Civil Engineering Engineer-in-Training

John Schinkel, LS

Licensed Land Surveyor

John has been a key member of CDI’s design staff since 2010. He assists engineering staff and surveyors with drafting, design, and plan inspection using AutoCAD Civil3D software. CDI colleagues rely on him to process preliminary survey data and make necessary calculations for plan and specification preparation. John’s strengths include clear and concise communication with clients and staff.

Education:

Licensed professional land surveyor in SD since March 2022
AS, Civil Engineering Technician, Southeast Technical Institute, 2010

Professional Involvement:

Member, South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors

Cade Marttinen

Survey Technician

Cade is part of CDI’s surveying team with knowledge of principles, practices, and equipment necessary for conducting civil surveys. Using various robotic and GPS equipment and serving as part of the survey crew, Cade performs preliminary surveys, topographic and boundary surveys, construction staking, hydraulic surveys, ALTA surveys, As-Built surveys, cross sectioning, and site layouts.

Professional Development & Activities:

Member, South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors

Professional Experience:

2022 to Present Civil Design Inc., Brookings, South Dakota
Survey Technician
Uses AutoCAD for preliminary survey drafting and construction staking ensuring design data is transferred accurately between drawings and staking. Also performs surveys, construction staking, cross sectioning, site layouts and preliminary plan development.
2019-2022 Halme Inc., Lake Norden, South Dakota/
Project Engineer
Created AutoCAD files for jobsite construction, topo surveys, assisted with site management, ran excavating equipment.
2018-2019 Vconverter Corp, Princeton, Minnesota
Instrument and Rod Operator
Assisted in staking property boundaries for buildings and roadways, performed topographical surveys using robotic and GPS equipment as part of a survey crew including leveling work for vertical control.

Evan Rumrill, EIT

Civil Engineering Intern

Evan is a graduate of South Dakota State University and performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. He is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Education:

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2022
FE Certification, 2022

Jesse Ulvestad

CAD Technician

Jesse joined the Civil Design team in 2022 and is a key member of CDI’s design staff. He assists engineering staff and surveyors with drafting, design, and plan development using AutoCAD Civil3D software. With 20 years of experience in the civil engineering field his knowledge in processing preliminary survey data and make necessary calculations for plan and specification preparation is a valuable asset.

Education:

AS, Architectural Drafting, Lake Area Technical Institute, 2001

Professional Involvements:

Member, South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors

Stevie Van Hill

Civil Engineering Intern

As a 2013 graduate of South Dakota State University, Stevie performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. She is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Education:

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2013
SD DOT Structures Training

Elizabeth Bauer, EIT

Civil Engineering Intern

As a 2022 graduate of South Dakota State University, Elizabeth performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. She is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Education:

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2022
FE Certification, 2022

Todd Veldhuizen

Director of Railroad Operations

Mr. Veldhuizen has a strong background in railroad operations, track construction, and industrial development. During his time with BNSF, he supervised the Twin City Division main line and rural track lines. Roadmaster at the Argentine Yard in Kansas City which included track maintenance and inspection, proved training to new hires, and maintained financial accounts regarding yard budget.

Education:

AS, Electronics, ITT Technical Institute, West Covina, CA 1987

Professional Involvement:

FRA – Qualified

DISCIPLINES COORDINATION

At Civil Design Inc, we want you to feel confident that your project will be designed and constructed by the most skilled professionals in the industry. For those services outside our range of expertise, we have partnered with several design firms to offer “one-stop-shopping” for all your design needs.

Civil Design Inc has the contact base necessary to complete any civil engineering project in compliance with all state and federal regulations. These firms come with our highest recommendation and respect. Upon request, however, we can also work with a firm of your choosing.

Your project is important to us—we partner with the best because their work is a reflection on our work.

Outside services offered through our partners:

    Architectural Design
    Mechanical Design
    Electrical Design
    Geotechnical Engineering

SPECIFICATION WRITING

The professionals at Civil Design Inc have over 75 years of combined experience designing civil engineering projects to suit a wide variety of needs. Our design expertise ranges from:

    Site design
    Subdivision design
    Wastewater treatment design
    Railroad design
    Storm water drainage design
    Athletic site design
    And much, much more!

At CDI we apply a teamwork approach to projects. Any design project is thoroughly reviewed by multiple engineers within the company to provide quality control.

As a cornerstone of our business, we believe communication and collaboration are the foundations of success. As a client of CDI, you are the most important member of our team. We will work with you from concept to completion to realize the design you have envisioned.

AS BUILT SURVEY

An As Built Survey shows the actual horizontal and vertical locations of features in a completed structure or project. The land surveyors at Civil Design Inc can perform an As Built Survey for you and create a map or drawing to show the position and elevation of the permanent features on the ground including buildings, utilities, light poles, manholes, fences, and more.

CDI’s professional land surveyors perform As Built Surveys for a myriad of clients including:

    Developers
    Contractors
    Home owners
    Title companies
    Insurance companies
    City or municipality engineers

Here at Civil Design Inc, we believe that communication and strategic planning are the keys to success in any project. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will work with you on your project, from start to finish, to ensure that your needs are met, your budget is respected, and exceed your expectations.

LAND DEVELOPMENT

Let the experts at Civil Design Inc help you turn yesterday’s cornfield into tomorrow’s planned commercial, residential, or industrial development.

Just as each parcel of land contains characteristics that make it unique, so does each parcel’s distinct attributes make developing that land an individualized process. CDI’s professional land surveyors and civil engineers work together to analyze your land’s terrain, location, wetlands, access, native wildlife habitat, and much more when advising you on the most cost-effective and efficient methods to design your parcel.

Civil Design Inc. provides many services essential to land development including:

    Platting
    Storm water drainage management
    Sewer collection and water distribution
    Roadway design
    and more.

ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING

Civil Design Inc uses a systematic approach when developing all plans. The systematic approach endeavors to ensure that all components of the plan are in-place and completed to governing standards. CDI believes the key to any project is communication and that is why the first step in the process is discussing options and determining the needs and wants of the client. Civil Design Inc begins collecting all necessary topographic information to produce a preliminary design. From the preliminary design, a face-to-face meeting is held to discuss any changes the client would prefer. Modifications and meetings are held until CDI produces a design that meets the expectations of the client.

FEASIBILITY STUDIES

At Civil Design Inc, we believe thoughtful planning is the most cost-effective strategy to begin any project. One planning tool many individuals and organizations find extraordinarily helpful is a feasibility study.

A feasibility study is an analysis of a system and the viability of different solutions. The purpose of a feasibility study is to define a problem, need, or opportunity and then perform the research to provide multiple solutions.

The professional engineers at CDI can perform a feasibility study to more fully evaluate your project and possible outcomes and alternatives. These studies often provide multiple solutions based on given criteria such as cost and functionality. Communities, neighborhoods, corporations, and individuals can all benefit from the myriad of information provided by feasibility studies.

The feasibility studies we offer at CDI are completely customizable. We will work with you to assess your unique needs and ascertain what information would be most beneficial to help you make your decision.

RESIDENTIAL SITE DESIGN

At Civil Design Inc, our professional engineers, drafters, and land surveyors work hand in hand when designing property for residential development. With decades of experience in residential site design, our team knows all the pitfalls—and all the time and money-saving alternatives—that more inexperienced designers may not have encountered.

We are proud to say we are a one-stop-shop, capable of providing our clients with everything from a feasibility study before breaking ground, to construction administration. We can even give you recommendations for partner firms for work outside our areas of expertise.

At CDI, our services are always completely customizable. Examples of the services we provide may include:

    Platting
    Grading design
    Roadway design
    Drainage analysis and design
    Storm water detention ponds
    Storm sewers and open conveyance channels
Sanitary sewers
    Potable water
    And more!

MUNICIPAL STREETS

At Civil Design Inc, we know that when designing municipal streets, there’s a lot more than meets the eye. That’s why we employ experts in transportation engineering, environmental engineering, traffic engineering, and municipal engineering to offer you a full-service civil engineering catalogue.

We have the resources and the knowledge to guide you through the entire process of designing city streets, from local streets to arterial streets. CDI’s civil engineers can provide a feasibility study to explore project options, ensuring the best use of your time and money.

Once you give the street project the “green light,” Civil Design Inc’s professional land surveyors and civil engineers will collaborate to design and then survey and stake the road. CDI also has specialists in sewer collection and water distribution who can design the infrastructure under the road, and drainage management specialists to devise a plan for storm water runoff and detention. Administratively, we can provide contract preparation, probable construction cost opinions, construction administration, and so much more.

When we say “full service,” we mean it.
Whether we’re designing a new thoroughfare or redesigning a downtown streetscape, Civil Design Inc is committed to offering you award-wining civil engineering services, combined with the latest in surveying and engineering technology and unsurpassed customer service.

QUALITY CONTROL

Civil Design provides a full range of construction materials testing for quality control in the field and at our Brookings laboratory. Quality control is an essential component to properly constructed product. Whether on roadways, airports, railroads or building sites, out technical staff can provide the testing necessary to ensure compliance with the specifications. Testing is performed in compliance with SD DOT, ASTM and AASHTO standards. We provide quick response to all requests to ensure that schedules and budgets can be maintained.

Tests are offered for Soils, Concrete, Aggregates, Asphalt and Special Inspections.

Nick Antony, EIT

Civil Engineering Intern

As a graduate of South Dakota State University, Nick performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. He is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Qualifications & Education

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2021
FE 2021

Professional Experience

2021-Present Civil Design Inc., Brookings, South Dakota

Civil Engineering Intern

Assists with construction plan layout and design by producing, updating, and maintaining CAD and design drawings.
Organizes and maintains a variety of files and reports, complying with organizational policies and performing other related functions as assigned or apparent.
Aided the Engineer with bridge inspections, including monitoring for structural deterioration, scouring, tie and pile quality, and recommendation for replacement, if any.
Performed land surveying functions for preliminary design on various projects which included operating a total station, performing a topographic survey, and construction staking.

Cole Bungarden, EIT

Civil Engineering Intern

As a graduate of South Dakota State University, Cole performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. He is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Qualifications & Education

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2021
FE 2021

Professional Experience

2021-Present Civil Design Inc., Brookings, South Dakota

Civil Engineering Intern

Assists with construction plan layout and design by producing, updating, and maintaining CAD and design drawings.
Organizes and maintains a variety of files and reports, complying with organizational policies and performing other related functions as assigned or apparent.
Performs construction related duties such as observation, quantity accounting and quantity verification for payments.
Performs surveying and staking for various projects both in construction and for preliminary information related to design.

BRIDGES

Bridges are some of the most significant—and awesome—engineering creations of humankind. A study in contradictions, they appear rigid but must be flexible; they can weigh millions of pounds but often look weightless. At Civil Design Inc, we understand that bridge design requires much more than a comprehensive understanding of physics, loads, and composite materials.

What differentiates Civil Design Inc’s civil engineers from other bridge designers is that at CDI we combine academic knowledge with:

    The creativity to produce multiple designs,
    The efficiency to work within a budget,
    The tenacity to modify a design again and again,
and most importantly – The insight that comes only with experience.

With over 75 years of combined experience, our civil engineers have the knowledge and skill required to combine design, knowledge of materials, and structural elements to bridge form and function to produce the structural solution to fit your transportation needs.

ROADS

Public or private, two miles or twenty, Civil Design Inc has the road design expertise you need to move your next project from the drafting board to the driving lane.

