Structural Engineering Department (cont.)

Structural Analysis and Design
For bridge projects, early coordination with the owner, utilities, and affected stakeholders is key to progressing a project efficiently. Using this approach with utility companies that may be affected, we determine the required accommodations for utilities attached to structures or for interference from overhead wires. Meeting with residents, local municipalities, and businesses, we can both inform and receive input which will directly affect the outcome of the project.

Gaining approvals from NYS Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) is also critical to the timely success of rehabilitation or replacement projects that involve historic structures. Fisher Associates has prepared successful SHPO submissions for numerous bridge projects, including bridge replacements in which the projects were entirely dependent upon gaining SHPO's approval. To give SHPO incentive to issue project approval, we have gone to great lengths to find alternative uses for components of historic structures, such as identifying a rails-to-trails organization that would reuse bridge girders and timber floor beams from an old railroad bridge in a similar historical context.

The environmental services group has performed screenings to help us become aware of any issues that may require attention. We have resolved environmental issues on over 50 locally administered projects to date.

Our contractor-friendly reputation was affirmed by our work on several recently completed projects. Our well detailed plans resulted in low bids that were within 1% of the engineer's estimates. The accuracy of our estimates is evident from one project in which the difference between the low bid and the next lowest bidder was less than $250. Contractors have commented that on the clarity of our plans and specs.

Additional Staff Expertise
Fisher Associates has the resources to provide full-service structural and complimentary geotechnical services. Other recent project experience includes slope stabilization and remediation projects, pedestrian trail bridges, docks and park structures, design and rehabilitation of canal structures.