May 2024 - Issue 4 - The Source

THE SOURCE

JPR IS A FULL-SERVICE ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING FIRM OFFERING COMPREHENSIVE PROJECT LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT FROM START TO FINISH.

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The talented professionals who work [at JPR] are very skilled and knowledgeable in their fields. We would consider no other firm. We would, and do, recommend JPR at every opportunity.

Marilyn Jackson - Town Manager, Macy, IN

ANDREW CUNNINGHAM, PLA, LEED AP, ASLA PRINCIPAL - OPERATIONS

South Bend Office

325 S. Lafayette Blvd.

South Bend, IN 46601

P: 574.232.4388

Fort Wayne Office

222 Pearl Street

Fort Wayne, IN 46802

P: 260.422.2522

A LETTER FROM THE LEADERSHIP TEAM

What a pivotal and exciting time in our company’s history! As we approach the mid-point of 2024, it’s a perfect time to reflect on where we are and the direction we’re headed. Together, we have faced and taken on many challenges, allowing our incredible team to shine. We’ve united as a diverse but unified group, staying at the forefront of innovation, solving problems, delivering our clients’ visions, and positively impacting the communities where we live, work, and play.

We are in a season of intentional growth and improvement. The willingness of our entire team to step up to the plate, challenge the status quo, provide input, and dedicate valuable time to move important initiatives forward has been nothing short of amazing. The effort they are putting forth is making a significant difference, and I’m extremely proud of our JPR family. Their commitment, dedication, and spirit of teamwork are the foundation and driving force of our team’s success.

As we continue to foster valuable relationships with our existing clients and forge new partnerships, we are extremely grateful for the trust that you have placed in JPR. Our team is tirelessly refining our expertise and processes to tackle diverse challenges and guide complex initiatives. We appreciate the opportunity to work together, meet your goals, bring your projects to life, and make a positive impact on our world.

As we move into the future together, let’s build on this foundation and continue this spirit of growth. The future is extremely bright!

Limitless Park was thoughtfully and strategically designed to be fun and accessible. Every element of the playground was carefully designed to accommodate individuals with physical disabilities, sensory sensitivities, and other special needs.

Winona Lake Limitless Park is a universally accessible playground that allows everyone in the community, regardless of age or ability, to join together in play. It’s a place that embraces the beauty of its surrounding environment and engages everyone in limitless fun. Located in Winona Lake, Indiana, this park stands out as a beacon of inclusivity, offering a wide range of amenities and features that cater to individuals with diverse needs.

It has been labeled as a place “where fun has no limits.”

In 2014, JPR partnered with the Winona Lake Parks and Recreation Department to design and develop the 1.5-acre site. The project was broken into two phases.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Winona Lake Limitless Park is its commitment to inclusivity and community involvement. This was instilled from the very onset of the project.

Knowing that community engagement would be essential for ensuring inclusivity and accessibility of the park, JPR met with and interviewed physical and occupational therapists, caretakers, teachers, and parents within the Kosciusko County community. These conversations allowed the design team to gain insight into the diverse needs and preferences of different groups; it also helped identify potential barriers to accessibility and inclusion that might not have been immediately apparent.

By involving stakeholders in the planning process, our team was able to find solutions and tailor the design to ensure inclusivity from the outset. This process helped the team infuse therapeutic aspects into an array of

playground components, providing ample opportunities for visitors that may have physical and cognitive challenges.

Extending beyond current ADA accessibility requirements, the park features an inclusive playground with distinctive elements such as an expression swing that allows tandem swinging for toddlers and parents, and a recirculating splash pad - known as the K21 Splash Pad. Utilizing filtered, recycled water, it offers numerous types of barrier-free water play for all ability levels, including a colorful water tunnel. An existing restroom building was also renovated to become fully accessible, and an existing fire pit and beach area were incorporated into the design.

In addition to the playground and splash pad, the park boasts spacious pathways and wheelchair-accessible picnic areas to create a welcoming environment for individuals and families to gather, relax, and engage in outdoor recreation together.

THE K21 SPLASH PAD OFFERS BARRIER-FREE WATER PLAY FOR ALL ABILITY LEVELS

“This vision of Winona Lake Limitless Park has always been inclusion and unity. Seeing those who would traditionally be sidelined, whether on the water or the playground, be able to interact and play with their peers is so rewarding,” said Holly Hummitch, Parks Department and Senior Center Director for the Town of Winona Lake. “The park is a recreation destination where residents of Winona Lake, and beyond, can come and feel welcomed, safe, considered, and included.”

