Boston Harbor Marina,
Marina Assessment, Retrofit, Repair, and Pile Replacement

The owners of the Boston Harbor Marina desired to upgrade their Budd Inlet, Olympia facility. Skillings provided an overall marina evaluation to prioritize facility deficiencies.  It was determined that replacing structurally deficient timber pilings was the highest priority.  Working with a structural engineer, nine pilings were identified for immediate replacement. Skillings prepared the design plans and specification, engineer’s estimate of cost to construct contract for piling replacement.

Chelan County Natural Resources Department, Chumstick Creek Culvert Replacement

Skillings managed this project to remove fish barriers along Chumstick Creek in order to improve salmon and steelhead passage and habitat over a five-mile stretch. The Chelan County Natural Resources Department (CCNRD) proposed this project as part of its ongoing effort to improve habitat for salmonid species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. We developed the PS&E for new creek crossings and prepared permit applications for the removal and/or replacement of 17 crossings. Permitting agencies included the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), United State Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries.  The culvert replacements were permitted as 17 separate projects, with a design process optimized to help save time and expense.  In order to maximize engineering design efficiency, manufacturing, and construction, and to meet regulatory requirements, a standard design concept of a 28-foot, single-lane bridge was utilized.  This concept was then applied to each project site and adapted as needed to the specific features of each location, taking into account such characteristics as skew angle, optimal channel center location, etc.  Skillings then created three bid packages, which allowed for a staggered start for construction and further accelerated the work.  In addition to the schedule benefits, this approach also gave local contractors an opportunity to bid by lowering the overall bonding amount, which in turn led to lower prices.  The project from start of site survey through substantial completion, including permitting, took less than one year.

The Chehalis Tribe CFedS Survey of Stoskopf Property at Grand Mound

Skillings performed a CFed survey for the Tribe’s application to BIA/BLM for fee to trust conveyance for the Stoskopf property.  We prepared a Land Description Review Certificate (LDR) and a Certificate of Surveys (COS) for this submittal that complied with the Standards for Indian Trust Lands Boundary Evidence manual.  As part of our scope, we researched and analyzed public and private survey and land title records for information necessary for preparation of the survey, LDR, and COS.  We then performed a field boundary survey, setting the corners of the subject parcels, and prepared a Record of Survey drawing.

City of Anacortes,
Wastewater Treatment Plant Outfall Replacement

• City of Bainbridge Island,
  Core 40 Miller Road Shoulder Improvements

Skillings provided planning, permitting, and final design (PS&E) services and construction support for a project on Miller Road on Bainbridge Island, from Tolo Road to Peterson Hill Road. The goal of this project was to provide 6-foot wide (5-foot paved) shoulders on Miller Road with associated drainage/water quality improvements. This project was part of the City’s Core 40 Program adopted in 2007 to develop a 40-mile integrated shoulder network for bicycles island-wide. Funds for the project came from a combination of Regional Surface Transportation Program (Urban Small) funds and City funds for the project. Environmental documentation and permitting services included a NEPA 4(f) de minimis impact review for the Grand Forest

City of Chehalis, Chehalis-Centralia Airport Pump Station Rebuild

Skillings, Inc. was retained by the City of Chehalis to provide professional services to assist in the project management, planning, design, and construction management for the Airport Pump Station Rebuild project located at the Chehalis-Centralia Airport.  The project was funded through a grant from the Chehalis Flood Authority and managed by the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).

During high runoff periods, the pump station conveys storm and flood water from the basin within the airport levee perimeter, as well as additional runoff from adjacent properties, to an existing conveyance channel outside the levee.  Constructed in the 1940s, the existing pump station was a simplex station, and during a 100-year flood event the pump motors and other electrical components were underwater.

The Airport has replaced the existing flood control pump station with a duplex pump station which has been set-up for simplex operation.  The pumps are vertical axial flow propeller flow type designed to pump at approximately 11,900 gallons/minute against a total dynamic head of 8.6 feet.  Motor size for the pumps is 50 horsepower.

The pump station and backup generator floor elevation are raised above the record flood elevation and future top of levee elevations to ensure that the pump motors and other electrical components remain above the 100-year flood elevation.  The goal of the pump station rebuild project is to have a reliable pump station that helps restore airport operations as soon as possible after a flood event.

We also provided construction management services, which included ensuring that the project is in compliance with the contract plans and specifications, responding to RFIs, performing submittal reviews, reviewing payment applications, performing periodic site inspections, and aiding the City in project closeout.

• • • City of Edgewood, Jovita Interurban Trail

Skillings provided construction contract management and inspection services to support the City throughout the duration of two projects: the federally funded Interurban Trail Project and the Trailhead Park. For both projects, Skillings served as the direct point of contact for the contractor. We assisted the City by reviewing the park and trail plans for WSDOT Local Agency and Federal compliance and our construction manager coordinated, provided notification to, and met with stakeholders.

City of Hoquiam, Citywide Sidewalk and Half-Street Improvements

Skillings developed PS&E to add 850 square yards of sidewalk to three separate streets and a 6-foot wide meandering trail built as a promenade along the waterfront and connected to a raised viewing platform.  All sidewalks, crosswalks, curbs, and ramps were designed and built to ADA and LAG Manual regulations.  The project included complete construction management/administration and inspection with all LAG documentation.  This project was federally funded.

City of Hoquiam, Downtown Pedestrian and Safety Improvements

Skillings developed PS&E to upgrade more than 3900 square yards of ADA-compliant sidewalk in a base bid plus four bid additives.  The sidewalk was at least 10.5 feet wide and included over 30 ADA-compliant curb ramps.  Design included new gravity block walls with pedestrian railing, as well as replacement of all existing stairs down to the yards and new associated handrails.  New curb and gutter was designed to improve drainage and all existing catch basins were replaced with catch basins designed to current standards.  A NEPA programmatic exclusion was prepared, as were Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans.  The project included complete construction management/administration and inspection with all LAG documentation.  This project was federally funded.

City of Lacey, Soil and Groundwater Testing

Skillings completed collection and analysis of soil and groundwater samples at 5700 Lacey Boulevard for the City of Lacey as part of their due diligence prior to purchase of the property.  The identification of lube oil range products triggered the need for additional sampling using a geoprobe unit.  It was determined that the soil was contaminated, but that the groundwater was not.  We also completed a Remedial Investigation Report and Terrestrial Ecological Evaluation (TEE) as part of the City’s enrollment in Ecology’s Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP).  This project included preparation of a Work Plan, additional subsurface investigation, and completion of a Feasibility Study for site remediation with a target of receiving an NFA designation.

