The Office of Regional Communications and Technology (ORCAT) in Broward County, Florida is responsible for all public safety communications, including the consolidated regional E-911 call tracking and dispatching system. Needless to say, their work is critical in keeping citizens and the public safe.
When it was time to upgrade a portion of their critical communication infrastructure, they called WGI’s experts to assist. Our Environmental team conducted a due diligence assessment of the natural, cultural and historical resources for a planned radio communication transmission tower replacement project.
The ORCAT tower replacement consisted of upgrading a guywire anchor-supported tower to a free-standing structure, the demolition of an equipment shelter in disrepair, and construction of a new equipment shelter to accommodate the new tower.
WGI provided supporting environmental documentation and recommendations to Broward County for the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan in accordance with Florida Rule. This included an assessment of land uses, wetlands, protected species, trees, contamination, and other natural and physical resources.
Because the communication complex was over 50 years old, WGI also assessed the historical significance of the project site.
Our environmental scientists performed field investigations and found the site was utilized as a habitat for a state-threatened listed species of owl, the Florida burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana). Given that protected owls were observed on-site, WGI scientists collected data using a sub-meter accuracy Global Positioning System (GPS) and mapped owl burrows using ArcMap GIS.
WGI provided the County with recommendations based on the current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) guidance on avoidance and minimization measures for reference during the project planning and design phases to ensure compliance with the FWC species-specific permitting criteria.
The end-user of the report stated,
“This report is extremely thorough and exactly what we are looking for.”
WGI’s Environmental experience and expertise can play a vital role in protecting your next project and the environment. Contact our team today and let’s discuss how we can make your next project the most successful yet.
WGI is a national design and professional services firm leading in technology-based solutions for the construction of public infrastructure and real estate development. At WGI, we’re providing Tomorrow’s Infrastructure Solutions Today.
Earlier this month, WGI Environmental Scientists, Amanda Montgomery and Christa Cherry participated in a two-day South Florida Association of Environmental Professionals (SFAEP) wetland delineation workshop.
Meet our Awesome Associate Rick Harman, an Environmental Project Manager in our West Palm Beach, Florida office.
It’s important to know the environmental rules and regulations before you get started on your project that may contain or be near wetlands.
Gary’s deep understanding of social and environmental issues will help our clients address the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainability, resiliency, and adaptation.
WGI stayed in growth mode throughout the pandemic as it moved to expand its geographic footprint by furthering early steps at organic expansion.
We’re refreshing our brand to reflect the energy, inspiration, and excitement that we feel when we come to work every day.
You’ve been searching for a place like WGI. We look forward to meeting you soon.
Sign up to receive emails to hear our latest news and achievements in our monthly newsletter.
Enter your zip code, and we’ll personalize your experience with local projects, office locations, team members, and more.
WGI supports its associates with meaningful opportunities for growth, strong benefits and perks, while we work collaboratively with clients and co-consultants to shape and improve communities.
WGI is a dynamic organization with opportunities nationwide for engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, environmental scientists, and architects.
