Empowerment Facility
Civil, Survey
The Empowerment Facility expands access to educational and support services, featuring a Transition to College Career Lab and spacious areas for classes and community gatherings. Gessner Engineering helped bring the project to life by delivering civil and surveying solutions that ensured a functional and accessible site. To reduce risk and prevent utility conflicts, Gessner also performed a topographic survey and Site Utility Exploration (SUE) services. SUE provided accurate existing-condition data that enabled smooth coordination and efficient construction. Our team designed and coordinated grading, drainage, utility, and circulation plans that improved site access, managed stormwater effectively, and met ADA/TAS and jurisdictional requirements. We supported the project through bidding and construction to maintain alignment between design intent and field implementation.
Location
Completion date
Construction Value
Project Size
Challenges
While the site was relatively flat along three sides, a significant slope at the northwest corner created grading challenges, particularly in meeting ADA accessibility requirements within a constrained footprint. Utility coordination added another layer of complexity. Portions of the campus infrastructure required connections extending beyond the immediate site and into the broader city utility network. Additionally, the proposed crawlspace pumps and new building downspouts created a challenge in providing adequate drainage, as no storm system was available for connection within the right of way.
Solutions
Our team collaborated closely with the landscape architect to develop an integrated ramp and stair system that addressed elevation changes while maintaining ADA compliance and enhancing the building’s primary entrance. Creative utility routing strategies were implemented to accommodate downspout connections and crawlspace drainage within the site’s limitations. Through thoughtful coordination and design, the front-facing approach was shaped to be both functional and welcoming. They provided a clear, accessible entry while resolving complex grading and drainage constraints.
Related Projects
No posts