costs. There will also be a lesser load on the foundation.

Post tension cable location, spacing, and depth are determined by an engineer, and are specific to each project.

Post-Tensioned Concrete Cutting Safety

Drilling, cutting, or coring into a post-tension slab can be dangerous. It is important to avoid hitting the cables when cutting or drilling for construction or renovation. Each tendon pulls 24,000 to 33,000 lbs. of pressure. Damaging a cable when cutting, coring, or drilling into a slab can cause a tendon to burst with enough force to cause severe injury or death, and impact the structural integrity of the slab.

This is why it is important to locate post-tension cable systems when finishing or repairing buildings or structures. An accurate layout of post-tension cables protects tendons from damage, prevents injury and mistakes, and protects the integrity of the building.

Our client had initially hired a different concrete scanning company to clear coring locations at the bank building. But when Oberklaus demonstrated to them the level of accuracy inherent in GPRS’ concrete scanning process, they requested that he re-scan the areas which had been cleared by the other company.

“The first two locations I scanned were directly on top of banded cables, which were missed by the other scanner,” Oberklaus explained. “While I was on site, the customer called the previous scanner to get a walkthrough of the findings from their scans and he was told he was clear to drill in the locations I detected cables. This was enough to convince the customer to expand my scope and re-scan everything.”

GPRS Project Managers have achieved and maintain an industry-leading 99.8%+ rate of accuracy when locating utilities and scanning concrete slabs. This is thanks to our innovative, industry-leading training program, centered around the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM).

Subsurface Investigation Methodology Explained

SIM is the first comprehensive specification for professional utility locators and concrete scanning technicians. It aims to raise the quality of subsurface investigations by combining the requirements of experienced-based training, tested technologies, and proven application methods to create an industry standard for these vital practices.

All GPRS Project Managers are required to achieve SIM certification, a process that involves completing a minimum of 320 hours of field training and 80 hours of classroom training. SIM also requires that all utility locates and concrete scans involve the use of multiple technologies, ensuring that the results are repeatable and accurate.

Oberklaus deployed a ground penetrating radar (GPR) concrete scanning antenna and electromagnetic (EM) locator to accurately locate all PT cable and conduits embedded within the Spokane bank’s slabs.

GPR scanners emit radio waves into the ground or a surface such as concrete, then detect the interactions between those waves and any buried objects. These interactions are displayed in a GPR readout as a series of hyperbolas, which GPRS Project Managers can interpret to determine what type of objects are located and the approximate depth of those obstructions.

EM locators detect the electromagnetic signals radiating from metallic pipes and cables. These signals can be created by the locator’s transmitter applying current to the pipe, from current flow in a live electrical cable, or from a conductive pipe acting as an antenna and re-radiating signals from stray electrical fields and communications transmissions.

GPR scanning and EM locating act as perfect compliments to each other when locating buried utilities and performing precision concrete scanning, achieving the redundancy and repeatable results required by SIM. Using these technologies, Oberklaus was able to locate and map the banded PT cable the other locating company missed.

“I was able to mitigate significant damage and threats to safety,” he said.

The Green Box Guarantee

GPRS is so confident in the accuracy of the concrete scanning services provided by our SIM-certified Project Managers that we introduced the Green Box Guarantee.

When we place a Green Box within a layout prior to you anchoring or coring that concrete, we guarantee that the area within the box will be free of obstructions.

If we’re wrong, we agree to pay the material cost of the damage.

Concrete Sawing & Drilling Safety Week Returns January 27-31

GPRS’ commitment to you and your team’s safety is what sparked us to create and sponsor Concrete Sawing & Drilling Safety Week, which will return January 27-31, 2025.

During this week, our safety experts will travel across the country to deliver free safety programs designed to give you and your team the tools necessary tools to stay safe when working with and around concrete.

Click here to schedule your free CSDSW safety talk today!

Whether we’re aiding you with subsurface damage prevention, providing existing conditions documentation, or assisting you with your construction project and/or facilities management, GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World^® to keep you on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPR determine the difference between rebar and electrical conduit?

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) can accurately differentiate between rebar and electrical conduit in most cases. We have an extremely high success rate in identifying electrical lines in supported slabs or slabs-on-grade before saw cutting or core drilling.

Additionally, GPRS can use electromagnetic (EM) locators to determine the location of conduits in the concrete. If we can transmit a signal onto the metal conduit, we can locate it with pinpoint accuracy. We can also find the conduit passively if a live electrical current runs through it.

The combined use of GPR and EM locating allows us to provide one of the most comprehensive and accurate conduits locating services available.

How is GPR used to identify tendons vs. rebar in a post-tensioned slab?

In post-tensioned structures, we typically find one mat of support rebar near the base of the slab. This mat is generally consistently spaced and remains at a constant elevation. Post-tension cables are generally found above this support mat and “draped” throughout the rest of the structure. The elevation of the cable is usually high near the beams and column lines and drapes lower through the span between beams and column lines. Knowledge of these structural differences allows us to accurately differentiate between components. Our Project Managers will leave you feeling confident in our findings and in your ability to drill or cut without issue.

Two New York City firms have joined forces to revitalize a derelict neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan, with a series of adaptive reuse projects.

Peterson Rich Office (PRO) and the Office of Strategy and Design (OSD) worked together to transform the neighborhood known as Little Village, replacing what was a series of parking lots, alleyways, and vacant lots with an interlocking series of parks centered around a pedestrian walkway dubbed the Nave. Formerly a desolate alley, the Nave leads to a 110-year-old Romanesque church that has been repurposed into a cultural arts center called The Shepherd.

According to an Architect Magazine article that details the project, PRO was careful to honor the church’s integrity while modifying it to accommodate new programming such as gallery spaces, live performances, and art installations. The Shepherd opened in late 2024 with a retrospective on the life and career of prominent Detroit artist Charles McGee (1942–2021), creator of the “Unity” mural seen on the exterior of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Little Village also honors the artist with the Charles McGee Legacy Park, which features large-scale sculptures McGee conceptualized before his death.

The Little Village Library, which was curated by Asmaa Walton of Black Art Library and honors artists of color who have made significant contributions to the arts in Michigan, is also housed within the Shepherd.

The Little Village project was conceived by Anthony and JJ Curis, co-founders of Library Street Collective, an art gallery supporting Detroit’s burgeoning arts scene. And the project is ongoing; it was announced in May that Little Village will soon expand to include a waterfront redevelopment.

“The Shepherd reshapes an institution that built community around religion, to one that will build community around the arts,” PRO Principals Miriam Peterson and Nathan Rich said in a joint statement to Architect Magazine. “Anthony and JJ's commitment to expanding access to arts in the city of Detroit is nothing short of transformational. Our firm is honored to play a role in this special project.”

