Latest Updates

How to Obtain TAP Funding for Local Jurisdictions

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…
Read More

Celebrating National Engineers Week

The sidewalk you walk along during your morning stroll. The roadway expansion that supports new business growth. The drainage system that protects neighborhoods during heavy rain. Behind each of these is thoughtful design and the work of dedicated civil engineers. During National Engineers Week, we celebrate the professionals who design, plan, and improve the infrastructure…
Read More

Valley Post: A Community Destination Takes Shape

When we first began working on Valley Post along Shelby County Highway 41, the site of the former TreeTop Family Adventure, it was clear this project would represent a transformation. What once served the community in one capacity would become something entirely new: a thoughtfully designed destination where people could gather, dine, and spend time…
Read More

Sain Receives ACEC Alabama Grand Award

We are excited to announce that Sain has been honored with an Engineering Excellence Award in the Transportation category from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Alabama for our work on the Old Tuscaloosa Widening and Turbo Roundabout Project. The award was presented during the ACEC Alabama Member Breakfast at the Alabama Transportation…
Read More

Meet Our Newest Shareholder: Michael Thomas, PLS

We are excited to spotlight Michael Thomas, PLS, recently named an Associate Shareholder of the firm. Michael’s career path, leadership within the surveying profession, and commitment to teamwork make him a valued member of Sain’s ownership group. Michael’s journey with Sain Associates spans nearly two decades and reflects his deep connection to the firm. He…
Read More

When Do You Need to Hire a Surveyor?

When you’re sick, you go to a doctor. When you have a legal issue, you call a lawyer. A toothache? Time for the dentist. A surveyor is no different—when you need one, you really need one. However, many people don’t know when that moment will come. The most common time you’ll hire a surveyor is…
Read More

Back to the Basics: GIS Training at Sain

In today’s GIS environment, it’s easy to focus on the next custom application, automation, or advanced workflow. At Sain, we build those solutions every day. But in the pursuit of innovation, I’ve seen something consistent across organizations of all sizes: core GIS skills quietly erode over time. Fundamental skillsets like editing, analysis, and cartography are…
Read More

New BUILD Grant Cycle Brings Big Opportunities for Communities

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…
Read More

2026 Leadership and Ownership Advancements

We are proud to share exciting updates on our firm’s ongoing leadership and ownership evolution. These changes reflect our continued commitment to developing internal talent and strengthening the depth of our leadership team to better serve our clients and communities. Sain is a 3rd generation employee-owned firm, and we are currently working on our 4th…
Read More

2025: A Year of Progress, Partnership, and Purpose

As we reflect on the past year at Sain Associates, I’m filled with pride and gratitude. 2025 has been a year defined by meaningful progress, strong partnerships, and the dedication of an exceptional team. Together, we’ve continued building on our firm’s long-standing commitment to delivering thoughtful, high-quality engineering, planning, and surveying solutions across the communities…
Read More