Located within one of Appalachia’s most iconic landscapes, reflects a layered history of natural beauty, industrial use and ecological recovery. Drawing on deep experience in abandoned mine lands reclamation, Atlas supports the park’s restoration by designing site-specific solutions that address legacy mining impacts while preserving the area’s scenic character and environmental integrity.

��Atlas developed reclamation design plans for five sites within the park system, each shaped by both abandoned surface and underground mining activities with the land altered by these past activities.�� ��Although mining operations ceased several decades ago, lingering impacts continue to affect surface and groundwater quality, landscape stability and visual aesthetics. Atlas’ approach focused on understanding the unique conditions at each site and developing thoughtful, low-profile solutions that restore function while blending naturally into the surrounding environment.

A central element of the work involved managing acid mine drainage (AMD) and other waters emanating from abandoned deep‑mine entries. At several locations, discharges were largely dispersed, difficult to control and highly visible within protected park settings. Atlas’ designs consolidate, control and convey flows, routing them through engineered systems that subtly follow natural drainage patterns. Treated water is directed to existing swales leading to the New River, reducing visual impacts while protecting water quality.

In areas where low‑volume seeps were identified, Atlas developed targeted capture and conveyance strategies to direct flows to designated outfall locations. These designs incorporate a proposed grout curtain to control subsurface pathways, with the resulting discharges routed to natural drainage features. Final outfalls are intentionally designed to appear seamless within the landscape, underscoring Atlas’ emphasis on technical performance paired with visual sensitivity.

Beyond mine water management, the project scope included reclamation design for abandoned highwalls, coal refuse and spoil piles, sealing of portals, stream restoration and remediation and demolition of legacy structures. Each component was approached with long‑term land management, safety and ecological recovery in mind — reflecting Atlas’ commitment to solutions that not only address existing hazards but also support natural processes and enhance the visitor experience.

Collaboration was integral throughout the design process with Atlas working closely with agency partners, including the National Park Service and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, to align technical solutions with regulatory requirements, agency standards and long-term management objectives. This coordination helped navigate the complexities of working within a federally protected landscape while remaining consistent with the park’s mission. ��

“Through thoughtful planning, innovative engineering and respect for the natural and cultural significance of the New River Gorge, Atlas is helping transform areas affected by historical mining into stable, functional and visually harmonious landscapes. These projects demonstrate how reclamation design plans can successfully bridge the past and the future — addressing legacy impacts while protecting one of the nation’s newest and most treasured national parks for generations to come,” said Clayton Kirk Roderick, Atlas Abandoned Mine Lands Program Manager.

Learn more:

• Atlas Abaonded Mine Lands Solutions
• Restoring What Was Left Behind—Atlas’ Leadership in Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation

Alethea Muno, Atlas Petrographer, was recently named a recipient of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Emerging Professional Award. The honor recognizes early‑career professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, professional engagement and leadership potential within the materials community. We caught up with Alethea to talk about her path into petrography, what excites her about the work and why this recognition feels so meaningful at this stage of her career.

For Alethea Muno, a career in petrography didn’t follow a traditional path — it began with curiosity and an unexpected connection.

As an undergraduate geology student at the University of Iowa, Alethea was often told her career options were limited to environmental consulting, groundwater remediation or oil and gas. Then a new possibility appeared. Jaclyn Ferraro, a University of Iowa alumna working in concrete petrography, reached out to the department looking for students interested in the field.

The opportunity immediately stood out. Petrography felt more technical, more investigative and better aligned with the kind of impact Alethea hoped to make. Although the role was already filled — and a master’s degree would likely be required — the idea stayed with her and reshaped how she viewed her future.

Rather than feeling limited by traditional expectations, she leaned into that curiosity. She began exploring petrography more seriously, drawn to its hands-on, problem-solving nature. Although graduate school hadn’t been part of her original plan, pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Iowa during the COVID era became a turning point. She entered the program with one goal: gain the knowledge and experience needed to build a career in petrography.

During graduate school, Alethea gravitated toward geotechnical coursework and developed a deeper appreciation for the applied side of geology. As graduation approached, she prepared to begin her career wherever it might lead — unsure when, or if, petrography would become a reality.

Then, not long after graduating, an unfamiliar number appeared on her phone. Normally, she wouldn’t answer. This time, she did.

It was Jaclyn, calling with an offer in concrete petrography — the opportunity Alethea has been working toward for years had finally arrived.

Today, materials science gives her exactly what she was searching for. Through petrography, Alethea examines materials at the microscopic level — helping explain how concrete behaves, informing decisions tied to durability and performance and contributing to infrastructure that serves communities over the long term.

“My whole life I wanted a career where I felt like I was having a real impact,” she says. “Working in material sciences has given me that — and so much more.”

That impact was recently recognized when Alethea was named a recipient of the ASTM Emerging Professional Award, which honors professionals demonstrating technical excellence, professional engagement and leadership potential within the standards and materials community. Recipients are selected by their peers and invited to take a more active role in ASTM’s standards development — helping shape best practices while continuing to grow as future leaders in the field.

For Alethea, the recognition represents both validation and motivation.

“It’s meaningful to have my work recognized so early in my career,” she says. “It affirms that I’m on the right path and encourages me to keep learning and expanding my expertise.”