In addition to the Shepherd, other adaptive-reuse projects within the Little Village campus include:

• ALEO: A boutique bed-and-breakfast aimed at hosting artists and guests seeking a cultural retreat. Featuring works from nearly 30 Detroit artists or those with deep Detroit roots, ALEO also serves as the headquarters for McArthur Binion’s Foundation and nonprofit organization Modern Ancient Brown, which provides residencies, mentorship, and resources to BIPOC artists and writers
• Bridgehouse: Two former farmhouses that have been converted into culinary spaces by Ishtiaq Rafiuddin of Detroit-based studio, Undecorated. Bridgehouse will feature a new pâtisserie (a bakery specializing in pastries and sweets) by James Beard award-winning chef Warda Bouguettaya
• Father Forgive Me: A cocktail bar that will occupy the church’s former garage
• The LANTERN: A former-bakery-turned-mixed-use space housing arts non-profits, affordable artists’ studies, and a recording studio for a local record label, as well as retail and culinary endeavors.

Detroit Revitalization Efforts Ongoing

The Little Village project is just one piece in the yearslong, ongoing efforts to revitalize the Motor City.

The city was named to the Best Place to Go in North America & the Caribbean in 2024 list by Condé Nast Traveler, and Where to Go in 2024 by AFAR.

"This recognition of Detroit is a testament to Detroiters and their hospitality that reveals to visitors and locals alike a sense of the possible, all done with a smile or knowing head nod,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in a statement on the organization’s website. “Detroit’s recognition is a source of pride for all Michiganders and highlights the collective efforts of the state's vibrant communities, innovative entrepreneurs and dedicated workforce that make our state a remarkable place to live and visit. As we celebrate this honor, trust and believe, we know that we must continue to invest in the city to sustain the momentum that this recognition underscores.”

How can GPRS Assist Adaptive Reuse Projects?

GPRS 3D laser scanning services empower architects with detailed 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling them to design adaptive reuse and retrofit initiatives. This allows for the exploration of various building aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability strategies within a virtual environment.  

Using the most advanced laser scanning technology, GPRS deploys expert Project Managers to accurately capture the precise dimensions and measurements of your project site.

The GPRS Mapping & Modeling Team provides comprehensive point cloud data, 2D CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models to enhance project collaboration and coordination.

GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

What deliverables can GPRS provide?

We can provide 3D modeling in many formats such as:

• Point Cloud Data (Raw Data)
• 2D CAD Drawings
• 3D Non-Intelligent Models
• 3D BIM Models
• JetStream Viewer

Customizable Deliverables Upon Request:

• Aerial Photogrammetry
• Comparative Analysis
• Deformation Analysis
• Digital Drawings of GPR Markings
• Floor Flatness Analysis/Contour Mapping
• New Construction Accuracy Analysis/Comparative Analysis
• Point Cloud Modeling Training Webinars
• Reconciliation of Clients 2D Design Drawings
• Reconciliation of Clients 3D Design Model
• Structural Steel Shape Probability Analysis
• Template Modeling
• Volume Calculations
• Wall Plumb Analysis

What are the benefits of 3D laser scanning?

• ‍Millions of real-world data points: A single laser can capture up to a million 3D data points per second, providing incredibly rich detail of every aspect of your project
• ‍Eliminate error: Individual measurements acquired by tape measures or hand-held devices are subject to errors. Laser scanning is the most accurate form of measurement available, delivering accuracy of a few millimeters or less
• ‍Answers unanticipated questions: How many times have you left the job site only to discover you need a few more measurements? A 3D BIM scanning will capture extra data, eliminating the need to return to the project to answer unanticipated questions
• ‍Reduce change orders and waste: The cost of a laser scan pales in comparison to the cost of change orders and construction delays. Incorporating a laser scan into the design of your project assures accurate and complete information, avoiding costly headaches, clashes and wasted material during the construction phase
• ‍Minimize shut-down times: Laser scanning is quick, safe and non-intrusive – eliminating or minimizing operational shutdowns and client inconvenience
• ‍Increase safety: 3D scanning can obtain measurements in hazardous locations while keeping workers out of harm’s way

Elevators are becoming a major factor in the ongoing effort to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability.

Traditionally viewed as mere functional components of a building, elevators are now being reimagined as integral players in achieving energy efficiency. As cities grow vertically and buildings become smarter, it’s become essential to consider how elevators can contribute to energy reduction strategies.

Recent innovations in elevator technology and smarter building management systems are driving this shift, making elevators part of a broader movement to reduce carbon footprints.

The Growing Importance of Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of global energy consumption, with elevators and escalators accounting for a notable portion of that use. As global urbanization accelerates and the demand for high-rise buildings increases, the need for energy-efficient solutions becomes more urgent. Regulatory frameworks, such as energy performance certifications and sustainable construction guidelines, have further emphasized the importance of reducing energy consumption in buildings. For developers, property owners, and facility managers, achieving energy efficiency is not only an environmental imperative but also an economic one.

How Elevators Consume Energy

Elevators consume energy in several ways, including powering motors, lighting, ventilation, and control systems. The motor, which drives the elevator car, is the most significant energy consumer. Older elevator systems typically operate at constant speeds, even when they do not need to, leading to wasted energy. Additionally, standby power, used to keep lighting and controls operational when elevators are idle, contributes to the overall energy load of a building.

Innovations in Elevator Energy Efficiency

The drive for energy efficiency has led to several technological advancements in elevator design, control, and operation. Among the most impactful developments are regenerative braking systems, energy-efficient motors, smart destination control, and enhanced standby power management.

1. Regenerative Braking Systems

Regenerative braking systems capture and convert the energy produced when an elevator slows down or descends. This energy, which would typically be lost as heat, is instead transformed into electricity that can be fed back into the building’s power grid. Similar to how electric vehicles recover energy during braking, elevators with regenerative capabilities significantly reduce net energy consumption.

2. Energy-Efficient Motors

Traditional elevator motors operate at fixed speeds and consume a constant amount of energy, regardless of load or demand. Modern elevator motors, however, use variable frequency drives (VFDs) that adjust the speed and torque according to the weight of passengers and travel distance. This "as-needed" approach allows elevators to operate more efficiently and reduces unnecessary energy consumption.

3. Smart Destination Control Systems

Smart destination control systems group passengers traveling to the same or nearby floors, thereby reducing the number of trips and optimizing the movement of elevator cars. This approach not only reduces wait times but also minimizes the energy required for multiple elevator trips. The system's algorithms learn from usage patterns and adjust operations accordingly, making energy use more efficient over time.

