HomeMy WebLinkAboutOpening of Proposals - Western Avenue Transformation District Proj No 125-047 - Troyer GroupDear Selection Committee,
At Troyer Group, we approach every project as an
opportunity to shape infrastructure that is not only
technically sound but also people -centered, sustainable,
and lasting. With more than five decades of experience,
we have partnered with communities across Indiana to
deliver projects that honor budgets and timelines while also
creating places that improve daily life for residents. For us,
success comes from combining practical innovation with
deep community awareness and ensuring that every solution
reflects both local vision and INDOT standards.
We recognize that the City of South Bend's RFP represents
more than a request for design services. It reflects a
commitment to building safer, more accessible, and more
resilient neighborhoods that strengthen connections across
the city. Our experience with federally funded projects that
require detailed environmental documentation, careful
coordination with utilities, and compliance with INDOT
and FHWA standards positions us well to deliver on this
vision. Equally important, our team has extensive experience
leading projects where pedestrian safety, ADA accessibility,
and neighborhood character were central concerns, giving
us the ability to approach this project with both technical
rigor and human -centered design.
This work will be led by Project Manager Bryan Tanner,
whose leadership in design and production ensures that all
deliverables are coordinated, accurate, and timely. He will
be supported by a multidisciplinary team whose expertise
spans roadway design, traffic signal integration, stormwater
management, lighting, landscape architecture, and public
engagement. That expertise is strengthened through our
partners: SJCA, a certified DBE and MBE, who bring depth
in survey, right-of-way, stormwater, and environmental
documentation including Section 1o6 and NEPA compliance;
Terracon, whose geotechnical and pavement analysis
will guide durable roadway design; Kaskaskia Engineering
Group, a certified DBE, who will provide traffic analysis
and signal design to support safety and efficiency; and
Scheele Engineering, whose lighting design will create safe
and welcoming corridors. Together, this team brings the
dependability, responsiveness, and collaboration that South
Bend deserves in a partner.
We understand that the success of this project will not be
measured only in terms of specifications and compliance.
It will be measured in how well the final infrastructure
reflects the values of the community, how effectively it
balances mobility with safety, and how confidently it serves
South Bend's residents for decades to come. That is why
our approach emphasizes proactive problem -solving,
transparent communication, and sustainable design that
creates enduring value.
Troyer Group, together with our consultant team members,
brings proven performance, a passionate and experienced
team, and a commitment to collaboration that extends
beyond design into genuine partnership with the City of
South Bend. We would be honored to serve as your partner
in delivering a project that enhances mobility, improves
safety, and creates infrastructure that stands as a source of
pride for our shared community.
Respectfully subm
JonathonJr Geels, PLA, FASLA, MBA
President + Principal
Authorized Signatory
jsg@troyergroup.com 1 574.360.7042
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
TEAM CAPACITY
We understand the City's needs on this
project, from daily project oversight
to answering residents' questions.
Throughout this process, communication
is key, and this team organization ensures
the most efficient communication,
reducing any potential bottlenecks and
prioritizing overall project success.
Project Manager: 2o% Available
Project Team: 40% Available
We provide a team with ample back-up
availability, across all roles.
PROJECT ROLES
We operate with the perspective
that our team is an extension of you
and that we serve the South Bend
community. With that in mind we bring,
not only a commitment to that service,
but a wealth of knowledge working on
similar projects around the region.
Public Agency
City of South Bend
City Lead: Charlotte Brach, PE - Sr. Eng
Project Management Lead/Prime
Troye r G ro u p: 45%
Prequalifications: 8.1, 16.1
Bryan Tanner, Project Manager
Project Support
SJCA (33%) (DBE / MBE)
Prequalifications: 5.2, 6.1,11.1,12.2,17.3
Terracon (9.5%)
Prequalification: 7.1,18.1
Kaskaskia Engineering Group (9.5%)
(DBE)
Prequalifications: 2.1, 10.1
Scheele Engineering (3%)
Preq ual ification:10.4
TROYER GROUP RELATED
PVMNT
TRAFFIC
STMWTR
UTILITY
R/W
STREET
COMM.
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
TYPE
CALMING
DESIGN
DES / COR.
ACQ.
LIGHTING
INVOLVE.