Alethea will attend the ASTM June Meeting in Dallas to formally accept the award — an opportunity to connect with peers and continue contributing to the standards community.

Alethea first got involved with ASTM shortly after starting her career in April 2022, having encountered ASTM standards during academic research. She attended her first ASTM conference that same year and sees the organization as a long-term professional home — one where she can stay engaged while contributing to the future of the industry.

Mentorship and hands-on learning have played a meaningful role in her development.

She points to the value of working alongside experienced petrographers who reinforced the importance of curiosity, attention to detail and asking the right questions.

One mentor, in particular, continues to stand out. Jaclyn Ferraro, a senior petrographer at Atlas, encouraged Alethea to look beyond narrow definitions of petrography and pursue material science questions that genuinely interested her. That perspective has helped her approach projects with a broader, more multidisciplinary mindset.

Outside of work, Alethea values balance — something she sees as essential in a detail-driven profession. She recharges outdoors through biking, hiking and camping, and she has had a long-standing interest in American Sign Language (ASL). She hopes to one day become a certified ASL interpreter. When she’s not working with materials, she enjoys another creative outlet: cooking — a path she once considered pursuing professionally.

Looking ahead, Alethea is excited about the future of materials science and the role new technologies can play. Her graduate research explored new applications of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to analyze the elemental composition of geologic sediments. She remains interested in how evolving technologies like XRF can expand understanding of materials and support new approaches across the field.

Her biggest ambition, however, is education. Alethea hopes to teach petrography at the university or trade-school level, helping bring awareness of a career path many geology students never encounter.

“There aren’t many petrographers,” she notes — not because of a lack of interest, but because most students simply don’t know the field exists. By bringing petrography into the classroom, she hopes to help others discover the same sense of direction that once changed everything for her.

The Innovative Pedestrian Bridge and Park Will Reconnect Wilmington to Its Waterfront

Atlas was selected by the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) to provide construction management��services for the Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway project.

The project, , aims to enhance pedestrian access and create recreational space in Wilmington, California. When completed, this landmark public access project will connect the Wilmington community to the waterfront at��Banning’s Landing Community Center.

“Over the past few years, we have seen Los Angeles make significant investment in Wilmington and its surrounding communities to improve streetscapes and enhance recreational space for its residents,” said Atlas Infrastructure Business President Tom Price. “This partnership allows Atlas to help POLA improves public access to the city’s waterfront and create meaningful recreational space for the community, while honoring Wilmington’s cultural heritage.”

The project involves building a��1,300-foot cable-stayed pedestrian bridge��spanning active rail lines and Water Street, as well as a��12-acre Promenade Gateway park��featuring an entry plaza, picnic areas, parking facilities, restrooms, playground facilities, landscaping and other public amenities.

Atlas will provide comprehensive construction management services to help deliver this complex, multi-disciplinary project that integrates transportation infrastructure, public open space and community-focused design, all while managing safety, quality, schedule and coordination with ongoing rail operations.

Atlas Senior Ecologist Kyle Helal explains why protecting bat habitats during abandoned mine land reclamation is essential, as many legacy mine features create the stable microclimates endangered bat species rely on. This elevates thoughtful planning and mitigation from a regulatory requirement to a cornerstone of long-term ecological conservation.

Did you know Abandoned Mine Land (AML) reclamation is entering a new phase — one that recognizes that old mine openings, highwalls, portals and underground tunnels are not just safety hazards, but rather, important habitats for cave-dwelling bats? These underground spaces often provide stable temperatures and a protected environment bats need to roost and hibernate. As AML programs evolve, more practitioners are pairing traditional remediation work with strategies that protect these unexpected ecological resources and support recovering bat populations.

Underground Microclimates: Small Spaces with Big Ecological Value

Across former mining landscapes, rock outcrops, mine entrances and underground tunnel networks create unique microclimates — stable pockets of cool, consistent air. Bats rely on these areas because temperatures between 38°F and 42°F help them conserve energy through winter hibernation. The design of many abandoned mines naturally supports these conditions. ��

Inside mine passages, airflow patterns — driven by pressure differences and chimney-like effects — often produce “cold-sink” zones where temperatures stay low all year. These conditions closely mimic natural caves. As White‑Nose Syndrome, caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, continues to harm bat populations, these colder, deeper zones (below 39.2°F) are becoming even more important. While the fungus thrives in cool environments, it struggles to persist in these colder extremes. ��

Going Beyond Basic Compliance

When AML work overlaps with potential bat habitats, projects may be subject to federal laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Endangered Species Act. The requirements under those laws typically include habitat assessments, species surveys, mine portal evaluations and coordination with regulatory agencies. But many organizations are pushing further, bringing ecological considerations into project planning phases much earlier.

This proactive approach helps teams to potentially avoid costly project redesigns, support long-term conservation and treat abandoned mines not just as hazards to remediate but as ecological assets that require thoughtful stewardship. ��

Bat‑Friendly Gates: Protecting Bats While Protecting People

One of the most effective tools for balancing public safety and bat conservation is the installation of bat-friendly gates. Modern gate designs allow air and temperature conditions to remain stable inside the mine while giving bats clear flight paths in and out. These gates also prevent unauthorized human entry and allow researchers to have controlled access through removable bars.

Multiple gate styles, such as basic, flyover, window, chute and cupola systems, provide flexibility for different mine shapes and bat colony sizes, making them a reliable solution at a wide range of sites.

