News

DRMP Strengthens Fleet Operations with New Leader

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – Tyler Savino has joined DRMP as fleet manager, where he will oversee the firm’s more than 300 vehicles and streamline operations, strengthen safety, and enhance efficiency.

In this role, Savino will simplify fleet processes to better support field operations. His priorities over the coming months include centralizing and streamlining fleet processes, reducing points of contact to simplify communication, and reducing costs through measures that will positively impact safety, fleet health, and overall operational efficiency across the firm. He also intends to build a plan that streamlines vehicle upfits to create greater uniformity among roles within the firm and its departments.

To support those goals, Savino plans to implement proactive maintenance scheduling, strategically use spare vehicles, and apply lifecycle-based replacement planning to reduce downtime and improve reliability.

“This business is diverse, and with that, comes a fleet that needs to serve the diverse needs but also be flexible to serve other divisional needs,” Savino said. “Finding that harmony is a goal and takes a lot of collaboration.”

Savino will work closely with project managers, field supervisors, and operational staff to support maintenance compliance, reinforce safe driving practices, and ensure vehicles remain reliable and ready for field use. He noted that fleet success depends on active participation throughout the firm and requires consistent communication, accountability, and timely reporting of vehicle issues.

He brings experience developing and managing a large-scale fleet operation of more than 500 vehicles, along with a background in engineering and drafting that provides insight into the requirements of infrastructure and field-based work.

“Recently, I was responsible for collaboratively building a fleet program for a fleet size of approximately 565 vehicles,” Savino said. “I wanted to bring that experience to an organization that places a strong emphasis on accountability, continuous improvement, and successfully working through changes.”

Savino noted that managing a diverse fleet requires balancing the needs of multiple business units while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing operational needs.

Employees can expect a collaborative and responsive approach from Savino and a strong emphasis on safety.

“I pride myself on being responsive and strive to leave no question unanswered,” he said. “I am safety driven. Since my first role in fleet, it has become paramount that the effectiveness of the fleet keeps our people safe.”

He also highlighted the importance of maintenance compliance, regular inspections, and fostering a strong safety culture supported by communication and accountability.

DRMP President and CEO Glenn Lusink, PSM, said Savino’s background will be a strong asset as the firm continues to refine its fleet operations.

“Tyler has a proven ability to bring structure to complex operational environments and build effective working relationships with people,” he said. “We’re pleased to have him on board and look forward to the perspective he brings to DRMP.”

About DRMP
Since 1977, DRMP has earned a reputation as a trusted multidisciplinary engineering firm that approaches challenges differently. What began as a small Florida-based firm has grown into a Southeastern powerhouse with over 700 employees across 23 offices. We partner with clients to deliver smart, sustainable infrastructure that helps communities thrive.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

We value connection, creativity, and a welcoming, engaging culture that empowers employees to grow their careers. As we continue to expand, we remain committed to the principles that have guided us from the start.

DRMP Strengthens Regional Reach and Service Capabilities Through Strategic Alignment with Rinker Design Associates

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP, Inc. (DRMP) has aligned with Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA), a fellow Trilon Group partner firm, as part of a strategic growth initiative that strengthens both organizations' ability to serve clients across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. The move became effective June 26, 2026.

This strategic alignment strengthens the connection between two respected infrastructure consulting firms that share a commitment to client service, technical excellence, and sustainable growth. RDA will continue to operate under its established brand, leadership, and organizational structure as Rinker Design Associates (a DRMP company).

By building on an already strong partnership, DRMP and RDA are creating new opportunities to expand their reach, complement one another's services, and deliver greater value to clients across the Mid-Atlantic.

“This strategic alignment creates exciting opportunities to expand our collective reach and leverage the complementary strengths of both firms,” DRMP President and CEO Glenn Lusink, PSM, said. “By bringing together DRMP's broad infrastructure capabilities with RDA's strong Mid-Atlantic presence and expertise, we are better positioned to pursue larger, more complex projects, including design-build opportunities, and deliver even greater value to our clients.”

Together, DRMP and RDA will execute a growth strategy designed to strengthen service capabilities, expand market opportunities, and better serve clients and communities across the region. This milestone reflects DRMP's ongoing commitment to strategic growth and thoughtful partnerships that enhance technical expertise, geographic reach, and client service. By aligning with organizations that share its values and commitment to excellence, DRMP continues to build a stronger platform for delivering innovative infrastructure solutions that improve mobility, support economic development, and enhance quality of life.

