Thought Leadership

5 Things Decision-Makers Might Not Know About Bridge Jacking

July 1, 2025

By Hongwei Cai, Ph.D., P.E., Director of Structures, WSB

Every successful bridge lift is far more than pumping jacks—it’s a high-precision operation that weaves together structural analysis, traffic choreography, material savvy, and emergency readiness. Overlooking any of these elements can turn a routine maintenance job into a costly—and potentially dangerous—disaster. 

1. Early Engineer Involvement Strengthens Contractor Bids 
Bringing licensed bridge engineers into the bid phase gives contractors a strategic edge. Our early involvement helps identify constructability challenges, optimize staging and traffic-control plans, and refine scope assumptions—resulting in smarter, more competitive proposals. This proactive approach not only reduces post-award changes but can also be the difference-maker to success. 

 2. Keeping Lanes Open Requires Advanced Analysis 
Full traffic closure isn’t always feasible—many bridges serve critical routes where detours are not an option. In such cases, maintaining live traffic during bridge lifting requires more than standard planning. It demands additional calculations, refined details, and advanced analysis to safely account for live load effects. 

3. Material Creativity Speeds Delivery 
Rather than ordering customized plate size or structural section with long lead times, innovative engineers repurpose on-hand or owner-provided materials—adapting jacks to fit what’s available. This flexible approach can trim procurement schedules and budgets by nearly 20% without compromising safety. 

4. True Experts Stand Ready for Emergencies 
Storms, collisions, bearing failures—they all strike without warning. Top bridge-jacking specialists maintain standing emergency contracts and pre-approved jacking plans, with crews and equipment staged for 24/7 mobilization. When minutes count, they’re on site, stabilizing spans in hours, not days. 

If any of these insights spark questions about your next maintenance or rehabilitation project, we’d be glad to share more—no strings attached. A brief conversation could uncover new ways to reduce risk, streamline schedules, and keep your bridges safely open. 

5. Advanced Finite Element Modeling Solves Complex Challenges 
When bridge lifting involves unusual geometry, uncertain load paths, or tight tolerances, our advanced finite element modeling expertise becomes essential. We create a detailed “digital twin” of the structure—accurately modeling every girder, bearing, and reaction frame to simulate behavior before any physical action is taken. 

How WSB Can Help 

WSB’s team of structural experts is prepared to improve both safety and efficiency for your next bridge project. Our specialists are experts in designing and executing high-precision bridge jacking plans, making sure your project is conducted with the utmost care and attention to detail. With a commitment to innovation and reliability, we leverage advanced tools, such as digital twins and advanced finite element modeling, to streamline project timelines, mitigate risks, and achieve superior outcomes. We invite you to contact us to learn more about how our expertise can support your bridge initiatives and help maintain the longevity and functionality of your infrastructure. Partner with WSB to explore how we can create tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of your project. 

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan Updates

By Lori Johnson, Sr Professional Community Planner, WSB

Communities within the seven-county metro area may feel like their 2040 Comprehensive Plans were just adopted and approved by the Metropolitan Council (MC), but the reality is the deadline for their 2050 Comprehensive Plans is just a few short years away. Updating a comprehensive plan is a massive endeavor for some communities and it takes years of preparation. The Metropolitan Council has set the deadline for updating 2050 Comprehensive Plans for September 2028, so it is imperative to begin strategizing now.

The MC has developed a regional development guide titled, Imagine 2050, to help cities understand the goals of the Council during the next round of comprehensive plan updates, Imagine 2050 – Metropolitan Council. In September 2025, the Council will release System Statements to each jurisdiction. These statements, mandated by state law, are designed to assist communities in their upcoming comprehensive plan updates. The information provided by the Met Council will include crucial statistics such as projected population, households, and employment figures.

This article offers guidance on preparing for these updates, including budgeting for external assistance and meeting new requirements.