Strengthening Conservation Outcomes Through Thoughtful Planning

Today’s AML projects increasingly prioritize protecting the microclimates and roosting conditions that bats rely on. When ecological knowledge is integrated directly into engineering and compliance processes, it helps safeguard sensitive species, promote stable underground ecosystems, reduce human-driven climate disruptions inside mines and support long-term population continuity. This approach helps to create reclaimed landscapes that are more resilient and ecologically connected.

The future of AML reclamation lies in blending engineering, regulatory strategy and ecological science. By designing closure and mitigation practices that help protect underground microclimates, sustain bat populations and limit disturbance, reclamation practitioners can promote outcomes that protect both people and the ecosystems intertwined with legacy mine features.

Atlas continues to align its practices with this integrated model as part of a growing industry-wide shift toward ecological stewardship. Explore how Atlas’ strategic reclamation practices protect bat habitats and encourage long-term environmental resilience through innovative, ecologically informed AML solutions.

At Atlas, technical excellence extends beyond project delivery — it includes advancing the standards, practices and people that shape the construction industry. Jaclyn Ferraro, Senior Concrete Petrographer and Team Manager, and Jay Dorst, National Practice Manager – Forensics and Structural Investigations, highlight their work at Atlas, the complex infrastructure projects they support and their leadership within professional organizations such as the American Concrete Institute, ASTM International and various certification programs.

Together, Jaclyn and Jay embody Atlas’ commitment to technical rigor, collaboration and industry leadership — advancing not only projects, but the standards and practices that shape the built environment.

Both of you work in highly technical disciplines. How would you describe your focus at Atlas?

Jaclyn Ferraro: My role centers on petrography — understanding construction materials at a microscopic level to answer real, practical questions. At Atlas, I manage our petrographic laboratory services while also working nationally on forensic investigations, aggregate evaluations and condition assessments of concrete and construction materials. Whether we’re investigating issues that present themselves during construction, damage that develops over time such as chemical reactions within the concrete, or singular events such as fire damage, the objective is always the same: to provide clear information so clients can make informed decisions about their structures and materials.

Jay Dorst: My focus is broader but complementary to Jaclyn’s work. I support structural and metallurgical engineering, welding, corrosion and specialty testing — often on large, complex infrastructure and building projects. At Atlas, I lead teams involved in quality assurance programs, forensic investigations, source inspections and structural testing. A core part of my role is translating highly technical findings into actionable guidance so owners, agencies and contractors can address challenges while keeping projects moving forward safely.

Much of Atlas’ work involves quality assurance and independent oversight on complex infrastructure projects across the country. Are there any projects you’ve worked on that you find particularly rewarding as a professional in this industry?

Jay Dorst:
One effort that stands out involved providing independent quality assurance and oversight on a large, statewide transportation program. I led teams evaluating weld quality, prestressed concrete girder performance and fabrication conditions across multiple structures. The level of rigor required on projects like this is exceptionally high, as the work supports safety, long-term durability and confidence in major infrastructure investments.

Another impactful example was a high-rise building investigation, where our team performed independent forensic evaluations and laboratory testing to understand contributing factors related to structural performance concerns identified during construction. Projects like these highlight the importance of objective, technical oversight — particularly on fast-paced, complex projects where coordination, accountability and performance expectations are high.

Jaclyn Ferraro: Forensic concrete investigations are always impactful because they help explain what’s happening within the material and why certain behaviors or conditions develop. My work frequently involves evaluating deterioration related to freeze-thaw exposure, chemical attack, strength deficiencies or aggregate reactivity. I also support aggregate qualification and air-void system analyses for airfield paving and heavy-duty pavements.

Professional organizations and certifications play a major role in your work. Why is this involvement so important?

Jaclyn Ferraro: Professional organizations are essential to advancing quality, consistency and technical excellence in the concrete industry. I’ve been an active member of the American Concrete Institute Illinois Chapter (ACI-IL) for more than 10 years and have served on its Board of Directors since 2021. I stepped into executive leadership roles beginning in 2024 and currently serve as Chapter President.

ACI plays a vital role in developing technical resources, best practices and certification programs that influence how concrete is designed, produced, tested and evaluated. At the chapter level, we focus on providing education, professional networking and certification support for practitioners across the state, while remaining closely aligned with national and international standards.

This year’s ACI Convention in Rosemont, Illinois, was especially meaningful. Atlas was a sponsor and ACI-IL was the host and sponsoring chapter. I had the opportunity to co-chair the convention and to welcome attendees during the Opening Session.

Beyond ACI, I’m deeply involved with ASTM International (the American Society for Testing and Materials). ASTM develops industry-standard specifications and test methods used to evaluate the strength, durability and performance of cement and aggregate materials. These standards provide consistency across laboratories, job sites and investigations, and are foundational to quality and repeatability in construction projects. I’m also active with the Society of Concrete Petrographers (SCP), which supports collaboration, peer learning and mentoring within this highly specialized discipline.

Supporting the next generation is one of the most rewarding aspects of this work. I’m especially proud that my Atlas colleague, Alethea Muno, Petrographer II, was recently selected as an ASTM Emerging Professional — a recognition that reflects both her technical potential and Atlas’ broader commitment to cultivating future industry leaders.