4. Enhanced Standby Power Management

Standby power consumption in elevators can be a significant source of energy waste. Modern elevators employ LED lighting, motion sensors, and advanced control software to reduce standby power usage. When an elevator is not in use, lighting, ventilation, and display screens automatically turn off or enter low-power modes. These measures help to cut energy consumption during periods of inactivity.

The Role of Smart Building Integration

Elevators are now being integrated into broader smart building management systems (BMS). By communicating with other building systems, elevators can align their operation with real-time building occupancy data, HVAC schedules, and energy demand forecasts. For instance, during periods of low occupancy, elevators can be placed in energy-saving mode, operating fewer cars or reducing the frequency of trips. Integration with renewable energy sources, like solar panels, also allows elevators to operate on cleaner power, further reducing their environmental impact.

Case Study: Industry Leaders and Successful Implementations

Several major elevator manufacturers, including KONE, Otis, and Schindler, have pioneered advancements in elevator energy efficiency. These companies have adopted smart technologies, such as predictive maintenance and IoT-enabled monitoring, to optimize elevator performance and reduce energy use.

For instance, KONE’s EcoDisc technology reduces energy consumption by up to 70% compared to traditional geared machines. Schindler’s PORT technology incorporates smart destination control and personalized access to improve energy efficiency and passenger experience. Otis has also integrated regenerative drive technology in its elevators, enabling energy to be returned to the building’s electrical grid.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The financial benefits of energy-efficient elevators are substantial. While the initial cost of installing advanced elevator systems may be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills and maintenance costs offer a strong return on investment. Building owners and managers can also achieve higher energy performance certifications, which enhance property value and appeal to eco-conscious tenants.

From an environmental perspective, energy-efficient elevators contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Buildings with more sustainable elevator systems have a lower overall carbon footprint. The ability to feed electricity back into the grid through regenerative systems further supports energy decarbonization efforts.

Policy and Regulatory Support

Government regulations and sustainability certification programs, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), recognize the role of energy-efficient elevators. Buildings that meet specific energy efficiency criteria often qualify for incentives, grants, or tax credits. Moreover, international energy standards, such as ISO 25745, provide a benchmark for assessing elevator energy performance, encouraging property developers to adopt best practices.

Challenges and Barriers to Adoption

Despite the clear benefits of energy-efficient elevators, barriers to adoption remain. Retrofitting older buildings with new elevator technology can be costly and logistically challenging. Additionally, stakeholders must be convinced of the long-term savings potential to justify the upfront investment. To overcome these barriers, governments and industry stakeholders are promoting financing options, grants, and regulatory incentives to support elevator modernization projects.

The Future of Elevators in Energy Efficiency

The future of elevators in energy efficiency looks promising as technologies continue to evolve. AI-powered predictive maintenance, enhanced IoT integration, and advancements in energy storage could further reduce elevator energy use. Elevators may soon become key components in demand response programs, adjusting their operation to balance energy demand across the grid.

As buildings become smarter and energy efficiency goals become more ambitious, the role of elevators will continue to expand. Developers, architects, and facility managers must recognize that elevators are not merely transport mechanisms but essential assets in the quest for greener buildings.

GPRS supports green building initiatives through our suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services. We help you Intelligently Visualize The Built World^®, keeping your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPRS’ Utility Locating Services Find PVC piping and other non-conductive utilities?

GPRS Project Managers utilize ground penetrating radar (GPR) scanning, which is exceptionally effective at locating all types of subsurface materials. There are times, however, when PVC pipes do not provide an adequate signal to GPR scanners. In these cases, our Project Managers utilize alternate forms of utility locating technology, including electromagnetic (EM) locating.

Can GPR be used to verify known measurements?

We can use GPR to cross-check the measured depth and location of a located utility with existing as-built plans in order to verify the accuracy of plans.

Will I need to mark out the utilities that GPRS locates?

No, GPRS will locate and mark all utilities for you. We have a variety of tools and markers we can use to highlight the locations of utilities, underground storage tanks (USTs), and whatever else may be hiding.

On September 24, 2024, U.S. District Court Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove issued a limited preliminary injunction against USDOT’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program. That injunction seeks to set aside DBE goals as potentially unconstitutional under the equal protection clause.

The judge then clarified the scope of his ruling in a follow-up order published October 31, 2024, stating that his previous ruling, that applied to his oversight of a case brought before him by two highway contractors in Indiana should apply to “all states in which the Plaintiffs operate and bid on DOT contracts impacted by DBE goals.”

That moves the scope of the case from two contractors and the state of Indiana, to potentially 23 states in which the contractors have sought, or may seek to, do business.

This clarification greatly expands the scope of the order, according to industry specialist and attorney at Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, Chris Slottee. He told Construction Dive that, “This could cause the DOT to hesitate to use the DBE program going forward, given that the DOT will not know what projects the plaintiffs are, or are not, going to bid upon.”

The Department of Transportation, however, said the agency has no plans to dismantle the DBE program. “As the case moves forward, we will continue to defend the program. In the meantime, we will comply with the court’s ruling, and the program otherwise remains in effect,” A DOT spokesperson shared with Construction Dive.

Background on DBE Programs Nationally

The U.S. Department of Transportation has a helpful whiteboard video explaining the DBE program on its website.

The program, first enacted some 40 years ago, and recertified repeatedly by Congress is “designed to remedy ongoing discrimination and the continuing effects of past discrimination in federally assisted highway, transit, airport, and highway safety financial assistance transportation contracting markets nationwide.” It seeks to level the playing field by providing small businesses owned by those who have been historically socially and economically disadvantaged a chance to compete in the infrastructure construction marketplace.

There are eight objectives of the federal DBE program. They are listed below:

(a) To ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts in the Department's highway, transit, and airport financial assistance programs

(b) To create a level playing field on which DBEs can compete fairly for DOT-assisted contracts

(c) To ensure that the Department's DBE program is narrowly tailored in accordance with applicable law

(d) To ensure that only firms that fully meet this part's eligibility standards are permitted to participate as DBEs

(e) To help remove barriers to the participation of DBEs in DOT-assisted contracts

(f) To promote the use of DBEs in all types of federally assisted contracts and procurement activities conducted by recipients

(g) To assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside the DBE program

(h) To provide appropriate flexibility to recipients of Federal financial assistance in establishing and providing opportunities for DBEs

Similar programs exist at virtually all federal agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, among others, and states have been enacting their own DBE goals in their bidding processes for federally funded projects for many years.

Why Do DBEs Matter in Construction?

In short, the DBE program requires that at least 10% of all dollars allocated in federal contracts be awarded to women and minority-owned firms, which are “presumed to be disadvantaged” within the program. This has led states across the nation to set up individualized DBE benchmarks that must be met for any program receiving federal dollars.