About DRMP

Since 1977, DRMP has earned a reputation as a trusted multidisciplinary engineering firm that approaches challenges differently. What began as a small Florida-based firm has grown into a Southeastern powerhouse with over 700 employees across 23 offices. We partner with clients to deliver smart, sustainable infrastructure that helps communities thrive. Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration. We value connection, creativity, and a welcoming, engaging culture that empowers employees to grow their careers. As we continue to expand, we remain committed to the principles that have guided us from the start.

About Rinker Design Associates (RDA)

Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is a Virginia-based civil engineering firm with 250+ employees on staff, and locations in Manassas (two offices), Fredericksburg, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Waynesboro, Abingdon, Galax, and Big Stone Gap. A highly dynamic and diverse company, RDA has been providing professional services throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia for over 44 years. Since our establishment, we have built a solid reputation for providing conscientious and reliable service to municipalities, governmental agencies, and private industries throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

About Trilon Group

Trilon is a family of leading infrastructure consulting firms across North America, united by a vision to build the next top 10 design firm. Founded in 2021, Trilon is one of the fastest-growing businesses in the infrastructure industry, partnering with established, growth-oriented firms that retain their local brands, leadership, and culture while benefiting from shared resources and strategic collaboration. Focused exclusively on infrastructure engineering and consulting, Trilon invests in partner firms and strategic acquisitions that expand geographic reach, deepen technical expertise, and accelerate long-term growth. Today, Trilon’s network includes 14 partner firms and more than 6,000 employees nationwide, delivering innovative solutions that strengthen communities and advance critical infrastructure across the United States and Canada.

DRMP Noise Experts to Present TNM Study at 2026 NOISE-CON

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Noise barrier walls line highways where traffic passes close to neighborhoods, parks, and schools. They are designed to reduce roadway noise that affects nearby homes and public spaces. Before a wall is constructed, engineers use a noise model to predict how much traffic noise will be reduced and whether a barrier will be effective.

The Traffic Noise Model (TNM) is the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) tool used for this purpose. TNM is a computer-based system that estimates roadway noise based on traffic and roadway conditions and predicts sound levels at locations where people are exposed, such as building exteriors and outdoor activity areas.

DRMP Transportation Noise Group Leader Robyn Hartz, INCE, and DRMP Noise Analyst Jessica Lozada, INCE, will present “Validation in TNM3.2” at the INCE USA 2026 NOISE-CON on July 11 at 9:40 a.m. at the Westin Long Beach in California.

“Noise is always a hot topic issue for communities,” Lozada said. “As population growth increases, and with that increased traffic, it is important to be able to accurately measure and predict traffic noise levels.”

TNM 3.2 is a newer version of the model used for these predictions compared to the current FHWA-approved TNM 2.5. It is being evaluated to determine how closely its results match field measurements used in environmental review and project development. Validation is the process of comparing modeled noise levels to real-world measurements. A model is generally considered valid when predicted sound levels are within about 3 dB(A) of measured results.

The session will compare validation results between TNM 3.2 and TNM 2.5 and will examine cases where TNM 3.2 can under-predict measured noise levels. Hartz and Lozada will also discuss how those differences may affect validation practice and whether practitioners may need to adjust how they apply the model in noise barrier analysis.

“Our Noise team always strives to be efficient and innovative in our practices,” Hartz said. “We have teamed with DRMP’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) team to streamline our noise modeling procedures and support more consistent TNM analysis. With the development of TNM 3.2 and continued validation work, we will always find ways to enhance our services and improve how we evaluate and apply model results.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Promotes Brent Bass, PE, PSM, to Southwest Florida Survey Manager

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – After nearly a decade of demonstrating excellence in leadership, innovation, and client service across DRMP's surveying and geospatial operations, Vice President Brent Bass, PE, PSM, has been promoted to Southwest Florida regional survey manager.

In this role, Bass will lead efforts to strengthen and grow the firm’s survey presence throughout the Southwest region, supporting staff, clients, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and strategic initiatives.

Southwest Florida continues to experience significant population growth and infrastructure investment, creating strong demand for transportation, utility, survey, subsurface utility engineering (SUE), and geospatial services, Bass said.