At Civil Design Inc, we understand that road construction is an uncertain process dependent on many fluctuating variables. When we design a road, we utilize the full resources of our professional staff to plan for the unexpected. Our civil engineers, registered land surveyors, drafters, outside service providers, and administrative personnel collaborate with the goal of anticipating and addressing concerns and taking the guesswork out of an unpredictable process.

Safety is our primary goal, which is why the designs we develop at CDI are prepared in accordance with the latest AASHTO and DOT specifications for roadway construction. Additionally, we collaborate with geotechnical engineers when designing roadway pavements to provide the structural capacity required for the design traffic.

These processes allow us to adapt to the environment. Cloudy and rainy or dry and dusty; rocky soil or clay; rolling hills or a flat mesa; the capable staff and associates with Civil Design Inc. can handle the setting. Best of all, because of our diverse skills and training, we know how to make the setting work for us.

RAILROADS

As one of only a handful of South Dakota firms officially pre-qualified to design for BNSF, UP, CN/IC and DM&E railroads, Civil Design Inc is a recognized industry leader in railroad systems engineering in the Midwest.

CDI has an impressive resume of rail system projects ranging from design/build projects to expansions and renovations, working with energy companies, ethanol plants, grain elevators, and more.

As a veteran rail systems provider, CDI has the experience and know-how to take your project from concept to completion. We can assist you with site selection, and once a site is chosen, our expert land surveying team will be ready to conduct preliminary surveys, boundary surveys, and provide construction staking. We offer a variety of other services during and after construction that can be tailored to fit your specific needs.

INDUSTRIAL SITE DESIGN

When a company is looking to locate—or relocate—to an industrial park or green-field site, they have specific needs: utilities able to accommodate large loads; water and wastewater lines structured to carry substantial volumes; roads and bridges built to handle heavy truck traffic; and land with the ability to accommodate rail, for example.

Civil Design Inc has the experience and expertise needed to guide you through the sometimes daunting task of industrial site design and/or site selection. We have experience as both a lead designer and subconsultant in very large industrial, providing us with a broad range of expertise.

With licenses in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Indiana, CDI’s staff of professional engineers has experience in industrial site design throughout the Midwest. Contact us today—we’re ready to tackle the challenge of designing your next site.

COMMERCIAL SITE DESIGN

At Civil Design Inc, we believe in the importance of collaboration and communication in all our projects. This synergy of talents and ideas is particularly important when we are charged with the task of designing a commercial site.

We have to admit—we’re extremely proud of the commercial site design portfolio we’ve compiled over the years. From numerous buildings on the campus of South Dakota State University, to Applebees®, to a state-of-the-art ambulatory pain center, we have developed a list of projects we’ve participated in that serve as a testament to the sound, hard work we put in to every project to which we sign our name.

Our engineers, drafters, and land surveyors have the experience you need and the expertise you want when you decide it’s time to build. Contact us today to discuss your commercial site needs.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT DESIGN

The engineers at Civil Design Inc have a comprehensive knowledge and-more importantly-experience in wastewater treatment design.

Wastewater treatment in small communities usually consists of a stabilization pond system, which can have one or more cells (ponds). Stabilization pond systems either discharge wastewater or provide total retention. If the system requires that wastewater is discharged, the wastewater leaving the system, or effluent, must be tested to verify that it meets the requirements set by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Stabilization pond systems that do not discharge are called total retention facilities and require a specialized design. The volume of wastewater entering the system, or influent, must be equal in volume to the water leaving the system through evaporation and percolation. The total retention pond system must be sized appropriately so that the ponds do not overtop. The wastewater depth must also stay at an appropriate level to allow for the system to function properly.

Civil Design Inc. has experience designing stabilization pond systems throughout the region. These complicated systems require the engineering expertise we offer.

FACILITY PLANS

A Facility Plan is an analysis of the current water or wastewater system and evaluates design alternatives. A Facility Plan provides information on the current system and many of its features including an Environmental Review, Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) Study (wastewater only), and Effluent Regulations. The Plan produces Design Alternatives incorporating monetary costs, capital financing plan and the community’s financial capabilities. The Facility Plan selects the design alternative that provides the most benefits for the community and provides a schedule and plan for implementation.

SEWER & WATER DISTRIBUTION

Civil Design Inc can design any sewer collection or water distribution system. CDI is a full service firm that can redesign an existing facility or provide a design for a new facility. Civil Design Inc has worked with many towns and cities in the region and is aware of standards that would be applicable.

DRAINAGE MANAGEMENT

The civil engineers at Civil Design Inc design drainage management plans to control the increase in storm water runoff created by land improvements. Although there are a myriad of methods to control runoff, the most commonly employed form of drainage management is storm water detention.

A storm water detention structure, or detention basin, is a man-made structure (either above or below ground) designed to hold storm water for a limited period of time. These basins control runoff, prevent flooding, and minimize downstream erosion. Detention basins are typically built during the construction of a subdivision, shopping center, or other large construction project. Some detention basins are designed to hold a small amount of water year-round, while others are commonly dry. Detention structures can also be used to clean or filter storm water prior to discharge.

ALTA SURVEY

Civil Design Inc’s land surveying team has completed over twenty commercial ALTA Surveys, and is ready to perform an ALTA Survey on your valuable commercial property today!

An ALTA Survey is a boundary survey conducted utilizing a nationally-recognized set of standards that have been jointly prepared by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the American Congress of Surveying and Mapping (ACSM). ALTA Surveys show changes to the landscape of the property that can include improvements, easements, right-of-way, and other elements impacting ownership of the land. This survey, which is typically utilized by commercial property owners, is designed with the requirements of title companies, lenders, and corporations in mind.

The surveying team from Civil Design Inc can work closely with the title company when conducting an ALTA Survey to ensure matters affecting ownership and improvements to the land are clearly understandable.