One of the most high-profile examples in recent years is the contract to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which according the Maryland Transportation Authority, could require 31.5% DBE contract awards for the project, although a specific number is not explicitly stated for the bridge. Maryland’s overall DBE target is 31.5% for federally funded projects.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average state requirement for DBE goal administration is 12.5%.

On April 9, 2024, the Federal Transit Administration and the US Department of Transportation published the DBE Final Rule in the Federal Register. The rule is designed to “modernize and streamline” the regulations for administration of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program and Airport Concessions DBE (ACDBE) program.

This Final Rule seeks to address “many of the challenges DBEs have faced.” The rule changes include:

• Streamlining the DBE certification and eligibility process

• Adjusting the personal net worth cap for inflation for small business owners, including excluding retirement assets from the calculation

• Formalizing guidance establishing successful COVID-19 flexibilities, such as virtual on-site visits, to conserve certification and firm resources

• Modernizing the rules for counting participation by DBE material suppliers expediting interstate reciprocity

• Expanding reporting requirements to DOT

A new tiered system was also developed for FTA grant recipients to allow for greater data collection and clarify prohibited discriminatory practices. You can learn more about the Final Rule and the FTA tiers here.

The DBE Program is Not New

“These Congressionally mandated programs were created over 40 years ago to address and remedy the continuing effects of past discrimination against small businesses owned and controlled by minorities, women, and other socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and continue today to prevent and address ongoing discrimination,” says USDOT.

“Nationwide, the program is implemented by 53 departments of transportation (including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands), over 500 transit agencies, and 3,200 eligible airport sponsors.”

So, the clarified limited injunction in October 2024 by Judge Van Tatenhove could reverberate across state DBE programs nationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GPRS Support Infrastructure & Highway Projects?

We do! GPRS provides 99.8% accurate subsurface utility locating & mapping, concrete scanning, CCTV video pipe inspections, 3D laser scanning, and in-house above and below-ground CAD services to provide the most up-to-date, reliable existing conditions information for any site. Plus, our company’s national footprint means there is always an expert SIM-certified Project Manager ready to deploy to your job – fast.

How Does GPRS Support SUE Reporting for Highway Projects?

GPRS does not provide Subsurface Utility Engineering or surveying, but our services do meet SUE QL-B standards to support surveyors and engineers in the field. Think of us as an extension of your team – an extension that includes the most rigorous classroom and field training in the industry, and 99.8% accuracy in both utility locating and concrete scanning. In fact, we are so certain of our Project Managers’ expertise that we are the only company that guarantees our concrete work.

If a GPRS Project Manager marks out a “clear” green box on your concrete slab, we promise it will be free of rebar, conduit, post cables and other reinforcements. If we get it wrong, we’ll pay the material cost of the repair. You can learn more about our Green Box Guarantee, here.

The successful completion of the $13.7 million Central Islip sewer revitalization project marks a significant milestone for Long Island’s infrastructure, offering improved wastewater management and environmental sustainability. This achievement highlights the critical role of subsurface utility mapping (SUM) and infrastructure planning in modern municipal projects. For municipal water and wastewater managers, this project serves as a prime example of overcoming challenges through innovative approaches and advanced technologies.

The Role of Subsurface Utility Mapping

Subsurface utility mapping is essential in projects like Central Islip’s sewer overhaul. It involves identifying, locating, and documenting underground utilities to avoid costly disruptions, delays, and safety risks. Accurate utility mapping ensures that construction activities align with existing infrastructure while minimizing impacts on local communities.

In Central Islip, where aging infrastructure and dense urban development presented significant challenges, SUM was a linchpin for success. The project team almost certainly used advanced geophysical techniques, such as ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locators, to survey the underground utility network comprehensively. These methods provided a detailed subsurface profile, enabling engineers to design a sewer system that integrated seamlessly with existing utilities.

Subsurface utility mapping (SUM) allows municipal managers to control data and workflows to improve project timelines and safety. GPRS’ SiteMap® platform (patent pending) is a prime example of a utility mapping and infrastructure management platform. All GPRS customers receive a complimentary SiteMap® Personal subscription.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Challenges

The Central Islip revitalization effort focused on expanding sewer capacity, modernizing outdated systems, and addressing environmental concerns. The project involved installing nearly 26 miles of sewer pipes, replacing outdated cesspools, and connecting over 1,600 homes and businesses to the sewer system. These upgrades required careful planning and coordination to mitigate risks associated with existing underground utilities. They will also require continual assessment to safeguard them from cross bores, blockages, and settling. That’s why GPRS strongly suggests all municipal water and wastewater managers build routine NASCCO-certified video pipe inspection reporting into their O&M budgets.

The project team faced several challenges, including:

• Utility Congestion: Central Islip’s underground landscape is a dense network of water, gas, electric, and telecommunications lines. Avoiding conflicts with these utilities demanded precise mapping and careful excavation planning.

• Environmental Considerations: The project aimed to reduce nitrogen pollution in local waterways, a critical goal for protecting Long Island’s aquifers and coastal ecosystems.

• Community Disruption: Minimizing disruptions to residents and businesses was a priority, requiring innovative construction techniques and clear communication with stakeholders.

Innovative Solutions in Sewer Construction

Central Islip’s project leveraged cutting-edge technologies and construction methods to address these challenges. Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and trenchless techniques played a key role, allowing for the installation of sewer pipes with minimal surface disruption. These methods were guided by the detailed data provided by SUM, which ensured that drilling paths avoided existing utilities.

Additionally, the project team employed advanced monitoring systems to track progress and detect potential issues in real-time. This proactive approach helped maintain the project timeline and budget while ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations.

Lessons from the Maspeth Sewer Project

The recently completed $106 million sewer upgrade in Maspeth, Queens, offers valuable insights that complement the Central Islip project. In Maspeth, micro-tunneling technology was used to install sewer pipes with minimal community impact. This technique involves remotely controlled boring machines that create tunnels with high precision, reducing the risk of damaging existing utilities.

The Maspeth project also highlights the importance of SUM in urban environments. Engineers relied on advanced utility mapping to navigate a complex web of infrastructure, ensuring that the new sewer system integrated seamlessly with existing networks. The project’s success underscores the value of combining innovative construction techniques with comprehensive subsurface analysis.

Key Takeaways for Municipal Water and Wastewater Managers

For municipal managers overseeing water and wastewater systems, the Central Islip and Maspeth projects offer several critical takeaways:

1. Invest in Advanced Mapping Technologies: Comprehensive subsurface utility mapping is essential for identifying potential conflicts and designing efficient systems. Technologies like GPR, electromagnetic locators, and LiDAR should be standard tools in large-scale projects.