Indiana Ave. Reconstruction
Goshen, IN
HMA
Park St. Reconstruction
La Porte, IN
HMA
Eddy Street Commons
HMA/PPC
South Bend, IN
Diamond Avenue
South Bend, IN
HMA
Hively Avenue
Elkhart, IN
HMA
Old US 30 Corridor
Kosciusko Co., IN
HMA
Portage Avenue
HMA
South Bend, IN
Bendix Relocation
South Bend, IN
HMA
Madison and Marion
South Bend, IN
HMA
Bendix and Lincolnway
South Bend, IN
PCC
Plymouth St. Streetscape
Bremen, IN
HMA
CR 30o N
HMA
Warsaw, IN
Western and Walnut
HMA
South Bend, IN
Zimmer and Old US 30
Kosciusko Co., IN
PCC
Fox Farm and Old US 30
PCC
Kosciusko Co., IN
CR 13 - CR 18 - CR tiS
HMA
Elkhart Co., IN
SR 2 - CR ioo
HMA
Valparaiso, IN
Mariners Driver Restoration
Warsaw, IN
HMA
Troyer Group I Together, We Will South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
www.troyergroup.com Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
Bryan Tanner
Project Manager
Education
B.S. Engineering- Rose-Hulman
Institute
Masters Certificate - University of
Notre Dame
Certifications
Greenroads Sustainable Transportation
Professional
Awards (Selected)
2017 40 Under 40 Inductee
Community Involvements
Current Member, St. Joseph County
Council
Current Member, Oaklawn Board of
Directors
Mishawaka Business Association Board
of Directors
Bryan Tanner brings nearly twenty years of experience managing and delivering
complex civil engineering and infrastructure projects throughout Indiana. He
is recognized for his clear communication style, strong command of project
processes, and ability to keep teams and clients aligned to schedules and goals. His
expertise spans streetscape and roadway design, utility design and coordination,
stormwater management, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, as well as public
engagement for municipal projects. Bryan has successfully led multidisciplinary
project teams through every stage of delivery, from planning and environmental
review to design, bidding, and implementation, ensuring that each project meets
the highest standards of quality, compliance, and timely completion.
Bryan is known for fostering collaboration among stakeholders, guiding public
engagement processes, and mentoring staff to build effective workflows that
increase efficiency and strengthen project outcomes. His ability to balance
technical rigor with responsiveness to client and community needs makes him a
trusted partner for municipalities seeking to advance infrastructure projects that
are both practical and visionary.
In addition to his technical leadership, Bryan's public service on the MACOG Policy
Board and the St. Joseph County Council provides valuable insight into regional
planning, policy, and funding processes. This experience deepens his ability to align
project goals with broader community priorities and regulatory frameworks.
Bryan has worked closely with multidisciplinary/ multiconsultant teams including
surveyors, environmental specialists, traffic engineers, and landscape architects
to deliver integrated designs that reflect the principles of Complete Streets
and enhance community connectivity. For the City of South Bend, he will serve
as the primary point of contact for all project administrative and coordination
needs. He will ensure seamless communication among City staff, INDOT, FHWA,
utility providers, and community stakeholders while managing the design team's
technical execution and deliverables.
Related Projects: Denotes previous experience
CR18 / CR13/ CR115 Roundabout -Warsaw, IN
Walnut Street Improvements - Nappanee, IN
3rd Street Improvements from Pine Street to Merrifield - Mishawaka, IN*
Mishawaka Avenue Improvements from Main to Cedar - Mishawaka, IN*
Main Street Improvements from McKinley to Catalpa - Mishawaka, IN**
Main and Michigan Smart Street Improvements - South Bend, IN*
Ironwood Dr/Corby/Rockne Intersection Improvements - South Bend, IN*
Park Street Reconstruction - La Porte, IN
Indiana Avenue Reconstruction - Goshen, IN
West Washington Crossing - South Bend, IN
Laurel Steet Shared Street Master Plan - South Bend, IN
Lincoln Sidewalks SRTS - Warsaw, IN
Muessel Sidewalks SRTS - South Bend, IN
Oakland Trail - Nappanee, IN
Greenways Trail Phase 3 - Plymouth, IN
Hums Elementary School Site Improvements - Mishawaka, IN
Lake Max Trail Phase 3 - Culver, IN
LaSalle Park Improvements - South Bend, IN
Husky Trail Bridge - Kosciusko Co., IN
Superior Street Paving - Oceola, IN
Rogers Road Paving- Oceola, IN
U.S. 20 HMA Overlay/Added Lanes - Mich. City, IN*
U.S. 421 and 1-94 Interchange - Mich. City, IN*
U.S. 20 HMA Overlay - Elkhart County, IN*
U.S. 33/ Pike St Full Depth Reconst. - Goshen, IN*
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
E
Street Design Lead
B.S. Civil Engineering, Technion, Israel
Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
Professional Engineer: IN
Laila Dow is a seasoned Project Engineer with more
than thirty years of experience leading the design of
transportation, utility, and infrastructure improvements for
INDOT and local governments. She specializes in translating
complex design challenges into practical, buildable solutions
that balance technical accuracy, regulatory compliance, and
community needs. Her work spans Streetscape and roadway
reconstruction, intersection improvements, stormwater and
utility systems, and large-scale site development, with many
projects near this Western Ave Transformation District.