Forecasts and Community Designations

Understanding the future demographics and designations of your community is a foundational step in the planning process. Accurate forecasts can help predict growth patterns, housing needs, and infrastructure demands, which are essential for effective land use planning.

Existing Land Use

A thorough analysis of existing land use provides insights into current zoning, development patterns, and community needs. This step lays the groundwork for planning future land use and identifying areas that require attention or change.

Future Land Use

Strategic future land use planning ensures that the community evolves in a sustainable and organized manner. This involves designating areas for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational use, considering factors like population growth and environmental impact.

Staged Development Areas

Planning for staged development areas involves mapping out the phases of future development to ensure orderly growth. This approach prevents overdevelopment and ensures that infrastructure and services are expanded in a manageable and sustainable manner.

Climate and Natural Systems

Statewide Targets for Greenhouse Gas Reductions — New this year

City leaders must acknowledge statewide targets for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reductions, which aim for a 50% reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050 from a 2005 baseline. These targets are pivotal in shaping policies and initiatives for climate action.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory — New this year

A new requirement for this planning cycle is the inclusion of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. This inventory must encompass transportation, energy use, solid waste, and livestock and agriculture, if applicable. It provides a comprehensive view of the community’s carbon footprint and informs strategies for reduction.

Transportation

Transportation planning is integral to comprehensive plans. It includes evaluating current transportation systems, identifying areas for improvement, and planning for future needs. This ensures that the community remains accessible and connected.

Considerations for City Leaders

In-House vs. Consultant Assistance

City leaders must decide whether to undertake this extensive planning process in-house or hire a consultant. While in-house teams may offer familiarity with local issues, consultants bring specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and project management skills, easing the burden on city staff for such a time-consuming project.

Budgeting for the Future

It is crucial to budget for this effort early. If hiring a consultant, cities should consider the cost implications and amend future budgets accordingly. Planning for this expenditure now ensures that funds are available when needed and the project progresses smoothly.

Looking Ahead

Look out for System Statements and other documents from the Met Council, which will be available this fall. These resources will offer essential information that must be incorporated into comprehensive plans, helping city leaders through the process.

By September 2028, every jurisdiction must submit their updated plans to the Metropolitan Council for review and approval. It’s crucial to note that any changes to current comprehensive plans will not be accepted by the Met Council after this 2028 deadline. Inform potential developers of this requirement to guide development strategies proactively.

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan updates is a multifaceted task that requires strategic foresight and meticulous planning. By considering land use, climate action, transportation, and budgeting for assistance, city leaders can ensure that their plans are comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with statewide goals. Starting the preparation now sets the stage for successful plan updates by September 2028.

WSB is uniquely positioned to assist city leaders in navigating the complexities of comprehensive community planning. With our specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and robust project management skills, we can streamline the entire planning process, ensuring that all necessary components are addressed. By partnering with WSB, cities can confidently move forward, knowing that their community plans will be comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with long-term goals, keeping their communities thriving and resilient for years to come.

Bridging the Gap Between Design and Build: The Current State of the Construction Industry

June 17, 2025

By: Kyle Klasen, Vice President, Construction, WSB

As the construction industry evolves, data rich model-centric workflows are reshaping how projects are planned, designed, built and maintained. The industry is moving from paper plans to digital delivery due to increased construction risks and data loss during maintenance and asset management. 

Transforming Construction Workflows Through Data Integration

Owners, surveyors, construction engineering and inspection (CE&I) teams, and contractors are all working together to deliver successful projects but without a shared source of truth, they risk misalignment and inefficiencies. Bridging the gap between design and construction has historically been an industry weakness that WSB is committed to changing.

Enhancing Field Operations with Seamless Data Integration

Our approach focuses on understanding the data needed for construction, validating electronic and plan documents, and providing user-friendly data formats. Usable 3D design data that is clear, manageable, and reliable is shaping project planning and delivery today. Understanding the limitations of file size and file formatting of data to construction hardware and software is essential while designing for field users. We must ensure easy transfer of custom surfaces, alignments, profiles, and 2D/3D linework with features between systems for field operations and asset management teams.

