Latest News
Celebrating the Completion of Hobart’s Main Lift Station and Forcemain Project
We are excited to congratulate all those involved in last week’s ribbon cutting for the Main Lift Station and Forcemain project in Hobart, Indiana! After 16 years of planning and dedication, this milestone represents a major achievement for the community.
BF&S is proud to have played a key role in this project, overseeing the replacement of all pumps and controls, as well as the construction of 4 miles of 30-inch forcemain. This comprehensive upgrade has significantly strengthened Hobart’s infrastructure, ensuring it is well-equipped to support the city’s continued growth and development for years to come.
Alan Hamersly Named Outstanding Professional of the Year at the Indiana Park & Recreation Association Conference
We are thrilled to announce that Alan Hamersly has been named the Outstanding Professional of the Year at the Indiana Park & Recreation Association Conference! With 35 years of experience in parks, trails, greenways, site development, and planning, Alan has been a true pioneer in the field and a dedicated mentor to countless professionals.
Throughout his career, Alan has master-planned over 600 miles of trails and bicycle-pedestrian improvements, while designing more than 160 miles of built facilities. His work has enhanced recreational opportunities across Indiana communities, helping to shape the parks and greenways landscape in profound ways.
BF&S Announces Vice President Promotion
We are excited to share the promotion of Kevin Hintz, PE, to Vice President at BF&S! In his new role, Kevin will work closely with our Business Council to identify and drive opportunities for strategic growth, enhance employee training and benefits, and support company-wide initiatives aimed at ensuring BF&S’s continued success.
Kevin will continue to lead our Indianapolis Utility Coordination team in its day-to-day operations, a position in which he has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership. Additionally, he will maintain his role on the Operations Management Council, where his expertise in process improvements and commitment to mentoring emerging talent has made a significant impact.
Celebrating the Launch of IndyGo's Purple Line
A huge thank you to IndyGo for hosting a fantastic ribbon-cutting event, marking the opening of the highly anticipated Purple Line! This event was a true celebration of the dedication and collaboration that brought this transformative project to life. The lively ceremony featured a vibrant parade, complete with a band, community groups, consultant and contractor vehicles—including BF&S—and even a newly wrapped Indiana Fever bus!
BF&S Connects with Future Engineers at Career Fairs Across Indiana
The BF&S team has been busy this fall, attending career fairs at universities across Indiana to connect with the next generation of engineers! Throughout September and October, we had the pleasure of speaking with students about our company, the impactful projects we’re working on, and how they can contribute to our mission as future members of our team.
BF&S Receives INAFSM Outstanding Stormwater Project Award for IndyGo Purple Line BRT
BF&S is honored to announce that we’ve received the Indiana Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management (INAFSM) Outstanding Stormwater Project award for our work on the IndyGo Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project. This prestigious award recognizes excellence in stormwater management innovation, and we are proud to share this achievement with our outstanding project partners—Crider & Crider, Inc., WSP in the U.S., and the Indianapolis Department of Public Works.
BF&S Participates in Elkhart County’s Pay Dirt In-Field Event
The BF&S Stormwater and Environmental team had the opportunity to participate in the Elkhart County Soil and Water Conservation District’s Pay Dirt In-Field event at a Homestead Farm in Elkhart County. This hands-on event brought together stormwater professionals from across the state to explore erosion and sediment control best management practices (BMPs) in action.
The event featured live demonstrations of various BMPs, where participants learned about product specifications, installation techniques, and maintenance tips. The focus was not only on education but also on fostering collaboration, as MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems) representatives gathered to discuss and align efforts to meet their stormwater management goals.
Celebrating $30 Million in Infrastructure Funding for Indianapolis Department of Public Works
BF&S had the privilege of celebrating alongside the Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) as they were awarded $30 million in infrastructure funding, the highest grant awarded by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (IMPO) in over a decade! This significant grant will address key areas of concern across the city, with a focus on improving air quality, alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing pavement quality, and boosting safety for all residents.