She brings deep expertise in roadway geometry, ADA-
compliant sidewalks, stormwater management, and
utility coordination, which is all central to the success of
this project. She has supported projects through every
phase, from preliminary engineering to final construction
documents, ensuring that design intent is preserved while
constructability, phasing, and long-term maintenance are
carefully considered. Her familiarity with INDOT standards
and processes, combined with her extensive experience
navigating utility relocation and permitting procedures,
allows her to anticipate challenges and resolve them
efficiently, protecting both schedules and budgets.
Known for her attention to detail and her commitment
to mentoring younger engineers, she consistently raises
the standard of quality across project teams. Her blend of
technical mastery and community -focused design makes her
uniquely well -suited to lead the design effort for this project.
Related Experience:
Western @ Walnut Int. Improvement - South Bend, IN
Portage Corridor Reconstruction - South Bend, IN
Ewing and Fellows Int. Improvements - South Bend, IN
Western and Laurel Int. Improvements- South Bend, IN
Marion and Madison Two Way Conversion - South Bend, IN
Mariners Drive Ext. + Rehabilitation - Warsaw, IN
Park St. Reconstruction - La Porte, IN
Indiana Ave. Reconstruction - Goshen, IN
West Jefferson Streetscape - Cedar Lake, IN
Miriam Ave Streetscape - Nappanee, IN
Diamond Ave. Streetscape - South Bend, IN
Hively Ave. Corridor - Elkhart, IN
US 20 Bypass (US 31 N Jct to US 31 S Jct) - LaPorte Co., IN
Diamond Ave. Corridor - South Bend, IN
SR 2 @ CR 500 Intersection Improvement - LaPorte Co., IN
CR30o N Pedestrian Imp. - Warsaw, IN
Argonne Street Imp. - Warsaw, IN
CR18o/CR13/CR115 Roundabout - Elk. Co., IN
SR2@Heavilin Roundabout - Porter Co., IN
ADA Improvements along US6 and SR23 - various locations
CR300 S Reconstruction - Cass Co., IN
Silhavy Road @ Vale Park Int. Improvements Valparaiso, IN
Ryan Anderson is a Civil Project Engineer bringing extensive
expertise in roadway, intersection, and driveway design,
including concrete curb ramps, maintenance of traffic plans,
and ADA-compliant features. Ryan's background also includes
utility coordination within railroad rights -of -way, stormwater
management, geotechnical review, and site development for
commercial and municipal projects. In a QA/QC role, Ryan will
leverage his design and construction knowledge to ensure
compliance with project specifications, ADA standards, and
INDOT requirements. His experience with construction
documents, contracts, and technical specifications allows him
to identify potential issues early, review field observations
effectively, and provide oversight to maintain quality, safety,
and accessibility throughout the project.
Related Experience: *Denotes previous experience
Walnut St. Extension - Nappanee, IN
N Division Street - Bristol, IN*
Maple Street - Bristol, IN*
E St Joseph Street - Bristol, IN*
N Brown Street - Middlebury, IN*
N Birkey Street - Bremen, IN*
Culver Academy Utility Design - Culver, IN
Jonathon Geels PLA, FASL
. W Project Oversight / Principal -in -Charge
BLA Ball State University
MBA Univeristy of Notre Dame
Professional LA: IN J
As Principal -in -Charge at Troyer Group, Jonathon provides
project oversight with a focus on people -centered, purpose -
driven design. He brings more than two decades of
experience in community infrastructure projects that balance
technical excellence with meaningful public engagement.
Jonathon remains deeply involved in South Bend's West Side,
including the Laurel Street Shared Street Master Plan, West
Side Greenways/Cultural Trail, and improvements at Pulaski
Park, projects that illustrate his ability to integrate Complete
Streets principles and community -centric infrastructure into
solutions that reflect neighborhood priorities. Jonathon will
ensure that the design team delivers work that meets the
City's goals. His leadership combines practical expertise with a
collaborative ethic, providing South Bend with infrastructure
that endures and strengthens trust in the process.