Jay Dorst: From an engineering and construction perspective, standards and certifications provide the framework that allows complex projects to move forward with confidence. I’ve been a member of the American Concrete Institute since 2014 and am actively involved in several technical committees that influence construction quality and safety.

I serve as a voting member of ACI Committees C680 and C681, which oversee certification programs for installers and inspectors of post‑installed anchors in concrete, and as a voting member and Vice Chair of ACI Committee 355, which focuses on anchor qualification and performance. I currently serve as Task Group Chair leading efforts to improve anchor testing in moving cracks — work that supports structural performance in seismic and dynamic conditions.

I have also been actively involved with ASTM International for more than 20 years, serving as a member of Committees E6.11 and E6.13. Throughout that time, I have contributed to and drafted multiple ASTM standards related to testing of fiber‑reinforced polymers and anchors to concrete. These standards support consistency and reliability across engineering, construction and forensic investigations.

How do your disciplines intersect when it comes to advanced expertise in safety management and risk mitigation — critical considerations when solving client challenges?

Jay Dorst: Many challenges don’t fit neatly into a single category. A structural concern may be influenced by material behavior, fabrication practices, welding quality or environmental exposure, which makes collaboration essential.

Alongside Jaclyn’s petrography laboratory, within my team, we maintain a forensic metallurgical laboratory, structural engineering support and field-testing teams that provide complementary support depending on the scope of the investigation. This approach allows us to evaluate materials, structural performance and construction practices together, helping clients understand what occurred and how those factors affect durability, performance and safety.

Jaclyn Ferraro: Exactly. Petrography often answers the “why,” while engineering answers the “so what.” At Atlas, those conversations happen naturally across disciplines, allowing us to deliver more complete conclusions.

What keeps you motivated in your work at Atlas?

Jaclyn Ferraro: Solving problems that matter, contributing to the profession through standards development and mentoring the next generation of materials professionals.

Jay Dorst: The combination of technical challenges and real-world impact. When our work strengthens decision-making and supports the quality and safety of the built environment, that’s incredibly rewarding.

What long‑term national security signals mean for infrastructure

By: Atlas Chief Growth Officer Harshal Desai

As we mark Infrastructure Week (May 18–22), it is worth stepping back and asking what the country’s own strategic documents are telling us about where infrastructure is headed.

The White House’s , released last November, names priorities that read less like a traditional defense strategy and more like an infrastructure and industrial policy mandate: “Energy Dominance,” “Reindustrialization,” “Reviving our Defense Industrial Base” and “Securing Access to Critical Supply Chains and Materials.” For those of us in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, that language is a signal worth paying attention to.

This blog explores how the latest National Security Strategy reinforces that reality, why it matters now and how Atlas is positioned to help clients plan, deliver and operate advanced facilities, data centers and other complex, mission‑critical infrastructure.

Reading the Strategy as a Market Signal

Every administration publishes a National Security Strategy. Most are read through a policy lens and filed away. This one deserves a second look — because it functions less as a defense document and more as a signal of where long-term infrastructure demand, capital and execution expectations are converging.

The strategy directly ties national security to America’s ability to build and operate physical infrastructure — energy systems, manufacturing capacity, supply chains and technology facilities. These are not abstract policy goals. They are a practical description of what the country needs to build, and they map almost directly to the work the AEC industry does every day.

What makes this moment different is that the rhetoric is being backed by action.

Since the strategy’s release, the administration has moved beyond rhetoric. In April 2026, the White House invoked the Defense Production Act across five energy sectors — designating the full fossil fuel and grid supply chain as defense-critical and unlocking DOE loans, guarantees and purchase commitments for domestic energy infrastructure. Executive orders have targeted accelerated data center permitting on federal lands, streamlined nuclear reactor licensing with 18-month approval timelines and critical minerals trade actions. Meanwhile, private capital is moving at an unprecedented pace: the top five U.S. hyperscalers are projected to spend a collective $720 billion in capex in 2026, with roughly 75% directed at AI infrastructure. Data center construction starts alone are tracking $88 billion in the next six months. The signal is not just strategic — it is backed by capital and policy mechanisms already in motion.

Why This Matters to the AEC Industry

For the AEC industry, this is not a policy abstraction. It is a description of the projects already moving through our pipelines — grid hardening, domestic manufacturing buildouts, data center campuses, energy generation and supply-chain facilities.

Over the past several years, there has been sustained emphasis on reshoring manufacturing, modernizing power systems, expanding data and digital infrastructure and strengthening supply chains. These priorities reflect long-term changes in how energy, manufacturing, data and supply-chain systems are planned, funded and delivered — reinforced by private capital, public investment and an increased focus on reliability and resilience.

The bar is rising. Speed, reliability, scale and the ability to deliver consistently across complex, mission-critical programs are what clients are selecting for — often ahead of lowest cost.

Atlas’ Position in This Environment

From Atlas’ perspective, these signals reflect a direction the firm has been intentionally building toward for years. Strategic diversification into power, advanced manufacturing and data center facilities has positioned Atlas ahead of the curve — not simply following market trends but anticipating the convergence of economic capability and national security priorities.

