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.

By: Ann Boeholt and Camille Felkins, Atlas Senior Environmental Managers

Adaptive management is often described as a best practice, but its value is most evident when projects face conditions no plan can fully anticipate. This case study — shared at the — illustrates how flexibility, collaboration and observation helped guide a project in a complex wetland system on Tribal lands.

Salmon, Sovereignty and Fish Passage

Pacific salmon have long been central to the cultures, economies and lifeways of Pacific Northwest Tribes. Over time, however, state highway infrastructure contributed to fragmented aquatic systems, limiting access to historic spawning and rearing habitats.

Since the 1990s, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has worked with Tribes and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to identify and address fish passage barriers across the state highway system. This work accelerated significantly following a 2013 permanent injunction that established a 2030 deadline for replacing approximately 400 barriers — those expected to reconnect roughly 90 percent of the targeted habitat. Today, this ongoing, collaborative effort focuses on restoring connectivity within waterways that often intersect sensitive environmental and regulatory settings.

A Culvert, a Wetland and Changing Conditions

One such project along U.S. Highway 101 involved installing a fish‑passable culvert in 2025 to restore natural stream function. Adjacent to the site was a mosaic wetland system within the Quinault Indian Reservation.

Shortly after construction, a high‑flow event caused nearby Harlow Creek to overtop its banks. Water moved across the newly graded wetland, forming overflow channels and flow paths not anticipated in the original restoration design. While the culvert performed as intended, the surrounding wetland — newly planted and not fully stabilized — responded rapidly to these conditions.

These changes introduced challenges. Permit requirements included specific restoration and stabilization goals designed to meet water quality standards, while the wetland’s natural response made a rigid, prescriptive approach difficult to apply. In addition, the stream’s new flow path through the wetland meant that no in-stream work could occur until the following summer construction window. Any potential retrofit work within the wetland or stream would also require careful coordination, as these conditions coincided with the federal government shutdown in fall 2025.

Managing Complexity Through Collaboration

Responding effectively required close coordination among WSDOT, Tribal partners and multiple regulatory agencies. Additional constraints, including narrow in‑stream work windows and limited agency availability, reinforced the need for an approach that was both practical and adaptive.

Rather than attempting to force the system back to its original design assumptions, the project team proposed a flexible, adaptive path forward.

Letting the System Inform Solutions

In the near term, the team implemented minimal erosion‑control best management practices to protect the site while limiting additional disturbance. At the same time, they committed to ongoing monitoring to better understand how the wetland functions under post‑construction conditions.

Monitoring showed that the new overflow channels aligned with the wetland’s mosaic character. While the final design solution is still evolving, the longer‑term approach shifted toward stabilizing those channels within the floodplain — supporting ecological function and permit objectives while working with natural processes.

Together, these decisions reflect how adaptive management can support effective outcomes in dynamic environments by allowing real‑world conditions to inform design, permitting and long‑term performance.

Join Us at NAWM

We will share additional lessons learned from this case study during our presentation, “Implementing effective adaptive management to meet project goals in the face of unforeseen and changing conditions,” at the on Thursday, April 30, at 11 a.m.

If you are attending NAWM, we invite you to join the session and connect with us or continue the conversation on LinkedIn.

Project earns an ACEC Georgia Engineering Excellence Award.

Babak (Bobby) Shayan, David McKenney, Alexandra Davis, Andrew Pankopp and Andy Casey accept award on behalf project team.��

Spelman College has long been recognized for its academic excellence and leadership in liberal arts and sciences. As the college envisioned its first major new academic building in more than 25 years, campus leaders saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary — a space where the arts and sciences could finally converge and inspire one another.

The result is the 82,500‑square‑foot , a landmark building positioned at one of the campus’s most prominent corners. Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, the Center includes performance spaces, classrooms, dance studios, a museum, a café and the Arthur M. Blank Innovation Lab — an advanced maker space inviting students from across disciplines to experiment and create.

The project recently earned statewide recognition, receiving an , in the Special Projects category. This award highlights the successful collaboration and technical excellence that brought this transformational building to life.