“The region includes Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Districts 1 and 7, which represent some of the most consistent transportation programs in the state,” he said. “In addition to FDOT opportunities, counties and municipalities throughout the region are investing heavily in infrastructure improvements, asset management, utility coordination, and resiliency initiatives. With our combined survey, SUE, and geospatial capabilities, DRMP is well positioned to support these growing needs.”

Bass’s immediate priorities will be to expand DRMP’s staff presence in Southwest Florida, growing the firm’s survey and SUE operations, and continuing to strengthen relationships with key clients.

“We are focused on establishing additional field resources in Fort Myers, launching a Sarasota-based SUE operation, and creating leadership opportunities for future growth,” he said. “From a client perspective, our primary focus will be FDOT Districts 1 and 7, along with municipalities, counties, utility providers, and private development clients.”

Key target areas include Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota, Manatee, Polk, and Hillsborough counties.

Bass has more than 16 years of experience in surveying, engineering, and transportation infrastructure. Before joining DRMP in 2017, he held multiple leadership positions with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), managing complex surveying, utility engineering, and transportation projects throughout the state.

During his tenure at DRMP, Bass has advanced from survey project manager to group leader, then to Geospatial Services division manager, and vice president. He will continue serving as Geospatial Services division manager, a role within the Southwest region, while still taking on his vice president responsibilities.

“Brent has been an integral part of our surveying and geospatial operations, consistently demonstrating strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to client service,” said DRMP Vice President and Assistant Director of Surveying August Thick, PLS. “We are fortunate to have a leader of Brent’s caliber helping guide our continued growth. His experience, dedication, and vision make him exceptionally well suited to lead our Southwest Florida survey operations.”

Among the projects Bass cites as highlights of his career at DRMP is the Tampa Westshore Interchange Design-Build project.

“Our team leveraged Mobile LiDAR technology to rapidly collect survey data and accelerate project delivery, allowing the design team to begin work sooner while maintaining high-quality survey standards,” Bass said. “The project demonstrated DRMP’s ability to work share efficiently and solidified the value of advanced geospatial technologies on large transportation projects.”

Another significant project was the Charlotte County Bridge Scour Assessment Program in Florida.

“Using our Teledyne Z-Boat equipped with multibeam sonar technology, we completed hydrographic surveys of three bridges in just three days and delivered results within two weeks,” he said. “This approach provided the client with critical infrastructure data quickly and safely while showcasing DRMP's growing hydrographic capabilities.”

Bass said the promotion gives him an opportunity to build on the success of DRMP’s Geospatial Services team while supporting the firm's continued growth in Southwest Florida.

“I'm proud of what we've built within Geospatial Services, and I look forward to applying those experiences across survey and SUE as we continue expanding our regional presence,” he said. “Most importantly, this role provides an opportunity to mentor future leaders, create career opportunities for our staff, and continue delivering exceptional service to our clients. I'm excited to work alongside our talented staff and leadership team as we continue building a strong presence throughout the region.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Recognized for Design and CEI Roles on DBIA Florida Region Award-Winning Projects

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – Two coastal resilience projects for which DRMP served in key design and construction services roles won awards at the 2026 Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Florida Region Conference. Both projects address critical sections of State Road A1A along Florida’s Atlantic coast that have experienced chronic erosion, storm damage, and repeated hurricane impacts.

The Summer Haven Beach Restoration / Old Highway A1A Reconstruction project in St. Johns County, where DRMP served as the designer, received the Honor Award in the Transportation – Roadways category. The SR A1A Volusia / Flagler Counties Emergency Seawall Restoration project, where DRMP provided construction engineering and inspection (CEI) services through its Construction Services practice, received the Merit Award in the Transportation – Roadways category. The awards were presented June 16 at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort in Orlando.

“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our teams and partners who delivered resilient, innovative solutions for critical coastal infrastructure,” said DRMP Executive Vice President of Alternative Delivery TJ Lallathin, PE, DBIA. “Our firm is proud to receive these awards, and we thank our partners for their collaboration on these complex coastal projects.”

Photo courtesy of Superior Construction: An aerial view of the Summer Haven Beach Restoration Project

At the conference, Lallathin, who served as design lead on the Summer Haven Beach Restoration project, and DRMP Construction Services Project Administrator Scott Stagg, who assisted in overseeing CEI for the SR A1A Emergency Seawall project, participated in a panel titled “Emergency Phased / Progressive Design-Build on Florida’s Coast: One Delivery Model, Two Distinct Solutions.” The session used the two projects as examples of how a single delivery approach can produce different engineering solutions based on site-specific conditions.