That positioning is translating into tangible results today. Recent work in power and nuclear environments, a growing role in AI‑driven data center development and experience delivering infrastructure in complex, high‑reliability settings align directly with the needs this environment is generating. Nuclear energy — particularly advanced reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs) — is a growing part of this picture, with federal policy now pushing to streamline licensing and accelerate deployment. One example is Atlas’ involvement as part of a nuclear project’s early development, where Atlas supported critical geotechnical investigation, on-site testing and advanced surveying services — informing site design, infrastructure placement and regulatory approvals for a facility designed to deliver reliable, long-term power capacity.��

Atlas has also recently secured work supporting a large, nationally scaled data center platform — programs that demand rapid mobilization, consistent execution across regions and reliable delivery in mission-critical environments.

Beyond these core platforms, Atlas is also active in defense modernization — areas where security spending and infrastructure delivery are converging in real time.

Looking Ahead

The signal from Washington and the capital markets is the same: the country needs to build, and it needs to build fast, at scale and with a level of reliability that many programs have not historically required.

At Atlas, the focus is on helping clients translate long-term trends into executable solutions — supporting infrastructure across power, advanced manufacturing, data and mission-critical systems that are resilient, adaptable and aligned with where capital and policy are converging.

When this infrastructure gets built well, the benefits extend beyond the project itself — economic opportunity, jobs, reliability and long-term stability for the communities that depend on it. That’s the work Atlas is focused on.

Independent Quality Oversight for a Critical Texas Corridor

Quality at the Core of Texas’ I‑35 Northeast Expansion Program

The is among the most significant transportation investments underway in Texas. Designed to relieve congestion, improve safety and support long‑term mobility, the program targets a critical corridor serving the San Antonio region. Delivering infrastructure at this scale requires more than design and construction expertise — it demands disciplined, independent quality oversight to protect public investment and deliver long-term value.

Modernizing One of Texas’ Most Congested Interstate Corridors

Spanning several counties, the multi-phase I-35 NEX Program is modernizing one of Texas’ most congested interstate corridors through toll-free elevated lanes, new connector bridges, enhanced interchanges and supporting infrastructure. These improvements are designed to accommodate population growth, regional commuting and freight movement. As the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) advances this complex program, independent quality assurance connects early design decisions to field execution.

Building Quality Assurance into the Program from the Start

Since 2021, Atlas has served as an independent quality partner on this program, providing oversight across multiple phases and supporting outcomes that matter to project owners and the communities they serve. In this role, Atlas helps strengthen decision‑making and promotes consistency across delivery teams operating within a complex, multi-phase environment.

Atlas’ involvement began during the design stage of the I-35 NEX Central project — a $1.5 billion effort covering 9.5 miles from I‑410 North to FM 3009 — when the firm was selected to provide independent design quality assurance services. These efforts included design reviews aligned with TxDOT requirements, design‑build contract criteria and accepted engineering practices, helping strengthen constructability and reduce downstream risk early in the program.

That early engagement established a strong technical foundation for large-scale construction and continues to guide Atlas’ role on the project today. On the I-35 NEX Central phase, Atlas provides ongoing quality oversight supporting elevated lanes with direct connectors, curved steel girder bridges and complex foundation systems.

Independent Construction Quality Assurance on I-35 NEX South ��

That foundation carried directly into construction. In 2024, Atlas was awarded the independent quality assurance services contract for Phase 1 of the I‑35 NEX South Project, an effort to deliver 4.2 miles of toll‑free improvements between I‑410 South and I‑410 North. Serving as both the Professional Services Quality Assurance Firm and Independent Quality Firm, Atlas manages a comprehensive quality program encompassing design reviews, field inspections, materials testing, audits and construction oversight. This work supports elevated viaduct construction utilizing prestressed concrete beams and concrete piers. Within a joint‑venture delivery structure, Atlas provides objective, third‑party oversight that supports accountability and confidence throughout construction.

Protecting Public Investment Through Independent Quality Assurance

Beyond technical execution, independent quality assurance plays a vital role in protecting public investment while supporting safer travel, longer service life and infrastructure that better serves economic activity and daily mobility throughout the region.

“Atlas is proud to partner on the I‑35 NEX Program and help positively impact the San Antonio region,” said Tom Price, Atlas Infrastructure President. “Our work — from design quality reviews to independent construction oversight — reflects how we support DOTs in Texas and across the country on complex programs: steady, objective and focused on consistency across every phase. This approach helps reduce surprises, strengthens accountability and supports infrastructure that makes moving through major cities safer and more reliable for everyone.”

Learn more about Atlas’ Quality Management services.��

Subsurface utility engineering (SUE) helps project teams avoid major risks — such as delays, safety hazards, unexpected costs and public disruption — by accurately locating underground utilities before construction begins. We caught up with Atlas’ East Region Utility Manager and SUE lead to get insight into why SUE should be seen as an investment and not an added expense to project costs. He highlights a recent project for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) which showcases the value of 3D SUE technology by mapping extensive underground and overhead utility data into a detailed 3D model. The information provided to GDOT improved design decisions early in the project and minimized potential construction issues.

In the world of infrastructure, transportation and site development, one of the most overlooked risks comes from what lies beneath the surface: underground utilities. Systems like water, gas, electric, telecom and sewer lines create a complicated network that isn’t always accurately documented. When these utilities are struck or incorrectly located, the consequences can be significant — causing delays, safety risks and costly emergency repairs.