Engineering a Shared Vision

Atlas is proud to have played a significant role in delivering the site design solutions that made this bold vision possible. Our team provided comprehensive services, including site planning, grading and drainage, stormwater management, utility design, erosion control, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) documentation, permitting and construction support.

Designing within a dense, historic and active campus environment required meticulous planning and coordination. The project site, formerly a faculty parking lot, contained a complex web of existing utilities critical to campus operations. Atlas conducted extensive investigation and subsurface utility exploration to minimize relocations, protect essential systems and see that construction could move forward without disrupting campus life.

This careful groundwork proved invaluable, especially when designing the foundations for the pedestrian bridge that connects the new Center to the campus core. Bridge footings were needed in an area crowded with existing and proposed utilities. Atlas worked closely with the structural engineering team, using designating and targeted test pits to verify the exact location and elevation of utilities.

Sustainable Solutions Below the Surface

While much of the Center’s beauty is visible in its open, sun‑lit architecture and inviting outdoor “porch” spaces, some of its most impactful engineering features lie underground.

Located within — an area historically affected by pollution and flooding — the site required thoughtful water management strategies. Atlas designed a 63,200‑gallon underground cistern, constructed from 84‑inch‑diameter pipe, to capture runoff from both landscaped areas and building rooftops. Pretreatment through vegetated swales and a high‑capacity First Defense system improves water quality, reduces downstream flooding and gives Spelman a sustainable irrigation source that reduces reliance on the city’s potable water supply.

During utility evaluations, Atlas also identified opportunities to enhance segments of the existing sanitary sewer system serving a large portion of campus. The team designed a new watertight sewer main, improving system performance and safeguarding both campus operations and nearby natural environments.

The Center for Innovation and the Arts has already catalyzed new activity and programming on campus, creating a vibrant hub for creativity and discovery. For Atlas, the project represents the impact of thoughtful civil engineering — solutions that operate quietly beneath the surface yet play a pivotal role in a building’s performance, sustainability and long‑term campus value.

“Earning the 2026 ACEC Georgia Merit Award underscores the significance of this achievement. The Center stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when visionary design meets technical precision: a building that not only serves Spelman College today but strengthens its legacy for generations to come,” said Tom Price, Atlas Infrastructure President.

Additional Award-Winning Contributions

Alongside the Merit Award for the Spelman Center for Innovation and the Arts, Atlas was also recognized for its contributions to the Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility Expansion and the Brookhaven City Center, which earned a State Award and an Honor Award, respectively.

Atlas’ Mike Filmyer reflects on his 40‑year engineering journey in water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. Mike highlights some of the memorable projects he has been involved in and offers advice to up and coming engineers who are interested in making a difference to protect public health, preserve natural resources and help communities flourish and thrive.

For more than four decades, I have had the privilege of contributing to the design, management and improvement of water, wastewater and stormwater systems that millions of people rely on every day.

These essential yet often unseen systems form the backbone of healthy, sustainable and resilient communities. My journey in engineering has been shaped by a deep belief that infrastructure is more than pipes, pumps, tanks and treatment processes — it is about protecting public health, preserving natural resources and ensuring that communities can thrive.

A Dual Foundation in Biology and Engineering

My path into engineering began with a strong grounding in biology from St. Joseph’s University, followed by a second degree in Environmental Engineering Technology from Temple University.

The combination of biological insight and engineering rigor helped me understand not only how infrastructure works, but why it matters — especially when dealing with water quality, ecological health and regulatory compliance. Early in my career, this interdisciplinary knowledge proved invaluable as I began working in Baltimore before returning to my hometown of Glenside, Pennsylvania, where my roots and career both continued to grow.

Engineering in Service of Communities

Across my career, I’ve worked on hundreds of projects spanning water treatment plants, wastewater facilities, stormwater systems, pump stations, force mains, storage tanks and complex regulatory programs.