2. Prioritize Community Impact Mitigation: Minimizing disruptions to residents and businesses is crucial for public support and project success. Trenchless technologies and effective communication strategies are invaluable for achieving this goal.

3. Adopt Sustainable Practices: Sewer projects should address environmental concerns, such as nitrogen pollution and water quality. Infrastructure upgrades must align with broader sustainability goals to protect natural resources.

4. Leverage Real-Time Monitoring Systems: Modern monitoring tools enable proactive problem-solving, reducing delays and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.

The $13.7 million revitalization of Central Islip’s sewer infrastructure demonstrates the transformative potential of subsurface utility mapping and innovative construction techniques. By accurately identifying underground utilities and employing cutting-edge methods, project teams can overcome the challenges of urban infrastructure development while minimizing community disruption and environmental impact.

As municipal water and wastewater managers look to future projects, the lessons from Central Islip and Maspeth underscore the importance of strategic planning, advanced technologies like CCTV Video Pipe Inspections and inclination reporting, and community engagement. These principles are not only key to successful project execution but also essential for building resilient and sustainable infrastructure systems.

GPRS provides comprehensive above and below-ground existing conditions reporting for municipalities. It’s just part of the suite of tools we use to Intelligently Visualize The Built World® for our customers. What can we help you visualize?

Longtime GPRS safety partners Turner Construction, DPR Construction, and the M.A. Mortensen Company have been tapped by Meta to build a 4 million square foot data center campus for the tech giant in Louisiana’s Richland Parish.

The project represents Meta’s largest artificial intelligence (AI) investment to date, according to a press release issued by the company.

“Once completed, the Richland Parish Data Center will represent an investment of more than $10 billion in Louisiana and will support over 500 operational jobs,” the release reads. “We are also investing over $200 million in local infrastructure improvements. We anticipate that more than 5,000 construction workers will be onsite at peak construction, and we will make a concerted effort to source labor and materials locally, and provide substantial contributions directly to the community. Job opportunities for the data center will be on the Meta Careers page in a few weeks.”

Meta cited Richland Parish’s “great access to infrastructure, a reliable grid, a business-friendly climate, and wonderful community partners” as driving factors in the company’s decision to choose the community as the location for its new data center campus.

Located in northeast Louisiana and founded in 1868, the 576-square-mile, rural farming community is known for its network of rivers, creeks and bayous.

“We’re thrilled to be a new member of the Richland Parish community and are committed to investing in its long-term vitality,” Meta stated in its press release.

Meta stated that, once the data center is operational, it intends to launch its Community Action Grants program to provide local organizations and schools with “the power of technology to use for community benefit and improve STEAM education.” Additional services the company is promising to bring to Richland Parish include programs like no-cost digital skills training, intended to help local small businesses and nonprofits across Louisiana grow their reach.

Additionally, Meta has committed to contributing $1 million annually to local energy company Entergy’s customer assistance program, which provides bill payment assistance to low-income seniors and customers with disabilities.

Meta says they have “worked closely with Energy from the beginning to plan for our energy needs.” To that end, the company says they are adding enough clean and renewable energy to the grid to cover 100% of the electricity use of the new data center.

“…We will bring at least 1,500 megawatts of new renewable energy to the grid,” the press release reads.

Explaining the Data Center Construction Boom

The ongoing surge in data center construction in the U.S. can be traced back to the COVID-19 pandemic, which drove up the use of online shopping and subsequently led to companies like Amazon and Walmart to significantly expand their data processing capabilities.

As of March 2024, there were 5,381 data centers operating in the United States – by far the most data centers in any country in the world.

GPRS delivers a comprehensive array of services for subsurface damage prevention, existing condition documentation, and management of construction and facility projects, ensuring that initiatives like data center builds remain on schedule, within budget, and safe.

Our offerings in concrete scanning, utility locating, video pipe inspection, and leak detection help prevent subsurface damage during excavation, or when drilling or slicing through concrete. Leveraging cutting-edge tools like ground penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic (EM) locating, and remote-operated sewer pipe inspection rovers, our SIM and NASSCO-certified Project Managers (PMs) equip you with an in-depth view of your site’s subsurface structures.

For a clear depiction of above-ground conditions and to document our PMs’ findings in utility locating and concrete scanning, our 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry services deliver 2-4 mm-accurate data useful for both project design and future operation and maintenance (O&M) tasks. And our in-house Mapping & Modeling Department can tailor this data into any required format and software.

With SiteMap^® (patent pending), GPRS’s cloud-based application for project and facility management, you have around-the-clock access to all this field-verified data, enhancing the protection of your assets and personnel.

SiteMap^® enables seamless collaboration, allowing you and your team to securely access and share crucial data anytime and from anywhere, using any computer, tablet, or mobile device.

GPRS’ SiteMap^® team members are currently scheduling live SiteMap^® demos. Click below to schedule yours and see how SiteMap^® can help you plan, design, manage, dig, and build better today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Benefits of Underground Utility Mapping?

Having an updated and accurate map of your subsurface infrastructure reduces accidents, budget overruns, change orders, and project downtime caused by dangerous and costly subsurface damage.

How does SiteMap^® assist with Utility Mapping?

SiteMap^®, powered by GPRS, is the industry-leading infrastructure management program. It is a single source of truth, housing the 99.8%+ accurate utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and 3D laser scanning data our Project Managers collect on your job site. And the best part is you get a complimentary SiteMap^® Personal Subscription when GPRS performs a utility locate for you.

Click here to learn more.

Does SiteMap^® Work with my Existing GIS Platform?

SiteMap^® allows for exporting of data to SHP, GeoJSON, GeoPackage, and DXF directly from any user’s account that either owns or has a job shared to their account. All these file formats can be imported and utilized by other GIS packages if manually imported by the user. More information can be found at SiteMap.com.

When GPRS launched SiteMap^® (patent pending) in 2023, we sought to eliminate communication silos in the construction and facility management industries by providing a single source of truth for all infrastructure data related to your projects.

Today, SiteMap^® has more than 10,000 active users and houses data from over 200,000 sites across the country.

To further enhance SiteMap^®, GPRS has partnered with Maryland-based archSCAN to improve our ability to aggregate and integrate our clients’ historical documentation with the accurate, field-verified data collected on-site by our team of specially trained Project Managers.

Founded in 2002, archSCAN provides document review, management and scanning services. They specialize in the process of converting hard-copy large-format drawings and small-format documents into electronic files and then uploading them into a document management system in the cloud or on-premises.

ArchSCAN’s team of archivists have worked with hospitals, universities, federal and state agencies, and more to organize, digitize, and manage their documents. They specialize in building-related documents, having digitized millions of blueprints and drawings. The archSCAN team has more than 150 years of combined experience.