Driving Transparency and Efficiency with Cloud-Based Collaboration

Cloud platforms connect stakeholders collaboratively, creating transparency in design and acceptance of model-centric approaches. When stakeholders trust and adopt a single source of data truth for survey, automated machine guidance, and construction management, they reduce schedule delays and quantity discrepancies. Real-time tracking of quantities and monitoring project progress offers insights that improve productivity and cost control. By analyzing more real-time field data, teams identify inefficiencies, troubleshoot issues remotely, and make smart decisions faster to accelerate project delivery. To shape the future of our industry, we must lead in the adoption of digital tools and actively push forward toward fully digital workflows.

Embracing Digital Transformation for a Smarter Construction Future

As the construction industry advances, embracing fully digital workflows and model-centric approaches is no longer optional—it is imperative. By fostering collaboration among all stakeholders, leveraging cloud-based platforms, and ensuring models are validated and accessible, the industry can overcome historical inefficiencies. This transition promises to enhance productivity, reduce risks, and pave the way for smarter, data-driven construction practices that define the future.

From Alert to Aftermath: Navigating Severe Weather as a Community

June 4, 2025

By: Allison Whitsitt, Planning Manager, WSB

When severe weather strikes, taking swift and informed action is crucial to ensure safety and minimize storm risks. Being prepared and knowing how to respond effectively can make a significant difference.

Stay Indoors & Seek Shelter: During severe weather, it’s essential to follow your preparedness plan by sheltering in a designated safe space, such as a basement or an interior room without windows. If you’re in a public location, avoid large open rooms like gymnasiums and seek shelter away from windows and glass doors. For those caught outdoors, do not attempt to drive, especially in dangerous weather like tornadoes or flash floods. Instead, find sturdy shelter to reduce storm risks. Stay away from overpasses, trees, or other unsecured structures that could pose a risk. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area while covering your head and neck.

Stay Alert & Informed: Staying informed during severe weather is critical to managing storm risks. Keep a charged cell phone and a backup battery handy. This ensures you can receive updates and stay connected. Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio to receive real-time emergency broadcasts, even if cellular networks fail. While social media and local emergency management pages can provide valuable updates, they should not be your sole source of information. This is due to the potential for misinformation or network outages. Ensure notifications for weather alerts are enabled on your phone to stay updated on warnings and advisories in your area.

Avoid Complacency: Severe weather often brings multiple alerts over time, leading to what’s commonly known as “weather fatigue.” This constant barrage of warnings can cause people to ignore subsequent alerts, assuming the danger has passed. However, severe weather patterns are unpredictable and can change rapidly, making it crucial to treat each warning seriously to mitigate storm risks. Always listen to official directives, even if the situation seems stable, as conditions can escalate without warning.

Aftermath & Recovery Resources: The aftermath of severe weather can be challenging and require time and effort to recover. Local Emergency Managers are often the first to provide assistance, helping with debris removal, temporary relief efforts, and damage reporting to state and federal agencies. Understanding storm risks is important because immediate assistance might not be available for up to 72 hours. This is because response teams mobilize resources. To facilitate quicker recovery, document all damage by taking photos and videos of your property before discarding any damaged items. These records, along with receipts for repairs or replacements, can be invaluable for insurance claims or applications for disaster assistance.

Beyond personal recovery, building community resilience is a vital part of preparedness. When individuals and families have a plan, and encourage others to develop their own, the entire community benefits. A resilient community can respond more effectively to crises, reduce storm risks, and recover more quickly. Preparedness extends beyond individual safety—it strengthens the bonds within neighborhoods and fosters a collective effort to face and overcome challenges together.

WSB Support for Communities: At WSB, we are dedicated to supporting communities not just in the aftermath of severe weather but also in preparation for it. We work to raise awareness about potential storm risks, provide resources to strengthen preparedness efforts, and assist in recovery. This helps individuals and neighborhoods rebuild stronger and safer. Together, we can create a culture of readiness and resilience, ensuring that no one faces these challenges alone.