The presentation highlighted how early contractor involvement and procurement flexibility enabled engineering decisions driven by subsurface conditions, environmental constraints, and community impacts rather than predetermined specifications. The Summer Haven Beach Restoration project used an anchored sheet pile wall with granite revetment to stabilize the shoreline and protect the roadway from erosion, while the SR A1A Emergency Seawall project used a glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) secant pile seawall system to strengthen vulnerable sections of coastline exposed to direct Atlantic storm impacts.

SR A1A Volusia / Flagler Counties Emergency Seawall Restoration Project

The SR A1A Emergency Seawall Restoration project was delivered under the Florida Department of Transportation District 5 emergency phased design-build procurement following Hurricane Nicole, which accelerated decades of erosion along the corridor. State Road A1A serves as the only hurricane evacuation route for thousands of coastal residents in Volusia and Flagler counties.

DRMP’s Construction Services team provided CEI support for the phased design-build contract that constructed 13,650 linear feet of coastal protection system, including two secant pile seawall segments located approximately 2.5 miles apart. The system incorporated 5,114 auger cast piles reinforced with GFRP, along with dune restoration and roadway rehabilitation.

Photo Courtesy of Superior Construction: An aerial view of the SR A1A Volusia / Flagler Counties Emergency Seawall Restoration Project

The project also included placement of 172,000 tons of color-matched sand, restoration of 83,667 square yards of dune grading and stabilization, 45,916 square yards of roadway milling and resurfacing, and reconstruction of approximately 28 beach access walkovers. Temporary walkovers were maintained throughout construction to ensure uninterrupted public beach access. Completed in April 2026, the project was delivered on schedule and $12.4 million under the $117 million contract ceiling.

DRMP’s CEI scope included design coordination, permitting support, construction inspection, materials testing verification, and final documentation for FDOT acceptance. The project required continuous field coordination across multiple active work zones, constrained coastal access, tidal conditions, and three hurricane seasons during construction.

Photo courtesy of Superior Construction: SR A1A Volusia / Flagler Counties Emergency Seawall Restoration Project

“This project required constant coordination in the field due to the complexity of the construction methods and the coastal environment,” Stagg said. “Our role in Construction Services was critical in helping maintain quality, safety and continuity of work under challenging conditions. It’s an honor to be part of the project team recognized with this award.”

DRMP Vice President and Florida Construction Services Leader Ryan Pellarin, PE, CCM, senior project engineer for this effort, said the project required consistent problem-solving in the field as construction progressed.

“SR A1A is a lifeline for the coastal communities it serves, and the project team kept that front and center throughout construction,” he said. “That focus guided daily decisions in the field and helped ensure the work supported continued access and long-term coastal protection. It is rewarding to see this project recognized for the collaboration and effort that went into delivering it.”

Summer Haven Beach Restoration / Old Highway A1A Reconstruction

The Summer Haven Beach Restoration / Old A1A Reconstruction project in St. Augustine restored approximately 2,000 feet of coastal roadway that was rendered impassable following Hurricane Matthew in 2016. For nearly eight years, residents relied on a deteriorated sand roadway until a permanent solution was delivered through a progressive design-build approach funded by a $15.4 million FEMA grant.

DRMP served as the project designer in a progressive design-build partnership with Superior Construction and subconsultants INTERA and Tierra, Inc. The project included an anchored epoxy-coated sheet pile wall extending up to 37 feet deep, 5,800 tons of granite revetment, an elevated concrete roadway, and comprehensive drainage infrastructure designed to 100-year storm standards.

Photo courtesy of Superior Construction: An aerial view of the Summer Haven Beach Restoration Project

The project also included utility coordination and relocation, environmental permitting, survey services, public involvement, and adjustment and replacement of existing rock revetment. A phased access strategy allowed 100 percent resident access throughout construction, supported by a temporary lime rock roadway that maintained community connectivity during construction activities.

The project was completed in April 2025. The progressive design-build model enabled iterative, cost-driven design adjustments in real time, including redesign of riprap requirements to meet FEMA budget constraints while maintaining performance and resilience objectives.

“Progressive design-build gave the team the flexibility to evaluate site conditions and adjust design solutions in real time,” Lallathin said. “That adaptability was key to delivering a solution that responded to environmental constraints and constructability in the field.”

