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.
Kyle Klasen leads WSB’s national survey strategy and the advancement of digital solutions in the construction field. He ensures consistent QA/QC across projects and drives the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance efficiency and value firmwide. His expertise is grounded in hands-on experience across both public and private sectors.
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.
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.
Rick is the Vice President of Operations at WSB, bringing over 21 years of experience in the transportation industry across both public and private sectors. While he primarily leads operations in the Oklahoma region, Rick also plays a key role in enhancing project management and delivery practices across the organization. He is known for guiding multi-disciplinary technical teams and driving operational excellence throughout all WSB regions.
Brandon is Vice President, Environmental at WSB, bringing over 25 years of experience as an engineer and leader in water resources. He began his career developing basin-wide hydrology and hydraulic models to support city-wide master drainage plans and flood mitigation projects. His expertise also includes managing stormwater quality through erosion control, stream restoration, and municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4). Over the past decade, Brandon has focused on leading engineering teams and overseeing multiple departments, providing mentorship to emerging leaders while playing a key role in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects that demand both technical excellence and strategic vision.
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.
Nicole is a Senior Graduate Engineer in WSB’s Construction and Design-Build Division with extensive experience in contract administration, construction inspection, and material testing on large transportation projects. She has served as a Lead Inspector overseeing concrete bridge construction, bridge rehabilitation, and roadway paving. Nicole developed an app-based spreadsheet for the I-494 and TH52 Design-Build projects to track material testing and summarize results. She excels in coordinating with contractors and stakeholders to maintain project schedules and resolve issues effectively.
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.
Andy Kaiyala is the Vice President of Digital Construction Management at WSB, based in Melissa, TX. With over 25 years of industry experience, Andy specializes in large, complex infrastructure projects in the transportation, civil, and transit sectors. Before joining WSB, he was the Vice President of Bid Development at The Lane Construction Corporation, where he led teams in securing construction projects worth over $5 billion. At WSB, Andy oversees the project controls team and supports the advancement of digital delivery in the contractor market across regions and divisions.
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.
Shawn is the Director of Municipal Services at our Denver office, with nearly 30 years of experience in Colorado and Texas, he has served as a City Engineer and Director of Public Works. Shawn excels in relationship building, team leadership, and client service. He is also active in professional circles, having served as President of the APWA Texas Chapter and currently on the board of the APWA Colorado Chapter. At WSB, he focuses on expanding services to municipalities and fostering strong public agency relationships.
Amy has nearly 25 years of experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, focusing on sustainability and resiliency. She has worked extensively in energy and agriculture, providing strategic solutions for complex challenges in energy, water, and waste. Amy has held key roles, including Managing Director of the Sustainable Growth Coalition at Environmental Initiative and Manager of Resource Planning at Xcel Energy. Currently, she works on climate and sustainability projects across various states, leveraging her relationship-based approach to deliver comprehensive solutions.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
April 10, 2025 By Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning & Bryan Pittman. GIS Lead, WSB
Empowering Tribal Leaders with GIS Technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized asset management across various sectors, providing intuitive, data-driven solutions to manage and optimize resources efficiently. For tribal leaders committed to enhancing their communities, embracing GIS to support tribal asset management can be transformative. This article explores the role of GIS in asset management, the benefits it offers, and how to initiate its use within tribal communities.
Understanding GIS in Asset Management
GIS integrates spatial (location-based) and traditional asset data, creating an interactive map of resources. This comprehensive approach involves collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing data related to infrastructure, land parcels, planning, utilities, and environmental resources. By geographically displaying asset data, GIS facilitates informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation. By leveraging geospatial technology, tribal leaders gain unique insights into asset location and other available attributes such as type, description, condition, and age, fostering a data-driven approach to capital and maintenance planning.
Benefits of GIS in Asset Management
Enhanced Decision-Making GIS empowers tribal leaders with critical data to make informed decisions. By visualizing assets and their status on maps, leaders can identify areas needing attention, prioritize investments, and plan for future developments. This data-driven approach ensures resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, leading to improved outcomes for the community.
Improved Resource Allocation One of the significant advantages of GIS is its ability to optimize resource allocation. Whether managing land use, infrastructure maintenance, or environmental conservation, GIS-based spatial analysis helps in pinpointing precisely where interventions are needed. This precision reduces waste, minimizes costs, and ensures that resources are directed where they will have the most significant impact.
Effective Monitoring and Maintenance Regular monitoring and maintenance of assets are crucial for sustainability. GIS-based asset management systems enable automated tracking and reporting, ensuring that assets are maintained in optimal condition. Tribal leaders can set up alerts for maintenance schedules, create work orders, monitor asset conditions in real-time, and efficiently manage repairs and upgrades.
Community Engagement and Transparency Transparency is vital for building trust within the community. GIS platforms and interactive web maps can be used to share information with community members, fostering engagement and collaboration. By providing access to data and maps, leaders can involve the community in decision-making processes, enhancing participation and fostering a sense of ownership.
Disaster Management and Response In the face of natural disasters, GIS proves to be a valuable resource. By mapping assets and identifying vulnerable areas, leaders can develop comprehensive emergency response plans. Flood and slope vulnerability models can be overlayed with asset locations. GIS facilitates quick response times, efficient resource deployment, and effective coordination during crises, safeguarding community well-being.
