Senior Engineering Design Conference
students testing concrete in one of the labs

Civil and Construction Engineering

Student presentations

Spring 2026

Session Chair: Dr. Yufeng Hu

Room D-208

Presentations will also be streamed on Webex.

Maple Hill Auto Dealership Site Redevelopment

9 to 9:25 a.m.

Team Members: 
Coy Brown
Tyler Burr
DeVante’ Dunigan 
Caden Dixon

Sponsors: 
Tyler Cravens, B.S.E.’15, Mitten State Engineering
Dante Pineau, Mitten State Engineering

Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Shafayet Ahmed

This project involved transforming an existing 43,000-square-foot medical facility into a 40,900-square-foot Subaru dealership. A comprehensive redevelopment plan was developed to address site layout, vehicle circulation and stormwater management. The project scope included underground utility design, 2D and 3D site modeling, and evaluation of traffic impacts associated with the new development. Construction planning and cost estimating were incorporated to ensure the project is both practical and financially feasible. The final design supports safe, efficient and sustainable site operations while demonstrating how existing sites can be successfully redesigned to meet new needs.

Reconstruction of Butterworth Street

9:30 to 9:55 a.m.

Team Members: 
Lorraine Aigboduwa
Lia Goodell
Joshua Hill

Sponsors: 
Chad Van Soelen, AECOM 
Jim Herman, City of Grand Rapids

Faculty Advisor:  
Dr. Yufeng Hu

This project involved the reconstruction of Butterworth Street from Marion Avenue to Front Avenue in Grand Rapids, Michigan, creating a continuous multimodal corridor aligned with the City’s Vital Streets framework. The design emphasized bicycle and pedestrian safety through raised bike lanes, improved crossings, ADA-compliant transit facilities and coordination with Mobile GR for micromobility. Supporting work included traffic and parking studies, environmental review, railroad coordination, full water main and lead service line replacement and project cost estimating. The final design promotes a safer, more connected and resilient transportation corridor that enhances mobility for all users.

Design of Kalamazoo Parking Structure

10 to 10:25 a.m.

Team Members: 
Maksym Derhachov
Nikolai Rovenko
Benjamin Stidham
Kreston Sundberg

Sponsor: 
Greg Ehmke, P.E., Fishbeck

Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Xiaoyun Shao

Rapid growth in downtown Kalamazoo, including a new multi-sport arena and administrative building, is expected to increase travel to the area for both work and leisure. This project developed the design of a new multi-level parking structure located between N. Church and N. Rose Street to improve access to downtown destinations. Two design alternatives were evaluated: one featuring a full roof level designed to support the future solar panel installation for long-term sustainability benefits, and another without the roof level to reduce initial construction costs. A comparative analysis examined whether long-term operational and environmental advantages justify higher upfront investment. The design process considered various civil engineering disciplines including structural, geotechnical, environmental, construction and transportation. The project integrated structural, geotechnical, transportation, environmental, and construction considerations to develop a safe, efficient, and cost-effective parking solution that supports continued downtown growth.

N. Mason Avenue Culvert Replacement

10:30 to 10:55 a.m.

Team Members: 
Caden Boynton
Nick Fannon 
Nolan Van Loo

Sponsor: 
Jarret Geering, B.S.E.’18, OHM Advisors

Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Decker Hains

This project addressed the replacement of a culvert crossing Wabascon Creek along North Mason Avenue in Battle Creek, Michigan. Following significant flooding caused by snowmelt in 2023, the existing wooden box culvert—originally constructed in the 1960s—sustained damage when inlet wingwalls detached from the structure, requiring temporary repairs. Design alternatives were developed to provide a durable and reliable replacement, incorporating structural, water resources, transportation, and construction engineering considerations. The design process also addressed environmental sustainability requirements, cost-effectiveness and constructability. Final deliverables included engineering calculations, plans and specifications, a cost estimate and a project schedule to support implementation of a resilient long-term solution.

Village of Richland Intersection Redesign

11 to 11:25 a.m.

Team Members: 
Grant Bachman
Johnathan Tapp
Lillian Velez

Sponsors: 
Bobby Kampf, B.S.E.’23, Michigan Department of Transportation
Samuel Hall, B.S.E.’23, Michigan Department of Transportation

Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Jun-Seok Oh

The intersections of Gull Road, East D Avenue and North 32nd Street in the Village of Richland were redesigned to better accommodate peak-hour traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety. Using traffic studies and historical data, three alternative designs were developed. The alternatives were then evaluated based on efficiency, cost and feasibility. The selected solution optimizes the flow of the primary traffic route while improving safety, performance and sustainability for all modes of transportation.