Both projects demonstrated how alternative delivery methods enabled early contractor involvement, real-time constructability input, and adaptive design solutions tailored to Florida’s coastal conditions. While both addressed A1A’s vulnerability to erosion and storm surge, each project required a distinct engineering approach based on geotechnical conditions, access constraints, and community impacts.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange in Central Florida Earns ASHE National Project of the Year (Over $100 Million Category)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP’s design of the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange Design-Build project won the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) National Project of the Year Award (Over $100 million category), marking the project’s eighth award.

The award was presented to project owner FDOT District 5 during the 2026 ASHE National Conference in Bethesda, Md.

“We are honored to receive ASHE’s National Project of the Year Award and grateful for the collaboration that made this achievement possible,” said DRMP Executive Vice President of Alternative Delivery TJ Lallathin, PE, DBIA. “The Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange represents the successful completion of a critical regional transportation corridor, and we're proud to have helped create a major improvement to mobility, safety, and connectivity throughout Central Florida.”

From left to right: Pat McGriff (The Lane Construction Corporation), Mary Brooks (Quest), TJ Lallathin (DRMP), and Dan Laird (ASHE National and The Mannik & Smith Group, Inc.)

The ASHE National Project of the Year Award (Over $100 million category) adds to a list of awards for the project, including:

American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) National Recognition Award Engineering Excellence Awards (2026)
ACEC Florida Grand Winner in the Transportation Category (2026)
National Award of Merit from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) in Transportation (Other than Aviation) Category (2025)
Project of the Year from the DBIA Florida Region in the Transportation - Structures Category (2025)
Engineering News-Record (ENR) Southeast Highway/Bridge Award of Merit in the Best Projects Competition (2025)
Florida Transportation Builders’ Association (FTBA) Best in Construction Award for Design-Build (2025)
Outstanding Design-Build or Construction Manager at Risk Project Award from ACEC Florida and FDOT (2025)

About the Project

The Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange Design-Build project delivered the final, critical connection needed to complete Central Florida’s beltway, linking I-4, SR 417, and SR 429 into a fully integrated regional transportation system. This complex infrastructure effort closed the missing link in the network and significantly improved mobility, safety, and operational efficiency for the Orlando region.

Now complete, the 25-mile, $274.5 million Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange serves tens of thousands of daily motorists by eliminating bottlenecks, improving travel reliability, and enhancing regional connectivity across Central Florida.

DRMP served as the lead designer and partnered with The Lane Construction Corporation (prime contractor) and subconsultants Ardaman & Associates, Inc.; Ardurra Group, Inc.; BCC Engineering, Inc.; Bentley Group, Inc.; Brindley Pieters & Associates, Inc. (BPA); Florida Bridge & Transportation (FBT); Osiris 9 Consultant, LLC; and Terracon Consultants, Inc.

Located within one of Florida’s most constrained transportation corridors, the project required construction of 2.63 miles of new limited-access toll road and 20 new bridges while maintaining traffic on I-4, one of the state’s busiest interstates. Additional challenges included limited right-of-way, high groundwater, weak soils, extensive utility infrastructure, and a major Duke Energy transmission line.

The Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange also included reconstruction of 2 miles of I-4 to accommodate future I-4 Beyond the Ultimate express lanes, as well as two bridge widenings, 25 stormwater management facilities, advanced intelligent transportation systems, all-electronic tolling, lighting, signage, and complex traffic control plans. A strategic realignment of I-4 shifted the corridor west, eliminating the need to relocate the Duke Energy transmission line. This single decision avoided years of delay and saved millions of dollars, while allowing all lanes to be built offline to reduce congestion and improve work-zone safety.

Through innovative design and construction practices, the project achieved approximately $75 million in cost savings, reduced bridge deck area by 200,000 square feet, preserved four existing bridges, and reused 70,000 square yards of pavement and existing drainage infrastructure in good condition. These measures lowered long-term maintenance needs and minimized environmental impacts. Sustainability was further advanced by reducing impervious surface area, protecting wetlands, and maintaining conservation easements wherever possible.

Delivered on time through close coordination with multiple agencies and proactive engagement with local stakeholders, the project stands as a model of cost-effective, community-focused transportation infrastructure that delivers measurable benefits to the region it serves.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Recognized on 2026 ENR Texas & Southeast Top Design Firms List

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP ranks No. 9 among Florida firms and No. 45 overall out of 137 firms on Engineering News-Record's (ENR) 2026 Texas & Southeast Top Design Firms list. The recognition reflects DRMP's continued presence among the region's top-performing engineering and design firms.