Related Experience:
Park Street Reconstruction - La Porte, IN
Indiana Avenue Reconstruction - Goshen, IN
West Washington Crossing - South Bend, IN
Laurel Steet Shared Street Master Plan - South Bend, IN
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
Braydon Cape contributes valuable design and field
experience to the team, with a focus on pedestrian and
ADA-compliant infrastructure. He has supported the design
and implementation of multiple sidewalk and trail projects,
providing valuable experience with accessibility standards,
pedestrian safety considerations, and the coordination
required to bring community -focused infrastructure from
concept through construction. On ADA inspection projects,
Braydon provides critical support by assisting with field
review, documentation, and compliance tracking, ensuring
that design intent aligns with construction practices. His
attention to detail and willingness to collaborate with senior
managers and inspectors strengthens the team's ability to
maintain accuracy, consistency, and timely project delivery.
Braydon offers the capacity and commitment needed to
support successful inspection outcomes while building long-
term expertise in ADA infrastructure.
Related Experience:
Lincoln Sidewalks SRTS - Warsaw, IN
Muessel Sidewalks SRTS - South Bend, IN
Oakland Trail - Nappanee, IN
Lake Max Trail P3 - Culver, IN
Greenways Trail Phase 3 - Plymouth, IN
Hums Elementary Site Improvements - Mishawaka, IN
Indiana Avenue Improvements - Goshen, IN
Lake Max Trail Phase 3 - Culver, IN
West Washington Crossing - South Bend, IN
Magdalena brings nine years of experience in community
infrastructure design. While she specializes in design, she
also has focused her professional practice on a wide range
of media - education, inclusive community engagement,
photography, and beyond - to impact communities and the
industry at large. Magdalena also brings varied and important
experience in multiple facets of successful community work.
For projects like this, Magdalena has developed multi-lingual
Press Releases, Notices, News Articles, and a variety of digital
content. Her experience as On -Call Public Engagement for
Denver Parks bolsters our team's entire approach.
Related Projects: *Denotes previous experience
Tollway Landscape Planting Improvements - Illinois
Wildhorse Village Master Plan - St. Louis, MO*
Riverfront Village Park Master Plan - Peoria, IL*
SJCA Inc. has been a trusted partner of Troyer Group
on numerous projects over the past several years,
providing seamless, multi -disciplinary support to deliver
community -focused infrastructure across the region.
Founded in 1998, SJCA has grown into a firm of over go
professionals across six offices, with expertise extending
beyond its transportation design roots to environmental
documentation, ROW plan development, Title Search,
Storm Sewer/Detention desing, as well as Topo. surveying.
All services directly relevant to the Western Ave.
Transformation District Project.
Mulryan - SJCA
Erin has been an INDOT-certified CE and NEPA Document
Preparer since 2011 and she has completed CE documents
for a wide variety of projects, from roundabouts, trails, and
sidewalks to historic bridge replacements and roadway
improvements. She brings complicated environmental
policy and permitting expertise, including waterways and
transportation projects.
Related Experience:
SR 62/SR 66 over Turkey Fork Overflow - Crawford Co.
SR 26 over Salamonie River Historic Truss Bridge
Replacement - Jay Co.
US 52 over UNT to Whitewater River- Franklin Co.
E, PS - SAM
Greg oversees all survey, right-of-way plan development,
title research services, construction inspection, and
environmental services performed by the firm. He has 27
years of continuous experience and accumulated knowledge
within the consulting industry. Greg is a partner in the
firm and serves on the Board of Directors in addition to
his technical and project management functions. Beyond
typical infrastucture, Greg also brings extensive experience
surveying waterways which will be benefitial to this project.
Related Experience:
Mapping of Farley Creek in Indianapolis, IN
Mapping of Derbyshire Creek in Indianapolis, IN
Mapping of Holly Creek in Indianapolis, IN
Mapping of Lawrence Drain in Fort Wayne, IN
Mapping of Sayler Drain in Zionsville, IN
Mapping of Prairie Creek Reservoir Dam in Muncie, IN
Mapping of Sand Creek in Fishers, IN
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
PROJECT OVERVIEW
INDOT funded the Plymouth St. pavement project to address long-standing
reconstruction needs. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the Town of Bremen
redeveloped Main Street, creating a more functional streetscape for all users. Using a
combination of funding from INDOT, OCRA, and local TIF, the Town transformed the
downtown corridor in 202o. The project involved reconstructing SR 1o6 from curb
to curb along a three -block stretch through historic downtown Bremen, coordinated
with utility and streetscape improvements. Curb ramps and signal upgrades are
included through an MOU with INDOT, and the construction schedule is designed
around the Town's 4th of July Fireman's Festival Parade and access to local businesses.
