Few commercial properties have shaped the identity of a region the way the Riverchase Galleria has shaped Hoover and greater Birmingham. Since opening in 1986, it has been more than a shopping destination – it has been a landmark, a gathering place, and a barometer of the region’s growth. The recent news that the Galleria…
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If you’re a local jurisdiction and you’ve ever thought… Then let’s talk about one of my favorite funding programs: Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding. Because yes — that sidewalk, streetscape, multi-use trail, or a safer route to school might be possible. Let’s break it down. First Things First: What Is TAP? The Transportation Alternatives Program…
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Each year, the federal BUILD Grant program creates a rare opportunity for communities to turn long-planned transportation improvements into reality. With the release of the FY 2026 BUILD Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), the U.S. Department of Transportation has once again opened the door for transformative investments in surface transportation infrastructure across the country. This…
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If you’ve driven near the Birmingham Zoo or Botanical Gardens lately, you’ve probably noticed something big taking shape at one of the metro’s busiest gateways. Two roundabouts are transforming the high-volume intersection cluster shared by Birmingham and Mountain Brook, and the story of how we got here goes back over a decade. In 2009, roundabouts…
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When I think about what makes Sain special, I think of people like Steve Hall—those steady, committed, quietly powerful team members whose work ethic and character have shaped who we are as a company. Last week marked Steve’s 40th anniversary at Sain, an incredible milestone that speaks not only to his loyalty but to the…
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Alabama communities once again have a chance to secure critical funding for transportation improvements through the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation & Improvement Program II (ATRIP-II). For local governments with projects tied to the state highway system, this funding could be the catalyst to move long-needed improvements forward. What Is ATRIP-II? Administered by the Alabama Department of…
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If you are a civil engineer, you have probably heard the classic joke: “What are the three most important elements of a civil design and construction project?” The answer? “Drainage, drainage, and drainage.” Drainage design is critical to the success of any project and is a major component of civil engineering. Drainage considerations weave into…
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The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is a federal initiative that provides funding to municipalities for projects aimed at enhancing non-motorized transportation, improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and promoting safe routes to schools. As of 2025, there have been several updates and considerations for municipalities seeking TAP funding in Alabama. Application Process Applications must be submitted…
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Alabama’s infrastructure is getting a significant boost with the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation & Improvement Program II (ATRIP-II). As a follow-up to the original ATRIP initiative, ATRIP-II aims to address the continuing need for transportation infrastructure improvements across the state. Launched by Governor Ivey through the Rebuild Alabama Act, the ATRIP-II program is designed to enhance…
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Engineering has long been considered a male-dominated field, but efforts are underway to break down barriers and encourage more women to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Despite progress in recent years, a significant gender gap persists. This blog explores the current state of women in engineering, discusses the challenges they face…
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