Infrastructure Design and Construction
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Land Development course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Access Road #
A secondary road that provides access to a development or property. It is often designed to accommodate lower traffic volumes and speeds than a primary road.
As #
Built Plan: A set of drawings that show the final construction of a project, including any changes made during construction. It is used to verify that the project was built according to the approved plans and specifications.
Base Map #
A map that provides a background for the design and construction of a project. It typically includes topographic, geographic, and property information, and serves as the foundation for the design of infrastructure and site improvements.
Bid Set #
A set of drawings and specifications that are used to solicit bids for a construction project. It includes all the necessary information for contractors to submit a complete and accurate bid, including site plans, grading and drainage plans, utility plans, and construction details.
Bond #
A financial guarantee that ensures a project will be completed according to the approved plans and specifications. It is often required for public projects, and may be posted by the contractor or the developer.
Civil Engineer #
A professional engineer who specializes in the design and construction of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, utilities, and site improvements.
Code Compliance #
The process of ensuring that a project meets all applicable building codes, zoning regulations, and other legal requirements.
Construction Administration #
The process of managing and overseeing the construction of a project, including coordinating with contractors, inspecting the work, and ensuring that it is completed according to the approved plans and specifications.
Construction Documents #
A set of drawings and specifications that provide detailed instructions for the construction of a project. It includes all the necessary information for contractors to build the project, including site plans, grading and drainage plans, utility plans, and construction details.
Construction Inspection #
The process of inspecting the construction of a project to ensure that it is being built according to the approved plans and specifications.
Construction Management #
The process of managing and overseeing the construction of a project, including coordinating with contractors, inspecting the work, and ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Construction Specifications #
A detailed description of the materials, products, and workmanship required for the construction of a project. It is typically included as part of the construction documents.
Easement #
A legal right to use a portion of someone else's property for a specific purpose, such as access to a utility or a drainageway.
Erosion Control #
The practice of preventing or minimizing the movement of soil and other materials due to wind or water. It is an important part of infrastructure design and construction, as it helps to maintain the stability of the project and prevent environmental damage.
Floodplain #
An area of land that is subject to flooding during heavy rain or other weather events. It is important to consider the floodplain when designing and constructing infrastructure, as it can impact the safety and stability of the project.
Geotechnical Engineer #
A professional engineer who specializes in the study of the physical properties of soil and rock, and how they interact with structures. Geotechnical engineers are often involved in the design and construction of infrastructure projects, as they can provide valuable insights into the stability and safety of the site.
Grading #
The process of reshaping the land to create a stable and functional surface for construction. This may involve removing or adding soil, and may be done using heavy equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.
Horizontal Control #
The process of establishing and maintaining a consistent horizontal reference line or plane for the design and construction of a project. This is typically done using survey equipment and techniques.
Infrastructure #
The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise, including roads, bridges, utilities, and other public works.
Infrastructure Design #
The process of planning and creating the layout and specifications for infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, utilities, and other public works.
Infrastructure Construction #
The process of building and implementing the plans and specifications for infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, utilities, and other public works.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration #
The process of working together across different disciplines, such as engineering, architecture, and planning, to achieve a common goal. It is an important part of infrastructure design and construction, as it allows for a more holistic and integrated approach to the project.
Land Development #
The process of planning, designing, and constructing improvements on a piece of land, including buildings, roads, utilities, and other infrastructure.
Land Survey #
The process of measuring and mapping a piece of land to determine its boundaries, topography, and other features. It is an important part of infrastructure design and construction, as it provides the necessary information for the planning and implementation of the project.
Master Plan #
A comprehensive plan that outlines the long-term vision and goals for a development or property. It typically includes a detailed site plan, as well as plans for infrastructure, land use, and other improvements.
Permitting #
The process of obtaining the necessary permissions and approvals from government agencies and other organizations to construct a project. This may include obtaining building permits, zoning variances, and other authorizations.
Platting #
The process of dividing a piece of land into smaller parcels, typically for the purpose of development or sale. It involves the creation of a plat map, which shows the boundaries, dimensions, and other features of the parcels.
Public Works #
Infrastructure projects that are owned and operated by government agencies, such as roads, bridges, and utilities.
Record Drawings #
A set of drawings that show the final construction of a project, including any changes made during construction. It is used to verify that the project was built according to the approved plans and specifications, and may be required for regulatory compliance or future reference.
Right #
of-Way: A strip of land that is set aside for the construction and maintenance of infrastructure, such as roads, utilities, and public transportation. It is often owned by a government agency or utility company, and may be subject to specific regulations and restrictions.
Site Analysis #
The process of evaluating a site to determine its suitability for a particular project. This may include assessing the topography, soil conditions, drainage, access, and other factors that could impact the design and construction of the project.
Site Civil Engineer #
A professional engineer who specializes in the design and construction of site improvements, such as grading, drainage, and utilities.
Site Design #
The process of planning and creating the layout and specifications for a site improvement project, including grading, drainage, and utilities.
Site Improvements #
The physical changes and upgrades made to a piece of land to prepare it for development or use, such as grading, drainage, utilities, and landscaping.
Stormwater Management #
The practice of managing and controlling the flow of stormwater to prevent flooding, erosion, and other environmental damage. It is an important part of infrastructure design and construction, as it helps to protect public health and safety, and preserve the natural environment.
Subdivision #
The process of dividing a piece of land into smaller parcels, typically for the purpose of development or sale. It involves the creation of a subdivision plat, which shows the boundaries, dimensions, and other features of the parcels.
Survey #
The process of measuring and mapping a piece of land to determine its boundaries, topography, and other features. It is an important part of infrastructure design and construction, as it provides the necessary information for the planning and implementation of the project.
Topographic Survey #
A survey that shows the contours and features of the land, including hills, valleys, streams, and other natural and man-made features. It is used to create a topographic map, which is an important tool for infrastructure design and construction.
Utility Design #
The process of planning and creating the layout and specifications for utility systems, such as water, sewer, and electrical.
Vertical Control #
The process of establishing and maintaining a consistent vertical reference line or plane for the design and construction of a project. This is typically done using survey