Phase 1 of this project did not come without its challenges. Located less than 100 feet from the shores of Winona Lake, the park contends with a high water table, positioned just a few feet beneath the surface. This posed particular difficulties for the design and construction of the splash pad.

Beneath the surface lay approximately 25 feet of soft muck soils incapable of adequately supporting the splash pad foundation. However, JPR conducted

a geotechnical investigation and discovered sandy soil beneath the muck. Using this information, JPR engineered treated timber piles that were driven into the ground - specifically into the sandy soil - which would support the weight of the splash pad safely and counter the draw-down friction loading from the muck soils.

Above the piles, a network of reinforced concrete grade beams was also engineered and constructed. These beams met at reinforced concrete pipe caps, which were located over the driven piles, to support the splash pad’s weight by transferring it to the deep piling foundation below.

JPR also engineered a water reservoir tank for the splash pad system. Because the muck soils behave more like a fluid than a solid, there was a concern that the tank might float within the muck, especially when empty. To prevent this, the tank was anchored in place to resist buoyancy forces.

Upon completion of Phase 1, Winona Lake Limitless Park opened in 2015. It serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together to prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. The park stands as a testament to the power of public spaces to foster connection, joy, and belonging for people of all abilities. Because of this, it quickly became a destination park for families throughout Northern Indiana.

The overarching vision for Winona Lake Limitless Park began in 2011, and 13 years later it will be completed. Groundbreaking for Phase 2 of the project took place on April 9.

“We are excited to begin construction on the final phases of this project in early May with tentative completion in late summer 2024,” said Hummitch.

After more than a decade of planning, fundraising, and envisioning, this final phase represents the culmination of efforts to establish an inclusive park

THE PLAYGROUND EXTENDS BEYOND ADA ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

catering to individuals of all ages and abilities. Upon completion, the park will feature a variety of play elements designed to promote safe risk-taking, cooperation, and problem-solving, fostering confidence and enhancing the park’s natural play aesthetic.

Amenities will include a large crawl tunnel, natural play elements such as climbing boulders and hillside slides, as well as designated areas for relaxation and shade in case playtime becomes too overwhelming. Other noteworthy play components include a wheelchair accessible spinner, a cozy dome that provides sensory development, and a rope climber.

Winona Lake Limitless Park was made possible because of public and private donations, as well as grant money. This included a $300,000 awarded grant from the K21 Health Foundation (K21) and a $500,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). JPR aided the Park Department by creating cost estimates and producing conceptual plans utilized for the submission of the LWCF grant application.

“This project has taken many years,” said Hummitch. “I am so thankful that JPR didn’t give up on us and worked right alongside us to see our vision come to fruition ... I am beyond grateful for the knowledge and experience JPR has given to this project.”

Services Provided

Landscape Architecture

Engineering Architecture

Geotechnical

Permitting

Construction Administration

A HEAVY CROWN JET NOZZLE EFFECT SPRINGS FROM THE CENTER OF THE “FLOWERS” BEFORE LANDING ON USERS BELOW

GROUNDBREAKING FOR THE FINAL PHASE TOOK PLACE APRIL 9 PHOTO CREDIT: KOSCIUSKO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A BEACON OF safety

With a population of nearly 200 people, the Town of Macy is located within Allen Township, Miami County, and centered approximately one hour away from three surrounding cities: South Bend, Fort Wayne, and Lafayette. Allen Township is one of 14 townships in Miami County, and at the center of this rural Indiana community sits the Macy-Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department.

A blend of firefighters, EMTs, EMRs, and paramedics, the fire department consists of approximately 20 members – all dedicated volunteers. They provide 24-hour fire and emergency services for both the Town of Macy and Allen

Township, encompassing 21.62 square miles. The department also responds to water rescues, grain bin accidents, and auto accidents including extrication and personal injury, and they provide all types of Basic Life Support (BLS) care. Furthermore, their average response time, over a five-year period, was an incredible three minutes.

Despite their quick response time, the volunteer fire department needed a new facility to call home. The reason for this was twofold; the fire department expanded to include emergency medical services which required additional room and equipment, and the existing facility was inadequate. The station lacked room for the required training activities, was

not compliant with ADA Standards, and was quickly deteriorating.