This is why subsurface utility engineering (SUE) is so important. SUE combines historical records research, advanced geophysical technologies and precise surveying to detect, identify and map underground utilities long before construction begins. By doing this early, project teams gain clear visibility into potential conflicts and can make better decisions throughout design and construction.

SUE has consistently proven to deliver one of the highest returns on investment in civil and construction projects. It’s a strategic tool that reduces risk, saves time and protects budgets.

Q: What is the cost of not knowing where underground utilities are? Or what happens if underground utilities are inaccurately located or undocumented?

The cost of not knowing the location of underground utilities can be severe, impacting every aspect of a project. When utilities are inaccurately mapped or completely unknown, project teams can face a series of escalating problems that jeopardize both safety and budgets, such as:

• Construction delays – When crews encounter unexpected utilities, work often stops immediately. Redesigns, relocations and change orders must be made on the fly, slowing progress and pushing schedules far beyond what was planned. These interruptions can ripple through the entire project timeline.
• Safety hazards – Striking a utility line isn’t just inconvenient, it can be dangerous. Hitting gas, electric or high-pressure lines puts workers, nearby residents and the public at risk.
• Unexpected costs – Emergency repairs, damage to utility infrastructure, specialized response teams and service restoration all come with significant price tags. These unplanned expenses can quickly overwhelm a project’s contingency budget and lead to substantial overruns.
• Public disruption – Utility strikes often affect far more than the construction site. They can cause service outages, traffic closures and public frustration.

This is why the financial value of SUE is so important to consider. According to a , every $1 invested in SUE delivers an average of $4.62 in measurable cost savings, with total returns commonly cited by FHWA in the $4–$20 range when broader risk‑reduction benefits are considered. Even under conservative estimates, SUE routinely delivers returns exceeding 400%. These numbers are not hypothetical; they’re backed by years of documented research from Departments of Transportation and proven results across the private sector.

Q: If we look beyond just the dollar cost of not using SUE, what other values do you see in terms of risk reduction and reputation?

Beyond the financial savings, SUE provides significant value in both risk reduction and protecting a project’s reputation. By identifying underground utilities early, teams greatly reduce the likelihood of utility strikes, safety incidents and unexpected disruptions. Fewer surprises mean smoother schedules, more predictable outcomes and a safer work environment for crews and the public.

There’s also a strong reputational benefit. Projects that avoid utility issues tend to stay on schedule, maintain public trust and demonstrate strong stewardship of taxpayer and stakeholder resources. When agencies and contractors deliver projects without delays, damage or service interruptions, it reinforces confidence in their processes, professionalism and commitment to safety. Ultimately, SUE helps safeguard not only the budget, but also the credibility of the team delivering the project.

Q: What advice can you offer clients when it comes to knowing when or whether to engage SUE?

The earlier SUE is integrated into a project, the more value it brings throughout the entire lifecycle of design and construction. When SUE is engaged during the concept and preliminary design stages, project teams gain a much clearer understanding of existing underground conditions before making major decisions. This early insight reduces the likelihood of costly redesigns, helps establish realistic budgets and provides designers with accurate information rather than assumptions.

As the project moves into final design, SUE continues to deliver significant benefits. With accurate data on utility locations, engineers can identify potential conflicts in advance and incorporate solutions directly into design plans. This proactive approach prevents issues that would otherwise surface during construction, where changes are not only more disruptive but also substantially more expensive.

SUE’s value doesn’t stop once construction begins. During field activities, SUE professionals verify utility locations to support real-time conflict resolution and guide necessary adjustments. This reduces the chances of unexpected discoveries, keeps crews safe and helps maintain project momentum by avoiding delays caused by unforeseen underground conditions.

In today’s project environment, SUE is not just a “nice to have” — it is an essential investment in responsible, risk-aware project delivery. Teams that integrate SUE into their standard workflow experience fewer surprises, reduced risk and stronger financial outcomes, ultimately protecting both the project budget and schedule.

From my perspective, it all comes down to one simple truth: if we know what’s underground, we can work around it. Planning around utilities will always be far cheaper and far safer than hitting an unmarked line during construction and learning the hard way. ��

Q: Is there an example of how Atlas has leveraged its SUE capabilities on a complex infrastructure project?

We recently leveraged Atlas’ 3D SUE capabilities to help GDOT gain valuable insight into a 3.5-mile section of its roadway. The goal was to build a 3D map of all utilities and attach important details so designers could easily see and understand what was underground.

To do this, Atlas’ SUE team collected information using several methods, including:

• Quality Level B — utility designating to identify and mark the location of buried utilities.
• 14 test holes.
• Data collection on overhead utility poles.
• Sanitary sewer inspections.
• Utility impact analysis with clash detection.

In total, our team mapped more than 130,000 feet of underground utilities, 261 poles, 22 manholes and the 14 test holes. Information about depths came from the test holes, utility owner records and electronic measuring tools.

Once we collected all the horizontal and vertical data, we used it to build the 3D utility files. GIS technology helped by attaching useful details to each utility feature — like size, type and ownership. This enabled designers to simply click on a utility to see all its information.

The final deliverables included a 3D SUE database, a 3D report, the utility impact analysis and all the electronic 3D files.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Georgia Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration or any other DOT which may be mentioned herein.