Building a Stronger Oklahoma: WSB’s Commitment to Innovation and Community

June 3, 2025

By: Rick Johnson, Vice President of Operations, WSB & Brandon Claborn, Vice President, Environmental, WSB

Oklahoma is a land of resilience, progress, and opportunity—values that align perfectly with WSB’s vision for the future. As a national firm with a deep local presence, we are here not just to work on projects. Instead, we aim to actively shape the landscape of infrastructure and innovation in the state, especially with WSB Oklahoma.

Our journey into Oklahoma was intentional and strategic. Through the acquisition of key firms deeply rooted in the local market, we have been able to integrate their expertise, relationships, and community-driven insights into our broader national vision. This wasn’t simply an expansion—it was an investment in people, in progress, and in the infrastructure that fuels growth managed by WSB Oklahoma.

With nearly 200 dedicated professionals now serving Oklahoma, our multidisciplinary approach ensures we can meet the diverse needs of communities. Whether in government, commercial, or energy markets, we bring together expertise in engineering, environmental, planning, and construction. We deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to the challenges and opportunities unique to the region at WSB Oklahoma.

Infrastructure is more than roads and bridges—it is the backbone of thriving communities. At WSB, we recognize that resilient transportation networks, sustainable water management systems, stormwater & floodplain studies, and forward-thinking design are essential to long-term prosperity. We don’t just build; we innovate. Our commitment to cutting-edge technology is transforming how projects are delivered, and it improves efficiency, sustainability, and impact as facilitated by WSB Oklahoma.

Collaboration is at the core of our approach. We partner with state and local governments, businesses, and community leaders to build a future that is both sustainable and vibrant. Whether expanding a roadway, enhancing water systems, mitigating flood risk, or developing smart city initiatives, we remain focused on delivering solutions that matter. Contributions from WSB Oklahoma play a vital role in these efforts.

Oklahoma’s infrastructure needs continue to grow, and WSB is prepared to meet those demands. Our expansion in the state reflects our belief in its potential—both in available talent and in the opportunity to create meaningful advancements. While the brands EST, Meshek & Associates, and Craig & Keithline are now integrated into WSB, the technical excellence and deep expertise of our team remain unchanged. What has evolved is the access to a broader bench of talent and resources at WSB Oklahoma, which reinforces our ability to support infrastructure needs at every level.

As we look ahead, our commitment to Oklahoma and all the regions we serve remains unwavering. We are not just building infrastructure; we are building the future. By combining local knowledge with national expertise, we create lasting impact and foster growth. We are reimagining how infrastructure is delivered, spearheaded by WSB Oklahoma.

Together, we are building what’s next in infrastructure.

Leading the Charge for Sustainable Construction: Minnesota’s Buy Clean Initiative

April 21, 2025
By Nicole Muske, Senior Graduate Engineer, WSB

Earth month is an opportune time to highlight the strides being made in sustainability, particularly through initiatives like the Buy Clean Buy Fair Minnesota Act, passed in 2023. This act highlights Minnesota’s efforts and commitment to responsible environmental practices, including sustainable construction efforts.

Understanding Buy Clean

The initiative is an industry and government-focused step on carbon emissions associated with construction materials on state-funded projects. Sustainable construction is a key component of Minnesota’s Department of Transportation (MnDOT) strategy with the Buy Clean initiative, due to the state’s commitment to lower carbon materials and responsible procurement practices. This initiative is part of a larger goal to decrease the carbon footprint of construction projects throughout the state. By laying the groundwork for the use of lower embodied carbon products, states like Minnesota are providing examples for how other states can explore these types of approaches to resilient infrastructure.

Broader Adoption and Innovation

Currently, 20 states have implemented their own Buy Clean programs. This highlights the need for broader adoption across the nation, especially in sustainable construction practices. By pushing for initiatives that prioritize sustainable materials, we can pave the way for a more resilient future.

