Every year, the Construction and Survey Division at Gewalt Hamilton Associates Inc. (GHA) takes time to reflect on the achievements and challenges that shaped the past twelve months. “The variety of projects we undertook this year really showcased our team’s adaptability and ability to deliver projects that make a real difference for our clients and their communities,” said Dave Marquardt, Director of Construction and Survey. Whether enhancing public spaces or restoring natural habitats, this year’s work covered diverse projects, each designed to address specific community goals. Here’s a look back at a few of the highlights.
Richmond-Burton Community High School Stadium Enhancements
This year, GHA continued its collaboration with Richmond-Burton Community High School by focusing on the stadium’s exterior. The upgrades included custom pavers featuring the school logo, new entrances to improve accessibility, and eco-friendly hardscape installations to improve drainage and support sustainability. A reimagined entrance plaza was designed to align with the site’s natural topography, creating a dynamic flow for visitors. As part of the upgrades, retaining walls were added to boost functionality and durability. “Working closely with the architect was essential to bring together thoughtful design and practical function,” said Construction Engineer Griffin Boo. “The collaboration really made a difference, and seeing how much the final result reflects the school’s pride made it all worthwhile.”
Kaneland 2024 Track Improvements
The Kaneland High School track resurfacing project faced a significant challenge when heavy rain followed the removal of the old track, complicating efforts to meet the original goal of completing the project before the school year began. Addressing the unexpected weather required clear planning and communication to keep the project moving forward. GHA worked closely with the client and contractor, exploring multiple options to address the impact of the weather. These delays necessitated rescheduling one event, but thanks to proactive communication, the team anticipated the need early and worked closely with the school to ensure the process was seamless. This kept the rest of the project on track with minimal disruptions. Clear and effective communication allowed the team to manage delays efficiently and deliver a modernized track that will support the school and community’s activities for years to come.
Marengo Wetland Bank and Rush Creek Restoration
In Marengo, GHA’s Survey team supported the Rush Creek restoration by documenting 50-foot cross sections of the waterway. This work marked a crucial first step in the long-term effort to bring the creek back to its natural state. Decades ago, the creek had been realigned to irrigate nearby farmland, altering its natural flow. Now, the goal is to restore its original alignment to improve local water quality and revive native habitats. The team faced unique challenges navigating the creek’s deep and uneven sections, which required precise measurements and strong collaboration. More than gathering data, the survey provided the groundwork for upcoming restoration efforts that will enhance the area’s ecological balance.
“Projects like the Marengo Wetland Bank and Rush Creek Restoration remind us of the role we play in helping communities reconnect with natural resources,” said Jon Past, PLS, Survey Group Leader. “They create lasting environmental and community benefits.”
Jesus Trejo, Land Surveyor, reflected, “Being part of the survey work for a project that revitalizes natural habitats is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that this foundational step contributes to long-term environmental improvements shows the importance of our work.”
Waukegan 2025 Sidewalk Program
The Waukegan 2025 Sidewalk Program brought much-needed updates to the city’s infrastructure, focusing on improving accessibility and walkability throughout the community. Hazardous sidewalks were replaced, and significant ADA compliance upgrades were completed to ensure accessibility for residents of all abilities. More than 20,000 square feet of sidewalk and 10,000 square feet of curb were replaced, covering high-traffic areas to ensure practical benefits for the community. GHA’s work included field investigations and topographic surveys to establish precise and efficient construction plans. Will Lunt, Engineering Technician, noted the residents’ positive response to the improvements as one of the most rewarding aspects of the project. “The appreciation from residents really stood out to me,” he said. “Hearing their gratitude after years of dealing with deteriorating sidewalks reminded me how impactful these changes are for daily life. It’s always fulfilling to see how infrastructure improvements like this can make such a noticeable difference in a community.”
Spaulding School Parking Lot Rehabilitation
The Spaulding School Parking Lot Rehabilitation project stemmed from a simple need: to make traffic flow smoother for families during drop-off and pick-up. This prompted the construction of a new road to address traffic challenges that emerged during COVID-19, particularly the drop-off line congestion caused by reduced bus usage. The congestion often resulted in significant backups onto adjacent streets. Integrating the new road into the school’s layout required thoughtful planning to ensure it complemented existing infrastructure and was completed on time. Enrique Sanchez, P.E., Resident Engineer, noted, “It’s great to see how this change has improved traffic flow and safety for families and staff. Seeing it all come together in time for the school year was incredibly rewarding.”
Looking Forward
As the team looks to 2025, Lucas Deferville, Assistant Director of Construction and Survey, summed up the year’s accomplishments: “Every project we tackle is a chance to solve challenges and deliver improvements that matter. The dedication of our team allows us to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”
From innovative designs to community-focused solutions, GHA’s Construction and Survey Division builds a better future – one project at a time.