Published annually by ENR, the list ranks the largest U.S.-based engineering and design firms in the region based on revenue derived from design services. The list includes publicly traded and privately held companies.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Experts to Showcase Mobile LiDAR at 2026 SAME Savannah Post’s Annual Program Review

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Reliable data is critical to maintaining military readiness. As federal agencies seek faster, more efficient ways to support infrastructure planning and asset management, Mobile LiDAR has become a valuable tool for collecting accurate geospatial data while reducing operational impacts.

DRMP will showcase how to leverage the technology for military planning during the 2026 Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Savannah Post’s Annual Program Review on June 24 at the Marriott Savannah Riverfront.

Federal Survey Manager Randy Tompkins, PSM, PLS, PS, and Mobile LiDAR Group Leader Bryant King, CST, SIT, will present “Precision in Motion: Advancing Military Engineering Design with Mobile LiDAR.” Their session will explore how DRMP helps agencies integrate LiDAR data into design and asset management systems to create accurate digital twins that improve decision-making and long-term facility management.

“Mobile LiDAR is becoming a standard tool for large engineering and surveying firms, but adoption within federal agencies is still emerging,” Tompkins said. “As agencies recognize the long-term value of high-accuracy geospatial data for asset management, planning, and resilience, LiDAR has evolved from an ‘innovative’ technology to an essential part of modern infrastructure and defense projects.”

Tompkins and King will share examples of Department of Defense (DoD) projects and case studies that demonstrate Mobile LiDAR’s effectiveness in architecture, engineering and construction, facility and infrastructure asset management, and resilience. They will discuss integration strategies, challenges, and the technology’s future potential.

“A few years ago, Mobile LiDAR was cutting-edge,” King said. “Now it’s becoming standard practice. What’s changed is how seamlessly the data integrates into design and asset management systems. That’s where the real value is, turning accurate field data into actionable insight.”

Advancements in LiDAR technology enable surveyors to capture detailed, three-dimensional (3D) data quickly and accurately across natural landscapes and built environments. On a recent DoD airfield project, DRMP mapped the entire airfield without interrupting flight operations. DRMP collected billions of data points (XYZ) in one day, creating a precise 3D model (Digital Twin) that informed site grading, infrastructure planning, and asset management. What would have taken weeks with traditional methods was completed safely in days without mission delays.

The session will also highlight how Mobile LiDAR supports real-time decision-making in emergencies and military scenarios. Following storm damage or during base expansion planning, DRMP’s experts can deploy vehicle-based LiDAR units to generate current terrain and infrastructure data within hours. This rapid turnaround allows engineers and commanders to make informed, data-driven decisions quickly and with confidence.

“Mobile LiDAR lets us collect the data we need without disrupting the mission,” Tompkins said. “We can work safely around active environments, capture more detail, and deliver information engineers and planners can trust.”

Mounted on vehicles or other mobile platforms, Mobile LiDAR systems collect large amounts of data at speeds often exceeding 60 mph. This reduces the time and costs associated with manual measurements and is especially valuable for roadway development, floodplain mapping, and environmental assessments. LiDAR’s ability to penetrate vegetation also makes it effective for forestry, urban planning, and archaeological studies.

Tompkins and King will also discuss how Mobile LiDAR complements unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) LiDAR. Mobile LiDAR excels at collecting dense, high-accuracy data along corridors, flight lines, and developed areas, while UAV LiDAR is better for vertical structures, terrain modeling, and hard-to-reach spots. However, UAV operations on military installations can be difficult due to strict airspace regulations and security restrictions, making Mobile LiDAR a faster, more practical option for many federal projects.

“Every project shows how valuable it is to have complete, accurate data available when you need it,” King said. “That’s the capability Mobile LiDAR brings to our federal clients.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

Maria Barboza to Lead DRMP Survey Operations in South Florida

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

BOCA RATON, Fla. – Maria Barboza has joined DRMP as survey office leader in the firm’s Boca Raton office, supporting the firm’s efforts to strengthen its presence throughout South Florida.

Barboza will lead survey operations, overseeing project delivery, staff development, and client service. She will also manage the delivery of accurate, high-quality surveying services and support the successful execution of projects in South Florida.