Additionally, the initiative encourages research into products that offer lower emissions and embodied carbon, without compromising on quality, resilience, or durability. This involves thorough testing and evaluation to ensure that materials meet high standards while contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions, which is integral to sustainable construction.

WSB has relevant experience with helping clients analyze and adopt the use of lower embodied carbon materials in infrastructure, such as through pavements utilized in the Heights, a master development project developed by the St. Paul Port Authority.  At the state level, we are coordinating a DOT project in Oklahoma on Balance Mix Design.

These and other real-life examples were discussed at a transportation materials conference that WSB recently co-sponsored. By discussing cutting-edge ideas with key stakeholders through these efforts, we work with other thought leaders to advance cost-effective solutions in sustainable construction.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPD)

A crucial aspect of the Buy Clean initiative is the focus on Environmental Product Declarations (EPD). By obtaining more EPDs, stakeholders can better understand the origin and composition of materials, allowing for informed decisions that prioritize sustainability. The initiative promotes sourcing and availability within a certain radius, ensuring that concrete and asphalt used in projects are both locally sourced and environmentally responsible, which is a prime aspect of sustainable construction practices.

With Earth Month here, it is essential to recognize and celebrate these efforts. The Buy Clean initiative exemplifies how state-level actions can lead to significant environmental benefits, and how collective efforts can drive change. By supporting the implementation of such programs, we are not only contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet but also setting a standard for future generations.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes subject matter experts in materials, transportation planning and design, sustainability, resiliency, and beyond, who support communities in exploring and integrating sustainable pavements and other materials into their operational and infrastructure plans. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities and states align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise results in efficient, resilient, sustainable, and strategic outcomes in the realm of sustainable construction.

Model-Centric Design and Construction Management

April 17, 2025
By Andy Kaiyala, Vice President, Digital Construction Management, WSB

Breaking Down Silos and Unlocking Powerful Project Data

In today’s fast-paced civil construction industry, the ability to make informed decisions quickly is paramount. Model-centric design and construction management is revolutionizing how complex projects are planned, designed, and delivered by bringing powerful, real-time data to the forefront for enhanced decision making. These model-based workflows go far beyond visualization. They create a shared source of truth that fuels both collaboration and data intelligence.

Digital Models are the New Meeting Room

One of the most impactful benefits of model-centric workflows is their ability to break down silos across project teams. Traditional design and construction management processes often suffer from fragmented communication and isolated data, leading to inefficiencies, rework, and missed opportunities. By adopting a model-centric approach, engineers, contractors, and owners can access a single source of truth, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. This streamlined collaboration reduces friction, closes communication gaps, and improves overall project efficiency.

From Models to Meaning

Model-centric design turns static visuals into dynamic, data-rich environments. Everything from utility crossings and drainage systems to street signs, sidewalks, and signals is modeled in one centralized, collaborative space. Real-time updates to design work in progress, schedule, cost, materials, and asset information ensure the data is always current and actionable. This level of integration allows project teams to anticipate and resolve issues early, improving decision-making and project outcomes. In addition, the ability to visualize potential conflicts in the design phase minimizes costly surprises during construction.

Enhanced Decision Making

The collaborative nature of model-centric workflows means every stakeholder can contribute to and benefit from a continuously enriched dataset. With access to accurate, up-to-date information, project managers and decision makers can respond to challenges with confidence. The result: projects that are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This proactive, data-driven approach not only enhances outcomes, but also builds stronger client relationships.

From Reactive to Predictive

Model-centric design and construction management is not just a trend; it is the future of the construction industry. By leveraging the power of integrated models and construction intelligence, teams move from reacting to problems to preventing them altogether. This evolution sets a benchmark for efficiency, risk management, and successful project delivery. As model-centric approaches continue to develop, partnering with teams who understand how to translate data into decisions is a valuable step forward for long-term project success.

