THE SOURCE
JPR IS A FULL-SERVICE ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING FIRM OFFERING COMPREHENSIVE PROJECT LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT FROM START TO FINISH.
From Brownfield to Ballpark
KEN JONES PRESIDENT
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
Transforming Spaces: Vacant to Vibrant
Effluent Efficiency: SLRWD’s WWTP Upgrade
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
As much as I try, I find that I simply cannot learn enough about the amazing group of professionals that serve our clients on a daily basis. From our outreach ambassadors in the customer care areas to our most senior professionals, each one of them seems to be focused on responsiveness, quality, and personal service.
You would think that with these words I am describing a retail operation or a home services provider. Amazingly enough, the concept of great service applies perfectly to what we do; and in many ways is just as critical, if not more so, for fostering relationships in the A&E world.
If at some point, when I move on to my next adventure, it will be this legacy that I know will endure. Keep it up JPR team! I couldn’t be more impressed, and I know our clients feel the same.
In 1982, the Beloit Brewers (now the Beloit Sky Carp) joined the Midwest League as a baseball expansion farm team for the Milwaukee Brewers. Since their inception 40 years ago, the team has undergone many changes including new Major League affiliations, multiple owners, and several team names. However, one thing that hasn’t changed throughout the years is the city they call home: Beloit, Wisconsin. The landscape of baseball began to look bleak for the Minor League team in Beloit. The stadium, located outside of the downtown area, was in a state of disrepair. It
lacked energy, and attendance was at an all-time low.
In 2018, Major League Baseball began reorganizing Minor League Baseball (MiLB) teams, with many teams being considered for elimination as part of the restructuring. In 2020, Beloit was one of them.
Faced with a deteriorating stadium and the pressure of meeting new standards, the Sky Carp were in dire need of a new field. Without it, the team would almost certainly be eliminated from the league and the community they called home would lose a valuable part of the City’s fabric.
THE MASTER PLAN: Recognizing an opportunity to save the team and reinvigorate the downtown Entertainment District, the River Bend Stadium Authority (RBSA), a non-profit organization, was formed. Discussions were quickly started with both public and private stakeholders regarding the idea of building a new stadium to ultimately be a catalyst for economic growth and community placemaking. To garner support from the City of Beloit and ensure the viability of this new stadium, the need for a Master Plan of the downtown area and neighboring Illinois city of South Beloit became apparent.
This Master Plan was developed through a collaborative effort to establish critical linkages, identify economic revitalization opportunities, implement placemaking
components, and create a roadmap to address the growing needs of the Entertainment District. Although there were discussions about building the new stadium near I-90 for easy highway access, it was ultimately decided that revitalizing downtown Beloit and South Beloit would be more successful by drawing people closer to the area. Consequently, a 9-acre parcel along a bend of the Rock River was selected as the focus for the new stadium.
Many factors required consideration during the planning process including parking studies, multi-modal transportation coordination, and the planning and development of pedestrian corridors to encourage pedestrian movement between the stadium and the downtown Entertainment District.
Studying extensions of the current trail connections and pedestrian pathways that weaved along the state borders and Rock River were also an important factor. In addition, the celebration of historical, cultural, and environmental features was paramount for the success of the project.
However, investigating the feasibility of this new property for ABC Supply Stadium would bring to light its storied past – along with potential problems that could quickly derail its construction.
A POLLUTED PAST:
If the new stadium were to be built at this location, it would sit atop land that was once home to a manufactured gas plant, which had leaked carcinogenic pollutants into the surrounding soils. After the plant closed, the City constructed a wastewater
treatment facility on the site in the latter half of the 20th Century. When the treatment plant eventually shut down, the lot remained unused until 2020, when the RBSA and master planning efforts recognized the potential value the property had to offer. Working closely with the Cities of Beloit and South Beloit, along with various environmental agencies, the design team developed a plan enabling the site to be selected and permitted as the future home of ABC Supply Stadium and the Beloit Sky Carp.
The design team then had to navigate several critical obstacles.