PLATS

Civil Design Inc has completed over 200 plats, and our professional land surveyors specialize in creating plats of any kind for our clients. A plat is a map showing the boundaries and other divisions of a section of land, which may also include the monuments found and monuments set on the property. Plats are scale drawings detailing exact dimensions of the parcel of land, which can be as large as a city, and as small as one lot on a city street.

The registered land surveyors at Civil Design Inc will draw a plat after performing a field survey on your land. They will then submit the plat to the appropriate public office in your county. In more populated areas, plats are often submitted to a public works department, urban planning commission, or zoning board; in areas with smaller cities, the county commission is frequently the agency that receives and reviews plats. Once the plat is submitted and approved, it becomes a legal document recorded in the Register of Deeds office as a public record.

BOUNDARY SURVEY

A Boundary Survey is a land survey used to establish boundary lines. This type of survey provides records and maps, which show proper location and subdivision of lands in a specific area. Civil Design Inc has completed over 550 boundary surveys through surveys, legal descriptions, and plats.

If you are making substantial changes to your property—subdividing it; adding on a shed or garage; or extending your driveway, for example—a Boundary Survey may be an important tool for establishing the physical limits of your property. Boundary Surveys are often required for insurance purposes, and they can be vital in land disputes.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

A legal description is the method used to describe a particular parcel of land. Legal descriptions uniquely describe only the subject area, without ambiguity. CDI has completed over 100 legal descriptions for our clients.

The most common methods of describing land are:

By reference of distance from a known line of location and bearing to a parallel line, and the section, township, and range. This is referred to as a footage description.

By reference to a lot and/or a block within an existing platted subdivision

By a combination of methods

MORTGAGE LOAN INSPECTION

Are you buying a new home? Maybe you’ve decided to buy that property you’ve been eyeing. In either case, you’ll probably need a Mortgage Loan Inspection. A Mortgage Loan Inspection is a certificate issued by a licensed land surveyor for the benefit of mortgage companies and title insurance companies. It is not a boundary survey. The Mortgage Loan Inspection shows the relationship of structures on a property to the deed lines as described in the legal description.

Civil Design Inc can provide you with an accurate and timely Mortgage Loan Inspection. Our registered land surveyors will conduct the inspection and create the Loan Inspection certificate. On it, we will note buildings, sheds, fences, and other permanent structures and their relationship to the deed lines.

CONSTRUCTION STAKING

Choosing Civil Design Inc to perform the construction staking on your next project may be one of the most important decisions you make. Construction staking includes the process by which surveying principles and instruments are used to locate, layout, and execute construction plans into physical points on the ground that can be used as a basis for actual construction.

At CDI, a survey crew completes all construction taking, working under the supervision of a registered land surveyor and utilizing the latest technology. Construction staking provides our clients with economical, efficient, and innovative outcomes. It provides an essential first step in the construction process and can directly influence whether a project finishes on time and within budget. Contractors can be assured that construction staking set by CDI’s surveying team is both professional and reliable.

TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEY

A Topographic Survey is a survey that gathers data about the elevation of points on a piece of land and presents them as contour lines on a plot. The purpose of a topographic survey is to collect survey data about the natural and man-made features of the land, as well as its elevations. Topographic maps are used to show elevations and grading features for architects, engineers, and building contractors.

Civil Design Inc’s professional land surveying team is well-versed in the nuances of topographic surveying. Utilizing the latest surveying technology, CDI’s land surveyors produce accurate, consistently reliable topographic surveys, saving you both time and money during the construction process.

HYDRAULIC SURVEY

A Hydraulic Survey records the features of bodies of water including contours, channels, and watershed information for lakes, rivers, and streams. The engineers at Civil Design Inc. often use this information to model water flow when designing bridges and other structures that are dependent on the flow and elevation of water. The information can also be used, however, to determine high water elevations at lakes and other bodies of water that do not flow.

The land surveyors that conduct the Hydraulic Surveys for CDI are both well trained and experienced. Their acumen and familiarity with Hydraulic Surveys are essential for providing the accurate information that CDI’s professional engineers require when choosing sites for bridges, docks, underground pipelines, and more.

Civil Design Inc’s survey professionals provide Hydraulic Surveys to both the public and private sector. These highly-detailed surveys can also provide a wealth of information to individuals or agencies studying:

    Erosion
    Flood control
    Water level fluctuations
    Aquatic animals
    Vegetation

ROUTE SURVEY

A route survey supplies the data necessary to determine alignment, grading, and earthwork quantities for the design and construction of various engineering projects such as roads, railroads, pipelines, and utilities.

When accuracy matters, your choice of land surveying companies matters. Whether the project is public or private, 2 miles or 20, trust the professional land surveyors at Civil Design Inc to provide you with the most reliable route surveys.

PLANNING/FEASIBILITY STUDIES

At Civil Design Inc, we believe thoughtful planning is the most cost-effective strategy to begin any project. One planning tool many individuals and organizations find extraordinarily helpful is a feasibility study.

A feasibility study is an analysis of a system and the viability of different solutions. The purpose of a feasibility study is to define a problem, need, or opportunity and then perform the research to provide multiple solutions.

The professional engineers at CDI can perform a feasibility study to more fully evaluate your project and possible outcomes and alternatives. These studies often provide multiple solutions based on given criteria such as cost and functionality. Communities, neighborhoods, corporations, and individuals can all benefit from the myriad of information provided by feasibility studies.

The feasibility studies we offer at CDI are completely customizable. We will work with you to assess your unique needs and ascertain what information would be most beneficial to help you make your decision.

DESIGN SERVICES

Civil Design Inc can successfully design most any civil engineering project. CDI has successfully designed projects ranging from site design to subdivision design, wastewater treatment design to railroad design. Any design project is thoroughly reviewed by multiple engineers within the company. Civil Design Inc works with the client throughout the design process to produce a Final Design that will exceed their expectations.