• City of Lynnwood,
  204th Street SW Improvements

Skillings completed comprehensive alternatives analysis including a roundabout.  This TIB-funded project reconstructed part of 204th and completes a missing section from 68th Avenue W to SR-99.  We provided all PS&E to reconstruct and extend the roadway, modify utilities, and improve the stormwater drainage system.  We designed the travel and bike lanes, curb, gutter, sidewalk, and illumination on each side.  We provided analysis and design to reconstruct four affected intersections.  The City’s utility infrastructure along 204th Street SW was expanded and retrofitted to accommodate the new design and the City’s growth.

City of Lynnwood, 212th Street Emergency Water Project

On November 1^st, 2015, an aging 8-inch asbestos concrete water main broke near Hall Lake on 212^th Street SW in Lynnwood. Skillings provided the design and construction management for the temporary emergency water system intertie between the City of Lynnwood and City of Mountlake Terrace, pavement repair and restoration, and the replacement of the remaining AC water main. The water system intertie provided continuous water service to the customers along 212^th while the existing AC water main was taken out of service and replaced.

This project has been awarded the Public Works Project of the Year Award for Disaster or Emergency Construction/Repair projects less than $5 Million. 

• City of Lynnwood,
  33rd Avenue West Extension

This project’s goal was to provide the design of a completely new 2,100-foot arterial connecting Alderwood Mall Parkway to 184th Street in order to provide access to a new mixed-use development.  The project was designed on an accelerated schedule per the City’s agreements with the prime developer, COSTCO, and Edmonds School District.  Skillings provided the PS&E to complete this extension.  Our design included a three-lane arterial roadway with provisions to expand the section to five lanes in the near future.  A major element of work included roadway alignment studies intended to mesh the new roadway with the six lanes of Alderwood Mall Parkway and 184th Street, which is a five-lane roadway. The new roadway was located along a hillside that required 9-foot high retaining walls for the 3-lane section. An alternate wall design was incorporated into the bid plans for a 20-foot high soldier pile retaining wall to accommodate the future five-lane roadway section.

• City of Lynnwood,
  Recreational Center Parking Lot Expansion

The City of Lynnwood requested that Skillings, Inc., provide engineering design services to convert an existing single family residential lot into a small parking lot of up to 35 stalls, along with redesign and stripping of the existing parking lots to the east and south of the site.  Our services included design of associated storm water facilities, lighting, and landscaping.  The parking lot was designed so that it blends in with the existing parking lots, and some rework of the existing parking lots was done to increase the number of stalls.  We relocated the parking lot access point to allow additional queuing of vehicles at the signalized intersection and kept the safety lights short in height to match the existing lights and minimize spreading of the light into the yards of nearby residential units.  Best Management Practices (BMPs) for low impact development were used for the new parking’s drainage system.

• City of Lynnwood,
  Sewer Improvements
  Lift Stations #4 and #8

Skillings, Inc. provided design services for Sewer Improvements Related to Lift Stations No. 4 & 8. The project involved the upgrades of the existing sewer lines for increased flow capacity. The project consisted of two separate sewer conveyance systems: One from Lift Station No. 4 to 8, and the other the gravity portion of the sewer conveyance system from Lift Station No. 8 to 10.

• City of McCleary, Third Street Improvements

Skillings provided the PS&E to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety by adding sharrows and dedicated bike lanes, upgrading the existing sidewalk to meet the 2005 PROWAG, and installing 19 new ADA-compliant curb ramps to allow for compliant access to a public school and church.  To improve the safety for children walking to school, we also created a new ADA-compliant trail within the existing right of way.  The project included parking, bike lanes, new curb and gutter, and driveway construction.  Our team provided the design to replace the street lighting system and the existing water line with new 10-foot main on the east side of Third Street, as well as power lines and communication lines where undergrounded.  Our team also provided the environmental documentation and permitting, public involvement, temporary construction easements, and onsite construction management and inspection.

• • City of Olympia, State Avenue Road Improvements

Skillings designed roadway and utility improvements to widen the existing roadways from Central Street to East Bay Drive and provide safe routes for bicycles and pedestrians. As part of the alternatives analysis, we incorporated stop signs to facilitate the movement of oversized freight from the City’s busy Port area.

The reconstruction included milling the existing asphalt roadway, milling the roadway adjacent to the curb line, and providing an asphalt inlay. In some areas, an overlay was used, where milling was not necessary.  We designed ADA access across the roadway and provided ADA-complaint pedestrian facility upgrades which included 68 ADA ramps and connected to the existing sidewalks. We also designed bike lanes and turn lanes.

The improvements included storm drainage which connected to the City’s existing stormwater infrastructure. We coordinated the utility relocation with the City and PSE.  Water valve boxes and manhole lids were adjusted to grade to create a smooth travelling surface. A striping plan, which included specifications for use of thermoplastic inlays, and signing plan was prepared for the roadway in coordination with the City.

• • City of Olympia, 18th Avenue and Fones Road Corridor Improvement Project

The City of Olympia constructed two stormwater facilities (basins) to treat runoff from improved portions of 18th Avenue.  The basins were sited in areas constrained by critical area buffers.  The western basin was constrained by a buffer from a Class 2 kettle pond wetland.  The eastern basin was constrained by a stream buffer and associated wetland buffer.  To support functional improvements to the buffer area, Skillings completed land use permitting, biological assessment, wetland assessment, and a riparian enhancement PS&E to enhance habitat and provide a priority fish species protection.

• • City of Olympia, West Bay ADA Sidewalk and Retaining Wall Design

Skillings designed five retaining walls necessary to complete ADA facilities along West Bay Drive. Once the final alignment was selected, we prepared an alternatives matrix to evaluate the best wall system based on geotechnical recommendations.  This evaluation determined that three of the walls would be soldier pile walls, while the remaining two would be modular block gravity walls.  This project required coordination with separate design teams completing projects along West Bay Drive, replacement of a sewer force main, and design of sewer pump station upgrades

• • • • City of Pacific, Stewart Road / Thornton Intersection Improvements

Skillings prepared the PS&E to widen Stewart Road to 5-lanes with curb, gutter and sidewalks, improve intersections, add a new signal system, modify the state’s SR 167 ramp signal, upgrade the existing stormwater system to current standards, repair existing pavement, and add a new HMA overlay and acquire additional right-of-way.  This project was funded through the Transportation Improvement Board and federal funds, meaning all work had to meet federal standards.

We provided transportation and roadway improvement engineering, as well as utility coordination.  This included planning, preliminary and final design, and PS&E to widen the existing roadway, replacement of a 4″ AC water main with a 12″ ductile iron main, installation of a storm water infiltration/conveyance system, construction of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps, and the associated curb, gutter, and sidewalk.

Coordination with Puget Sound Energy, Qwest, Comcast and the City’s sewer utility was necessary to ensure that all existing utilities were moved and/or adjusted adequately to negate conflicts with the new stormwater system and roadway geometrics.  We also coordinated with the City’s environmental consultant regarding documentation and permitting, the City’s trail designer to accommodate the future Inter Urban Trail project adjacent to the new roadway, Gordon Trucking’s consultant who is designing the detention ponds for stormwater treatment and, to accommodate stormwater from an adjacent project that is being designed by another City consultant.

