Retail centers are continuously changing. As we embark on the new decade in 2020, the changes will continue. The trends of consumers are significantly different than they were in the last decade. Experts believe that the retail industry will have new building needs – so if you are in the business of development, retail should remain a focus. Retail has different faces than “days of old” – now they include restaurants, gas/electric car charging stations, healthcare, fitness centers and much more. From conceptual drawings to ribbon-cutting ceremonies on opening day, a strong civil engineering team is an essential part of successful land development. Here are a few ways in which these skilled professionals serve commercial real estate clients long before customers stroll the store aisles.

How Can a Civil Engineer Assist With Your Retail Center Project?

1. Site Selection

Choosing the right site for the building is a crucial early step in the commercial development process. Your civil engineering team has knowledge of local zoning issues, local traffic patterns, and the availability of utilities. They can provide insight of current and projected neighborhood development to help you plan accordingly.

2. Site Design

Topography can be a key factor in the design of any development, but particularly retail. Visibility and ease of access are crucial to the success of a retail development. Civil engineers have the skill to work to get a site design to maximize these factors for the good of the development. An accurate, well thought out grading plan is also important to meet industry-standard paving scopes and to meet ADA access requirements.

3. Drainage Planning

Proper drainage stabilizes the structures, prevents soil erosion, and diverts stormwater during and after construction. Without effective civil engineering, basement storage areas or parking lots might flood during heavy rains and cause structural damage beyond repair. 

4.Utility Planning

Smart utility plans are another retail center factor MUST! Proper connections to sanitary sewers, water, electricity, gas, internet, all lead to the success of a project. A civil engineering team’s work for commercial clients includes planning and establishing the best scope for these essential project elements.

Abercrombie & Associates, Inc. provides land development services from beginning to end for commercial projects, including retail. Based in Cincinnati, OH, this skilled team featuring civil engineers and land surveyors delivers outstanding service and support throughout the Tri-State region, building on their experience since 1976. Visit them online to learn how they can help with your retail center development. To discuss your project and request a proposal, call (513) 385-5757.