Each project brought its own unique challenges, but the most rewarding aspect has always been the impact on the communities we serve. Some of the highlights that continue to make me proud include:��

• An Anaerobic Digestion & Cogeneration Facility, where waste biogas was transformed into renewable energy for the community.
• An 18-inch force main installed via Horizontal Directional Drilling under the Lehigh River, a technically complex project that protected both infrastructure and the river ecosystem.
• A 3.4-million-gallon underground Combined Sewer Overflow storage facility, which eliminated millions of gallons of polluted discharges into local waterways. This tank was placed under a local university’s tennis courts, which were replaced as part of the project.

These projects, and many others like them, illustrate the critical role engineers play in public safety and environmental stewardship.

Technology as a Transformational Force

Over the past 40 years, technology has continually reshaped how we design and operate infrastructure. I’ve seen firsthand how advanced SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, new materials, better treatment technologies and improved hydraulic modeling have expanded what’s possible. My work on SCADA upgrades for regional authorities brought real‑time system visibility and operational reliability to facilities that previously operated with limited monitoring.

Technology has enabled us to make systems smarter, safer and more sustainable, and it will continue to drive the future of engineering.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

Sustainability has been a thread running through my entire career, long before it was a buzzword. Whether designing Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce pollutant loads, preparing National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit renewals or implementing stormwater reduction plans, I have seen how thoughtful engineering can dramatically improve environmental outcomes.

Projects such as stormwater BMPs, streambank restoration efforts or regenerative stormwater conveyance systems illustrate how engineered solutions can harmonize with natural systems.

Our responsibility as engineers is not only to solve today’s problems, but to protect ecosystems for generations to come.

Advice to the Next Generation of Engineers

One unique aspect of my career is the long-standing relationships I’ve built with my colleagues, many of whom I’ve worked with for decades. That continuity of people, knowledge and a shared mission has allowed us to take on increasingly complex challenges with confidence and collaboration.

To those entering the profession, or early in your careers, I offer a few guiding principles:

• Stay curious. Engineering changes constantly; lifelong learning is essential.
• Remember who you serve. Infrastructure exists for people and the environment, so keep communities at the center of every design.
• Embrace the details. In our field, precision saves money, prevents risk and protects lives.
• Seek mentors and be a mentor. Much of what I know came from generous colleagues who shared their expertise.
• Stand proudly in the impact you make. Engineers often work behind the scenes, but our work shapes the world.

A Career Built on Purpose

From wastewater treatment plants to pump stations, SCADA systems to stormwater BMPs, my career has been shaped by the belief that engineering is a public trust. Every design, every calculation and every decision carries with it the responsibility to safeguard communities and the environment.

As I reflect on more than 40 years in this profession, I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve worked with and the communities our work has contributed to. And as new generations begin to lead, I am confident the future of engineering will continue to bring innovative, resilient and sustainable solutions to the challenges ahead.

Hillary Hagen-Peter is a Senior Engineering Geologist at Atlas, currently working on Oklo Inc.’s Aurora powerhouse project at Idaho National Laboratory near Idaho Falls. As fieldwork lead and now project manager, Hillary is helping assess and prepare this Aurora powerhouse site, which supports advanced reactor technology designed to deliver low to near‑zero emission energy. Hillary explains how geoscience bridges the environmental challenges of past energy practices with the sustainable, low‑carbon solutions needed for the future.

“I am deeply passionate about my work on the Oklo Aurora powerhouse project and other advanced nuclear initiatives that are opening doors to a cleaner energy future. With today’s��ability to recycle and reuse spent fuel through advanced nuclear technologies, I see this work as a vital bridge between the environmental impacts of past energy practices and the sustainable, low‑carbon solutions we need moving forward.” –Hillary Hagen-Peter

My path into geology began long before my professional career. I was inspired by my older brother, whose undergraduate and graduate fieldwork took him from Mongolia and Italy all the way to Antarctica. Hearing his stories about working in remote, rugged places sparked my curiosity about a field that blends science, exploration and global travel. I signed up for an introductory geology course soon after and was immediately hooked. The combination of fieldwork, problem‑solving and understanding how the Earth shapes our infrastructure and communities set me on the path I’m on today.