A critical aspect of this project was the need to surcharge all areas of new construction with as much as 4′ of material for six months to minimize post-construction settlement.  This area of the City lies above a layer of peat that will compress under the additional weight of the new subgrade and surfacing, as well as the heavy truck loading experienced on this section of Stewart Road.  Treating this issue correctly was critical to ensure that the new roadway didn’t settle to a point below the existing roadway to create a continuing maintenance issue.  Additionally, to minimize the overall cost of the surcharge, a plan for disposal of the material was developed.  The entire quantity was used for trench backfill or stockpiled on site for use on an adjacent future project.

• City of Shelton, 1st Street ADA Facilities and Pavement Inlay

We prepared PS&E to complete this roadway rehabilitation and ADA improvement project.  After the right of way delineation, topographic surveys, and utility locations identification were completed, we developed construction plans for the mill and inlay, about 150 feet of sidewalk, and ADA improvements.  The plans and specifications include a roadway section, plans for the pavement rehabilitation, plans for each of the 15 ADA ramps to be improved, striping plans, and traffic control plans.  The PS&E was completed to WSDOT standards as it was included in a WSDOT construction project.

City of Sultan, Sultan Basin Road Overlay

This overlay project included ADA additions and upgrades.  We coordinated an ADA walk-through with WSDOT Local Programs, the WSDOT ADA coordinator, and the City to determine the ADA ramp revisions needed.  We also wrote the maximum extent feasible documentation for those ramps where changes were either not feasible or outside the scope of the project.  The PS&E included subgrade repair.  The project included complete construction management/administration and inspection with all LAG documentation.  This project was federally funded.

City of Tumwater, Tumwater Boulevard (Airdustrial Way) Improvement Project

The City of Tumwater asked Skillings Connolly to improve 1 . 1 miles of arterial running east and west between Interstate 5 and Capitol Boulevard.  This route is a critical transportation link to the Interstate for a rapidly developing area of the City of Tumwater and the Port of Olympia.  The existing roadway was widened as needed to provide additional lanes for vehicles and for bicycles.  Curb and gutter, sidewalks, illumination, and landscaping were added throughout the project length.  The existing storm drainage system was upgraded to meet current standards for detention and treatment of roadway runoff.

City of Tumwater, Outfalls and Various LID Treatment Tasks

Skillings provided professional services to the City, for various stormwater-related tasks for three sites as follows.

Somerset Hill Drainage Treatment:  Skillings’ design mitigated the flow of untreated stormwater runoff water into Percival Creek; thereby, reducing the negative impacts to downstream waters.  The retrofitted stormwater treatment systems were sized to fit within the existing right-of-way.  We provided PS&E so that runoff from the western portion of Somerset Hill Drive could be treated via two filter units.  The Filterra Bioretention System offers stormwater treatment technologies that optimize bioretention technology for pollutant removal.  Our engineers designed a rain garden to treat runoff from the eastern portion of the roadway.  The rain garden, an off-line facility, is located in a planter strip and tiered due to the slope.  A flow splitter placed in the drainage structure upstream diverts the 91st percentile flow and smaller events into the rain garden.  Larger flows bypass to the existing drainage system.  The rain garden has an infiltration rate of 2″ per hour.

E Street:  Skillings provided PS&E so that most of the runoff could be treated by a stormwater treatment wetland.  The wetland and its pre-settling cell were sized according to the procedure given the Drainage Design and Erosion Control Manual (DDECM) Volume V Section 6.1.1.  The wetland cell has an average depth of 1.5′ feet. The plantings were a blend of Red-Osier Dogwood, Small Fruited Bulrush, and Hardstem Bulrush.  Located at the northeast quadrant of the Capital Boulevard and E Street intersection, this Skillings Connolly design mitigated the flows of untreated runoff water into the Deschutes River.  By treating the stormwater and changing the point of discharge to a dispersion type outfall, our team reduced the negative impacts to downstream waters, which ultimately includes Budd Inlet.

Cleveland Avenue Drainage Treatment:  Skillings designed a single, large biofiltration swale /equalization basin for Cleveland Avenue.  This included sizing the facilities, grading the sites, and developing PS&E.  The team also completed the engineer’s cost estimate.

• City of Vancouver, I-205 / Mill Plain Interchange Improvements

We began design for this new off-ramp and modifications to the existing on and off-ramps at I-205 Mill Plain Boulevard I/C using a 3D laser scanning survey system.  A Leica HDS3000 was used to map the project site and roadway topography.  The speed of data collection allowed our surveyors to collect the necessary information in a shorter period of time than with conventional survey equipment.  The survey took place in close proximity to high-volume traffic which created safety concerns.  The laser system offered improved worker safety, as well as significant time and money savings.  The high degree of accuracy and short data collection time allowed design to begin ahead of the original schedule.

Geotechnical testing, analysis and design was used to support environmental documentation, surfacing design and structural design.  Three reports were prepared to document the analysis, 1) a Geotechnical Report, 2) a Surfacing Report and 3) an Infiltration Report.

Once base mapping was complete, preliminary design was begun by developing horizontal and vertical alignments with lines, grades, sections and cut/fill lines, all to WSDOT and FHWA interstate highway design standards.  Critical to this project was assurance that the adjacent and overlapping project would mesh correctly in the final condition.  When completed, the two projects together will provide a braided ramp system with this project spanning over the future project.  It was imperative that horizontal and vertical clearances and sight distances be set correctly to accommodate the future conditions.  Geometric design was concluded with final design/PS&E.

The project footprint identified with the preliminary design effort allowed us to proceed with environmental documentation.  This project required a NEPA Documented Categorical Exclusion and accompanying SEPA Determination of Non-Significance.  Discipline studies were undertaken to address air quality and noise impacts, environmental justice and visual impacts.  A local agency Environmental Classification Summary and Biological Assessment were also prepared to satisfy City, State and Federal requirements.

With receipt of traffic modeling provided by the Southwest Washington RTPO (RTC) via the City of Vancouver, we began operational analysis to determine appropriate lane configurations and intersection modifications.  A new signal controlled intersection was designed to connect the NW Ramp extension with existing NE 112th Avenue.  The new signal was interconnected with the N-E and W-N ramp termini at Mill Plain Boulevard and the signalized intersection at Mill Plain Boulevard and NE Chkalov Avenue.  An intersection Plan for Approval was prepared and submitted to the City and WSDOT as was an Interchange Plan for Approval to document the I-205/Mill Plain Boulevard I/C modifications.  Operational analysis and traffic design, signing, striping, illumination, construction staging/work zone traffic control was concluded with final design/PS&E.