Elevating Construction Quality with Technology and Process Innovation

With experience leading quality acceptance programs on billion-dollar infrastructure projects like the TxDOT and FlatironDragados New Harbor Bridge, Barry Burks, P.E., is shaping how advanced technology integrates into quality workflows — helping clients reduce risk and accelerate inspection and testing while maintaining rigorous quality standards.

Tell us about your role at Atlas and how it connects to shaping solutions for transportation infrastructure.����

As the Independent Quality Manager, my role begins with developing project-specific Quality Acceptance procedures within the Construction Quality Management Plan. These procedures establish how acceptance inspection and testing will be performed across a project’s construction lifecycle.

By embedding technology — such as digital inspection forms and automated error checking — directly into those processes, we create efficiencies that save time and money while maintaining the quality standards clients expect. That integration becomes especially important on large, complex transportation projects where schedule pressure is high and consistency across various types of work is critical.

Looking back, what pivotal experience most shaped your career in quality management?��

Working with Dr. Garold Oberlender during my master’s program at Oklahoma State University was transformative. He taught me how reducing the duration of repetitive critical path activities can dramatically impact an entire project’s construction timeline.

That insight has driven my focus for the past thirty years: finding the smartest applications of technology to reduce the duration and cost of hold point activities by speeding up inspection and materials testing. It’s about identifying bottlenecks that slow everything down and systematically eliminate them through better tools and processes.

You’ll be speaking at the ��on Independent Quality Management (IQM). Why is IQM especially critical on P3 and progressive design-build projects?

On P3 and other alternative delivery projects, the risk profile is fundamentally different. Design and construction are happening in parallel, commercial implications are significant and decisions often need to be made quickly with imperfect information.

IQM provides a stabilizing influence in that environment. By operating independently from production pressure, IQM helps make sure speed does not come at the expense of long-term performance or durability. It builds confidence that acceptance decisions are grounded in objective, standardized evaluation — which is critical for owners, lenders and private partners.

On large P3 and progressive design-build projects, how does IQM help reduce risk for owners and private partners?

IQM plays a central role in risk mitigation by providing objective, third-party oversight for inspection, testing and acceptance. On alternative delivery projects, technical decisions often carry immediate schedule and financial consequences.

IQM makes sure those decisions are transparent, defensible and aligned with the owner’s standards and not just the ever-present short-term production goals. That independence helps make sure the investment is protected, not just during construction, but for decades after the project is delivered.

The Harbor Bridge Project involved fabrication of steel and precast concrete across numerous facilities. How does IQM help maintain consistency and aid in the management of complexity at that scale? ��

The complexity of the fabrication processes on projects like Harbor Bridge can magnify small disconnects. With fabrication occurring at more than a dozen locations across the country, loss of consistency is one of the biggest risks.

IQM provides a single, standardized framework for inspection, testing and acceptance — regardless of where the work is performed. Acting independently from the production teams, our quality staff serves as the connective tissue between fabrication, field construction and the project stakeholders.

A structured and consistent set of documents and reporting allowed us to identify trends early, resolve issues proactively and keep the acceptance process moving without surprises. On megaprojects, IQM isn’t about slowing production — it’s about helping the Design-Builder identify quality issues before they impact schedule and then working with them to identify the cause and support them in their development of corrective solutions.

How does technology improve transparency and decision-making for owners on large transportation projects?

Technology provides owners with near-real-time visibility into inspection results, test data and acceptance status of all types of work across the project. Digital inspection platforms eliminate information silos and reduce the risk of missed inspection hold points or undocumented decisions.

For projects with multiple sub-contractors and numerous fabrication locations, that transparency supports faster, more confident decision-making while preserving data integrity. All the stakeholders benefit from knowing the status of the acceptance of the work, where schedules may be at risk and what actions are being implemented to mitigate the problems.

What is the biggest challenge and opportunity you see in automation and technology adoption?

The biggest hurdles are economic justification and early implementation. Adopting new technologies often requires upfront investments in equipment, software and training that may take time to show returns.

The key is to present stakeholders with a clear, early picture of both the costs and the long-term benefits. When people understand the full value proposition, the likelihood of acceptance and successful implementation is improved. You need to build the business case alongside the technical case.

When clients roll out new technologies in QA/QC, how do you help make sure the processes deliver results?

Technology is only as good as the people using it and the processes supporting it. We focus on comprehensive training of staff at rollout and reinforce the importance of consistent processes with Pre-Activity meetings before each new work type begins.

Embedding the use of technology into daily workflows — and making certain teams understand why consistency matters — is what turns new tools into time savers.

Can you share a project that highlights how Atlas delivers quality through both process and innovation?

The Harbor Bridge project is a great example. At more than 3,200 feet long and 538 feet tall, it’s the longest concrete segmental cable-stayed bridge in North America. Coordinating quality testing and inspection plans across more than 15 fabrication facilities presented unique challenges.

We equipped our inspectors with tablets and digital inspection forms, allowing real-time reporting and automated error checking in the field. These efficiencies reduced documentation time, improved consistency and helped expedite the acceptance process.

What motivates you in your work every day?��

For me, it’s seeing a well-thought-through procedure put into action in the field or lab and knowing it will lead to more timely acceptance of the work. That’s when preparation pays off and I know that we are doing our part to keep the project moving forward without unnecessary delays.

Every day, we’re contributing to infrastructure projects that our families and communities will rely on for decades. Knowing that our quality processes contribute to safer, more durable bridges, roads and facilities drives me.