So far, my work as a geologist has taken me across the Pacific Northwest, where I’ve led complex geotechnical and geohazard evaluation programs for nuclear and technology infrastructure projects throughout the United States and Canada. Whether hiking through steep terrain, flying by helicopter to remote sites or working in extreme weather, including temperatures dropping to –40°F (the rare point where Fahrenheit and Celsius finally agree), each location brings its own challenges and a distinct set of potential geohazards.

At Atlas, I’ve managed large scale geotechnical programs involving comprehensive hazard assessments. One of the most meaningful has been leading geotechnical work for the Oklo Aurora powerhouse project at the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls. This project is advancing a more resilient and sustainable energy future, and I’m proud to contribute to efforts that support the broader transition to clean, reliable nuclear energy.

On this project, I started out as a Fieldwork Lead for subsurface drilling and geophysical investigations before moving into full project management, overseeing drilling operations, laboratory testing and final reporting, all in compliance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Nuclear Quality Assurance (ASME NQA1) requirements. This work is meticulous and often challenging, but it is foundational to building safe, sustainable infrastructure.

Through both my studies and field experience, I have seen how geoscience directly shapes the success of advanced nuclear projects, helping see that innovative clean‑energy technologies are built on safe and resilient ground. From evaluating hazards such as flooding, expansive and collapsible soils, landslides, faulting, seismicity and volcanic activity, to leading subsurface drilling and geophysical investigations, geoscientists provide the critical data that informs design, safety and long‑term performance.

I’m especially inspired by the nuclear sector’s ability to recycle and reuse spent fuel through advanced nuclear technologies. This capability represents a vital bridge: connecting the environmental impacts of past energy practices with the low‑carbon solutions we need moving forward. When paired with renewable sources like solar and wind, advanced nuclear energy becomes part of a resilient, diversified path toward achieving the United Nation’s global goal of net‑zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Across all of these efforts, I am reminded that sustainable energy isn’t just a technological challenge; it’s a geotechnical one. The future we build must stand on solid ground, and I’m proud to help ensure that the next generation of clean‑energy infrastructure is resilient, responsible and built to support communities for decades to come.

We caught up with Atlas’ Chief Growth Officer Harshal Desai to learn how Atlas is celebrating Engineers Week. He shares what inspired him to pursue an engineering career and why he feels passionate about encouraging students to consider a career in engineering.

was founded more than half a century ago by the to honor the important role engineering plays in our lives, as well as inspire the next generation of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) professionals. And now, this special week gives us an opportunity to recognize the people behind the iconic projects that are transforming our communities and the world.

This year, Engineers Week is being celebrated February 22-28, and Atlas is excited to participate by shining a light on some of the individuals who are making a difference in our company and the communities where they live and work. The theme, “Transform Your Future,” highlights how engineering not only shapes our world, but also new opportunities, our communities and the futures we imagine for ourselves and for future generations.

We’re kicking off the week by highlighting how since joining Atlas, Harshal has mentored young minds to help them conceptualize and model cities of the future, using engineering as a tool to spark curiosity, creativity and problem-solving.

Alongside the engineering excellence that has been central to your success, you also understand the importance of developing best-in-class talent, which includes inspiring future engineering leaders. In your spare time, how are you inspiring students to love engineering?

For years, I have volunteered with middle schools, helping students with the , an educational program that brings STEAM to life for students in grades 6 through 12. The competition challenges students to envision ways they can make the world a better place by designing a city 100 years in the future.

This year’s competition challenged students to design a city that eliminates food waste from farm to table and keeps citizens healthy and safe. I see so much value from this competition because it goes beyond just engineering. It fosters imagination, societal problem-solving and multidisciplinary thinking. The students gain experience with engineering, but also hone their writing, presentation, math, science, art, history and geography skills too. A couple of years ago, my daughter’s team made it to the national competition in Washington, D.C. Schools from across the country, as well as international students, participated. It was an energetic environment and gave the students an opportunity to not only explore all the educational museums the city offers, but a great venue to socialize and learn from the other contenders.