ArchSCAN’s process and philosophy align perfectly with SiteMap^®, which allows users to manage and customize their data according to their needs. Whether it’s utility layouts, as-built drawings, 3D models, floor plans, structural drawings, subsurface void information, drone imagery, sewer and manhole video inspection data, or under or above ground storage tank information, it’s all on one secure, yet easily accessible platform thanks to SiteMap^® and archSCAN.

“ArchSCAN’s document solutions pair well with GPRS’ ability to deliver an updated view of facility infrastructure,” said GPRS Chief Strategy Office & SiteMap® Product Executive, Jason Schaff. “This partnership helps our clients take control of their assets by moving them away from incomplete records, inconsistent data, and poor communication.”

Explaining SiteMap^® Pro

GPRS has tailored SiteMap^® to meet the needs of various industries and disciplines through the introduction of several different subscription tiers for the service.

SiteMap^® Pro gives you complete control over everything happening across your facility or campus. That’s every utility installation, every renovation, and every repair, all in one place.

SiteMap^® Pro gives you what you need to manage your infrastructure from anywhere by securing your aggregated, mapped & layered data – from pre-planning through O&M and beyond. Thanks to GPRS’ partnership with archSCAN, this includes any existing documents you have and wish to digitize.

With SiteMap^® Pro, you receive administrative access for as many as five people to utilize the data collected by GPRS, aggregated to provide constant updates on each of your projects as they occur.

While you may want or need to preserve existing documentation, you need to be sure you’re planning, digging, and building with accurate data. With SiteMap^® Pro and archSCAN, you’ll be able to compare your existing as-builts with the field-verified data collected by our Project Managers, allowing you to plan, design, manage, dig, and build better.

SiteMap^® 2.0 Works Better for You

In December 2024, GPRS further improved SiteMap^®’s capabilities with the launch of SiteMap^® 2.0.

This system-wide update streamlines the user interface, updates the appearance, and improves functionality for desktop and mobile applications. It adds features such as more intuitive search options, expanded export functionality, and faster point cloud processing.

“With the launch of Sitemap, our customers have found tremendous value in having their underground data along with their aboveground infrastructure in one spot,” said Dustin Snavely, Director of National Sales for GPRS. “These latest improvements do a great job of expanding on SiteMap 1.0.  With 2.0, our customers will have quicker uploads, expanded mobile platform options, and increased ability to upload, increasing SiteMap’s ability to be your central platform for your infrastructure data.”

GPRS SiteMap^® team members are currently scheduling live, personal SiteMap^® demos. Click below to schedule your free demo today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Benefits of Underground Utility Mapping?

Having an updated and accurate map of your subsurface infrastructure reduces accidents, budget overruns, change orders, and project downtime caused by dangerous and costly subsurface damage.

How Does SiteMap^® Assist with Utility Mapping?

SiteMap^®, powered by GPRS, is the industry-leading infrastructure management program. It is a single source of truth, housing the 99.8%+ accurate utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and 3D laser scanning data our Project Managers collect on your job site. And the best part is you get a complimentary SiteMap^® Personal Subscription when GPRS performs a utility locate for you.

Click here to learn more.

Does SiteMap^® Work with my Existing GIS Platform?

SiteMap^® allows for exporting of data to SHP, GeoJSON, GeoPackage, and DXF directly from any user’s account that either owns or has a job shared to their account. All these file formats offer streamlined data portability and can be imported and utilized by other GIS packages if manually imported by the user. More information can be found at SiteMap.com.

Renewable energy certificates, also known as RECs, could soon be a transferrable entity in at least one market, potentially widening the market and profitability for the renewable energy sector. A proposed rule change to Rule 17 of the GCPC (General Power Contract Provisions) by the Western Area Power market (WAPA) is expected to make that a reality.

The proposal maps out language to change Rule 17 by converting it to 17.1 and adding a subpart – 17.2 that would allow customers to resell or otherwise dispose of claimed federal hydropower RECs. Because WAPA specifically deals with hydropower, their rule change speaks directly to hydropower generation. However, the rule change could – in theory – extrapolate across the entire renewables menu: hydropower, wind power, and solar power generation.

“WAPA’s proposed revision to GPCP number 17 [which] would allow customers with electric service contracts to resell renewable energy certificates (RECs) that they receive [from WAPA] as an attribute of their federal hydropower allocations.” – Dave Gorlin, WAPA Attorney/Advisor presenting at the Western Area Power informational meeting in November, 2024.

GPRS’ Market Segment Leader for Renewable Energy, Ryan Mewha, views the changes as positive market drivers. “I think this will expand innovation in the industry, bringing new technologies and players into the space. Privately trading RECs will create ownership for the purchaser to utilize the credits with the most qualified trade partners involved to complete the projects on time, on budget, and safely.”

What is a REC?

A renewable energy certificate, sometimes also called a renewable energy credit, is an instrument for the power generation and transmission marketplace that represents “the property rights to the environmental, social, and other non-power attributes of renewable electricity generation.”

For a REC to be issued, one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electric power must be generated and delivered to the electrical grid via a renewable energy source. RECs do have monetary value and in other markets, like the eastern U.S. east of the Ohio Valley, RECs are registered with a third-party known as MRATs to certify them.

“There is a substantial market surrounding them [RECs] as states, utilities, and businesses all try to meet these renewable energy goals.” – Brent Osiek, WAPA

36 states and the District of Columbia all have state-driven renewable energy portfolio standards and/or renewable energy goals.

RECs can be generated in multiple markets, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a summary of their attributes for customers that includes:

• Certificate data

• Certificate type

• Tracking system ID

• Renewable fuel type

• Renewable facility location

• Nameplate capacity of project

• Project name

• Project vintage (build date)

• Certificate (generation) vintage

• Certificate unique identification number

• Utility to which project is interconnected

• Eligibility for certification or renewable portfolio standard (RPS)

• Emissions rate of the renewable resource

However, the EPA cautions that these attributes can change or have additional requirements, depending on the market generating the REC.

How are RECs Currently Used?

When electricity flows through the power grid, neither it or the grid can define its origin/generation for regulatory and measurement purposes, so RECs allow the EPA, utilities, wholesalers, and customers a reliable way to account for, track, and assign ownership of renewable energy generation and its usage. RECs are required if consumers need to substantiate their claim to renewables generation, ownership, and/or use. This allows consumers to target their purchases to renewable (green) energy sources to drive a more sustainable electricity marketplace.

How Would the Proposed Rule 17 Change Affect REC Usage?

The current GPCPs contain 45 provisions. Most are standard and deal with run-of-the-mill utility concerns like non-payment, metering, and construction safety, along with equal opportunity employment, etc. Some iterations of these regulations (for WAPA) have been in force since the 1950s. So, from time to time, revision is necessary.