Presentations will take place at Floyd Hall in room D-115. You can also watch via Webex.

Redesigning the Intersection of Kalamazoo Ave and Michigan Ave

10:30 to 10:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Martin Hoeksema
Otto Reick
Franchesca Rivera
Elena Stevenson 

Sponsor: 
Wightman
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Jun-Seok Oh

With the change in downtown Kalamazoo’s traffic flow, the intersection of Kalamazoo Avenue and Michigan Avenue required redesign to accommodate the new two-way lane conversion. Transportation, construction and environmental engineering principles were applied to evaluate design alternatives using historical traffic data, modeling tools and existing site conditions. Alternatives including a roundabout and a signalized intersection were analyzed and compared based on performance, safety and feasibility. The final recommendation improves traffic efficiency, enhances accessibility, and promotes safer travel for all use.

 

Mishawaka Multi-Family Development

11 to 11:25 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Miguel A. Ruiz Batlle 
Coraima Tejeda  
Anees Aqel

Sponsor: 
AR Engineering
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Yufeng Hu 

A 20-acre site at the northeast corner of Beacon Parkway and Fir Road in Mishawaka was developed into a multi-family residential community. Alternative layout designs were assessed to maximize open space while improving traffic flow and accessibility. The project involved site grading to achieve earthwork balance, soil property evaluation for settlement and slope stability, and the implementation of stormwater management through retention systems and stormwater piping. A stormwater pollution prevention plan was prepared, incorporating erosion control measures and best management practices. The completed design delivered an environmentally sustainable residential development that complies with building codes and ensures long-term operational stability.

Presentations will take place at Floyd Hall in room D-208. You can also watch via Webex.

WMU Hilltop Village Development 

8:30 to 8:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Leslie Gonzalez
Keila Howard
Michelle Ng

Sponsor: 
Bryan McDowell, B.S.E.’17, P.E., Fishbeck
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Xiaoyun Shao, P.E. 

Located on the southern portion of Western Michigan University’s campus, Hilltop Village aims to provide a pedestrian-focused district that seamlessly integrates housing, retail, academic spaces and recreational areas. To enhance connectivity, the project features a new primary roadway, a pedestrian bridge and pathways linking Arcadia Loop Road, the Student Center and Ring Road. The design process incorporated SAP2000 for structural analysis and design, Civil3D for site design, Microsoft Project for construction scheduling, and RSMeans for cost estimation, ensuring a comprehensive engineering solution. The final design addresses the site’s topographical constraints with a large open green space and a sustainable stormwater management system to support future development. 


Design of a Retaining Wall for M-10 Freeway

9 to 9:25 a.m.

Team Members:
Tony Paul
Jake Sajewski
Jessica Slagter-Enaohwo

Sponsor:
Ryan Snook, P.E., Michigan Department of Transportation

Faculty Advisors:
Dr. Valerian Kwigizile, P.E.
Dr. Yufeng Hu, P.E.

The M-10 Freeway, also known as the John C. Lodge Freeway, is bordered by retaining walls at the project location, one section of which required replacement to meet safety and serviceability standards. Located in Detroit, Michigan, this project focused on the redesign and replacement of a section of retaining wall along the southeast-bound lanes of M-10, between Curtis Street and Thatcher Avenue. The 20-foot-tall retaining wall also supports traffic loads from the overhead James Couzens Freeway. Through geotechnical and structural design, several alternatives were developed and evaluated. The optimal solution was selected for detailed analysis to ensure compliance with all safety and serviceability requirements. A comprehensive maintenance of traffic (MOT) plan was developed to maintain traffic flow during construction. Additionally, a detailed construction plan was created, addressing scheduling, planning and resource allocation. This project enhances the resilience of local infrastructure, benefiting the surrounding community.
 

West Michigan Industrial Fire Pump House

9:30 to 9:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Andrew Long
Cameron Mundt
Montserrat Tejeda Mirambeaux

Sponsor: 
Paul Pagano, B.S.E.’10, Walbridge, Inc.
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Shafayet Ahmed
 
In this project, a fire pump house was designed for an industrial setting, serving as the primary line of defense against fires and other industrial hazards. The purpose of the structure was to provide additional water pressure to fire protection systems in the event of a fire. The fire pump house consisted of a steel frame and a concrete pad, housing pumps and pumping equipment with an attached water tank supplying water directly to the pumps. The completed design ensured a safe environment and facilitated a rapid response to incidents within the supported facilities, helping to protect both workers and the environment.
 