To mitigate future concerns about the site’s historical hazards and ensure the efficient design and construction of the new stadium, the team conducted
THE STADIUM DESIGN INCORPORATES MANY AMENITIES INCLUDING COMFORTABLE PRIVATE SUITES
a meticulous evaluation of gas layers trapped within the polluted soils. These soils contained several abandoned concrete foundations and were also complicated by a high water table.
Given the heavily polluted nature of the brownfield site, it was crucial to minimize the amount of earth removed to avoid disturbing and potentially spreading contaminants. This constraint influenced both the grading process and the determination of building and field elevations. Due to the high water table, the playing field was elevated higher than usual, leading to the lowest level being set at street level and the decision to omit a basement. To further mitigate risks, a specialized below-grade ventilation system was designed and installed in the ballpark, ensuring additional protection against any residual hazards.
THE DESIGN: The design of the stadium was inspired by Beloit’s rich industrial and railway heritage. Large brick archways and rustic industrial materials are utilized throughout the entire 3,500-seat capacity stadium. Using over 250,000 Wisconsin-manufactured bricks, these archways pay homage to the grand rail stations of the late 19th Century.
While reminiscent of early American days, ABC Supply Stadium was designed with the modern visitor in mind. The stadium design incorporates a 360-degree concourse providing a full view of the field, connections to the Rock River, and family-friendly features such as inflatables, playground areas, comfortable private suites, concessions, and individual event spaces.
The team also prioritized sustainability by incorporating several environmentally friendly practices into the stadium’s design. These included the use of lowflow plumbing fixtures to conserve water, maximizing exterior glazing to bring natural daylight into interior spaces, and exceeding code requirements with a higher level of building insulation to enhance energy efficiency.
In addition to being the home of the Beloit Sky Carp, the stadium was specifically designed to host several
THE BELOIT HEALTH SYSTEMS CLUB SUITE HAS GARAGE DOOR WINDOWS AND A BALCONY THAT OVERLOOKS THE FIELD
PROJECT AWARDS
ASSOCIATED BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS OF WISCONSIN: 2021 “PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD” - ABC Supply Stadium was ranked highest by a panel of 22 judges. This award recognizes the innovation, quality, and superior performance of the project team.
ASSOCIATED BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS OF WISCONSIN: 2021 “PROJECTS OF DISTINCTION”
GOLD AWARD - This award recognizes construction projects that are built on merit and are judged by a panel of construction experts based on several criteria including quality, owner satisfaction, unusual challenges and safety.
THE DAILY REPORTER: 2021 “TOP PROJECT” AWARD - Out of 100 submissions, 40 were chosen for this award including ABC Supply Stadium.
WISCONSIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION: “BEST DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION PROJECTS OF 2021” - ABC Supply Stadium was awarded top honors in the “Best New Building Project” category.
year-round community destination events ranging from youth athletic competitions and concerts to banquets and movie nights. The flexibility of this venue makes it an economic driver of the community and provides an anchor destination within downtown Beloit.
A CONNECTED COMMUNITY:
To lay the foundation for a thriving downtown, the stadium’s main gate was strategically positioned to face the Entertainment District, placing it just a 5-minute walk from a variety of emerging restaurants and businesses. This deliberate plan aimed to develop an area similar to Wrigleyville, combining vibrant aesthetics with an energetic atmosphere to generate excitement, attract the community, and foster additional business and development.
Complementing this vision, an extensive parking study confirmed the availability of over 900 spaces within a 10-minute walk, leading to the inclusion of 148 onsite parking spaces. While this arrangement necessitates that some visitors park farther from the stadium,
the short walk through the downtown Entertainment District allows them to explore local businesses and restaurants. This approach also helps avoid large expanses of surface parking around the stadium, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the area.
ABC Supply Stadium and its operations are deeply connected to the surrounding community. The outfield concourse, for example, was designed to feature a rotating lineup of local food vendors throughout the year. This provides visitors with a diverse and ever-changing selection of fare. Stadium concessions also serve locally brewed beer and are managed by a company that operates two successful restaurants within 10 minutes of the ballpark. Additionally, a multi-use trail running through the stadium campus and along the Rock River connects downtown Beloit to South Beloit.