The proposed change to Rule 17 is clarity. “This proposed change maintains [WAPA’s] longstanding prohibition against reselling from electric service power and energy.” WAPA’s Brent Osiek shared in the November 4, 2024 meeting to explain the changes and invite public customer comment.  

Specifically, rule 17 would become 17.1 and the addition of subsection 17.2 would read as follows:

17.2 Contractors receiving environmental attributes associated with any firm electric power or energy allocated under the contract may use, dispose of, transfer, or resell such environmental attributes in accordance with good utility practice.

“RECs are now viewed much more favorably than they were a decade ago. So, in short, hydropower RECs have more value than they used to. In the west, we’ve all experienced the impacts of drought, and among its many impacts has been reducing the value of hydropower. So, allowing the resale of RECs would allow customers the opportunity to directly gain some additional value from their hydropower allocations.” – Brent Osiek – WAPA

Osiek defines “good utility practice” as “common sense” processes and practices that one would expect from a person engaged in the utility industry.

When Will the Rule Change Go into Effect?

The current timeline for the changes to Rule 17 lays out reaching a decision in December of 2024. Customers would be notified in January of 2025, and from then on, WAPA would execute “amended contracts” with its customer that include their ability to transfer, sell, or dispose of their hydropower RECs.

The Western Area Power Administration’s (WAPA) comment period for changes to Rule 17, Resale of Firm Electric Service (Wholesale for Resale) ended on December 4, 2024. The GCPC Revision and REC presentation from WAPA, including video, and follow-up answers to questions posed during the November 4, 2024 meeting on the topic are available on their website.

How GPRS Helps Renewable Energy Generation Projects Stay Safe

Whether you are installing hydroelectric, solar, or wind power generation and/or transmission, or EV charging stations, GPRS has more than two decades of expertise and the nationwide footprint you need to give you complete control of your site with accurate subsurface existing conditions documentation, interactive sharable layered utility maps, and a suite of above and below-ground visualization services to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World® for customers nationwide. What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

How does GPRS support renewable energy generation and transmission?

GPRS provides advanced subsurface utility locating, concrete scanning, and mapping solutions to ensure safe, efficient construction and maintenance of renewable energy generation and transmission projects. Our expert services mitigate risk, enhance project accuracy, and streamline workflows. Learn more about our renewable energy solutions here.

How many REC markets are there in the U.S.?

The U.S. features two primary Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) markets: compliance and voluntary. Compliance markets are driven by state Renewable Portfolio Standards, mandating utilities to source a specific percentage of energy from renewables. Voluntary markets enable consumers and businesses to purchase RECs to offset their carbon footprints.

GPRS enhances renewable energy projects by offering precise subsurface utility locating, concrete scanning, and comprehensive mapping services. Our expertise ensures safe and efficient construction and maintenance, mitigating risks and improving project accuracy. Discover more about our services here.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled two Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) with the Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC) in a move intended to enhance New York City's infrastructure and labor landscape.

These agreements, collectively exceeding $1 billion in construction projects, aim to streamline capital project delivery, foster local employment, and bolster opportunities for minority and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBEs), according to a press release.

Accelerating Infrastructure Development

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, PLAs are pre-hire collective bargaining agreements negotiated between construction unions and construction contractors that establish the terms and conditions of employment for construction projects. The PLAs announced by Mayor Adams are intended to expedite a variety of critical infrastructure projects across the city. By adopting the design-build delivery method—which consolidates design and construction under a single contract—the city anticipates significant time and cost savings.

Design-build is particularly advantageous for complex undertakings such as below-grade infrastructure enhancements, roadway and waterfront reconstructions, and the development of new greenways. Click here to learn more.

A notable project under this initiative is the $270 million transformation of Willets Point. This endeavor includes the construction of resilient sewers, new streets, and 150,000 square feet of public open space, laying the groundwork for future developments in the area – including the city’s first-ever soccer specific stadium.

Empowering the Workforce and Promoting Equity

Beyond infrastructure improvements, NYC’s new PLAs emphasize fair wages, comprehensive benefits, and stringent safety protocols for workers. They also introduce community hiring goals, prioritizing employment and apprenticeship opportunities for residents of New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments and neighborhoods with poverty rates exceeding 15%.

"These agreements, covering more than a billion dollars in work, are a win-win-win,” Adams said. “Good union jobs for New Yorkers; faster, better, and more efficient capital projects; and billions of dollars of investment in communities that went ignored for decades."

Strengthening Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

According to the city’s press release, the agreements represent a significant commitment to M/WBEs, aiming to ensure these enterprises have substantial participation in the upcoming projects. This initiative aligns with the city's broader strategy to promote diversity and inclusion within its economic development plans.

Laying the Groundwork for Future Projects

In addition to the current agreements, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has signed a letter of intent with BCTC to negotiate further PLAs. These prospective agreements could encompass nearly $50 billion in future capital construction projects, including significant developments like the Hunts Point Produce Market, the Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment, and the Science Park and Research Campus (SPARC) Kips Bay projects.

"We are grateful for these historic commitments and collaboration from Mayor Adams and NYCEDC,” said Gary LaBarbera, president of BCTC. “We must ensure that our city's hardworking people, including our tradesmen and tradeswomen, are provided fair wages and accessible pathways to the middle class that will allow them to reinvest in their communities and support their families in the foreseeable future."

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

The PLAs are designed to facilitate the efficient completion of essential projects, such as green infrastructure enhancements and the repair of sewers, roads, and bridges. By integrating workforce development and community hiring provisions, the agreements aim to create a more inclusive and equitable labor market.

“Through our collaboration with the Building & Construction Trades Council on these Project Labor Agreements, we are not only investing in world-class infrastructure but also creating thousands of good-paying union jobs that will benefit New Yorkers for generations,” said New York’s First Deputy Mayor, Maria Torres-Springer.

GPRS supports infrastructure and construction projects of all sizes with our comprehensive suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology and industry-leading training, we Intelligently Visualize The Built World^® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPRS find PVC piping and other non-conductive utilities?

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) scanning is exceptionally effective at locating all types of subsurface materials. There are times when PVC pipes do not provide an adequate signal to ground penetrating radar equipment and can’t be properly located by traditional methods. However, GPRS Project Managers are expertly trained at multiple methods of utility locating.

Will I need to mark out the utilities that GPRS locates?

No, GPRS will locate and mark all utilities for you. We have a variety of tools and markers we can use to highlight the locations of utilities, underground storage tanks and whatever else may be hiding.

What is a Video Pipe Inspection (VPI)?