In 2016 the Town of Macy embarked on a journey toward enhancing its firefighting capabilities, commissioning JPR to conduct a comprehensive Feasibility Study on the existing facility. Several issues were identified including rotting structural columns and inadequate storage for equipment and turn-out gear. In fact, the storage situation was so dire that personnel could not even access equipment while the fire trucks were parked inside the garage, and one truck needed to be moved in order to reach another.

After the in-depth analysis, it was determined that a new facility was

Macy is a small town with a big heart.

needed. Following this decision, JPR worked alongside the Town of Macy to design a new station for the volunteer fire department.

“Macy is in the extreme northern part of Miami County, 15 miles from the county seat. It is vital to the well-being of our residents to have emergency services nearby,” said Marilyn Jackson, Town Manager of Macy. “The new station will reduce emergency response times, provide training and equipment storage space, and aid in the recruitment of volunteers.”

The new 3,360-square-foot facility features modern amenities including a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system. Central to the design is the

inclusion of four spacious apparatus bays which facilitate seamless ingress and egress for firetrucks – a critical enhancement that streamlines response efforts during emergencies – and standalone lockers for turn-out gear. It also houses a dedicated radio room, a versatile training space equipped to accommodate up to 32 individuals, and essential office space. Additionally, beyond its functional elements, the station can serve as a hub of activity for community events throughout the year.

“It is extremely well designed to fulfill its function as a fire station,” said Jackson. “And as a bonus, it’s beautiful!”

Although the land was donated to the fire department, the cost of construction was approximately $625,000. To move this project forward, the Town needed to obtain funding from several sources. JPR’s expertise proved instrumental in securing vital grants from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) worth $590,000 in total. The Town of Macy committed $25,000 to the project, and a grant from the Miami County Community Foundation closed the remaining gap amount.

Once the funding was secured, the project was released for bidding. This took place toward the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, and only one bid

MACY-ALLEN TOWNSHIP VOLUNTEER FIRE STATION - MACY, INDIANA

THE TRAINING SPACE IS EQUIPPED TO ACCOMMODATE UP TO 32 INDIVIDUALS

THE NEW FIRE STATION CAN SERVE AS A HUB OF ACTIVITY FOR COMMUNITY EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

was received – which exceeded the budget. JPR worked with the bidder to implement value engineering in the design, ensuring it remained within budget and enabling the project to proceed.

Constructed in 2023, the new fire station represents the culmination of years of planning and perseverance, embodying a paradigm shift in firefighting infrastructure for the Town of Macy. The facility meets all federal, state, and local codes and is much more efficient to operate in terms of electric, water, and gas usage.

Aside from its functionality, the fire station provides a comfortable space for the brave volunteers who keep the people of Allen Township safe.

According to Jackson, the most important characteristic for any firm should be integrity.

“Consider the situation that small rural communities are in. Small, three to five member boards of lay people with no technical expertise embarking upon wastewater, stormwater, and building projects – totally dependent upon the firm it hires,” she said. “There are not enough adjectives to describe how wonderful JPR is to work with.”

Services Provided Architecture Engineering Project Funding Construction Administration

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

JPR’S dynamic Environmental Department is fueled by expertise and a deep commitment to preserving our natural world.

JOSH KLOSINSKI, LPG

Professional Geologist

Grand Valley State University B.S. in Geology

Josh’s journey into environmental geology was born from a childhood fascination with rocks and minerals, evolving into a career driven by curiosity and a commitment to human and environmental health.

As an environmental geologist, Josh tackles a myriad of challenges, from closing underground storage tanks to conducting soil and groundwater sampling. His meticulous attention to detail ensures no stone is left unturned, while his proficiency in data analysis delivers actionable insights for clients. Communication lies at the heart of Josh’s work, translating complex findings into accessible language for all stakeholders.

Josh’s dedication extends beyond project requirements; he prioritizes continuous education and fosters lasting partnerships built on trust and transparency. With a focus on honesty and integrity, Josh navigates regulatory complexities with clarity, empowering clients to make informed decisions.