PLAN DEVELOPMENT

Plan development takes the design created by engineers and puts it on paper so contractors can interpret it for construction. Civil Design Inc utilizes a systematic approach when developing all plans. While no plan is ever infallible, this systematic approach endeavors to ensure that all components of the plan are in place and completed to governing standards.

At CDI, we believe the key to any project is communication, which is why the first step in the plan development process is to meet with the client to discuss alternatives and establish the client’s goals and requirements.

Our land surveying team begins by collecting all the necessary topographic information for our engineers and drafters to produce a preliminary design. Utilizing the preliminary design, we hold an in-person meeting with the client to discuss any changes he or she would prefer. This revision process continues until we complete a design that meets our client’s expectations.

PROJECT ADMINISTRATION

At Civil Design Inc, we endeavor to be responsive to our clients needs through honest, effective communication before, during, and after project completion. In keeping with this philosophy, we offer project administration services to all our clients for each project we undertake.

Project administration is essential to achieving a finished product that accomplishes a client’s goal. Project Administration usually involves multiple meetings between the client and Civil Design Inc’s engineers during the project’s planning and design phases. These meetings ensure the client’s goal is clear and the plans and specifications we design will meet the client’s needs financially, tangibly, and aesthetically.

Civil Design Inc’s talented engineers have the professional aptitude to ensure a project has quality project administration from beginning to end. Our goal at CDI is to provide excellence to our customers in each project we undertake.

PROBABLE CONSTRUCTION COSTS

When developing budgets for clients, the professionals at Civil Design Inc are often asked to give an opinion on the probable cost of the construction. Many times, our engineers are able to develop an opinion of probable construction cost based on historical costs and their own experience. Often, engineers rely on discussions with the contractors that may be involved in the construction of the project to get the most accurate costs possible. We understand these costs are very important to our clients for budgeting and construction cash flow.

During a project’s planning phase, the engineer will often use his or her opinion of probable construction cost to establish the scope of the project and help the owner determine his or her final objective. At Civil Design Inc, we strive to complete our projects on time and within budget. An accurate construction cost opinion is an essential component in achieving that goal.

Trust Civil Design Inc to help you develop and control budgets that will give you peace of mind and keep your project—and your pocketbook—in check.

PROJECT ANALYSIS

At Civil Design Inc, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all project designs. Each project we work on is unique and comes with its own unique design considerations. To find the most efficient and cost effective solution for any project, we feel it is essential that we analyze alternatives and substitutions.

We utilize our entire Civil Design Inc staff, along with input from both the client and the contractor, to produce competitive design alternatives. Our engineers and drafters can produce multiple alternatives that will each achieve your desired result.

Each feasible alternative has an associated Opinion of Probable Cost. By comparing probable cost opinions, we are able to determine which alternative would benefit you the most. To have a complete analysis, Civil Design Inc can also provide an Opinion of Probable Annual Cost of Operation and Maintenance for each alternative, which would detail not only your upfront cost, but also your longer-term upkeep expenses.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

When developing budgets for clients, the professionals at Civil Design Inc are often asked to give an opinion on the probable cost of the construction. Many times, our engineers are able to develop an opinion of probable construction cost based on historical costs and their own experience. Often, engineers rely on discussions with the contractors that may be involved in the construction of the project to get the most accurate costs possible. We understand these costs are very important to our clients for budgeting and construction cash flow.

During a project’s planning phase, the engineer will often use his or her opinion of probable construction cost to establish the scope of the project and help the owner determine his or her final objective. At Civil Design Inc, we strive to complete our projects on time and within budget. An accurate construction cost opinion is an essential component in achieving that goal.

Trust Civil Design Inc to help you develop and control budgets that will give you peace of mind and keep your project—and your pocketbook—in check.

SCHEDULE DEVELOPMENT

At Civil Design Inc, we are proud to work with a team of professionals that values communication and collaboration. And not to brag, but we are also pretty good at finishing our projects on time and within budget.

To keep us on time and to ensure we are using our resources efficiently, we develop an internal schedule that details each phase of every project we begin at CDI. We provide the client with milestones for tracking progress, giving the client opportunities for review and input during the design process.

Schedule development is an important—and necessary—component of completing a project. By developing a schedule for each project, the engineers at Civil Design Inc are better able to discerningly address budgets and financing as well as overall project organization.

CONTRACT PREPARATION

At Civil Design Inc, we want both our clients and their chosen contractor(s) to finish a project satisfied with the end result as well as the journey getting there. Our contract preparation service helps satisfy that goal, facilitating the use of standard contracts prepared by the Engineers’ Joint Documents Committee for Design and Construction Related Documents.

A contract is a binding agreement that ensures the contractor will complete the project for the agreed upon bid amount in accordance with the agreed upon specifications. Ultimately, every project will require the owner to enter in an Agreement for Construction with a contractor.

As a part of the contract process, CDI will ensure that the contractor obtains the proper bonds and insurance, and that the work is completed as specified without liens or disputes for payment. This arrangement is essential to achieving a quality finished product that will meet our client’s expectations.

Utilizing Civil Design Inc’s contract preparation services, we can protect both the client and the contractor by ensuring that all components of the contract are in-place and completed to the appropriate governing standards.

COST ACCOUNTING

As a full service firm, Civil Design Inc can manage your entire construction budget, a service we call cost accounting.

As part of the cost accounting service, we provide our clients with regular financial updates throughout the project, including procurement costs. In addition, our project managers are customer service specialists who can work closely with you and the contractor(s) to ensure that both parties understand and adhere to the budgetary considerations.

As with any project, unforeseen circumstances sometimes arise. Should something come up, CDI project managers will work closely with all parties to handle any matter in a timely and cost effective manner.

