Author: wendy

Splashpads Hose Down Cost of Fun in the Sun

The hottest trend in parks and recreation across the U.S. is ironically known for its cooling effects. It seems like every park or green space is spontaneously springing a leak. But these “leaks” are actually carefully designed and often whimsically outfitted splashpads with colorful features that purposefully hold children’s interest. And because splashpads offer safe… Read More »

Oroville Dam Emergency Illustrates Challenges for U.S. Dam Infrastructure

This aerial view from a California Department of Water Resources drone shows water flowing from the Lake Oroville flood control spillway at 55,000 cubic feet per second on February 11, 2017. Photo by California Department of Water Resources. By Ellen Faulkner, PE The drought emergency is over for most of California, thanks to winter rains… Read More »

Painting the Town Red: What Colors Tell Us About Underground Utilities

With spring setting in and the construction season beginning in earnest, you may notice some “graffiti” marking up a sidewalk, intersection, or lawn in your neighborhood. The varied paint colors (often accompanied by bouquets of small flags) may just seem like clutter as you move past. But for those who will be digging there soon,… Read More »