The project narrowed driving lanes, add bike lanes, expand sidewalks each side, and
definee sidewalk zones into storefront, pedestrian, and amenity areas. The project
also included street lighting with speakers and receptacles, water main replacement,
sanitary sewer rehabilitation, underground electric, and dedicated zones for local art
and pop-up commercial activity. These improvements supported Bremen's long-term
goals of enhanced community access, increased business activity, improved quality of
life for residents, and stronger economic returns for the Town.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project involved a full -depth reconstruction of approximately 0.15 miles,
bringing the roadway up to current city standards. Key components include curb
replacement, the separation of the combined sewer system, relocation of existing
water lines, and the incorporation of a multi -use trail along the corridor. Serving
as a vital access route to the north side of Goshen across the Elkhart River, the
corridor spans a mix of residential and commercial properties. Coordination with
utility facilities in conflict was a key aspect of the planning process to facilitate
necessary relocations prior to the start of construction. Additionally, thorough
coordination for stormwater permitting was required, as the project's total
disturbance exceeded 1 acre. This ensured compliance with local regulations
and the successful integration of stormwater management solutions. This
reconstruction project provides valuable experience directly applicable to the
goals of this upcoming project. The update of the roadway to City standards
included the addition of pedestrian access through a multi -use trail. The project
also involved the integration of separate storm sewer facilities alongside a curb
and gutter, which will be essential for managing stormwater in this new corridor.
Additionally, the pavement section upgrade, including improvements to the road
base, aligns with the goal of enhancing durability and performance.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The recently completed roundabout project stands as a testament to
successful project management, navigating extensive community engagement, a
complicated roadway design, and extensive utility coordination to deliver a crucial
infrastructure upgrade. Early in the design phase, our initial survey revealed that
AT&T utilities were incorrectly mapped and located outside of their designated
easement. Our immediate on -site verification and proactive coordination with
the County allowed us to begin the relocation process and draft new easement
documentation for the alignment, a critical step that saved significant time and
money. Furthermore, through the use of potholing, we were able to precisely
locate a 24-inch water main that crossed the intersection, enabling us to modify
the intricate roadway design to eliminate potential conflicts. Throughout this
process, we prioritized extensive community engagement, holding multiple public
meetings and maintaining open communication with residents to ensure the
design addressed local concerns while also meeting our engineering goals.
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
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South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Troyer Group was selected to design Hively Ave., the main east -west corridor of
the City's southwest Industrial Area. The Elkhart Urban Enterprise Association
and the City needed to address the existing land use, circulation, and image issues
present along the corridor. Part of the image issues stemmed from the west
half of the corridor being industrial and the east half being single-family housing,
similar to certain stretches of Main St.
Troyer Group added improvements that included reconstructing the roadway to
three lanes from SR 19 to Benham Ave., incorporating two roundabouts at existing
intersections, traffic signal modernization, landscape improvements, and the
installation of a curb and gutter storm sewer system. Right-of-way acquisition for
the corridor encompassed over 8o parcels with three total takes. This 2 mile long
INDOT LPA project was constructed for $7.4 million.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Completed in early 2008, this reconstruction project consisted of widening
approximately one mile of Portage Avenue from Lathrop Street north to the bridge
over the Indiana Toll Road. Originally a two-lane roadway, Troyer Group's design
reconstructed Portage Avenue to two, three, and four lane sections utilizing modern
roundabouts at two intersections. The reconstruction also contains a ten foot bicycle
path along the west side and a five foot sidewalk along the east side.
The northernmost intersection led directly into a residential neighborhood, and
the whole corridor represented a main access road for a nearby school. These
considerations were all included in the maintenance of traffic plan.
The project was designed in accordance with INDOT design and standard practices
and constructed at a cost of $5.5 million.
To keep the residential approach of the roundabout narrow, Troyer Group decided
against a splitter island. While the pavement markings still provide a pedestrian
refuge, the lack of a curb also allows for easier emergency and school bus access,
and plowing.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Through open discussions with local neighborhoods, a comprehensive plan for
the project was formalized that fulfilled the needs of all stakeholders. The project
encompassed the reconstruction of Diamond Avenue from Lincoln Way to the St
Joseph River for the installation of 4,400 feet of go" sewer pipe. To improve water
quality and aesthetics at its outfall, the sewer was daylighted and incorporated into
the existing trail and park system. This incorporation provided an opportunity to
increase the trail, add parking to Brownfield Park, and relocate the intersection of
Riverside Dr. and Angela Blvd. away from the Angela bridge. A modern roundabout
was constructed at the new location, improving functionality and safety. New
sidewalks were installed on both sides of the street incorporating ADA curb ramps
at each intersection.