SPECIAL AND UNIQUE PROJECTS

Utilizing the industry’s most advanced equipment, the talented professionals at Civil Design Inc can design a unique solution to fit the needs of almost any client. Our engineers and drafters have ample experience to draw upon when diagnosing or designing a special or unique project. Some examples of unique projects include:

Building Vibration Analysis
Civil Design Inc performed a vibration analysis on buildings located near wind turbines. The premanufactured buildings were, literally, shaking apart due to the high winds where they were located. After site visits, coordination with the manufacturer, and analysis by the CDI team, we determined the cause to be inadequate foundation. CDI proposed a solution to the client that alleviated the situation.

Settlement Monitoring
Civil Design Inc performed settlement studies on grain storage structures, liquid tanks for ethanol biorefineries, and other miscellaneous structures. We designed a control system and, using very sensitive, accurate equipment, physically monitored movement of these structures for an undetermined period until the settlements stabilized. Following the field work, we submitted a report to the client that summarized all methods, data, and results.

ATHLETIC SITE DESIGN

When you work with Civil Design Inc to design your athletic site, you are truly working with the best. CDI won commendations from their peers—maybe the toughest critics—when they were awarded the 2003 Outstanding Civil Engineering Project award from the Eastern Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) for their design of the Fishback Soccer Park in Brookings, SD.

CDI’s specialization in athletic site design means that as a client, you have the full resources of our professional staff on your project, from start to finish. Whether your project is a high school track and field center or a Division I collegiate soccer complex, you will have our best working for you throughout the project—from our veteran land surveying team to our skilled drafters, to our resourceful—and respected—civil engineers.

In recent years, we have worked closely with South Dakota State University as they have successfully completed the transition from Division II to Division I athletics, to design new athletic fields and redesign existing fields to improve the quality of the playing field and expand spectator seating. We are proud and honored to accompany them on their historic journey.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

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ROADS

Public or private, two miles or twenty, Civil Design Inc has the road design expertise you need to move your next project from the drafting board to the driving lane.

At Civil Design Inc, we understand that road construction is an uncertain process dependent on many fluctuating variables. When we design a road, we utilize the full resources of our professional staff to plan for the unexpected. Our civil engineers, registered land surveyors, drafters, outside service providers, and administrative personnel collaborate with the goal of anticipating and addressing concerns and taking the guesswork out of an unpredictable process.

Safety is our primary goal, which is why the designs we develop at CDI are prepared in accordance with the latest AASHTO and DOT specifications for roadway construction. Additionally, we collaborate with geotechnical engineers when designing roadway pavements to provide the structural capacity required for the design traffic.

These processes allow us to adapt to the environment. Cloudy and rainy or dry and dusty; rocky soil or clay; rolling hills or a flat mesa; the capable staff and associates with Civil Design Inc. can handle the setting. Best of all, because of our diverse skills and training, we know how to make the setting work for us.

Brookings 22nd Ave Reconstruction

Client: City of Brookings | Location: Brookings, SD

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D&I Railroad Bridge T-648 Reconstruction

Client: SDDOT | Location: Canton, SD

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CDI was selected by the South Dakota Department of Transportation & the D & I Railroad to perform work necessary to replace a railroad structure over the Big Sioux River that failed during the March 2019 flood event. Large ice pressures and historic river levels simultaneously caused failure to the bridge. CDI was on board shortly after collapse of Bridge T-648, and provided structure replacement options to the State and Railroad for consideration. The option chosen was a 380’, 8-span ballasted deck bridge with 5 spans of prestressed concrete double box beams and 3 main steel spans due to the larger span openings and relatively quick lead times on material. Emergency structure design ensued, working diligently to complete each phase of the design to procure material in advance of construction to ensure material was available by the time a Contractor was onsite to perform the work. Structure Design was completed in accordance with the AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering, Current Edition. CDI worked closely with RESPEC who performed all hydraulic analysis on the project. CDI worked with RESPEC to expedite the design process, allowing CDI to focus on the structure and rail design to expedite the design and permit approval process.

The substructure units were designed such that a temporary cofferdam did not require construction due to the use of driven steel pipe pile & H-pile, resulting in a reduction in overall construction timeframe and costs. The steel pipe pile were driven and filled with concrete and the end product provided exposed piling up to and connecting to the bent caps with a protective coating to protect against corrosion of the steel. All concrete caps were precast, minimizing construction time by allowing the caps to be delivered to the site and placed shortly thereafter. CDI prepared final design plans for the structure and rail only 6 weeks after initial design work started, prepared bidding documents and held a bid letting. CDI also performed Construction Administration services throughout construction. The D & I Railroad lost service to the mainline on March 15, 2019 and the bridge was completed and ready for daily traffic on August 15, 2019, only 5 months after initial failure. We are pleased to see the D & I Railroad up and running again!

SDSU Intramural Parking & Roundabout

Client: South Dakota State University | Location: Brookings, SD

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Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Ceres Global Ag Corp

Client: Ceres Global Ag Corp | Location: Northgate, Saskatchewan, Canada

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James Valley Grain

Client: James Valley Grain | Location: Verona, ND

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Novita DDGS Oil Extraction Facility

Client: Novita Nutrition | Location: Aurora, SD

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Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Village Square Drainage Improvements

Client: City of Brookings | Location: Brookings, SD

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Timberline East Detention Pond

Client: City of Brookings | Location: Brookings, SD

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Rollings Game Production Area