Mentoring students has been incredibly rewarding to me, and it reinforces the importance of encouraging curiosity and interest in engineering early on.

What advice can you offer aspiring engineers or young engineers looking to advance their career?

Early in your career, focus on building credibility through strong technical skills by working on multi-disciplinary, complex projects and consistently do what you say you will do. As you advance, soft skills—working with others, connecting the dots and learning from different perspectives—can help open new opportunities. Stay curious, meet people and absorb as much as you can.

Why did you want to become an engineer? Did you have a special mentor that you emulated your career on?

Both of my parents were doctors, and while I was not interested in pursuing a medical degree, I was interested in science. Engineering was a good fit for me because it provides strong analytical skills that can be applied in a variety of careers.

How does your engineering background support your current role in business development?

My civil engineering background gives me a practical lens for business management. It helps me understand problems at their root, ask better questions and engage credibly with both clients and project teams. Having worked across all phases of projects—from planning to construction—has helped me focus on solutions that are practical, technically sound and aligned with client goals. That foundation builds trust and keeps conversations centered on outcomes, not just opportunities or sales.

How do you see engineers making a difference at Atlas?

What stands out to me about engineers at Atlas is how hungry and humble they are. They’re committed to learning, put the customer first and bring strong practical experience to everything they do. Many of our engineers have deep construction and field backgrounds, so they understand how things get built—not just how they’re designed. In addition, we provide several mission‑critical services, including environmental, materials and geotechnical engineering. These capabilities are highly transferable across markets—from transportation and water to data centers—creating meaningful growth opportunities for Atlas and our A‑Team, while continuing to deliver real value to our clients and communities.

Chicago Transit Authority Red and Purple Line Modernization Project

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is investing in a more resilient and efficient transportation system with its $2.1 billion (RPM)—one of the largest transit investments in the agency’s history. The project includes replacing four century-old stations along Chicago’s busiest transit corridor with larger facilities that are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. The new stations feature wider platforms, better lighting, improved security, real-time information boards, more reliable train service, less crowded trains and platforms and a more aesthetically pleasing environment for pedestrians.

As part of the Walsh-Fluor Design-Build team, Atlas provided civil engineering services, including roadway design, traffic maintenance, signal design, utility coordination, drainage design, site layouts, and grading, as well as electrical and lighting design.

“Every day, millions of Chicagoans rely on the city’s transit system to get where they need to go. Supporting our long-time client, Atlas was proud to collaborate with CTA on delivering a safer, more reliable transit system,” said Tom Price, Atlas Infrastructure President. “Sustainability, preservation, and innovation were woven into every decision made, resulting in a project that truly honors Chicago’s past, while building a resilient, efficient transit future.”

Building a modern transit system

Construction on Phase One began in 2019 and included updates on two major areas—the and the (LBMM) section. With millions of passengers relying on the Red Line every year, updating these lines was critical to making CTA’s transit system more reliable and efficient.

In 2021, CTA celebrated the completion of the Red Purple Bypass. This milestone allowed northbound Brown Line trains to pass over Red and Purple Line tracks—eliminating a critical bottleneck and allowing for more frequent service.

CTA hit another major milestone in 2025 with the completion of the LBMM portion of the project, which involved reconstructing four stations and replacing all elevated track and support structures along 1.3 miles of the Red Line.

Working within one of the nation’s most spatially constrained urban corridors presents unique challenges. Atlas helped CTA employ highly adaptive planning strategies to overcome numerous complexities throughout this project. To keep trains running on time, our team utilized creative solutions to sequence construction and implement temporary systems, including two fully functional temporary stations that served the public for years before the final stations were finished. Atlas’ team even helped relocate a century-old building to allow critical track realignment—a decision that demonstrated thoughtful engineering and respect for the city’s architectural heritage.

“Together with CTA and our industry partners, Atlas designed every element of construction planning to reduce inconvenience and minimize disruption to people’s daily routines,” added Price. “Atlas is proud to have contributed to this landmark project that will be utilized by millions of passengers in the years to come.”