Aquatic Scientist

Grace College & Theological Seminary; B.S. in Environmental Science

As an aquatic scientist with a degree in Environmental Science, Carter spent his childhood exploring lake ecosystems. This exploration ignited a lifelong fascination, making him the go-to expert for understanding inland aquatic environments. Carter’s expertise extends from lakes and streams to rivers and wetlands, where he meticulously examines biological, chemical, and geological components to ensure their health.

Central to his role is a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship. Carter employs a diverse range of skills, from water monitoring to assessing trophic states and nutrient loading, ensuring a holistic understanding of ecosystem dynamics.

Carter champions the interconnectedness of nature and humanity, advocating for responsible management practices. His dedication guarantees innovative solutions that prioritize environmental health for future generations.

The team epitomizes JPR’s commitment to environmental excellence, offering comprehensive solutions that harmonize with nature and empower our clients to navigate environmental challenges with confidence.

CARTER SCHUH

Imagine a structure that suddenly shifts or shows signs of distress. You see cracks running up the walls, rusted columns, or mold creeping along the ceiling. Perhaps the floor feels uneven, or the wall appears to bulge outward. Maybe you hear unusual sounds, such as creaking or popping, emanating from the building.

Individually, these indicators suggest structural distress. However, when found together, they can foreshadow potentially catastrophic harm to the structure, its surrounding environment, and nearby people.

Early detection and timely intervention can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety and stability of a structure.

Forensic science, in its simplest form, refers to the use of scientific methods to find out how or why something happened. Forensic structural investigations apply this same principle to buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. It involves detailed examination and analysis to determine why the infrastructure experienced structural failures, defects, or collapse.

Conducted by forensic structural engineers, each investigation requires a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical skill, and investigative prowess to uncover the truth behind the structural mystery. These professionals will delve into the core issues and examine visual evidence found in masonry, concrete, steel, wood, and other materials. The primary goal of a forensic structural investigation is to identify the root cause of a problem and provide recommendations for remediation or repair.

Forensic structural investigations typically follow a systematic approach that involves four key steps:

1. Site Inspection – Engineers conduct thorough site inspections to assess the extent of damage and collect pertinent data. They document their findings through photographs, measurements, and sketches. JPR also utilizes drone technology allowing for closer observation of high-elevation areas of concern.

2. Analysis – Detailed analysis of structural components, materials, design plans, and construction methods is performed to identify potential causes of failure.

3. Testing – Various methods, including material testing and non-destructive testing, are employed to evaluate the integrity of the structure and identify weaknesses.

4. Reporting – A comprehensive report summarizing the investigation findings, including the root causes of failure and recommendations for remediation, is prepared.

PHOTO TAKEN DURING THE FORENSIC STRUCTURAL INVESTIGATION OF A CANTILEVER DECK

Through an investigation, a forensic structural engineer can ensure the infrastructure complies with applicable codes and standards, can aid in the support of an insurance claim or litigation involving structural issues, and can help determine the feasibility of a renovation. Additionally, forensic structural investigations often follow incidents – such as building collapse, damage from fires and natural disasters, or construction defects. Investigations may also be conducted proactively to identify potential risks or future vulnerabilities.

A proactive approach can provide both a peace of mind for the client, as well as cost-savings if structural issues are found. This is illustrated in the investigation of a high-elevation cantilever deck on Klinger Lake in Michigan. Although the client had no explicit structural concerns at the time of the investigation, they wanted to do their due diligence regarding safety. It was fortunate they did, because serious issues were found that would otherwise not have been detected.

The investigation found significant cracks in all four of the concrete footings, steel brackets that were rusted and broken at the concrete interface, and one of two long columns near the lake’s edge was significantly out of plumb. These issues, alongside others, severely reduced the ability of the footings to support the load capacity of the deck. Had these issues not been found and repaired, they could have later resulted in property damage or loss of life.

The importance of forensic structural investigations cannot be overstated. Not only do they shed light on the factors contributing to structural failures, but they also play a crucial role in preventing future disasters. By identifying design flaws, construction errors, material defects, and environmental factors, these investigations enhance the safety and resilience of built environments.