BF&S Partners with Miami County to Secure $1.5 Million for Infrastructure Improvements
BF&S is excited to announce our partnership with Miami County in securing funding for an essential infrastructure project that will improve local roads and transportation. Daniel Heflin, the INDOT Local Program Director/Grant Funding Manager, presented Miami County with a $1.5 million Community Crossings Grant award. These funds will be used to complete Logansport Road and kick off Phase I of Wabash Road, two crucial routes for the county’s connectivity.
BF&S Receives the Excellence in GIS Award at the IGIC Conference
BF&S is proud to announce that our GIS initiatives with the City of East Chicago have earned us the Indiana Geographic Information Council, Inc. Excellence in GIS Award for small communities. This prestigious honor was presented last week at the IGIC Conference. We extend our sincere gratitude to City of East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland and everyone involved whose dedication made this achievement possible!
BF&S Recognized at ACEC National Engineering Excellence Awards Gala
BF&S leadership had the privilege of attending the ACEC National Engineering Excellence Awards Gala in Washington, D.C. Our team was honored for our contributions to the Shelbyville Downtown Redevelopment project, receiving the esteemed National Recognition Award. We were delighted to celebrate this achievement alongside the City of Shelbyville! Congratulations to all involved in making this project a success, as well as to the other deserving award recipients recognized during the event!
BF&S Names New Stormwater Department Head
We are pleased to announce Samantha Groce, CESSWI, MS4CECI, as our Stormwater Department Head. With an exceptional track record of successfully managing complex projects and regulatory compliance in the stormwater field, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise to the role. As Stormwater Department Head, Samantha will manage operations and agreements, staff, and client satisfaction.
BF&S Joins Governor Holcomb to Celebrate 100th Mile of Next Level Trails
BF&S joined Governor Holcomb, the Town of Merrillville, and Lake County Parks staff to celebrate the 100th mile of Next Level Trails with a ribbon cutting! This 2.82-mile C&O Trail extension marks a significant expansion in Indiana’s network of scenic trails, providing residents and visitors alike with more opportunities to explore the natural beauty of our state.
BF&S Named #14 Best Places to Work in Indiana
BF&S was recognized as the 14th Best Place to Work in Indiana in the medium company category by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, rising one spot from last year! The list includes 193 Indiana employers representing more than 40 cities and towns throughout the state. Determined through employer reports and extensive employee surveys, the rankings provide a comprehensive assessment highlighting company strengths and areas for improvement as reported by employees. In turn, this report can be used in developing or enhancing employee retention and recruitment programs.
BF&S Receives ACEC Indiana Engineering Excellence Awards
The BF&S team gathered to celebrate exceptional engineering achievements across Indiana at the ACEC Indiana Engineering Excellence Awards. We are so proud to have several award-winning projects – Lebanon Utilities Abner Longley Storage Tank, City of Delphi, Indiana Water System Improvements, The City of Greensburg, IN Municipal Airport New Runway 1-19, and Indiana Department of Transportation Indiana Height Modification project.
IndyGo's Blue Line Project and Congressman André Carson's Impact
Today was a momentous day as we joined IndyGo in celebrating Congressman André Carson and the allocation of $1 million in Community Project Funding for the Blue Line! This exciting initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing our community through the development of a 24-mile project. The Blue Line will not only feature dedicated bus lanes and modernized stations but also contribute to improving accessibility with the addition and replacement of 9 miles of sidewalks and 340 ADA curb ramps.
Celebrating the Renaming of Echo Hollow Nature Park
This weekend, we were thrilled to be part of a special event marking the renaming of Echo Hollow Nature Park in the Town of Plainfield! The celebration honored the thoughtful planning and hard work that went into transforming this beautiful land into a regional park for the community to enjoy for years to come.
Our very own Ryan King played an integral role in the creation of the park’s master plan over the past several years, helping shape a space that will serve as a hub for nature and recreation. The renaming of Echo Hollow Nature Park is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting addition to Plainfield’s green spaces.