Video Pipe Inspection or VPI is a sewer inspection service using CCTV video cameras to mitigate or prevent infrastructure damage by inspecting underground water, sewer lines, and lateral pipelines. GPRS's NASSCO certified technicians can locate clogs, investigate cross bores, find structural faults and damages, and conduct lateral sewer line inspections.

What deliverables does GPRS offer when conducting a VPI?

GPRS is proud to offer WinCan reporting to our Video Pipe Inspection clients. Maintaining sewers starts with understanding sewer condition, and WinCan allows GPRS Project Managers to collect detailed, NASSCO-compliant inspection data. GPRS Project Managers not only inspect the interior condition of sewer pipes, laterals, and manholes – they can also provide a map of their location. The GPRS Mapping & Modeling Department can provide detailed GPS overlays and CAD files. Our detailed WinCan/NASSCO reports contain screenshots of the interior condition of the pipe segments that we inspect, as well as a video file for further evaluation, documentation, and/or reference.

What are the Benefits of Underground Utility Mapping?

Having an updated and accurate map of your subsurface infrastructure reduces accidents, budget overruns, change orders, and project downtime caused by dangerous and costly subsurface damage.

How does SiteMap^® assist with Utility Mapping?

SiteMap^®, powered by GPRS, is the industry-leading infrastructure management program. It is a single source of truth, housing the 99.8%+ accurate utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and 3D laser scanning data our Project Managers collect on your job site. And the best part is you get a complimentary SiteMap^® Personal Subscription when GPRS performs a utility locate for you.

Click here to learn more.

Does SiteMap^® Work with my Existing GIS Platform?

SiteMap^® allows for exporting of data to SHP, GeoJSON, GeoPackage, and DXF directly from any user’s account that either owns or has a job shared to their account. All these file formats can be imported and utilized by other GIS packages if manually imported by the user. More information can be found at SiteMap.com.

"He would be dead. Absolutely. It tears me up a little bit. I don't mean to be overly dramatic, but one more second, and he could have been dead. It terrified me." – Kristin Carboni

Even when everyone on a project does everything right, relying on existing plans of buried utilities when excavating can have disastrous consequences.

That was the case recently in Massachusetts, where incomplete and inaccurate records of a buried, high voltage electric line nearly cost a couple their lives.

This is according to a recent report by NBC Boston, which detailed how Kristin Carboni and her husband came within centimeters of striking the underground utility while installing a fence at their business. The Carbonis own and operate a dog boarding and training business on their wooded property on Cape Cod. They were looking to add an agility course to the property and needed to install a fence around the course.

Before beginning excavation to install the fence, the couple contacted their regional 811 One Call Center, Dig Safe.

811 is the national, non-profit notification service that acts as a link between excavators and contractors, and participating member utility companies. Federal law requires that 811 be notified of upcoming excavation projects, so they can in turn notify the utility companies who send representatives to the site to mark their utilities with flags or paint.

Kristin Carboni told NBC Boston that she and her husband “thought we were good to go,” adding that they “got the ‘all clear’ from four different companies.”

But while Carboni’s husband was digging holes for the fence posts with a heavy auger, Carboni – who was standing nearby – heard a strange noise and screamed at him to stop.

“He pulled up the auger and there was a huge conduit that came out of the ground,” she said.

The auger had pierced through the conduit protecting the high-voltage electric line. It would have damaged the line itself, likely electrocuting Carboni’s husband, had she not stopped him when she heard the strange noise.

"He would be dead. Absolutely," Carboni said. "It tears me up a little bit. I don't mean to be overly dramatic, but one more second, and he could have been dead. It terrified me."

NBC Boston contacted Eversource, an energy company that provides electricity, natural gas, and water services in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, who provided the news channel with the following statement:

“Following a thorough investigation into the incident, we confirmed that the original records from the installation of the underground electric service by a private contractor did not indicate that the cable extended onto private property, which is why it was not marked by our subcontractor. Following this event, we promptly repaired the damaged plastic conduit and updated the mapping for the area to reflect the underground electric service more accurately.

This incident underscores the importance of our company-wide safety initiative, which involves reviewing and updating older records, enhancing our Geographic Information System (GIS), and refining our mark out procedures to strengthen safety and improve the accuracy of locating and marking underground infrastructure.

With safety always our top priority, we strongly recommend that homeowners and contractors, regardless of ground markings, carefully expose and verify underground areas using a shovel before beginning any excavation.”

Massachusetts’ Dig Safe laws, which were strengthened following the September 2018 Merrimack Valley gas explosions, require anyone who knows of damage to file a report, whether they’re a utility worker, contractor, or homeowner. The Carbonis reportedly received a warning letter in the mail for not reporting the incident on their property.

Eversource received a violation notice for what occurred on the Carbonis’ property. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) records, there have been roughly 350 violations assessed to utility companies in the past year, which result in millions of dollars in outstanding fines.

Jennifer Cabrera, who manages the pipeline safety division for the Massachusetts DPU, which oversees the state’s Dig Safe laws, said the approach is meant to educate the public and likened it to a car crash, where police or insurance companies want to hear from everyone involved.

"If we are not informed of the information, then we don't know what caused it and how to prevent it for the next excavator," she said.

It’s important to remember that utility companies are not responsible for marking out private lines on a property they visit, only their own utilities.

Carboni told the news station that she wants what happened to her and her husband to serve as a lesson for the public.

"… I feel very blessed and grateful that we didn't die," she said. "And the fact that we didn't die means it's my job to educate people so that nothing like this ever happens again."

Even when everyone on a project does everything right, relying on existing plans of buried utilities when excavating can have disastrous consequences.

While you should always contact your local 811 One Call Center prior to digging, you should also hire a professional private utility locating company to locate and map all buried utilities in your intended dig area before you put a shovel or bucket in the ground.

GPRS is the nation’s largest private utility locator. We’ve achieved and maintain a 99.8%+ accuracy rate when locating buried utilities. Utilizing ground penetrating radar (GPR) scanners and electromagnetic (EM) locators, our SIM-certified Project Managers collect the accurate, complete data you need to stay on time, on budget, and safe. And this information is always at you and your team’s fingertips thanks to SiteMap^® (patent pending), our facility & project management application that provides existing conditions documentation to protect your assets and people.

What can we help you visualize?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GPRS locate PVC Piping and other non-conductive utilities?

GPR scanning is exceptionally effective at locating all types of subsurface materials. There are times when PVC pipes do not provide an adequate signal to ground penetrating radar equipment and can’t be properly located by traditional methods. However, GPRS Project Managers are expertly trained at multiple methods of utility locating.

Will I need to mark out the utilities that GPRS locates?

No, GPRS will locate and mark all utilities for you. We have a variety of tools and markers we can use to highlight the locations of utilities, underground storage tanks and whatever else may be hiding.