Embracing Sustainability with Envision® Framework

April 11, 2025
By Shawn Poe, Director of Municipal Services, WSB and Amy Fredregill, Senior Director of Sustainability, WSB

As we recognize Earth Month this April, it is imperative to emphasize sustainable and resilient practices in infrastructure projects. A comprehensive Sustainability Plan is most strategic, relevant and useful when it considers future capital projects planned within a community.

Introducing the Envision® Framework

One effective practice to incorporate is the Envision® framework — a holistic sustainability rating system designed to evaluate the resilience of various types of civil infrastructure.

Envision® serves as a tool for cities, consultants, and contractors, helping to deliver infrastructure that:

Utilizing the Envision® framework allows infrastructure projects to contribute positively to the environment by enhancing sustainability and resilience. This framework helps improve the quality of life for communities by addressing climate change, supporting public health, providing long-term economic benefits, and improving infrastructure longevity.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes certified Envision Sustainability Professionals (ENV SP) who can support communities in integrating Envision® into their sustainability and resiliency plans, as well as transportation, transit, and other infrastructure projects. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise ensures that sustainable, resilient, and equitable outcomes are achieved.

Emergency Management and Disaster Planning for Cities

April 14, 2025
By Allison Whittsitt, Planning Manager, WSB

In today’s world, cities must be prepared to address a wide range of emergencies and disasters that affect citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure. This preparation begins with comprehensive emergency management and disaster planning. Comprehensive solutions help cities effectively plan, respond, and recover from emergencies. This approach includes risk assessment and mitigation strategies, response protocols, and recovery plans.

Benefits of Planning

The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning include improved coordination among response teams, enhanced public safety, and reduced economic losses. Effective plans mitigate long-term impacts and ensure quicker recovery. Without proper planning, cities face chaotic responses, increased casualties, and prolonged recovery times, resulting in unnecessary economic losses and vulnerabilities.

Developing emergency management and disaster plans is crucial for cities for several reasons:

• It ensures the safety and well-being of residents by providing clear guidelines and procedures during emergencies. These plans enhance the resilience of cities, making them better equipped to handle and recover from disasters.
• Having a structured plan fosters trust and confidence among citizens, who can feel assured their city is prepared for any eventuality.
• Well-developed plans can attract businesses and investors by demonstrating a city’s commitment to stability and security.
• Cities that implement comprehensive planning are often eligible for various grants and funding opportunities that are not otherwise accessible, which can further strengthen their emergency preparedness efforts.

The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning services include:

• Improved coordination among response teams
• Enhanced public safety
• Reduced economic losses
• Proper planning mitigates long-term impacts, ensuring quicker recovery
• These plans improve residents’ safety, increase city resilience, and foster trust
• Well-developed plans attract businesses and investors and make cities eligible for various grants, strengthening preparedness

How it Works

There are four pillars of emergency management – preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Tackling each with a systematic approach and seamlessly combining the outcomes creates a more resilient community.

• Starting with hazard mitigation planning, risk assessments identify potential threats unique to each city, from natural disasters to human-made incidents. A FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plan opens doors for funding to support all phases of emergency management.
• Emergency management includes expertise in disaster deployment, public assistance, hazard mitigation, damage assessments, and debris management. Local and state experience, a certified meteorologist, and support from engineers and GIS professionals enhance planning and grant application efforts, identifying vulnerabilities and reducing risk.
• Securing grant funding as a direct result of their hazard mitigation plan strengthens local resilience and reduces repetitive loss. Additionally, aiding in the implementation of the Community Rating System (CRS) encourages communities to implement floodplain management practices that will lower insurance rates by up to 45% and ensure enhanced flood preparedness.
• Working with city officials to establish response protocols during natural hazard events ensures that all stakeholders are prepared to act swiftly in the event of a disaster.
• Emergency action plans for dams and levees foster faster, more organized responses that minimize harm.
• Exercises conducted help municipalities, private businesses, schools, and other entities evaluate their emergency operations plans through realistic scenarios, revealing weaknesses in plans and improving capability gaps and equipment readiness.