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
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South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
A successful public involvement process should accomplish several tasks: Acquire
input about the Western Ave. Transformation District projects and feedback
on ideas, communicate the values of the City, and expand the community's
understanding of projects like this. Community collaboration builds trust and
invites successful project design efforts, growing involvement throughout the
process. Our best practice process is award -winning for its equity focus, its ability
to generate helpful responses, and its adherence to applicable statistical tactics.
In the end, implementation of the plan by the City should be well supported
to effectively deliver a community -oriented district. To bolster successes and
provide more meaningful information from community engagement, we propose
a combination of innovative and technologically contemporary methods with
traditional strategies.
These opportunities can include,
but are not limited to the following
strategies:
• Pop-up meetings at critical mass
community events, like ist Fridays
using low -friction engagement
tactics
• Open -house style workshops
• Stakeholder meetings
• Project website
• Multilingual signage and project
materials, like posters and yard
signs
Troyer Group I Together, We Will South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
www.troyergroup.com Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
�TROYER GROUP
. PROJECT APPROACH
� U 2Aj
APPROACH
At Troyer Group, our mission goes beyond delivering projects. We create
enduring, people -centered infrastructure that enhances quality of life while
giving our clients confidence that their goals will be achieved. For more than 50
years, we have partnered with communities across Indiana by listening carefully,
anticipating challenges, and providing solutions that are both practical and
innovative.
We believe every project is an opportunity to deliver more than technical
compliance. Good design demands more than a set of drawings. It requires
thoughtful coordination, careful attention to detail, and a willingness to ask "what
if" in order to anticipate future needs. Our process balances the rigor of NACTO,
INDOT, and FHWA standards with the creativity and collaboration that ensure
every street, utility, and public space functions well and reflects the community it
serves.
For the City of South Bend, our mission is clear: to design safe, efficient, and
high -quality public infrastructure that reflects the City's goals, maximizes available
resources, and adheres to the City's Complete Street Ordinance while also
minimizing long-term maintenance burdens. We do this by partnering closely with
City staff, community members, contractors, utilities, and regulatory agencies,
ensuring that every decision is transparent, collaborative, and aligned with the
best interests of the residents who will ultimately rely on this infrastructure.
Our approach is built on the belief that we must be both a trusted advocate for
our clients and a responsible steward of public resources. This means applying
proven expertise, assembling the right multidisciplinary team, and advancing
forward -thinking methodologies to deliver a project that not only meets the
design goals of today but also endures the test of time. With the leadership of
Project Manager Bryan Tanner and the support of our expert partners, including
SJCA for survey and expert environmental services, the City will benefit from
consistent local oversight, dependable service, and a design process that reduces
uncertainty for all parties involved.
Our Troyer Group design team brings extensive experience in similar
infrastructure projects, bolsterd by Laila Dow's 30 years of experience, who had
previously worked on the nearby Western @ Chapin and the Western @ Walnut
intersection designs. She has been involved in nearly every street project our
team has worked on since joining the team in 2007.
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
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South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
PROJECT UNDERSTANDING
The City of South Bend's vision for the Rabbi Shulman/Monroe Circle site and
adjacent City -owned properties is both ambitious and essential. By creating
a new mixed -income residential community supported by high -quality public
infrastructure, the City is demonstrating its commitment to equitable growth,
sustainable design, and safe, accessible mobility. At Troyer Group, we view this
project not as a collection of technical tasks but as a holistic opportunity to shape
a neighborhood framework that embodies the principles of Complete Streets,
advances South Bend's commitment to resilient infrastructure, and strengthens
the daily experience of the people who will live, work, and move through this
community.
We understand that the project requires a comprehensive design for new streets,
utilities, parking facilities, and stormwater management, as well as the boundary
survey and subdivision platting necessary to establish public rights -of -way. With
the work divided into two phases, beginning with preliminary design for the full
site and advancing to full design for Phase 1, our team is prepared to bring both
the vision and technical rigor needed to deliver results that endure.
Streetscape Design Using Complete Streets Principles
Troyer Group has led numerous projects that put Complete Streets principles
into practice, including road diets, traffic calming strategies, and multimodal
corridor design. For South Bend, our design for the two new east -west
connectors between Taylor and Scott will create streets that serve all users,
prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist comfort while ensuring safe and efficient
vehicular travel. These streets will include curbs, sidewalks, striping, street lighting,
and street trees, creating corridors that balance safety, access, and identity.
The raised intersection on Western Avenue will further reinforce pedestrian
priority, calming traffic and signaling the presence of a new, people -centered
district. By embedding Complete Streets strategies into the foundation of the
design, we will help establish a neighborhood where walking, biking, and driving
can coexist seamlessly and safely.