In short, every detail of ABC Supply Stadium was carefully considered to drive home the fact that it was built for the community.
A NEW ERA: The City of
Beloit experienced hope and renewed energy with the start of the 2021 MiLB season. Commencing with the completion of ABC Supply Stadium, a new era of baseball was ushered in causing a resurgence of revitalization to be felt throughout downtown and the surrounding areas. The community now has a plan, and a foundation is in place for future projects and development.
The construction of ABC Supply Stadium was as much about keeping Minor League Baseball and the Sky Carps in Beloit as it was for building a stronger quality of life for the community and the City’s residents.
Services Provided
Architecture
Engineering
Environmental
Landscape Architecture
Surveying
welcome to the team!
JPR is excited to announce the expansion of our team with the addition of highly skilled professionals from Territorial Engineering. This strategic integration combines the expertise and talents of both firms, further enhancing our ability to serve clients. Management staff from both companies believe this milestone presents an outstanding opportunity to deliver even more exceptional services to our valued clients.
ROBERT S. ALOI, PS
Senior Project Manager
Tri-State University (Angola, IN), B.S. in Civil Engineering
As the former owner, project manager, and land surveyor at Territorial Engineering LLC, Mr. Aloi’s dedication to providing high-quality work has earned him positive feedback and repeat business from loyal clients. With a foundation in civil engineering, Bob developed a deep appreciation for the art and challenge of land surveying and he understands that both disciplines are crucial for the successful development of land.
“One thing I am excited about is the opportunity to utilize my 35+ years of experience in the built environment to mentor young professionals in both surveying and engineering and still continue to learn from them in the process,” he said.
Bob ensures every project is executed with the highest level of accuracy and efficiency, and his commitment to excellence further solidifies his position as a leader in the field.
RICHARD ZEIGLER, JR.
Senior Support Technician
Lincoln Technical Institute (Allentown, PA), A.A.S. in Mechanical Drafting
With 28 years of experience in civil surveying, Mr. Zeigler brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Survey Department. He is known for his strong work ethic, proactive approach, and an unwavering drive to get things done. His practical onsite experience has equipped him with a broad range of skills that will prove invaluable to the team.
According to Rich, “I’m looking forward to merging my years of experience in the surveying and civil engineering fields with that of JPR’s to better serve our clients and surrounding communities.”
What Rich enjoys most about his job is the ever-changing nature of surveying. While the tasks may be similar, each project presents unique challenges and new information to work with, making every day different. This constant variety keeps him engaged and motivated, as he relishes the opportunity to solve problems and uncover new monuments.
OUR COMMITMENT: Our priority remains to provide exceptional service and solutions that meet our clients’ needs. This strategic move allows us to leverage the combined expertise of both firms, thereby providing a key component in furtherance of this commitment.
JAMES CULTURAL PLAZA - AUBURN, IN
In the heart of downtown Auburn, Indiana, the James Cultural Plaza stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and the transformative potential of public spaces. Commissioned by the James Foundation, the plaza invites residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a space that seamlessly blends art, history, and community engagement.
The James Cultural Plaza was originally the location of Souder Hospital, built in 1915 and razed in 2003. Despite its prime location, the site then sat as a vacant grassy lot until local philanthropists, Rick L. and Vicki L. James, had the vision to build a space to provide safe, familyfriendly opportunities with access to cultural interactions.
“It was one of the first major renovations happening in the City’s downtown area,” said Kendra Klink, Executive Director of the James Foundation. “Since then, buildings have been improved,
restaurants and boutiques have been established, and the community is becoming more vibrant all the time.”
Known for its early 20th-century vehicles, production of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) is a foundational piece of the City’s culture. This history is celebrated annually during the ACD Festival, one of the world’s premier classic car shows. Taking place downtown, this festival became the main inspiration for the design of the cultural plaza. The idea was to create a flexible event and gathering space that could serve as a cruise-in during the festival weekend and hold both community and private events throughout the year. It would celebrate the history and culture of the Auburn community, while also functioning as a major gateway for visitors coming into the City.