Stormwater/hydraulics design was a major undertaking on this project.  Two Threshold Discharge Areas (TDA’s) were involved with this project, the Columbia River to the south (only quality treatment required) and Burnt Bridge Creek to the north (both quality and quantity treatment required).  Stormwater collection, conveyance and treatment were designed in accordance with WSDOT’s 2006 Highway Runoff Manual including the requirements for enhanced treatment.  The topography combined with limited right-of-way required the use of a very large underground vault for quality treatment prior to the water being infiltrated into the underlying soils.  Pre-treatment was provided prior to water entering the vault system.  Stormwater/hydraulics design was concluded with final design/PS&E.

Two bridge structures were designed for this project, a single span bridge to cross the NW Ramp extension to NE 112th Avenue and a 6-span structure to take the W-N On-ramp from Mill Plain Boulevard across a future off-ramp the NE 18th Street and onto I-205.  In addition, numerous retaining walls were required because of the limited right-of-way available and the close proximity of the existing on and off-ramps.  One of the retaining walls was a soil-nail wall that allowed for more width beneath the Mill Plain Boulevard Bridge across I-205.  The other calls were either conventional concrete cantilever walls or geotextile “bag” walls with concrete facings.  Structural design was concluded with PS&E.

A public involvement effort was begun early in the project by preparing a Public Involvement Plan to chart the planned activities throughout the life of the project.  Open houses, post card announcements and newsletters were used to impart information to the public and request/receive feedback on the project.  Design visualization graphics were prepared for presentation and a public contact database was developed to track telephone and email contacts and the resulting feedback.

 Clearwood Community Association, On-Call Water System Repair and Improvement

Clearwood Community operates and maintains a water system serving 1,350 customers.  We have provided them with a variety of engineering services such as surveying and design for the replacement of 4,700 lineal feet of six-inch water main with eight-inch service lines on narrow, rolling residential streets with steep grades.  The project included preparation of plans, profile, and detail sheets, as well as cost estimates, specifications, and coordination with the homeowner’s association. Bidding support and post-construction record documents were also provided.  Our design required careful coordination with Puget Sound Energy as the water main and new underground electrical transmission lines were constructed simultaneously.  The water system construction was designed to be installed in sections to minimize shut down periods for homeowners when the new water main was brought on-line.  The design also included installation of new Air-Vac assemblies meter setters with PRVs and hydrants.

Other assignments have included comprehensive planning, design, and commissioning of a new 450 gpm well, a 400,000-gallon reservoir, and water main extensions.  We have also performed design, construction, and commissioning of the system’s water pH adjustment facilities, which treats the water with a 25% solution of sodium hydroxide.

Helix Design Group,
Mason County Public Works Facility

On this site development for the Mason County Public Works Maintenance Facility, as a subconsultant to The Helix Group (Architect), we prepared final PS&E that included drainage, septic, and water reports in conjunction with the SEPA documentation; gathered existing record data along with survey work for compilation of a base map; and provided engineering of water system, site septic system, drainage, erosion control, grading, paving, and access roads.  Skillings coordinated with utility companies and gained approval from the Department of Health for the water system.  The water system included a new well, a 200,000 gallon storage tank, fire pump, distribution piping and fire suppression.

 Indian Cove / Harstene Pointe Maintenance Association, Marina Retrofit and Repairs

The Indian Cove Marina (Marina) is a privately held marina located at the northern extent of Harstine Island in Mason County.  The Marina is utilized by the homeowners of the Hartstene Pointe community.  The Marina consists of 110 boat slips accommodating vessels up to 40 feet in length.  Based on concerns from various groups, a condition assessment of the marina moorage facility was commissioned to determine if the floats and associated structural components are reaching or exceeding their useful life.  Skillings prepared a report describing the condition assessment; it is accompanied by exhibits, photos, and data collected during the site inspection.  Methods used to perform the inspection were visual, non-destructive testing, accompanied by coring suspect areas to determine the extent of damage.

An inspection of the Indian Cove Marina was conducted in 2016 that included above- and below-water inspection.  The above-water inspection included all contiguous marine float walkways and finger piers.  Included in the condition assessment was a review of the gangway; components consist of decking, stringers, and all affiliated hardware.  The below-water inspection looked at wood and foam float units.  The Condition Assessment Report made the recommendation for repair and maintenance, including a lifecycle analysis for wood structures, electrical, floats, gangway and ramp, and piling attachment points.

Intercity Transit, 2015 and 2016 Bus Stop Pads Improvements

These 2015 and 2016 Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funded project updated 71 stops throughout Thurston County to improve accessibility for riders.  Key to the success of the projects was sizing our effort to the level of complexity required.  Each stop was field reviewed, and non-electronic survey methods were used to gather data for design which significantly reduced project costs.  The plans included before and after photos that clearly showed the final vision.  This also led to easier reviews for non-technical staff and better client input on designs.  Construction management, inspection, and materials documentation were provided for the project.

2015 Bus Stop Improvements

Skillings provided design, construction management, and inspection services for the design and construction of 19 ADA-compliant bus pads located in various areas of the Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Thurston County and WSDOT jurisdictions, reviewed an additional 11 pads designed previously by a different firm, and provided re-design of three of those pads reviewed.  The goal of the project was to improve accessibility for Intercity Transit’s riders.  This portion of our work featured:

• Cost Reduction Measures: Our team utilized an innovative method of plan sheet preparation which included incorporating actual photos showing before and after conditions.  Each stop was also field-reviewed and non-electronic survey methods used to gather data for field layout of the design.  This reduced client cost and made plan review quick and easy for the client, saving them time.  Despite having both a fast-track schedule and providing three additional designs, the PS&E was delivered on time and within budget.
• Collaboration with Permitting Authorities: Patrick Skillings and Tim Horton led the coordination effort with the Local Agencies for permits during the design and construction phases.  The team’s expertise and responsive service to the various permit agencies helped ensure that the contractor understood and abided by all permit requirements, avoiding any schedule delays.
• Familiarity with Federal Transit Authority Funding Requirements: The project team is experienced with FTA funding and documentation requirements.  The team worked with Intercity Transit to ensure that documentation was well organized and included all elements to maintain the project’s federal funding eligibility.  In addition to the funding requirements, the team also provided construction management and inspections to assure that all the constructed bus pads were ADA-compliant.