OBSOLETE METHODS OF FOUNDATION WALL

DURING AN INVESTIGATION, NON-DESTRUCTIVE BUT THOROUGH MEASURES ARE TAKEN TO GAIN A COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING

DRONES ARE EMPLOYED TO VISUALLY DOCUMENT HARD-TO-REACH AND OFTEN DANGEROUS AREAS

FORENSIC STRUCTURAL INVESTIGATION WAS DONE OF THE TASTY NUT SHOP & SODA BAR IN WHITE PIGEON, MICHIGAN

PROJECT EXAMPLE

Water Works Standpipe Investigation

Bremen, Indiana

In 2023, JPR performed a Forensic Structural Investigation of the Historic Water Works Standpipe for the Town Bremen after deteriorated brick and mortar was discovered around the ground floor access door. The intent of the investigation was to be an early step toward future restorations to extend the life of the standpipe.

Constructed in 1892 as a public water supply tower, the standpipe consists of a 68-foot-tall brick base with Second Gothic Revival style design elements. A 36-foot-tall cylindrical steel water tank sits atop the base. Decommissioned in 1955, the standpipe was named an American Historic Water Landmark in 1975.

JPR performed a visual inspection around the exterior of the tower as well as the interior areas that were safely accessible – from the ground floor to the top floor, immediately below the tank. Non-destructive testing was performed using a rock hammer for sounding and chipping; a 4-foot carpenter’s level for checking level, plumb, and straightness; a magnifying glass for close examination of construction material cracks; and a flashlight. A drone was also used to collect valuable high-elevation images of the

standpipe tank quickly and efficiently, as well as obtain comprehensive evidence on the condition of the brickwork from top to bottom at areas that were not easily or cost-effectively accessible.

As part of the report, comprehensive photographic images were organized to enable the client not only to observe the structural problems that have been identified but also to gauge the prevalence of these issues across the entire structure. They illustrate the deterioration of the wood decking, staircases, and supports that were original to the structure, while highlighting the absence of safety handrails. The images also provide insight into the standpipes condition, eliminating the need to enter the structure and expose oneself to unsafe conditions.

JPR provided the Town with a list of recommended historical restoration contractors, as well as potential sources of grant funding for restoration construction. Our team will continue to work with the Town in future phases to restore the standpipe, so it stands as a historic icon for generations to come.

Services Provided: Forensic Structural Investigation Drone Technology

A DRONE WAS EMPLOYED TO DOCUMENT THE EXTERIOR OF THE STANDPIPE

IT TAKES A TEAM

At JPR, our mission is to provide superior client service. Our goal is to complete your project on time and within budget, while exceeding your expectations. This commitment to service stems from a culture of collaboration and willingness to go beyond what is typically required. We owe our success to JPR’s exceptional team of experts, and we’d like to showcase a few of these professionals who played a role in completing the projects highlighted on the previous pages.

ERIC MORIN

Architectural Technician

Characterized by professionalism and a collaborative spirit, Eric joined JPR in 2021. He plays a pivotal role in the realization of architectural designs and documents, working alongside the firm’s architects to ensure precision and excellence. Eric’s dedication to excellence shines through in his meticulous approach to tasks, drawing on his strengths of dependability and diligence to contribute to project success. Furthermore, his commitment to ongoing learning and professional development is demonstrated by his recent attainment of the Autodesk Revit Certification. Eric’s blend of technical proficiency and interpersonal skills makes him an invaluable addition to the team.

MARK WILSON

Senior Engineer

Since joining JPR in 1995, Mr. Wilson has been involved in the design and management of the firm’s Federal Aid roadway projects. He has also assumed responsibility for engineering peer review, project design, structural and geotechnical engineering, and project management. His largest design projects include a $13 million Phase I Reconstruction of SR 19 in Elkhart, Indiana, and a $6 million Waterford Mills Parkway (new roadway overpass) in Goshen, Indiana. Throughout his career, Mark has designed numerous small county bridges, spearheaded engineering efforts for structural bridge and building investigations, and provided his specialized insight into vault assessments beneath municipal sidewalks.

DIANA CAMPBELL Executive Assistant

Mrs. Campbell joined JPR in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of experience from diverse fields. As the executive assistant to Ken Jones, President of JPR, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the executive office. Despite the challenges of transitioning from healthcare and military backgrounds to the architectural, engineering, and municipal sectors, Diana embraces each day with enthusiasm and a smile. She sees every new task as an opportunity to learn and grow, relishing the chance to expand her skill set in a new environment. Diana’s main strengths lie in her exceptional organizational skills and keen attention to detail. Her ability to keep everything in order makes her a valuable asset to the team.