RaganSmith

Last week, RaganSmith was honored to attend the Tennessee American Planning Association (TN APA) Spring Retreat, a valuable conference for our team's professional growth. This event provided an opportunity to engage with public and consulting planners from across the state, stay informed on legislative updates affecting our practice and clients, and showcase services that may not typically reach certain markets. We were especially proud to present the TN Blueways Masterplan, a significant project that reflects our commitment to thoughtful planning. Our time at TN APA was both insightful and inspiring, allowing us to learn from industry peers, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections within the planning community.

RaganSmith proudly celebrates Global Surveyors Day! ???? Surveying and geospatial professionals play a vital role in shaping industries, from land development and transportation to water resources and energy. Their expertise ensures accurate data for successful projects. Today, we recognize their hard work and dedication! #GlobalSurveyorsDay

For nearly a century, precision has been at the heart of everything we do at RaganSmith. Since 1933, we've remained dedicated to delivering accurate, reliable land surveying services, evolving alongside technology to better serve Middle Tennessee and beyond. From traditional methods to advanced tools like LiDAR scanning and aerial photogrammetry, our team ensures every project starts with a strong foundation.?? This #NationalSurveyorsWeek, we celebrate the professionals who chart the course of progress—past, present, and future. Thank you for your commitment to excellence!

RaganSmith is both appreciative and heavy-hearted to announce the retirement of Kevin Birdwell, who has dedicated 33 incredible years of service as a Vice President and Survey Manager. As he retires this March, we reflect on the lasting impact he has made—his leadership, dedication, and expertise have been instrumental in shaping our organization's success. Kevin’s contributions have left a meaningful legacy that will be felt for years to come. We extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment and wish him the very best in this next chapter. Thank you, Kevin—you will be truly missed!

Today, on World Engineering Day, we celebrate the ingenuity, dedication, and problem-solving spirit of engineers everywhere! ?? At RaganSmith, we are proud to work alongside experts who design solutions that shape the future. Thank you for your innovation, creativity, and contribution to a better tomorrow for all!

RaganSmith Employee Spotlight: Brett Smith, PLA, AICP, Vice President ???? Brett’s journey with RaganSmith spans over 30 years as a Landscape Architect & Certified Planner—but his roots go even deeper! From working on our survey crews in high school to interning with our LA department while enrolled at Auburn University, he’s been part of RaganSmith for decades. (Though his office visits as a kid in the ’70s didn’t earn him PTO, unfortunately!) Brett enjoys showcasing the incredible design work of the LA/Planning team, with a special appreciation for Florida projects—his love for palm trees makes those especially rewarding! Outside the office, you’ll find Brett at his family’s lakehouse on Center Hill, hiking with his wife, Deana, or enjoying time with his kids and son-in-law. Hiking has become a favorite activity—especially after a strongly worded doctor’s note a few years back! From training at Radnor Lake State Park in Nashville to conquering Mount LeConte in the Smokies, Brett and Deana are setting their sights on Glacier National Park next. Beyond work and adventure, Brett gives back to the community by mentoring at 4:13 Strong and serving the unhoused visitors at his historic urban church on Lindsley Avenue.

The competition was fierce, the chili was spicy, and our Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Chattanooga offices came together over delicious food! ?? Our annual RaganSmith Chili Cook-Off was a huge success, and we had some incredible contenders bring the heat. ????? Thank you to everyone who participated, tasted, and voted! Until next year, keep those recipes simmering. ??

Calling all UGA Landscape Architecture students! ?? We're heading to the University of Georgia’s campus for the College of Environment + Design Career Fair. Stop by the RaganSmith & Pape-Dawson Engineers booth at the Tate Student Center on February 19th to explore internship and career opportunities with our team! The University of Georgia | University of Georgia - College of Environment + Design

Celebrating Engineers Week! Laura Jones, PE, CFM, and Gage Bentley, PE, from RaganSmith's Nashville office, join fellow Pape-Dawson engineers in a nationwide "pass the phone" to share their insights on engineering careers. Thank you to all engineers for your incredible contributions! ?????? #EWeek2025

Love isn’t the only thing that comes full circle—efficient design does too! Celebrating the art of well-planned roundabouts and seamless transportation this Valentine’s Day. ????