2016 Bus Stop Improvements

Skillings provided design, construction management, and inspection services for the design and construction of 41 ADA-compliant bus pads located in various areas of the Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Thurston County and WSDOT jurisdictions.  As with the previous bus stop improvement project, the goal of the project was to improve accessibility for Intercity Transit’s riders.  This portion of our work featured:

• Familiarity with Intercity Transit Staff and Procedures: At the end of the 2015 bus stop improvements project, the project team sat down with Intercity Transit for a debrief to identify areas where the project team could make improvements, pitfalls encountered, and lessons learned. For example, the discussion helped the team understand that Intercity Transit is not an engineering design firm and as such, technical information should be shared in a way that the receiver can easily understand, review, and provide feedback. The team incorporated information from the debrief to improve our internal processes and to foster a stronger working relationship with Intercity staff, thus allowing the 2016 bus stop project to be successfully completed on time and within budget.
• Additional Cost Reduction Measures: The 2016 bus stop improvements project had double the number of bus pads as compared to the 2015 project. The project team was able to further reduce the design and construction costs per bus pad by specifying design details such as a thicker concrete pedestrian curb as opposed to using steel rebar reinforcement, a lesson learnt from the 2015 project. This, in addition to the previously used method of field layout, field design, and plan sheet preparation helped reduce the overall cost per bus pad.
• Continual Process Improvements: For the 2016 bus stop improvements project, the project team also looked towards the interactions between the bus pads, the bus driver, and the rider dynamic to better understand and optimize the locations and dimensions of the bus pads. This allowed the team to effectively design the bus pads as well as suggest potential alternative locations when a potential issue (such as standing water or irrigation sprinkler overspray) was observed during the field review. The team also developed standard plans for different bus stop types for the project, which have an added benefit of decreasing response cost and time to private developers needing to construct future stops.

Intercity Transit, Centennial Station

Skillings prepared site survey and preliminary site plans for the Intercity Transit’s Centennial Station showing traffic flows, parking stalls, proposed drainage areas, sidewalks, platform modifications, and lighting locations.  Our design team provided final grading plans showing clearing limits, work zone limits, erosion control, and proposed finished grades of curbing and walks.  The lighting plan was engineered and drafted for both the new parking area and the old. Plans showed security camera locations and pertinent installation information.

For the second phase of this project, site plans were updated to expand the parking facilities at Centennial Station and included bus stop pads with shelters.  The plans also detailed traffic flow, parking stalls, proposed drainage areas, walks, platform area modifications, and lighting locations.

A final grading plan was provided showing clearing limits, work zone limits, erosion control, finished grades, curbing, and walks.  Plans also detailed security camera locations and pertinent installation information.  Skillings provided construction inspection, construction surveying, and contract administration.  Construction services included preparing pay estimates, coordination with Intercity Transit, arranging for materials testing, and maintaining the schedule.

In addition to designing the 1,000-foot raised concrete passenger platform, we completed the related SEPA documentation and coordinated between Intercity Transit and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad to arrive at the final design requirements.  We then completed the final design and bid documents.

For the construction phase, Skillings coordinated with Intercity Transit and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad on design of a new raised concrete passenger platform for Centennial Station.  Our scope of work included construction management, construction surveying, contract administration, inspection, and construction activity coordination to maintain bus and train schedules.  Our construction services also included preparing pay estimates and arranging for materials testing.

• Island County, Columbia Beach Drive Marine Outfall Extension

In late 2011, Island County improved the storm drainage system located along Columbia Beach Road from just southwest of the intersection of Berg Road and Columbia Beach Road to an existing MH located on the west side of Columbia Beach Road near the ferry landing.  The northerly outfall handles a portion of the stormwater runoff that would normally drain through the existing southerly outfall that was subject to being buried by migrating beach sand. This did not prevent all of the flooding.

A neighborhood located on Columbia Beach Drive had been experiencing intermittent flooding, particularly during the winter months. This was largely due to the inability of the existing marine outfall to drain freely, as the outfall terminus was buried under approximately five feet of sand and gravel. The existing southerly outfall consisted of 250 linear feet of 18-inch diameter concrete pipe.  The outfall ended approximately at the elevation 0.0 NAVD88.

To alleviate the flooding, Skillings provided the PS&E and the permit exhibits necessary for extending the existing concrete stormwater outfall.  As an interim solution, the County asked Skillings to model the capacity of the northerly outfall to see what its capacity is and how it could reduce flooding.  The northerly outfall was modeled using Autodesk® Storm and Sanitary Analysis.

The drainage basin and the flows for various storm events were observed and verified prior to starting the work. The County’s drainage basin map showed a basin of 79.3 acres draining to the existing outfall.  Based on site visit observations and review of the drainage basin maps, it appeared that the drainage basin was actually larger by almost 26 acres than what was shown on the basin map.

The model was run for 6-month, 2-year, and 10-year storm events; with tides ranging from elevation 8.2 NAV88 Datum which equates to an elevation of 10 MLLW Datum to an elevation 11.3 NAV88 Datum which equates to an elevation of 13.1 MLLW Datum.  Based on the model, the flow for a 10-year storm event is 4.61 cubic feet/second (cfs). Assuming that the ditch and the inlets to the original twin 12-inch diameter culverts were to be kept clean, the model showed that the old system could only handle approximately 4.64 cfs. At this time, the system would begin to overflow.  Any minimal clogging of the inlet further diminished the capacity of the twin pipes and the system.

As a permanent solution to the drainage problems, the existing outfall was extended using High-Density Polyethylene Pipe (HDPE) to approximately 30 feet beyond the Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) mark. By extending the pipe past the MLLW mark, the migrating beach sand can no longer cover the end of the pipe and the outfall now drains freely. In addition to the extension of the pipe, a storm structure with a tide gate was installed.

• Island County,
  Dave Mackie Park Stormwater Improvements

• Due to the Park’s history of flooding, Skillings modeled the existing stormwater system and basin in order to design a new stormwater drainage system that included a temporary pump station and an 18-inch permanent outfall.  Other elements of the project included seawall reconstruction, outfall pipe anchor design and construction, and ditch reconstruction.  Skillings prepared PS&E for the three phases included in this project; the first phase was to design an emergency pump station to immediately alleviate flooding issues at the park.  The second phase included design and permitting to provide temporary excavation at the end of the outfall to allow the existing outfall to function.  Located within a highly active coastal drift cell, the outfall has been routinely covered due to a high level of beach material deposition.  As on-going excavation of the existing outfall was not a sustainable long-term solution, a new outfall was designed that extended the pipe beyond the area of active beach drift.  The project included completion of underwater eel grass surveys and eel grass mitigation.  We prepared a Biological Evaluation to support the USACE permit for in-water excavation.  The Biological Evaluation included analysis of potential impacts to forage fish species, including surf smelt.  The presence of surf smelt breeding on the beach adjacent to the outfall created a challenge for construction, and until the construction of the new outfall is completed, it is necessary to provide consistent monitoring of the beach substrate to determine if forage fish have laid eggs prior to and during construction.

• • Island County,

    Gerdes Road North Outfall

The Gerdes Road North Outfall, on Camano Island in Island County, is located on the mid to upper beach-face and had been buried and obstructed by beach sediment accretion, resulting in surface water backing up within the drainage system. This inundated the surrounding coastal properties with stormwater. The County desired to alleviate or improve these recurring flooding issues and was considering using the agricultural area near the outfall location for detention during storm events that occur during high tide.

Skillings conducted an alternatives analysis to assess the existing conditions and determined that a deep-water outfall extension could drain the basin in the agricultural area by gravity or would require a pump station to alleviate the flooding. Several design options were evaluated based on the results of the preliminary analysis.

