Perspectives April 2024
Building On Our Water Recovery Legacy
Nowhere is Olsson’s legacy of helping communities solve wastewater management issues stronger than in Lincoln, Nebraska.
For five decades, we’ve been central to the success of the city’s water resource recovery plants. Our experience in the discipline and with Lincoln’s facilities set the stage for more success when the city tapped Olsson as lead consultant on planning and construction of a new biosolids dewatering system.
Earlier this year, the $14 million project at Lincoln’s Northeast Water Resource Recovery Facility won recognition from the American Council of Engineering Companies Nebraska.
Building a Dome for Celebrations and Shelter
Central City Public Schools needed a new gym.
Built in 1994, the previous gym for the district that serves the central Nebraska town of the same name required several updates, including more adequate seating.
Today, the new Bison Activity Dome is a dual-purpose facility that seats more than 2,000 and includes panoramic seating, locker rooms, and restrooms. It serves as a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)?shelter to protect students and residents during emergency events. In addition to its role as a shelter, the dome has positioned Central City to host district wrestling and basketball tournaments, and other community events.
A Watershed Moment for Underserved Communities
Heavy rain moves into the forecast and a familiar dread clenches the chest.
When 3 inches fall, family photos and keepsakes are gathered for safekeeping. At 5 inches, furniture and valuables must be carried upstairs. Six inches prompts the agonizing decision to leave before rising water makes it too dangerous to stay.
The days that follow are a blur of missed work, mud, muck, and bone weariness from stolen sleep and hours of cleanup. And communities are left with damaged streets, highways, bridges, and water facilities.
*This article originally appeared in Stormwater Solutions Magazine
By Brian Osborn, Environmental Discipline Leader, and Valerie Miller, Environmental Technical Expert
Promoting Nature-Based Solutions in Communities
Eric Fuselier wanted to make the world a better place. That’s why he became an environmental scientist. ?
“When I ride around town and see projects I’ve worked on, it feels really good to know that I’ve been able to help make a positive difference in the community I live in,” he said.
Eric partners with communities to help them be more resilient to extreme weather. He enjoys finding nature-based solutions that help both people and the environment.
Using native plants in landscapes is a prime example, Eric says. Outside of his day job, Eric volunteers with a group that promotes native plants and natural landscapes.
Sign up for our Perspectives Newsletter so you never miss a thing.