She said South Florida’s continued growth in transportation, infrastructure, commercial, and residential development creates opportunities for DRMP to expand its surveying presence while strengthening public-sector relationships and growing its private-sector footprint in retail, commercial, industrial, and land development markets.

“One of the key opportunities is to build strategic partnerships with developers, architects, engineering firms, contractors, and municipalities by demonstrating the value of integrated surveying and geospatial solutions throughout the project lifecycle,” Barboza said. “By providing responsive service, technical expertise, and reliable project delivery, we can position DRMP as a preferred surveying partner for both public and private clients.”

Barboza pointed to the use of advanced technologies such as satellite positioning systems, LiDAR, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) mapping, mobile scanning, and geographic information systems (GIS) as a way to meet evolving client needs and differentiate services in a competitive market. Combined with strong client relationships, she said these capabilities will support sustainable growth and DRMP’s long-term success in the South Florida market.

“DRMP’s reputation for technical excellence, innovation, and commitment to high-quality surveying and geomatics solutions is what drew me to the firm,” Barboza said. “I also value being part of an organization that prioritizes professional development and continued growth, and I look forward to contributing to that culture.”

She has more than 25 years of experience as a geodesist engineer and land surveyor, with a proven track record of delivering precise and reliable surveying solutions across a wide range of project types, particularly in land development and the retail sector. Barboza has successfully led and managed survey operations for transportation, infrastructure, utility, land development, and retail projects, overseeing all phases from initial planning and field data acquisition to advanced data analysis and rigorous quality control procedures.

Her expertise includes preparing American Land Title Association (ALTA)/National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) land title surveys, boundary and topographic surveys, and construction staking, ensuring compliance with applicable standards and regulatory requirements. She is highly proficient in the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) / Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technologies, control network establishment, and geodetic computations. She has significant involvement in the oil and gas industry as well as specialized applications, such as gravimetric studies. Barboza has consistently delivered high-quality results for public and private sector clients, demonstrating strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to accuracy, safety, and efficiency in all aspects of surveying practice.

As survey office leader, she will also maintain quality control standards, improve operational efficiency, and ensure survey deliverables meet project schedules, budgets, and client expectations. To do that, Barboza said developing staff through technical guidance, mentoring, and professional growth opportunities is a top priority.

“I believe that a well-trained and motivated team is essential to delivering exceptional results,” she said.

DRMP Vice President and Orlando Survey Department Manager Frank Lopez, PSM, said Barboza’s depth of experience and ability to lead complex field and office survey operations will support the delivery of accurate, high-quality results for the firm’s clients.

“Maria brings a multidisciplinary collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to survey operations,” he said. “She will play an important role in supporting coordination across projects and helping the team deliver consistent, high-quality service as we strengthen our presence in the region.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

Executive Brief: Early Transportation Planning Delivers Better Project Outcomes

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Success in today’s transportation environment begins long before construction starts. Decisions made early in a project’s lifecycle often determine its ability to move efficiently through planning, approvals, and implementation while supporting growing communities.

Across the Southeast and the nation, population growth, evolving travel behavior, and emerging technologies are redefining how communities evaluate land use, infrastructure capacity, and development. As these factors become more interconnected, project success depends on understanding how development will function within the broader transportation network from the outset.

This is where DRMP’s Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) team creates value for clients. By engaging early with developers, property owners, and investors, often before a site is acquired or fully designed, our TIA team helps identify opportunities, clarify challenges, and support informed decision-making for clients.

Early transportation planning provides clarity when it matters most. As you’ll read in this issue’s feature story, evaluating site access, infrastructure conditions, regulatory expectations, and potential mitigation needs upfront reduces uncertainty and strengthens investment and design decisions, often improving project outcomes.

Traffic impact analysis is no longer limited to evaluating roadway capacity. The field now incorporates multimodal safety, accessibility, connectivity, and sustainable mobility along with traditional operational measures. This broader perspective, supported by advances in data analytics, forecasting, modeling, and artificial intelligence, provides a more comprehensive understanding of future transportation conditions.

The result is better-aligned investments, more resilient development decisions, and lasting value for communities and stakeholders.

Transportation systems and development patterns will continue to evolve, and early planning will only grow in importance. Organizations that make well-informed decisions early on are better positioned to manage risk and support long-term growth.

DRMP remains committed to helping clients navigate that future with the expertise and insight needed to turn vision into successful outcomes.