Skillings completed the hydraulic analysis which determined that the extension required a pump station. We designed the stormwater pumps station, completed the stormwater design report, and provided environmental documentation and permitting. Skillings also provided topographic survey and the PS&E to extend the outfall itself.

Island County, Maxwelton South Stormwater Pump Station Installation and Outfall

The residences of Maxwelton Road was experiencing flooding. To help alleviate flooding, Skillings designed a basin-wide drainage system which included modeling of the 120-acre drainage basin to estimate peak flows, development of PS&E, and providing estimates of construction and maintenance cost.

There was a large public involvement element to this project, as much of the work will needed to be done on private property and maintenance became the responsibility of the community association. To accurately estimate flows in this complex basin, it was necessary to quantify contributing flows from numerous springs in the low-lying reaches. As part of the public involvement process, we prepared information appropriate for the community association to make informed choices about potential governance systems capable of providing funds for the maintenance and upkeep of flood control infrastructure.

In addition, Skillings provided topographic survey, environmental studies, JARPA, and construction of the pump station.  Survey was done to locate spot elevations that were used to establish two-foot interval contours to aid in determining flow direction.

Klickitat County,
On-Call Environmental Services

Klickitat County has awarded Skillings consecutive on-call environmental services contracts since 2009.

Bristol, Tunnel and Courtney Roads BA, SEPA, and Other Documentation, and Permitting: Roadway improvements required work in, and around, wetlands. Skillings provided wetland delineation and mitigation along the 2.5 mile project, including the creation of approximately 7,000 square feet of new wetland area along Courtney Road proposed for mitigation. Our mitigation plan included Large Woody Debris placement as well as native plantings. Skillings assisted the Klickitat County Department of Public Works in providing road design for the improvement of Bristol, Tunnel and Courtney Roads. A Joint Aquatic Resources Permit Application (JARPA) was completed in order to comply with USACE permitting requirements.

Snowden Loop Road Stormwater Pre-Design Report, HPA and SEPA: The purpose of this Stormwater Predesign Report was to evaluate the existing drainage basin upstream of the 30-inch diameter CMP Culvert Crossing of Snowden Road. Basin stormwater flows were calculated to determine sizing of a new drainage system to convey flows under the improved roadway section. The project consisted of widening the north-south roadway segment of Snowden Road, from Loop Road to the east-west segment of Snowden Road. The purpose of the report was to evaluate two existing undersized culverts crossing under the north-south segment of Snowden Road that caused flooding and scour issues to adjacent properties. Two driveway culverts were also evaluated.

Crafton Road BA, Wetland Services, SEPA, and Other Documentation and Permitting: The baseline evaluations of the stream and vicinity wetlands was completed. While the tributary is mapped as fish bearing, the existing crossing was undersized. The culvert is located at the headwater of the stream, which is defined as a hardened stockpond that flows toward the road ditch system before crossing Crafton Road. Working with the WDFW Habitat Biologist, it was determined that a fish passable culvert would be required. Through documentation of the stream system, however, we were able to negotiate with WDFW to place a slightly smaller culvert that would still convey hydraulic flows but would not be so large as to require raising the road grade. Raising the road grade would have resulted in additional impacts to the vicinity wetlands and the stream itself. By working proactively with WDFW, a solution was derived that protected the County’s budget, yet improved fish passage and habitat.

Wahkiacus Heights Road Wetland Delineation, Western Gray Squirrel Survey, and Associated Reports: An on-site survey for the presence of Garry Oak (Quercus garryana) and the associated Western Gray Squirrel (Sciurus griseus) along an unnamed tributary was completed. As a protected species, the stand of Garry Oak was evaluated for suitability for Western Gray Squirrel habitat. A wildlife survey report was submitted to the County and then reviewed by the WDFW. A semi-intact Garry Oak Savannah was observed, but it did not support a population of gray squirrels; therefore, a Habitat Management Plan was not prepared. In addition, wetlands associated with the creek were identified, characterized, and the boundaries delineated.

Orchard Heights Road Wetland Delineation, Western Gray Squirrel Survey, and Associated Reports: In support of development along Southwick Lake, We completed an on-site survey for the presence of Garry Oak (Quercus garryana) and the associated Western Gray Squirrel (Sciurus griseus). As a protected species, the Oak Savannah was evaluated for suitability for Western Gray Squirrel habitat. A wildlife survey report was prepared and submitted to the County, and reviewed by the WDFW. In addition, wetlands associated with Southwick Lake were identified, characterized, and the boundaries delineated.

Montana Department of Transportation, US 93 Access Control and Corridor Preservation

For this large highways project, Skillings managed our in-house survey group, along with the local sub-consultants that provided most of the survey and photogrammetric services.  This work included GPS control survey, utility locations, cadastral survey, topographic survey, and aerial photo control.  Skillings then compiled digital information for design of improvements to 53 miles of US 93 through the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Reservation.  From this information, we prepared right of way plans and negotiated right of way acquisition for 644 parcels.  Skillings Connolly staff also marked the proposed right of way on over 400 parcels.  Our staking cost per parcel averaged one-third of the sub-consultant’s fee.

Prior to developing base maps and right of way and PS&E plans conforming to the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) standards, we had to address the conversion between state plane and ground scale coordinates.  MDT standards require establishing a combined factor that fits any point along the project to a precision of 1:50,000.  Because of the north-south orientation and the variation in elevation along the project, we had to develop four zones to address this issue.

Montana Department of Transportation, US 93, Evaro to Polson

Skillings prepared feasibility/corridor study and preservation plans to complete roadway improvements in this environmentally- and culturally-sensitive area.  An aggressive public involvement campaign allowed this project to move forward in an efficient and timely manner.  The process facilitated MDT, FHWA, and Tribal involvement in preparation of design guidelines, traffic and safety analysis, and the review of 44 wildlife crossings on US 93.  Context-sensitive solutions were keys to the project’s success.  The result is a written Memorandum of Agreement that included the results of the corridor study and analysis, design criteria, lane configuration, design features, and mitigation measures.  Skillings also performed a LEDPA analysis and 404(b)(1) Evaluation in support of NEPA documentation and Corps permitting.  The project has received numerous awards, including FHWA’s Team Award for Excellence.  Skillings also provided right of way appraisal, acquisition, relocation services, and design management.

MSGS Architects,

Olympia School District Buildings

The Olympia School District needed 12,000 to 16,000 square foot buildings added to the following school sites:

• Centennial Elementary School
• Hansen Elementary School
• Pioneer Elementary School
• McLane Elementary School
• Roosevelt Elementary School

As the lead consultant for the project, MSGS Architects worked with the school district on planning the exact position of each new building on each of the sites.  As MSGS’s sub-consultant, Skillings provided the PS&E, environmental permitting for extension of the sanitary sewer and water (both domestic and fire flow), the relocation of sewer lines, water mains, drainage pipes and access drives, and development of new drainage facilities for stormwater runoff control and treatment.  We also provided bidding, construction management, and project closeout assistance.

