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GIS and Subsurface Utility Engineering-The pro-active solution

Snyder & Associates has taken the opportunity to utilize Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), GPS, and GIS technology as a proactive problem-solving solution. Traditionally, engineering firms have had minimal GIS capabilities due to the required utilization of CAD drafting techniques for typical engineering projects. Snyder & Associates, Inc. currently uses GIS on several types of projects including utility mapping, network modeling, SUE, site and facility assessments, site surveys, etc. The most significant impact that GIS has made for Snyder & Associate’s clients has been SUE mapping information. SUE uses a combination of technologies and tools, including GIS, to determine the location of underground utilities, establish and record the quality level of subsurface utility information, and to manage that level of information for use in utility, roadway, and site construction. The typical SUE project is completed before construction begins. Although, there are numerous examples of construction projects without SUE information that has led to extremely expensive utility infrastructure repairs. Snyder & Associates has been successful in providing a solution to these typical construction problems by utilizing SUE techniques, as well as GPS and GIS technology to develop extensive and accurate utility mapping information before the construction phase begins. Snyder & Associates will present a recent Valley West High School project as a SUE/GIS case study. The topics will relate how GIS is utilized for a SUE project and it’s capabilities in relation to the typical SUE requirements, utilization of the GPS rover information, and overall mapping and presentation deliverables.