Algoma 52: 10 Mile Road Over the Rogue River Bridge Design 

10 to 10:25 a.m.

Team Members: 
Tyler Appelgren
Justyn Kreps
John Schmuhl

Sponsor: 
Erik Easterly, P.E., Kent County Road Commission
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Yufeng Hu, P.E.
 
The Algoma 52 Bridge in Rockford, Michigan, is in a state of failure due to the deterioration of its concrete beams, necessitating a redesign to restore the bridge to a satisfactory condition. The redesign process considered various civil engineering subdisciplines, including structural, transportation, geotechnical and water resources, to develop a solution that prioritized safety and sustainability while meeting MDOT specifications. Tools such as Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, Bentley Leap Bridge Concrete Software, MERL and REGIS were used to assess the cost-effectiveness and adequacy of the proposed design. The completed redesign features a structurally sound bridge capable of withstanding future traffic demands along with a reduced curve to improve overall safety and performance.


Bachman Fields Site Design

10:30 to 10:55 a.m.

Team Members:
Connor Kidwell
Kolin Goss
Sam Heston
Jack Bialek

Sponsor:
Jon Male, P.E., Exxel Engineering

Faculty Advisor:
Dr. Hexu Liu

Bachman Fields is a large, 40+ acre parcel located in Hastings, Michigan. Currently vacant, the site will be subdivided into approximately 100 single-family homes. The project involved the completion of a comprehensive site design, addressing key environmental and sustainability concerns, such as wetland fill and erosion control. A public road and utilities were designed to service the new lots, alongside a sustainable stormwater management plan. An earthwork analysis was performed to ensure balanced cuts and fills during construction. Additionally, a construction schedule and cost estimate were developed. This project will provide the city of Hastings with much-needed additional housing options.
 

Leoni Township Main Wastewater Pump Station

11 to 11:25 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Alejandro Guevara
Greg Kettwich
Logan Plumley

Sponsor: 
Matthew Johnson, P.E., Fleis & VanderBrink
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Decker Hains, P.E.

The township of Leoni needs to replace its aging wastewater pump station with several new buildings and upgraded utilities. This project focused specifically on the redesign and reconstruction of the wastewater pump house. A detailed site layout was developed, followed by a structural analysis and design of the two-story building. Multiple alternatives for the building structure were evaluated and the optimal option was selected. A comprehensive construction schedule and cost estimation were provided. The upgraded pump station is anticipated to significantly improve public health in the area.
 

Scoping the Ravine Road Bridge Over US-131

11:30 to 11:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Anthony Gazzarato
Jared Hough
Erin Pietruszka
Drew Bielawski

Sponsor: 
Mike Halloran, P.E., Michigan Department of Transportation
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Yufeng Hu, P.E.
 
A hands-on inspection was conducted to evaluate the condition of the Ravine Road bridge over US-131, south of the Kalamazoo Speedway. Several repair options were assessed, and the most effective solution was recommended. A comprehensive bridge scoping report was created, incorporating structural design, traffic control, construction scheduling and cost estimation, all in accordance with AASHTO and MDOT bridge specifications and standards. The project aims to extend the bridge’s service life while ensuring the safety of the traveling public.

Presentations will take place at Floyd Hall in room D-115. You can also watch via Webex.

F&V Utility Building and Site Design

11 to 11:25 a.m.
    
Team Members:
Matthew Bergstrom
James Peter
Jessica Schneider

Sponsor:
Matt Johnson, P.E., Fleis & VandenBrink

Faculty Advisor:
Dr. Yufeng Hu, P.E.

Fleis and VandenBrink, located in WMU’s Business Technology and Research Park, currently owns a 210-square-foot storage shed that no longer meets their needs. To address the requirements for additional space, improved vehicle accessibility, and enhanced protection for high-profile documents, a new utility storage building was designed along with additional parking spaces in the general lot. The building’s design includes a comprehensive foundation and structural analysis to ensure safety and longevity, with provisions for potential expansion to meet future needs. The proposed construction plan focuses on sustainability and aims to minimize disruptions to office operations.

Presentations will take place at Floyd Hall in room D-115. You can also watch via Webex. 

WMU Hilltop Village Parking Structure

8:30 to 8:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Katherine King
Hannah Prince
Haylee Vallier
Summer Yeck
 
Sponsor: 
Greg Ehmke, P.E., Fishbeck  
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Xiaoyun Shao, P.E.
 