Chris Limiac, PE Receives Purdue University Outstanding ABE Alumni Award
This year, BF&S’s own Chris Limiac, PE received the esteemed Purdue University Outstanding Agricultural & Biological Engineering Alumni Award. Annually bestowed each spring, this award celebrates outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions and demonstrated remarkable impact within their fields. Chris Limiac’s recognition underscores his impressive career achievements, marking a monumental milestone in his professional journey. We take immense pride in Chris’s accomplishments and are honored to celebrate his well-deserved success.
Broad Ripple Avenue Improvement Project Awarded the ASCE Indiana 2024 Project of the Year
Congratulations to the Indianapolis Department of Public Works and all involved in the Broad Ripple Avenue Improvement Project – the 2024 Project of the Year Award Winner from the Indiana Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers! BF&S played a crucial role in the project by designing the segment of roadway and trail extending from Compton to Broad Ripple Park, a key component of the comprehensive Lochmueller Group project.
BF&S Team Presents at Purdue University Road School
The BF&S team had the honor of presenting at this year’s Purdue University Road School, where they showcased their exceptional work on three pivotal projects. Their presentations on the Lake Front Park and 3rd Street Bridge Replacement, Greensburg Municipal Airport New Runway 1-19, and Indianapolis International Airport RON Parking Apron underscored their passion and expertise in civil engineering and project management.
BF&S Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of Plainfield Performing & Fine Arts Center
BF&S leadership celebrated the grand opening of the Plainfield Performing & Fine Arts Center with a momentous ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the community. This state-of-the-art facility represents a beacon of creativity and culture in downtown Plainfield, poised to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike with a diverse array of artistic expressions and performances.
BF&S Receives Excellence in Pavement Award for Indianapolis International Airport Project
We are thrilled to announce that BF&S, along with our dedicated team, has been honored with the Excellence in Concrete Pavement Award by the Indiana Chapter of the American Concrete Pavement Association. This award recognizes the completion of the Remain Overnight (RON) Apron project at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND).
BF&S Announces Aviation Department Promotions
We are pleased to announce the internal promotions of Jason Clearwaters as Aviation Development Director, and John Feister as Aviation Production Manager!
BF&S Hires New Merrillville Road and Water Resources Department Head
BF&S is pleased to announce the hiring of Phillip Gralik, PE, in the newly created role of Merrillville Road and Water Resources Department Head. Phil joins BF&S after working as the City of Hobart City Engineer. He brings more than 28 years of public and private industry experience to this position.
BF&S Announces New Leadership
BF&S proudly announces significant changes to our leadership team, demonstrating a commitment to fostering talent within the organization. David Lahey, PE, has been appointed as the new President of BF&S. Simultaneously, Jeremy Books, PE, CPESC, and David Garwood, PE, were added to the ownership group, both of whom were previously esteemed Vice Presidents.
BF&S’s 2023 Annual Holiday Party
The BF&S Annual Holiday Party was held at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, IN. The evening featured dinner, dancing, and a casino night theme. We are grateful for events like this to spend time together, celebrating our employees and their accomplishments. We recognized John Feister, Colin Sullivan, and Pete Claire for their 10-year work anniversaries. The 2023 Mike Mang Award winner, who exhibits the values of BF&S in an extraordinary way, was presented to Brad Watson!
BF&S Names New Parks & Greenways Department Head
We are pleased to announce the internal promotion of Josh Smith to the position of Department Head of the Parks & Greenways Department! Alan Hamersly, PE, will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor for the department and as a resource for our valued clients.
Josh, who has served as both an architectural historian and client/state agency liaison in his 18 years at BF&S, will provide a new perspective for marketing and engagement with current and prospective clients looking for assistance in planning, funding, designing, and building parks and greenways in their communities.
BF&S Leadership Breakfast
BF&S staff and family members joined together for a heartwarming breakfast to celebrate the leadership and service of our President, John Brand, and Controller, Brad Watson. Their journey with our firm has been amazing, and we could not have asked for better leaders. We toasted to their unwavering commitment to BF&S.