Olympia Yacht Club,
Dredging and Pile Replacement

Using the Dredge Materials Management Program (DMMP) Guidelines, Skillings developed a dredge sampling and analysis plan for the Olympia Yacht Club to complete dredging operations within the yacht club boundaries.  We collected sediments samples, characterizing identified contamination, and determined dredging boundaries and disposal criteria.  Our team worked with the other regulatory agencies to secure all of the permits required for marina dredging.  Skillings prepared a bathymetric survey, engineering plans, specifications, and an estimate, as well as bid advertisement and award support. We also provided construction management for completion of dredge activities, utilizing an on-site inspector to ensure the contractor followed the construction contract and to meet permit reporting requirements.Skillings worked with the Yacht Club to advertise for bids and contractor selection.

Olympia Yacht Club, Washington Department of Natural Resources Lands Lease Map

This project consisted of 10.85 acres of Aquatic Lands Lease encompassing the Olympia Yacht Club.  The scope of the project was to locate, pilings, piers, upland improvements, and moorage slips.  The bed of Budd Bay was determined for this project.  We then calculated upland boundaries along with the proposed lease area boundaries.  A “Record of Survey” drawing was drafted and recorded with Thurston County.  In addition, legal descriptions were drafted for the lease areas and an “Exhibit A” (DNR Aquatic Lands Lease Map) was prepared.

Port of Grays Harbor,
Homeland Security Improvements

Skillings prepared PS&E for The New Port Entry at East Terminal Way, including a guard house, gates, lighting, design of roadway, and striping. As part of the site development, we also designed security fencing, security lighting, entry lighting was provided at locations specified by the Port, powered security gates for both rail and road entry along with a remote electronic access system, and signage as directed by the Port.  We coordinated development of access methodology with PSP Railroad, integrated known utility locations into the fencing design, and provided erosion control as part of the plans.

We also led preparation of permitting documentation for this marine facility expansion.  Permits included: NEPA/SEPA Compliance; Cultural Resources Section 106 Compliance; Substantial Development Permits (Shorelines); Critical Areas Reports; Grading (Building) Permits; NPDES Stormwater Construction Permit; ESA compliance; USACE 404 Nationwide Permit; and Hydraulic Project Approval via JARPA.

• Port of Olympia,

• Swantown Marina Expansion

Skillings provided design services for the Port of Olympia’s Swantown Marina expansion which included three new parking lots and restroom facilities.  This high-traffic, public space required effective communication and coordination between the Port, engineer, architect, utility companies, and the public.  Design work included sidewalk and walking paths, parking lot layout, pavement, grading, drainage, utility plans, bulkhead design for boat ramp loading, and illumination – all with a maritime theme.  Decorative sidewalks and landscaping make the Marina a fun and creative public space.

Saint Martin’s University,
Campus Stormwater Master Plan

Skillings provided hydrologic modeling to help develop the master plan for the 94-acre University campus.  The plan also included analysis of existing and future build-out conditions, an evaluation of existing stormwater infrastructure, and a backwater investigation.

San Juan County, Cascade Creek Realignment at Buck Bay Bridge

Skillings completed a new channel design, TESC plans, and a hydraulic basis of design for previously unpermitted work in a fish-bearing stream that was causing significant scour to the Buck Bay Bridge.  We provided a design and mitigation construction staging to Cascade Creek that was both cost effective and acceptable to Ecology.  Our design utilized the historic channel to create off-channel habitat within the project area, which provided mitigation on the project site and reduced project costs.  Construction staging plans were designed to minimize impacts to sensitive areas and the traveling public.  It was critical for design, permitting, and construction to be completed in 3.5 months from Notice-to-Proceed to meet the in-water work window, because the stream scour of the existing bridge abutments make them unable to last through the next storm season.

San Juan County, Guardrail Improvements/Installation

• Skillings prepared PS&E and provided construction management for guardrail improvements at eight locations on Orcas and San Juan Islands. To complete this project we obtained the mapping from the County, added utility locates and additional data by our survey crew, and calculated length of need for County prioritized areas warranting guardrails. Exact lengths of guardrail, post lengths and types of terminal treatment were identified for each site. We also provided construction management which included locating a construction inspector to Orcas and San Juan Islands.

San Juan County, MacKaye Road Relocation Feasibility Study

MacKaye Harbor Road on Lopez Island in San Juan County, Washington, provides the only access to Agate Beach County Park, the National Monument at Iceberg Point, and more than 100 properties in the Agate Beach, Salmon Point, Barlow Bay, and Flint Road neighborhoods.  The shoreline bluff along Outer Bay has been eroding from tidal and storm action for years.  Today, bluff erosion has advanced to within a few inches of the road in some places near the County Park.  This erosion will gradually shrink the width of MacKaye Harbor Road.  Eventually, it is predicted that numerous sections of the road will be inundated or washed away if no action is taken.

The goal of the MacKaye Harbor Relocation Feasibility Study is to evaluate long-term solutions to protect MacKaye Harbor Road.  Skillings’ team determined the predicted level of sea level rise and developed alternatives to save the road in place and relocate the road when it becomes impassable.  Preliminary road design, parking design, and planning level geotechnical, cultural resources, and wetlands investigations were completed.  The report has been completed and will be used by County officials to seek funds to do the necessary road improvements.

• Squaxin Island Tribe,
  Skookum Valley Digital Orthophotos

Skillings provided 0.5 pixel digital orthophotos, covering approximately 40 square miles in South Mason County.  We established and measured the horizontal and vertical positions of ground targets to control the aerial photography.  We then engaged the services of the photogrammetric firm to produce the digital orthophotos.  Using the new aerial photography, Skillings a digital terrain model that was combined with client-provided LiDAR data to produce the digital ortho photos.

• Summit Water and Supply Company,
  On-Call Engineering Services ǀ Sumner, WA

Summit Water & Supply Company (Summit) serves about 15,000 people in central Pierce County.  As engineer of record for this public water system, Skillings prepared comprehensive plans, specifications and designs, water demand forecasts, and water rights applications.  We also evaluated regional supply options and possible implementation strategies, conducted cost of service and other financial studies, developed proposed water rates and fees, and designed water treatment facilities for disinfection and corrosion control.