Grant Funding to Support Planning and Preparation

To support cities in their emergency management efforts, numerous grants are available. These funds help implement preparedness initiatives, purchase equipment, and train personnel. Engaging with experienced services helps cities apply for and manage these grants, ensuring compliance and effective fund use.

Conclusion

Emergency management and disaster planning expertise helps cities build resilience and ensure the safety of their residents. City officials and stakeholders are invited to learn more about how services can be tailored to meet the unique needs of their urban environments. Together, a safer, more resilient future can be created for cities.Allison Whittsitt has served as the Northeast Regional Coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. As WSB’s Planning and Grants Department Manager, she oversees projects including Hazard Mitigation Plan updates, new and existing Emergency Operations Plans, and application/submission of state and federal grants along with various other work.

Preparing for MS4 Changes

April 14, 2025
By Treasure Agbonkhese, Environmental Compliance Specialist, WSB

Expert insights on adapting to upcoming program updates

The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program is a critical initiative aimed at reducing the pollutants that enter our water bodies through stormwater runoff. Managed under the Clean Water Act, the MS4 program requires regulated entities, such as cities, counties, universities, and even highway departments, to develop and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). This ensures that the quality of water discharged from their systems meets the requirements set forth by the local agencies and the EPA.  Organizations need to prepare for MS4 changes and reauthorizations which necessitate both awareness and preparedness from involved stakeholders.  Each state reauthorizes their own permits, for example Minnesota’s expire in 2025 and Oklahoma’s are set to expire in 2026.

MS4 programs will likely see several pivotal updates designed to enhance its effectiveness and expand their scope. Those changes may include:

• Reauthorization of NPDES MS4 permits
• New rules and requirements
• More audits conducted by the MPCA to ensure compliance with the current MS4 permit
• Annual Reporting
• Increased emphasis on TSS, TMDL, and Waste Load Allocation 
• Increased emphasis on the education and incorporation of green infrastructure solutions, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, which help mitigate stormwater impacts.

These changes underscore the program’s commitment to leveraging sustainable practices to protect our water resources better.

To prepare for these impending changes, municipalities and other regulated entities must take proactive steps. Firstly, reviewing and updating current Stormwater Pollution Prevention Programs to align with the current requirements is crucial. This may involve investing in new technologies for inspection, monitoring and data collection of stormwater infrastructure, as well as training staff to handle more complex reporting and documenting tasks in illicit discharge, construction, and post-construction stormwater management. Secondly, exploring green infrastructure options and integrating them into existing frameworks can provide long-term benefits and compliance with the 2025 updates. Engagement with community stakeholders and public education campaigns will also be essential to ensure widespread understanding and support for these initiatives.

WSB stands ready to assist entities in navigating these changes, offering comprehensive services ranging from full management of MS4 programs to targeted support for specific components. With our expertise in stormwater management and green infrastructure, we can help you assess your current systems, identify areas for improvement, implement solutions that meet the current and future requirements, and help perform self-audits of current MS4 programs. Our team is equipped to handle everything from initial development and management to ongoing construction sites, illicit discharge, facility inspections, and maintenance and reporting, ensuring a seamless transition to the new NPDES MS4 Permit.

In conclusion, changes to the MS4 program represent a significant step forward in protecting our water resources. By preparing now and leveraging the expertise of partners like WSB, municipalities, counties, state departments and other stakeholders can successfully adapt and thrive under the new requirements. Together, we can ensure the continued health and sustainability of our water bodies for future generations.
Treasure is an environmental compliance specialist at WSB. Her background includes water resources engineering, construction site and MS4 permitting, SWPPP design and inspection, and MS4 program development and implementation. Her passion for MS4 coupled with her background in engineering brings a level of engagement, creativity, training, and unique skills to MS4 program development and management.