BF&S Names New Lafayette Site Design Department Head
BF&S is pleased to name Michelle Watts, PE, PS, as the Lafayette Site Design Department Head. With an exceptional track record in site and survey work and a proven history of leadership, Michelle brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Her deep-rooted commitment to fostering collaboration among multidisciplinary teams undoubtedly accelerated the growth and success of our Lafayette Site Design Department, which was added as a BF&S service line in 2020.
BF&S Celebrates Grand Opening of Marian University's E.S. Witchger School of Engineering
BF&S leadership celebrated the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the E.S. Witchger School of Engineering building at Marian University. As part of BF&S’s mission to inspire a new generation of engineers, we played an active role in creating this new program with the naming of the Butler, Fairman & Seufert Civil Engineer Lab and the John and Carmel Brand Conference Room.
BF&S Names New Indy Road Department Head
BF&S is pleased to announce the internal promotions of Andrea Langille, PE, PMP, to the position of Department Head of the Indianapolis Road Department. Ben Zobrist will continue his career at BF&S with valued contributions as part of the Indianapolis Road Design team.
Andrea will bring her more than 22 years of experience to lead and manage all Indy Road Design efforts. She has excelled in her role as a Project Manager of transportation projects and has capably served on the BF&S Operations Management Council.
BF&S and City of Shelbyville Receive
2023 ACEC Indiana Grand Project Award
BF&S and the City of Shelbyville have received the Grand Project Award for engineering excellence from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Indiana for the Shelbyville Downtown Redevelopment. In addition to BF&S, Genesis Property Development, and RATIO Architects were recognized for the complete transformation of the Public Square in downtown Shelbyville into an Indiana attraction and an example for other communities.
BF&S Named #15 Best Place to Work in Indiana
BF&S was named the 15th Best Place to Work in Indiana in the medium company category by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, moving up one spot from last year! The list features 125 Hoosier businesses representing more than 30 cities and towns throughout Indiana.
BF&S Names New Bridge Department Leadership
BF&S is pleased to announce the internal promotions of Bryan Wright, Jonathan Olson, and Ben Butz. With the planned transition of Mike Eichenauer, the current Bridge Department Head, to the role of Controller and to facilitate more company growth, the BF&S Bridge Department has been restructured and reorganized into two departments, the Bridge Design Department and the Bridge Inspection Department.
BF&S at Purdue Road School
Several BF&S Staff presented at the Purdue University Road School Transportation Conference and Expo. From the work done on bridges and maintenance of traffic for the North Split project to the Portland Airport Runway Extension project, our speakers gave insight into their recent work, project challenges, and lessons learned.
To conclude Road School, BF&S hosted our annual Client Appreciation Dinner in Purdue’s Ross-Ade Stadium. The featured event speaker was Retired Lieutenant Colonel Todd Beer, who piloted Air Force One during the Clinton and Bush administrations, as well as on September 11, 2001.
BF&S Annual Holiday Party
The BF&S Annual Holiday Party was held at the Chatham Hills Country Club. The evening was filled with dinner, dancing, and a magician. It was a great time to spend together and celebrate our employees and their accomplishments.
Earlier this year, we lost our friend and colleague, Mike Mang. In his memory, the Mike Mang Award was created and will be presented annually to a BF&S team member who exhibits the BF&S values in an extraordinary way. The first recipient of the Mike Mang Award was Brad Eaton!
I-69 Finish Line Named #1 Road Project
The I-69, Contract 2 project was named the #1 Road Project by Roads and Bridges magazine. BF&S served as the lead construction inspection on this 6 mile stretch of State Road 37 in Martinsville included removing the existing highway that passed through the city and replaced it with an interstate.
BF&S Names Director of Transportation
BF&S is pleased to announce the hiring of Carl Camacho, PE, in the newly created role of Director of Transportation. He joins BF&S after working as the Chief Operating Officer for Lochmueller Group. Carl brings more than 37 years of industry experience to this position.