Utility Design
Our civil engineering team brings deep expertise in the design and modeling of
municipal utilities, including water distribution and sanitary sewer systems. We
understand that in a project of this scale, technical accuracy is essential not only
to ensure proper service delivery but also to support phased development over
time. We will provide a utility design that anticipates long-term capacity needs
while delivering practical solutions for the near -term buildout of Phase 1.
Stormwater Design
Managing stormwater effectively is critical for both performance and resilience.
Our design will integrate storm sewer mains with an on -site underground
storage system that captures and manages runoff before it reaches downstream
infrastructure. We will draw from our experience on similar community
infrastructure projects, both in South Bend and around the region, ensuring
that stormwater management is not only functional but also environmentally
responsible. By treating stormwater as a resource rather than a burden, we can
design a system that supports the health of the site and the larger watershed.
Utility Coordination
Our team understands that utility coordination is one of the most critical
components of project success. Early and proactive engagement with utility
companies will be central to our process. We will identify potential conflicts,
determine relocation strategies, and integrate solutions into the overall design
to avoid delays during construction. Through our past work on both local streets
and larger collectors, we have built strong working relationships with utility
providers across Indiana, which will help expedite this process.
PICTURED SIMILAR EXPERIENCE
TOP: Diagram for Bremen's Plymouth
Street Open House showing proprosed
improvements to the downtown
corridor
MID: Indiana Ave plan sheet showing
intersection with adjacent major
collector and commercial corridor
BOT: Diamond Ave showing
neighborhood scale improvements
Troyer Group I Together, We Will South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
www.troyergroup.com Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
PICTURED SIMILAR EXPERIENCE
TOP: Using a variety of large
format images helps to more
fully communicate the extent of
infrastructure projects
MID: Our public outreach provides
activities for stakeholders of all ages,
ensuring broad participation and
allowing parents to more fully engage
in the meetings
BOT: We use low -friction strategies,
like dot voting, to reduce time burdens
while still collecting valuable feedback
and increasing participation
NEPA COMPLIANCE
The NEPA document will be the primary environmental deliverable for this
project. Based on the anticipated scope of work, the level of documentation will
be determined by several key resource categories.
The project area is not located within a designated historic district, but several
potentially historic properties are located adjacent to the site. A Historic Property
Report or Short Report may be required to assess potential impacts. While
much of the site is previously disturbed, archaeological investigation may still be
necessary depending on final design details. With support from our partners at
SJCA, who bring extensive capacity and experience in NEPA compliance, we will
ensure thorough evaluation and efficient coordination with review agencies.
Right -of -Way and Relocations
A CE-2+ is expected based on anticipated right-of-way acquisition needs. At least
one property relocation is likely, with the total number of relocations being a
determining factor in the final CE level.
Overall CE Level
At present, a CE-2 appears to be the minimum likely level of documentation for
this project. Our environmental team, with added depth from SJCA, will monitor
the scope closely during design and coordinate with INDOT to ensure the
appropriate documentation is prepared and approved in a timely manner.
Public Engagement
We believe that successful infrastructure projects are shaped not only by
technical excellence but also by genuine collaboration with the community.
For this project, we will employ best -practice engagement methods to gather
input from residents, businesses, and neighborhood organizations. By hosting
interactive meetings, providing accessible digital engagement tools, and working
closely with City leadership, we will ensure that public feedback informs design
decisions. This process builds both community ownership and long-term trust,
ensuring that the final built environment reflects the needs and aspirations of
those it will serve.
In compliance with NEPA and INDOT requirements, the project will provide
an opportunity for the public to request a hearing. Given the visibility of this
redevelopment and its importance to the surrounding neighborhood, the City
may elect to hold public information meetings to ensure transparency and
provide opportunities for meaningful feedback. Troyer Group strongly supports
proactive public engagement and will build on our existing relationships within
the West Side and near West Side communities. We will also work closely with the
City to ensure the process is inclusive, accessible, and responsive.
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
9 71 ,Q r
PICTURED SIMILAR EXPERIENCE
TOP: Eddy Street Commons is
widely regarded as a transformational
community infrastructure project
(Troyer Group led all transportation,
utility, lighting, and pedestrian
infrastructure design)
MID: Park Street lighting diagram
studying potential locations for all
infrastructure
BOT: Broadway Complete Streets
plan in Gary Indiana incorporated
multimodal transportation design and
placemaking along the corridor as
part of a tranformative vision for the
community
SUMMARY
At Troyer Group, our mission goes beyond delivering infrastructure drawings.