Outside of work, where do you find inspiration?��

I enjoy reading journal articles and watching videos and documentaries about emerging technologies across various fields of science and engineering. Seeing how others achieve success through innovation in their work motivates me to explore new approaches in mine.

Innovation comes from connecting ideas across disciplines and applying them in new contexts. Whether its materials science, automation or data analytics, there’s always something that can be adapted to improve construction quality processes.

Connecting in the Field: Meet Barry at the TDOT–ACEC Partnering Conference

This May, Barry Burks will share insights on the critical role of Independent Quality Management (IQM) in delivering large, complex transportation programs at the .

Drawing on his experience supporting the $1.2 billion TxDOT US 81 New Harbor Bridge project, Barry will highlight how independent quality acceptance contributes to more transparent decision-making, stronger collaboration and long-term project performance on P3 and alternative delivery projects. In this role, Atlas served as the Independent Quality Firm, providing construction inspection, materials testing and day-to-day oversight of quality acceptance in alignment with TxDOT’s Quality Acceptance Program.

His session will explore how disciplined quality processes, supported by experienced teams and modern tools, help navigate the complexity of megaprojects — reinforcing consistency, reducing risk and supporting safe, durable infrastructure.

Atlas’ Francis Mouafong, P.E., MBA is a Senior Project Manager at Atlas and currently works as a Construction Quality Assurance Manager on Georgia’s I-285/I-20 East Interchange project. He shares why he loves working as an engineer — and how transportation systems play a vital role in connecting people and strengthening communities.

Engineers play a critical role in helping communities flourish by creating systems that connect people. Nowhere is that impact more visible than in transportation. Thoughtfully designed and well-executed roads, bridges, transit systems, trails and corridors form the backbone of thriving communities — shaping daily lives, economic opportunity and long-term resilience.

For Francis Mouafong, engineering has always been about more than just building roads or verifying specifications on paper. He views his work as a form of stewardship — a commitment to advancing infrastructure that serves people well and stands the test of time. For more than three decades, Francis has contributed to high-impact transportation projects — spending the past 20 years working throughout Georgia on efforts such as:

• I‑285/I‑20 East Interchange project, a major mobility improvement project being done for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) that involves reconstructing the I-285/I-20 East Interchange ramps with more direct alignments, constructing new lanes, adding auxiliary lanes, replacing bridges and constructing new noise barriers.
• Harbins Road Interchange project, an interchange project that involved bridges, box culvert extensions, retaining walls, ramps, storm drainage, grading, graded aggregate base (GAB) placement, asphalt paving, concrete flatwork, traffic signal installation and more.
• I-75/I-575 Northwest Corridor project, a transformative design-build regional mobility initiative that consisted of building 30 miles of reversible toll lanes and the construction of bridges and walls.
• Gwinnett County SPLOST Road Program, a program that is designed to support the county’s growing population and address its infrastructure needs.

Together, these projects not only improve travel efficiency but they are also enhancing safety, reducing congestion and supporting economic vitality for millions of commuters across the region.

Safeguarding Quality on One of Georgia’s Busiest Interchanges

In his current role on the I-285/I-20 East Interchange project — one of the most complex transportation upgrades in the state — Francis helps guide construction quality across a highly coordinated, fast-paced environment. Once complete, the project will significantly improve traffic flow and safety at what has long been considered one of metro Atlanta’s most congested bottlenecks.

Construction Quality Assurance on a project of this scale requires constant field engagement and disciplined oversight. Francis supports alignment between design intent and field execution, adherence to safety and performance standards and early identification of issues that could affect long-term durability or public access. His role focuses on translating plans and specifications into built infrastructure that performs as intended for the traveling public.

A Commitment to Growth, Learning and Leadership

With more than 33 years of roadway and bridge construction experience, Francis brings a leadership philosophy shaped by experience and adaptability. One lesson guides every project: similar challenges rarely have identical solutions. Effective engineering requires context-driven judgment and responsiveness to site-specific conditions.

That mindset also defines how Francis leads and mentors others. Grateful for the guidance he received early in his career, he places high value on supporting the next generation of engineers. To him, leadership is not about titles — it is about integrity, ownership and a commitment to the communities served.

Through his technical expertise and principled approach to leadership, Francis’ work helps bridge critical gaps:

• Between design and construction.
• Between immediate needs and long-term resilience.
• Between infrastructure systems and the people who rely on them.

By aligning design intent with real-world execution, he helps close the distance between vision and impact — reinforcing the idea that infrastructure is not only about concrete and steel, but about lived experience. ��

Connecting in the Field: Meet Francis at the TDOT-ACEC Partnering Conference

This May, Francis Mouafong will share real-world insights from one of Georgia’s most complex transportation projects at the , taking place May 11-13.

Francis will discuss his work on the $685 million GDOT I-285/I-20 East Interchange Project, focusing on the practical realities of supporting Independent Quality Firm (IQF) services on large-scale, multi-partner transportation programs. Attendees will gain perspective on maintaining independent construction quality assurance, coordinating across stakeholder teams and aligning plans, specifications and field conditions as construction progresses.

His session will highlight how strong collaboration and disciplined quality management contribute to safe, durable infrastructure — lessons that continue to shape transportation projects across the region.