The WMU Hilltop Village Parking Structure aimed to provide additional parking for both students and visitors. This project involved thorough evaluations of the cost and function of transportation components at different levels of service, considering the varying geometric dimensions of the structure. Furthermore, structural designs for beams, columns, and foundations were completed. A comprehensive construction cost estimate and schedule were developed for the selected design alternative. The project also explored the incorporation of sustainability measures outlined in the ParkSmart certification, aligning with WMU’s commitment to sustainability. This parking structure plays a vital role in supporting the expansion of Hilltop Village on the main campus.
 

Site Design of a Credit Union on Gull Road

9 to 9:25 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Carsyn Sleight
Cole Zagrzebski
Kyle Cavan
 
Sponsor: 
Tyler Cravens, B.S.E.’15, P.E., Mitten State Engineering 
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Hexu Liu
 
A 3,000-square-foot credit union is to be built on Gull Road in Kalamazoo County, following the deconstruction of an existing gas station on the site. An in-depth environmental assessment was conducted to investigate potential leaking contaminants and assess the viability of the existing materials. Upon confirmation of adequacy, a comprehensive set of civil engineering plans was developed including site layout, stormwater management, and utility design.  Subsequently, a detailed cost estimation was conducted based on the team’s proposed design. This project encompasses the start to finish design process for an existing site, with a strong emphasis on integrating sustainability principles to support future commercial growth. 
 

Beatrice Drive Multi-Family Development

9:30 to 9:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Stiven Reci 
Ethan Prescott
John Perry
 
Sponsors: 
Whitney Pizzala, B.S.E.’15, AR Engineering
Carolyn Kurtz, B.S.E.’20, AR Engineering
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Decker Hains, P.E.
 
Located near the intersection of 9th St and I-94, Beatrice Dr Multi-Family is a development featuring a mix of residential units housed in two-story buildings. Multiple site layout options were considered to maximize open space, deter cut-through traffic, and maintain frontage along Beatrice Dr. The optimal site layout was selected, leading to the design of comprehensive plans for the overall site, landscape, utilities, and grading. These plans detailed the placement of the buildings, open spaces, stormwater layouts, water mains, sanitary sewer systems, pond elevations, ADA slopes, and finished floors. Through the design phase, value engineering played crucial role in refining these optimized plans and storm water options. 
 

Portage Car Care Center

10 to 10:25 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Ali Hassan
Kiara Warburton
Diego Fuentes
Keeton Bigham-Tsai
 
Sponsors: 
Whitney Pizzala, B.S.E.’15, AR Engineering
Carolyn Kurtz, B.S.E.’20, AR Engineering
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Yufeng Hu, P.E.
 
Set to replace the vacant Rite-Aid facility at the intersection of Old Kilgore and Westnedge, the Portage Car Care Center addresses the pre-existing site and pollution concerns. The design underwent a comprehensive analysis of various factors, resulting in the development of an environmentally friendly and well-planned vehicle servicing facility. Notably, the design converted two-way driveways into exclusive right-out lanes, minimizing earthwork and optimizing traffic flow. An innovative underground stormwater management system was designed to address pollution issues and ensure proper water management. Additionally, the design explored the feasibility of looping the water main from Westnedge Ave to Old Kilgore Rd, showcasing a proactive approach. Through these measures and the integration of other elements such as local infrastructure, modern technology, and user efficiency, the Portage Car Care Center stands as a cutting-edge model of a state-of-the-art car servicing facility.
 

Campus Drive Resurfacing

10:30 to 10:55 a.m.
 
Team Members: 
Tanner Thompson
Ryan Kulas
Reece Wackerle 
 
Sponsor: 
Tom Palumbo, B.S.E.’16, City of Kalamazoo Public Works Division
 
Faculty Advisor: 
Dr. Valerian Kwigizile, P.E.
 
The deterioration in pavement quality along Campus Drive at WMU’s Parkview campus, resulting from years of public use, is evident in issues such as cracking, potholes, and other common signs of wear as the pavement nears the end of the pavement’s life cycle. This 1.4-mile stretch of roadway is now approaching the end of its life cycle. Before initiating the construction process to revitalize the roadway, careful consideration was given to enhancing safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers through the design of alternative striping layouts. The comprehensive design in this project included pavement design, a maintenance of traffic plan (MoT), ADA ramp improvements, construction estimation, and a construction schedule, all with a primary focus on environmental constraints and ensuring safety for all users. Through the implementation of this design and a long-term preventative maintenance plan, the pavement quality will be significantly improved, thereby ensuring the safety of all uses for an extended period.