Getting Started with Managing Assets in GIS
Implementing GIS to manage assets in tribal communities requires strategic planning and investment. Here are steps to get started:
Assess Current Needs and Capabilities Begin by evaluating the current state of asset management within the community. Identify the assets that need to be managed, the data available, and the technology infrastructure in place. Understanding your starting point is crucial for a successful GIS implementation and to determine if a more robust asset management system with GIS integration is necessary.
Data Collection and Integration Accurate and comprehensive data is essential for effective GIS asset inventories. This requires collecting both spatial and non-spatial data, collaborating with stakeholders across departments to ensure completeness. Integrating historical records, real-time updates, and detailed attributes creates a unified and reliable dataset.
Training and Capacity Building Invest in training for your team to ensure they can effectively use the GIS platform and data collection tools. Providing comprehensive training programs and capacity-building initiatives will empower staff with the skills needed to leverage GIS technology. Partnering with experts like WSB for training can facilitate a smoother transition and enhance proficiency.
Developing a Data Maintenance and Update Plan Managing asset data in GIS is an ongoing process. Establish a plan for regular data updates and system maintenance to keep the platform functional and accurate. Set up protocols for data collection, monitoring, and reporting to ensure continuous improvement of the system.
Asset Management Planning Once data is available in GIS or a GIS-integrated asset management system, an asset management plan can be developed that incorporates risk, performance monitoring, financial planning, and life cycle planning. This utilizes asset location and information to create a proactive approach to managing assets over a long period of time, ensuring the right fix and the location at the right time.
WSB: Your Partner in GIS-Based Asset Management
Embarking on the journey of GIS-based asset management can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. WSB has a team of experts specializing in GIS technology and asset management solutions tailored to tribal communities. Our professionals can help you assess your current needs, implement the right GIS platform, and provide ongoing support to maintain and optimize your system.
At WSB, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities within tribal communities. Our approach is customized to ensure that GIS asset management aligns with your specific goals and enhances community well-being. We offer comprehensive training, data integration services, and continuous support to ensure your GIS system is robust and effective.
By partnering with WSB, tribal leaders can leverage the power of GIS and asset management to drive informed decision-making, improve resource allocation, and foster community engagement. Together, we can build a sustainable and prosperous future for your community.
Embrace the potential of GIS and asset management and let WSB guide you every step of the way.
Shannon has spent over a decade advancing asset management at local, state, and national levels by serving on asset management committees, advisory panels, and project management teams. While working at MnDOT, Shannon directed the agency-wide asset management planning including projects, research, policy, innovation, strategic planning, and implementation in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Bryan has worked with data models and schema for roadway assets, database design and management, data manipulation and aggregation, ESRI’s Field Maps and Experience Builder Application, Lidar data, and spatial/3D analysis. He works with clients to address their GIS needs and make sure they have the tools and training needed to be successful with GIS.
February 27, 2025 By: Matias Mendez, P.E., Ph.D., Director, Geotechnical and Pavement Services, WSB
The use of salt as a deicing agent on roads has been a common practice for decades. However, it comes with significant drawbacks that cannot be overlooked. The corrosive nature of salt contributes to the deterioration of infrastructure such as bridges and roads, and vehicles, causing costly repairs and replacements. The runoff of salt after winter weather can have detrimental effects on the environment too, affecting vegetation, aquatic ecosystems, and wildlife. Rock salt has also proven to be less effective in single digit temperatures, or when temperatures dip below zero degrees. With these concerns in mind, city governments are increasingly exploring alternative solutions to ensure road safety during winter months.
One promising alternative is the use of beet juice, derived from the sugar beet. Increasingly recognized for its eco-friendly properties, beet juice significantly improves the efficacy of ice melting solutions when mixed with brine. The sugars in beet juice lower the freezing point of water more effectively than salt alone, allowing it to work even at lower temperatures. Its viscous nature helps the brine adhere better to road surfaces, reducing the need for frequent applications.
There are several advantages to using beet juice for deicing. Beet Juice is less corrosive than salt, aiding in the resiliency of city infrastructure such as bridges and roads. The use of beet juice in a deicer provides a range of benefits that make it a compelling alternative to the standard salt brine. While both methods are effective at melting ice, beet juice’s lower environmental impact and reduced infrastructure damage, paired with the enhanced performance in lower temperatures provide a strong case for its adoption and helps ensure safer roads even in the most severe winter conditions.
For city staff seeking proficient management of all aspects of road maintenance, WSB offers expert assistance and comprehensive pavement management planning. Our experienced team can help municipalities with deicing strategies, road repairs, and long-term infrastructure planning. With WSB’s support, cities can ensure their roads remain safe, functional, and sustainable throughout the winter months and beyond. Contact WSB today to learn more about optimizing your city’s road maintenance program.
Matias, Director of Geotechnical and Pavement Services at WSB, leads drilling and soil testing operations and creates detailed geotechnical reports. With extensive experience in field and lab testing of construction materials per ODOT specs, Matias is vital to our team. He has worked on numerous projects in Oklahoma, including roadways, bridges, retaining walls, and private developments, specializing in both simple and complex geotechnical engineering projects.
