October 10, 2008
ERA will lead discussions on civil engineering and utilizing floodplain land for recreational use

CHICAGO - Engineering Resource Associates, Inc. (ERA) has been selected by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) to lead two sessions at the 2009 IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference. Both sessions are scheduled for Saturday, January 31 at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Avenue.

ERA staff will lead, “From Idea to Reality: The Civil Engineering Process (209),” from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. During the session, staff will walk attendees through the development process and describe requirements and process of survey, design, permitting, bidding and construction to bring an idea to reality. Emphasis will be placed on floodplain requirements. Participants will learn about typical timeframe expectations, and questions civil engineers need answered.

ERA staff will also lead, “Utilizing Donated Floodplain Land for Recreational Use (210),” from 2:00 to 3:15 p.m. During this session, staff will present a case study of converting donated low lands to a recreational facility at the same time, providing habitat enhancements and streambank conditions. Issues of permitting and FEMA mapping will be discussed. Participants will learn the value of floodplain land and open space, and better understand best management practices (BMPs).

Engineering Resource Associates, Inc. (ERA) is a full-service consulting engineering, environmental science and surveying firm serving Midwestern clients since 1990. With offices in Warrenville, Geneva and Chicago, ERA offers broad experience on a wide variety of projects for public and private sector clients. For more information about ERA, call (630) 393-3060 or visit us online at www.eraconsultants.com.