A 5000 gpm pumping station was developed to meet build-out demands.  At the client’s request, Skillings developed a design for a 2,500 gpm pump station as an initial capacity.  This station was configured to consist of two Goulds 1,750 gpm – 75 hp – VFD – (vertical turbine) pumps with allowance for a third pump by installing a spare “can” for future use.  The tank fill and discharge are controlled by Summit’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which allows the tank to operate as an additional source for the system during peak periods.  Valves with electronic control interface coupled with the pump’s VFD controllers will provide a set flow rate while maintaining back pressure and altitude control.  Skillings Connolly supervised construction and startup of these facilities.  Finally, Skillings recently undertook a rate study which included a cost of service and other financial studies, which was used to develop a water rate structure with associated fee schedule

Thousand Trails,

Resort Water System Evaluation

Skillings provided a water system plan evaluation report for replacement of their existing 60 GPM water treatment plant, supplying potable water to a full campground and maintaining the 50,000-gallon reservoir.  We evaluated several water treatment options, identified three manufacturers, and prepared a budgetary cost estimate for each option.  Our review compared each option’s ability to meet all treatment requirements along with:  the relative size of the units for the smallest footprint, the lowest capital cost, and the earliest delivery schedule.  The recommended option met all of these criteria, so we suggested an initial pilot study for the system.

Thurston County, Tilley Road Maintenance Facility

Thurston County expanded their public works maintenance facility located on a 44-acre site west of Tilley Road (SR 121).  As subconsultants to KMB Design Groups, Inc., Skillings worked on the master plan as well as the PS&E for the site development.  Jeffrey B. of Glander & Associates provided landscape architectural design and Hultz/BHU Engineers completed the electrical engineering.

This LEED Gold candidate project included parking lots and a new office building, maintenance shop, Emergency Operations Center (EOC), fueling station, plaza, fountain, and a 9000 sf stormwater pond.  Our site design also included other stormwater innovations such as permeable paving, a demonstration rain garden, and diverted roof runoff, which is collected in several 10,000 gallon storage tanks to provide irrigation water.  We prepared drainage, septic, and water reports in conjunction with the SEPA documentation; gathered existing record data and provided the survey work for the compilation of a base map; performed a Level 1 Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) and a Level of Service Analysis (LOS); and provided engineering of a large onsite septic system; water system for domestic use, fire flow, and re-use; drainage collection, conveyance, treatment, and disposal; erosion control, grading, paving, and access roads.  In addition, we coordinated with utility companies and received approval from the Department of Health for the Class “A” Water System Report.  The water system design included a new well, domestic booster pump system, distribution piping, and expansion of the site’s fire suppression capabilities.  Skillings also provided services in connection with WSDOT approval of new accesses and frontage improvements to the state highway.  This included preparation of a PFA and detailed construction plans for the necessary upgrades to the highway.

Washington State Department of Corrections, Larch Corrections Wastewater Lagoon Sludge Removal

The Larch Corrections Center (LCC) wastewater treatment plant sludge/biosolids storage lagoon had a 50-year accumulation of both organic and inorganic sludge, which was in need of being dredged.  There were concerns about the integrity of the treatment lagoon lining, along with the stability of the lagoon dirt levee and its ability to hold water in the event of an earthquake or significant rain event.  Consequently, Skillings documented three alternatives in the pre-design report for sewer system reconfiguration and a “status quo” option, including conceptual system layouts, estimates of capital and operational costs, life-cycle cost analyses, and a discussion of advantages and disadvantages of each option.  Based on this work, DOC selected a preferred alternative to remove sludge from the existing lagoon so it could be abandoned and to install a new sludge dewatering bed system to recycle biosolids. This option resulted in significant savings in operational costs over the 30-year study period.

Washington Department of Enterprise Services,
Heritage Park Improvements

Skillings provided site development PS&E for Phase V of Olympia’s Heritage Park improvements. Work included increasing park grades to provide protection against the 100-year flood event for portions of downtown Olympia.

In addition, we completed the storm sewer collection and conveyance system for the entire park site, including provisions for future expansion.  We provided amenities such walks and trails; soil amendments; utility improvements; landscaping; and hardscaping improvements.  The sanitary sewer system, consisted of hookups for food vendors and a drain for the central decorative fountain. We also designed the electrical system, street illumination, power service for food vendors, power service to the fountain and outlets for decorative tree lights along the streets.  The park incorporated areas of reinforced turf to withstand vehicle loadings from community activities and maintenance vehicles. The final major task was the water system, which included drinking fountains and water service to the fountain.  Irrigation to the park was provided by switching the connection from the domestic water source to reuse water from LOTT Alliance.

Skillings also assisted during the Shorelines Substantial Development permitting process within an extremely aggressive timeframe

Washington Department of Natural Resources, Elk River Parking and Boat Launch

As part of an on-call contract, Skillings completed a feasibility study and conceptual plans for a motorized boat launch, parking, and access road at the Elk River Natural Resource Conservation Area, a 5,300 acre site protected for salt marshes and significant wildlife habitat.  The major design concern was evaluation of the waterfront in order to minimally impact the natural forest, wetland, and shoreline functions present on the sites.  Considerations in selecting the preferred site included safe access to the boat launch, overall possible uses by the public, as well as the cost of project construction and maintenance of the new facility.  Other important factors included access control and security.  The increased public access to publicly-owned waters provided by this project will facilitate recreational use of small trailered boats.  This new water access facility will support activities such as fishing, hunting, sightseeing, and nature study, as well as kayaking.

Multiple design configurations were completed in an effort to avoid impacts to marbled murrelet and associated critical habitat, and avoid potential cultural resources identified along the beach front.  Multiple parking lot configurations were also developed, with each option balancing user needs against potential environmental impacts.

Washington Department of Natural Resources, Fish-Passage Design and Construction: Winston Block Culvert Replacements

Due to significant timber harvest activities, two fish-barrier culverts needed replacement within Winston Block, managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). Skillings prepared the PS&E for replacement of fish passage barriers with 22-foot open bottom arch culverts, which provided a crossing structure that did not impede stream flows. Stream flow volumes were determined using the Rational Method, allowing the culverts to be sized to accommodate the 100-year storm event. Culvert widths were based on the design standards outlined in WDFW’s Design of Road Culverts for Fish Passage. One of the crossings also included design of a retaining wall and two wing walls to capture the flows from two tributaries that reached their confluence at the culvert. By providing wing walls at the upstream end of the culvert, the potential for scour was minimized. Design also included streambed enhancement, which involved designing a channel with an eight percent grade on one of the crossings. Our design team worked with WDFW to develop a streambed gravel mix to provide fish habitat that will not wash away during high flows on these high gradient streams. Skillings completed all of the environmental documentation and permitting for this project in addition to managing design.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), Sewer Lagoon Study

WSDOT operates Safety Rest Areas (SRA) around Washington State. Nine (9) of the SRAs in Eastern Washington utilize sewer lagoons to treat effluent generated from SRA use. Skillings is currently evaluating each of the lagoon systems, to include: lagoon chemistry, liner integrity, overall operations and condition, and current sludge volumes within the lagoons. The Condition Assessment of WSDOT’s Safety Rest Areas utilizing sewer lagoons includes land surveying, aerial survey using a drone, ground and pond topography, base map preparations, data collection, and analysis at nine (9) individual sites.