Client: South Dakota Game Fish & Parks | Location: Hudson, SD

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Through the RFP process, CDI was chosen to help the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks (GF&P) transform this abandoned gravel mine into a state game production area and fishing park. Our responsibilities included performing a topographic survey of existing conditions which also included a bathymetric survey of existing pond depths. Existing conditions were then used to calculate needed pond excavations to create deep water habitat for game fish. In addition, the ponds were connected to provide one contiguous water surface thus requiring two pedestrian bridges for the walking trail around the pond. GF&P was interested in selling the gravel spoils on the commercial market but the quality of the excavated material was too sandy. CDI developed several alternatives including up to four pedestrian bridges and doubling the pond surface area; however, due to budget constraints, the final alternative was limited to two pedestrian bridges without doubling the pond surface area. CDI was instrumental in providing several pre-fabricated bridge options which included weathering steel, aluminum, and timber. Two 8’ x 30’ timber bridges with a mild archway were chosen for aesthetic and cost reasons. CDI performed all calculations and design for the abutments which were founded on four steel piles each. The site also features two concrete parking areas which are compliant with ADA standards as are the walking trails and bridges. Also, the entrance road was improved and a new gravel boat launch was installed which featured a plastic geo-web. Two 40’ floating fishing piers were installed in the spring of 2012.

Construction began in the late spring of 2011 and was completed late that summer. CDI also provided construction observation and inspection. Material testing was performed under contract by American Engineering & Testing. CDI provided all final design drawings and specifications, performed all construction administration and inspection, and construction staking.

This project was recognized in 2011 as an Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement by the SD Eastern Branch of ASCE.

Comfort Stations

Client: South Dakota Game Fish & Parks | Location: SD State Parks and Recreation Areas

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Jeffrey Cooley, PE

Chief Executive Officer

As CEO, Jeffrey Cooley oversees and manages every facet of business operations within Civil Design Inc. At the helm of project development, he performs engineering calculations, prepares plans, and writes specifications as well as conducts construction administration and tracks budgets for in-progress construction projects. Driven by the visceral need to do things right, Jeff is a creative and incisive problem solver with illustrated talent in track layout and site design. Jeff motivates, mentors, and leads a team of talented professionals by maintaining a culture of constant open communication that extends to clients alike.

Education:

Licensed Professional Engineer in SD, ND, MN, IA, ID, & TX
BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2008

Professional Involvement:

Member, American Society of Civil Engineers
Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce, Board of Young Professionals
Boys & Girls Club of Brookings, STEM Mentor
Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Brookings in 2015
American Railway Engineering & Maintenance of Way Association (AREMA)
American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA)
North American Maintenance Railway Club (NAMRC)

Carey Bretsch, PE

President & Co-Founder

As Civil Design Inc’s co-founder and President, Carey holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering from South Dakota State University. He is predominantly involved in marketing for the company and mentoring the Engineers in Training. Carey’s tenacious career has established innovation and understanding in his work with successful projects in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Texas, and Minnesota. His diverse project expertise includes roads, bridges, subdivisions, sports complexes, parking lots, commercial sites, drainage, hydraulic analysis, and river stabilization.

Education:

Licensed professional engineer in SD, MN, IA, NE, IN, WI, & ND
BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 1981
MS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 1990

Professional Involvement:

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

– Section representative to the Region 7 Board of Governors

– Past SD Section President

– Past Practitioner Advisor for the SDSU Student Chapter.

– Recipient of “Friend of ASCE” by SDSU Student Chapter in 2011

– Recipient of Outstanding Service awards in 1986, 1988, and 1989.

– Past President of the Section and Eastern Branch.

– Chosen “Outstanding Young Civil Engineer” by the Eastern Branch of the South Dakota Section of ASCE in 1989.

Brookings Chamber of Commerce – Board of Directors & President 2014
Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) of the ASCE
Transportation and Development Institute (T&DI) of the ASCE
American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association
American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA)
North American Maintenance Railway Club (NAMRC)
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
Former board member of Brookings Rotary Club

Chris Brozik, PE

VP Structural Engineering

Chris obtained his PE License in 2014, after completing his Master’s Degree at SDSU and gaining years of experience at CDI. He has a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of engineering and has a proven track record of successfully completed projects. Chris is responsible for performing design calculations for numerous projects, including the design of highway and railroad structures. He prepares CAD drawings and correspondence, plan sheets, specifications, quantity estimates, cost estimation, and technical reports. He conducts research and assures compliance with local, state, and federal standards for design elements, safety, and permitting requirements, and works with survey crews and is a seasoned on-site construction engineer.

Education:

FE Certificate, 2009
PE License in SD since 2014
BS, Civil & Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2009
MS, Civil & Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2011
Successful Completion of Fundamentals of Railroad Bridge Inspection Course, 2016 – University of Wisconsin-Madison
Certification of FHWA Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges, 2016

Professional Involvement:

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
ASCE Outstanding Young Civil Engineer – 2015
ASCE South Dakota Section – Outstanding Civil Engineering Project – 2016 – MRC II Chamberlain to Presho Railroad Rehabilitation
Boys & Girls Club of Brookings, STEM Mentor
Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Brookings Graduate, 2018
Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce, Chair of Young Professionals Group
Member of Connect 2140

Andrew Kangas, PE/LS

Vice President

Andrew, as Vice President, serves as a project engineer and land surveyor. After completing his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Andrew obtained his PE license in 2011 and LS certification in 2016, making him a versatile asset to the Civil Design team. He has a comprehensive understanding of standards for design elements and demonstrates strong project coordination abilities. In addition to overseeing all of CDI’s field data collection, drafting, construction staking, and survey crews; Andrew designs, drafts, and plans for road, railroad, drainage, utilities, and various other projects.

Education:

Licensed professional land surveyor in SD since 2016
Licensed professional engineer in SD since 2011
BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2006

Professional Involvement:

Member, South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors
Member, Big Sioux Chapter of SDSPLS
Member, American Society of Civil Engineers
Member, Golden Key National Honour Society
Member, Connect 2140

Jason Petersen, PE

Project Engineer

Jason obtained his professional engineer’s experience at CDI as an engineer intern, and has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He performs a wide range of duties, including research, concept, and alternative development, and is licensed in SD and MN. He coordinates clients, subcontractors, agencies, and other staff. Jason provides diverse experience in the civil engineering field, including site design, streets, utilities, drainage projects, railroads, and bridge inspections.