Working collaboratively with CTA, our team contributed to this massive transit line upgrade through:

• Roadway and alley rehabilitation: Atlas designed plans for all impacted streets and alleys within the project limits and reconstructed all impacted sidewalks to meet Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) standards with ADA compliant ramps at all temporary and permanent locations.
• Collaborative planning and permitting: Atlas was responsible for all utility coordination on the project, including identifying potential conflicts early in the design-build process. By maintaining regular contact with utilities throughout the project, Atlas made proactive communication and coordination a top priority. Our team worked extensively with Walsh-Flour to facilitate communication with the Department of Buildings, CDOT, and the Office of Underground Coordination to keep the project running smoothly.
• Digital and technical knowledge: Atlas’ modeling experts created and maintained a dynamic digital terrain model for all surface drainage, roadway vertical geometry and ADA design grades. Our design included extensive OpenRoads work—driving efficiencies and schedule. Atlas was an early adopter of OpenRoads software to create dynamic 3-D models.
• Enhanced safety and lighting: With a deep understanding of CTA’s and CDOT’s requirements, Atlas designed all exterior lighting for the RPB and LBMM sections, as well as power feeds for relay houses, aesthetic lighting, and temporary and permanent lighting for station facades.
• Creative drainage solutions: Atlas designed the Stormwater Management Plan, incorporating CTA’s requirements for collecting and storing runoff. Infiltration trenches and storage tanks were utilized, which eliminated surface runoff contributing to the city sewer system.
• Collaborative construction delivery: Atlas coordinated with Walsh-Fluor, Stantec, and associated subconsultants to coordinate timing on the overall sequence of design packages.

At a glance

CTA’s Phase One investment, one of the largest design-build projects undertaken by CTA

When this corridor was first built, making it one of the oldest in the CTA system

Built with modern architecture and ADA accessibility features

Historically significant Vautravers building moved for track realignment

Sally Riker, F. SAME, didn’t set out to become one of the most influential figures in Georgia’s engineering and infrastructure space — but with more than two decades of impact, recognition is well earned. As Atlas’ Southeast Regional Vice President for Strategy and Growth, she brings a rare blend of operational insight, civic leadership and mentorship to everything she touches.����

Named one of Engineering Georgia Magazine’s “100 Influential Women in Georgia Engineering” for the seventh consecutive year, Sally continues to shape the future of architecture, engineering and construction through strategic vision and dedicated service. Her leadership spans project delivery, community development and the forward-thinking that defines industry transformation.��

Q: You’ve spent more than 25 years in the AEC industry and continue to shape its future. What keeps you energized and inspired to lead in new ways?��

Honestly, people and relationships. I’m lucky to work in an industry where purpose and passion intersect. We get to shape communities, solve real challenges and build for the future. Every project is different, every client is unique, and the pace of change keeps me learning. I’m energized by big-picture thinking — strategy, growth and connecting dots across sectors — but what inspires me most are people.��

Q: Your involvement with the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), Urban Land Institute (ULI), and the Council for Quality Growth reflects a strong commitment to civic and professional leadership. How have these experiences influenced your values and approach to leadership?��

These organizations have provided me with the space to grow as a leader beyond my technical work. Through SAME, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for service and mission-driven partnerships. The organization’s focus on supporting our military and building resilient infrastructure has taught me that leadership means serving something bigger than yourself. ULI challenges me to think about how we plan for resilient, inclusive communities by addressing today’s needs and tomorrow’s possibilities. The Council for Quality Growth consistently reminds me that policy and infrastructure are inseparable. These experiences have shaped me into a more intentional leader — one who leads with purpose and listens before acting.��

Q: What brought you to Atlas, and how do you envision shaping growth in the Southeast region?��

I came to Atlas because it felt like a natural fit: a company focused on integrity, innovation, and community. I saw an opportunity to help connect strategy with delivery and to build bridges across markets, people and ideas. The Southeast is growing fast, and I believe growth should be thoughtful, equitable and resilient. My focus is on positioning Atlas as a trusted partner — one that not only delivers but also listens, adapts and adds real value to our clients and communities.��

