TSDC - Lead Engineering

Yes all projects need a schedule completed in MS Project or SureTrak. They should be brought to meetings and updated as needed.

You should have read all existing reports, engaged the PM and learn more about the project, pull together existing data including GIS\CADD Data, show the project on the overhead using either ArcExplorer or Google Earth during the meeting. The aerial image should the extents of the project. You should have given your team member a copy of the project schedule and be prepared to discuss it during the meeting. The kick off meeting should come before the site visit.

Its important that you keep communication open among the team members. Sending periodic emails, without any follow-up , does not alleviate the lead engineer from the responsibility of keeping the project moving forward and on schedule. Ideally you would meet at regular intervals, even if they are short.

As a lead engineer you are responsible for keeping the project moving forward. You need some method of tracking progress and assigning accountability. Unless there is a record, it is very likely the PDT will forget what was agreed. At a minimum, you should document and refer to action items at each meeting and update the schedule accordingly.

The civil engineer is responsible for packaging together all of the quantities and insuring the package is peer reviewed. A separate CADD file showing all of the areas\volumes computed is necessary. Typically an empty file with model files referenced will be used to display what computed. This file could be used by the peer reviewer.

Yes. It should be peer reviewed and provided to TSDC chief along with the QA check list.

End Area Method, Triangle Method, Grid Method. Only the end area method will give you a graphic of what is being computed. In most cases the end area method is contained in the spec and must be used. When it is not contained in the spec, it should be used as a check . It is very helpful to generate an end area report and review the results looking for any irregular areas.

You should plot out a map showing the existing features, such as utilities. Confirm weather or not the land use has changed or if the utilities are still functioning. Note if there are any potential contaminates dumped on the site, check for access to the site, approximate clearance near overhead power lines, collect information from local residents or the local sponsor who are attending the site visit, etc. It’s recommended that you bring along a camcorder and film the person giving the project tour. It is also recommend that you bring along a GPS unit to capture anything that has changed outside of existing drawings\maps. When you return to the office the trip report should be completed within 2-3 days.

The MFR should include any items that are being designed but not included in the set. It should state any utility, real estate, or permit impacts. You should reiteriate the remaining primary tasks in the schedule. There is a template for the MFR in the standard documents web page.

The drawings shall be at a level of completeness that identifies all work limit require­ments for the construction of the project, including rights-of-way, contractor access and staging areas, and other temporary rights. The drawings shall present overall dimensions of the project, horizontal and vertical construction control, structure materials, location, layout and method of construction (with alternatives if possible).

The 50% specifications shall be at a minimum completed to at least the outline level, including a cover sheet, table of contents, and all paragraph headings for all specification sections. Include guide specs for all applicable specifications, A submittal register, listing major construction contract required submittals, and bid schedule shall be included. Proposed measurement and payment section, and Bidding Schedule.

After the contract has been awarded. See your contracting specialist for the revised front ends.