Education:

Licensed Professional Engineer in SD since 2010, in MN since 2012
BS, Civil & Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2005

Professional Involvement:

American Public Works Association
NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges
Member, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Brian Ruppelt, PE

Project Engineer

As a 2014 civil engineering graduate of South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, Brian performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff, including research, concept, and alternative development. He is gaining engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Brian is responsible for performing engineering design calculations for numerous projects, including the design of sanitary sewer, storm sewer, roadways, railroads, bridges, retaining walls, athletic fields, and storm water modeling for urban drainage. He also prepares CAD drawings and correspondence, plan sheets, specifications, quantity and construction cost estimation, and technical reports. He conducts research and assures compliance with local, state, and national standards for design elements and safety and permitting requirements.

Education:

Licensed Professional Engineer, 2018
BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, 2013
MS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, 2014

Professional Involvement:

Member, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Member, Chi Epsilon National Civil Engineering Honor Society
Member, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society
Member of Connect 2140

Trace Villbrandt

Engineer in Training

As a graduate of South Dakota State University, Trace performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff, and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets and serving as a field engineer on specific projects. He is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Education:

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2017
ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician – 2020
FE Certification, 2017
SDDOT Aggregates Testing – 2023
SDDOT Concrete Paving – 2023
SDDOT Concrete Plants – 2023
SDDOT Earthwork – 2023
SDDOT Erosion & Sediment – 2023
SDDOT Soils Testing – 2023
SDDOT Structures – 2023

Professional Involvement:

Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers
Competed in the ASCE sponsored Concrete Canoe Competition – 2017

Tyson Mitzel

Engineer in Training

As a graduate of South Dakota State University, Tyson performs duties under the direction of the professional engineering staff and is responsible for creating site layouts and detail sheets in addition to serving as a field engineer on specific projects. He is gaining preliminary engineering experience in a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Education:

BS, Civil Engineering, South Dakota State University, 2018
FE Certification, 2018

Tim Brezina

Chief Survey Technician

As part of the CDI team since 2007, Tim is an expert in the principles, practices, and instruments used in surveying and civil engineering. CDI relies on Tim for all topographic and construction staking duties. He has an associate’s degree from St. Cloud Technical College in Minnesota.

Education:

AS, Civil Engineering Technician, St. Cloud Technical College, 2007

Professional Involvement:

Member, South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors
Licensed Erosion Control Inspector in MN

Shayne Arrowood

Civil Engineering Technician

Shayne joined CDI’s design staff in 2019. He assists engineering staff and surveyors with drafting, design, and plan inspection using AutoCAD Civil3D software. Using robotic and GPS equipment, he also conducts various jobs in the field under the supervision of the Chief Survey Technician. With help from the staff, he is gaining experience in a variety of engineering and surveying projects.

Education:

AS, Civil Engineering Technology, Southeast Technical Institute, 2019
AS, Land Surveying Technology, Southeast Technical Institute, 2019

Professional Involvement:

STI Civil Engineering Technology and Land Surveying Science Student Organization

Drew Roskam

Civil Engineering Technician

Drew joined CDI’s design staff in 2019. He assists engineering staff and surveyors with drafting, design, and plan inspection using AutoCAD Civil3D software. Using robotic and GPS equipment, he also conducts various jobs in the field under the supervision of the Chief Survey Technician. With help from the staff, he is gaining experience in a variety of engineering and surveying projects.

Education:

AS, Civil Engineering Technology, Southeast Technical Institute, 2019
AS, Land Surveying Technology, Southeast Technical Institute, 2019
BS, Construction Management, South Dakota State University, 2017

Professional Involvement:

STI Civil Engineering Technology and Land Surveying Science Student Organization

Neil Rolf

Civil Engineering Technician

After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in architecture at South Dakota State University, Neil joined the CDI team in 2016 and assists engineering staff with AutoCAD and architectural drafting. He also edits and maintains CDI’s marketing and promotional materials, such as project descriptions, employee resumes, our website, and firm literature for future bid proposals.

Education:

BS, Architecture, South Dakota State University, 2015

Deanna Vaske

Office Manager

Deanna started at Civil Design Inc in 2002 and is responsible for the coordination and communication of all office operations. Deanna works with the entire CDI team and with clients under the direction of the managing partners, and also maintains general ledgers, processes payroll and benefits, and performs other clerical duties.

Education:

BS, Business Economics, South Dakota State University, 1992
PHR Certificate (Professional in Human Resources), 2013
SHRM-CP (Certified Professional in Human Resources), 2015

Professional Involvement:

Public Notary
Member, Brookings Area Human Resources Association
President, Brookings Area Human Resources Association, 2015
Founding Member, Employer-Led Disability Alliance
Co-Chair, 2016 South Dakota SHRM State Conference
Member, Women in Leadership & Learning, Brookings Chapter

Davison County Bridge Rehabilitation

Client: Davison County Highway Dept | Location: Davison County, SD

Civil Design Inc was retained by the Davison County Highway Department to perform all work necessary for two bridge rehabilitations funded by the South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. Structure 18-160-084 is a 3 span 167-foot continuous composite I-beam structure spanning Firesteel Creek. Structure 18-169-060 is a 3 span 166’ continuous composite I-beam structure spanning James River. Repairs to the structures included bridge deck resurfacing, bearing and stiffener replacement, repainting, and the installation of riprap. Cost of rehabilitation for this project totaled $1.46 million.

Civil Engineering Engineer-in-Training

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