Q: Being recognized among “100 Influential Women in Georgia Engineering” reflects your professional contributions, but what moments have reinforced your core values or changed how you see leadership?��

Some of the most defining moments haven’t come with a title or recognition. They’ve emerged during challenges. Leading through tough transitions, coaching others through uncertainty, or simply being the one to ask the hard question in a room full of silence. Those are the moments that test your values and reveal what kind of leader you really are. Over time, I’ve learned that leadership is far more about service, trust and consistency than it is about control or having all the answers. Influence means creating space for others to thrive and grow beyond what they thought possible. The most rewarding part of leadership is watching others succeed.����

Q: When you think about the next generation of engineers and infrastructure leaders, what would you most want them to know or believe is possible?��

I’d want them to know that there is no single path, and that’s a good thing. This industry needs creative thinkers, good communicators and people who can collaborate across disciplines and perspectives. I want them to believe that their voice matters, even in the early stages of their careers, and that they don’t have to wait for permission to lead or innovate. Most importantly, I’d remind them that leadership isn’t a title — it’s how you show up. If you lead with curiosity, integrity and heart, you’ll go further than you ever imagined.��

Sally’s influence extends beyond any single project or recognition. Through strategic thinking, authentic leadership, and unwavering commitment to developing others, she exemplifies how engineering leadership can shape entire communities and careers. Her story reminds us that true influence comes not from commanding attention, but from consistently creating value for others.����

Follow Sally’s lead and explore opportunities to grow with our team.����

DENVER, CO — Atlas Technical Consultants (Atlas) is proud to announce that two of its leaders have been recognized by Engineering Georgia magazine in the 2025 edition of its annual “Women to Know” features.����

Alexandra Davis, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Services Lead, has been named to the “35 Under 35 Women to Know” list. Selected by ACEC Georgia’s 100 Influential Women in Engineering Committee, this recognition celebrates the next generation of leaders shaping Georgia’s engineering landscape.����

Davis brings an unconventional background to environmental policy work. She joined Atlas in 2019 as an archaeologist, after completing archaeological excavations in Malawi, Africa, where her team uncovered 8,000-year-old remains and sequenced the second-oldest human DNA in Africa. Her archaeological training in documentation and site analysis translated well to NEPA environmental reviews within her first year at the company.��

In her current role, Davis leads environmental compliance for more than 75 transportation projects across Georgia, manages nine Georgia Department of Transportation bridge replacement projects and has led environmental reviews for major infrastructure initiatives, including the Courtesy Parkway Extension Project in Rockdale County.����

Sally Riker, F.SAME, Vice President of Strategy and Growth for the Southeast Region, has once again been named one of the “100 Influential Women in Georgia Engineering.” Riker joined Atlas in 2024 and has been recognized on this list annually since 2018.��

Riker has more than 25 years of architecture, engineering and construction industry experience. A Fellow in the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), she was honored with the President’s Medal in 2022 and currently serves on SAME’s Foundation Board. She served as the 2024 Chair of the Council for Quality Growth and continues to serve on its Executive Committee as past Chair. Riker also serves as an ambassador on the University of Georgia’s Board of Visitors and was appointed to the Women’s Leadership Initiative Global Leadership Committee for the Urban Land Institute of the Americas in 2021.��

Riker is a member of the Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors and is active in the local community as President of the Mount Paran-Northside Citizens Association, serving one of the largest neighborhoods in Buckhead (Atlanta).��

Riker was recognized as one of Georgia’s 500 Most Influential Leaders by Georgia Trend in 2022 and named Women Who Mean Business by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2020.��

“Atlas attracts the best and the brightest. We are pleased to celebrate Sally and Alexandra being recognized for their many contributions to the industry and the state of Georgia, specifically,” says Atlas CEO Jacque Hinman. “Their dedication, vision and impact reflect the values we strive to uphold across all levels of our organization and demonstrate the focus Atlas places on career growth and serving our clients with distinction.”������

Read more about both honorees in .��