We create people -centered systems that are safe, durable, and responsive to
the needs of the community. With more than fifty years of experience, we have
built trust with municipalities across Indiana by listening carefully, anticipating
challenges, and delivering solutions that are both practical and innovative. For
the City of South Bend, we are committed to a project that not only improves
safety and mobility within the Rabbi Shulman and Monroe Circle site but also
maximizes resources, minimizes long-term maintenance, and provides residents
with infrastructure they can rely on for decades to come.
Our design approach is proactive, detailed, and context -sensitive. We combine
technical accuracy and regulatory compliance with forward -looking problem
solving that keeps projects moving smoothly and cost effectively. This includes
coordinating closely with utilities to avoid costly conflicts, sequencing work
to support phased development, and applying sustainable design strategies to
extend the life and performance of new streets, parking areas, and stormwater
systems. Project Manager Bryan Tanner will lead the work with extensive
experience in managing complex corridor and site design, supported by a
multidisciplinary team that brings expertise in roadway geometry, ADA-compliant
sidewalks, traffic calming, underground utility modeling, and stormwater
infrastructure. This core team is strengthened by SJCA, a certified DBE and
MBE, whose survey, right-of-way, stormwater, and environmental services add
depth and capacity for regulatory compliance; Terracon, whose geotechnical and
pavement design expertise ensures long-term durability; Kaskaskia Engineering
Group, a certified DBE, whose traffic analysis and signal design expertise supports
safe and efficient mobility; and Scheele Engineering, whose lighting design will
help create corridors that are safe, efficient, and welcoming. Together, our
collective ability to anticipate challenges, evaluate alternatives, and design with
constructability in mind has consistently produced projects that meet both
immediate goals and long-term community needs.
We also recognize that infrastructure impacts people every day, which is why
communication is central to our process. Our team emphasizes consistent
coordination with City staff, clear and timely reporting, and direct engagement
with residents and stakeholders to ensure that the design reflects community
priorities and earns lasting public support. By combining dependable leadership
with broad technical expertise and a collaborative spirit across our entire partner
team, Troyer Group offers South Bend a partner who will deliver infrastructure
that protects safety, enhances mobility, and strengthens community trust for
years to come.
Troyer Group I Together, We Will
www.troyergroup.com
South Bend, IN I Engineering Design Services
Western Ave. Transformation District Improvements (125-047)
Standard RFP Form Ver. 1/2023
(Rev.06/27/18)
Des. #: 125-047
Affirmative Action Certification (AAC) for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE)
I hereby certify that my company intends to affirmatively seek out and consider Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) certified
by the State of Indiana's DBE Program and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) DBE Program to participate as part of this
proposal. An Agreement between INDOT and KYTC established reciprocal acceptance of certification of DBE firms in their
respective states under the Unified Certification Program (UCP) pursuant to 49 CFR §26.81(e) and (f).
I acknowledge that this certification is to be made an integral part of this proposal. I understand and agree that the submission of a
blank certification may cause the proposal to be rejected. I certify that I have consulted the following DBE websites to confirm that
the firms listed below are currently certified DBEs:
INDOT: https://entgpps.indot.in.2ov/DBELocator/
KYTC: hIMs://transportation.ky.gov/Civil-Rights-and-Small-Business-Development/Pages/Certified-DBE-Directoiy.aspx
I certify that I have contacted the certified DBE's listed below, and if my company becomes the CONSULTANT, these DBEs have
tentatively agreed to perform the services as indicated. I understand that neither my company nor I will be penalized for DBE
utilization that exceeds the goal. After contract award, any change to the firms listed in this Affirmative Action Certification to be
applied toward the DBE goal must have prior approval by INDOT's Economic Opportunity Division.
I. DBE Subconsultants to be applied toward DBE goal for the RFP item:
Certified DBE Name
Service Planned
Estimated Percentage to
be Paid*
Kaskaskia Engineering Group
2.1, 10.1
9%
11. DBE Subconsultants to be utilized beyond the advertised DBE goal for the RFP item:
Certified DBE Name
Service Planned
Estimated Percentage to
be Paid*
SJCA, Inc.
5.2, 6.1, 11.1, 12.2, 17.3
33 %
%
Estimated Total Percentage Credited toward DBE Goal: 9%
Estimated Percentage of Voluntary DBE Work Anticipated over DBE Goal: 33%
Company Name: The Troyer Group, Inc.
Signature: Jonathon Geels President Date: 9/9/2025
* It is understood that these individual firm percentages are estimates only and that percentages paid may be greater or less as a result
of negotiation of contract scope of work. My firm will use good faith efforts to meet the overall DBE goal through the use of these
or other certified and approved DBE firms.