The design process began with community engagement, incorporating input from the James Cultural Foundation and Auburn residents on
how the space could best serve the City. This feedback shaped the vision. Once design commenced, multiple alternatives were explored and refined, leading to the development of the final construction documents. A standout feature of the plaza is its emphasis on hardscape design, which serves as a defining element of its character and functionality. Every element of the plaza’s infrastructure, from the intricately designed paver pattern to the seating walls, reflects Auburn’s rich automotive heritage.
Built in the 1920s and 1930s, ACD automobiles reflect the design principles of the Art Deco Movement from the same era. This unique history became a cornerstone of the design approach, with the automobiles’ Art Deco style inspiring many of the plaza’s elements. This attention to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the plaza but also serves as a poignant reminder of the City’s cultural legacy. One of the most striking
A SCULPTURE, FEATURING A QUOTE FROM PABLO PICASSO, SITS AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER
features is the use of diverse shapes and profiles throughout the space – blending sleek, modern lines with meticulous detailing.
One example is the custom design of backlit stainless-steel inserts incorporated into the overhead structures and railings throughout the plaza. These patterns, developed using symmetry, straight lines, and circles, were inspired by the tires and grills of ACD automobiles. Positioned near the seating areas, the inserts are illuminated with a variety of colors at night, adding visual interest and ambiance. The seating area itself features Tangent Rail Seating from Forms and Surfaces, providing a clean aesthetic with durable die-cast aluminum benches.
Central to the plaza’s design is a performance stage located in the northwest corner, featuring an overhead canopy. This focal point not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also serves as a symbolic nexus where community members can gather to celebrate culture and creativity. The design of the stage and canopy was inspired by the curvilinear forms of the ACD automobile, as the arching roof mirrors the distinctive curvature of the automobiles’ prominent wheel well design. Designing this barrel-vaulted standing seam roof was a challenge which required close communication with the installer to custom fabricate the metal panels.
Another example is the “Flying Lady” hood ornament, which inspired the design of custom skateboard deterrents along the plaza’s perimeter seatwalls. Although simplified, a closer look at the fixtures reveals contours that mimic the “Flying Lady”. These sleek stainless-steel wall inserts deter skateboard damage while paying homage to the classic cars. Permeable pavers were utilized to collect, infiltrate, and store water onsite – reducing the risk of flooding and erosion. This environmentally friendly approach not only minimizes the plaza’s ecological footprint but also enhances its resilience in the face of changing weather patterns. Approximately 8,000 square
LOW-MAINTENANCE VEGETATION, SUCH AS WALKERS LOW CATMINT AND NEARLY WILD ROSES, PROVIDE POPS OF COLOR
THE DISTINCT COLOR CONTRAST OF THE ELABORATE PAVER AND CONCRETE DESIGN DEFINES SPACES THROUGHOUT THE PLAZA
feet of permeable pavers were utilized within the design of the plaza. Stacked end to end, these pavers would be more than 2,000 feet long. Additionally, this system can retain over 3,000 cubic feet of stormwater, equivalent to nearly 500 full bathtubs. Since stormwater management through permeable pavers was not widely known at the time, thorough communication with the permitting agencies was essential to explain and document the approach.
The permeable pavers, combined with concrete pathways and unit pavers, form an elaborate pattern that defines spaces, creates an overarching identity, and enhances the plaza’s aesthetic appeal. Precast concrete walls, pedestrian-scale lighting, and a prominent sculptural piece further contribute to creating an immersive experience for visitors.
Designing the concrete planter walls to curve while also continuously changing elevation was challenging. The designers meticulously planned these elements and collaborated closely with the precast concrete manufacturer to successfully create custom forms. These planters, located throughout the plaza, house a variety of vegetation. Low-maintenance plants were selected to provide four seasons of interest. Perennials offer long bloom times from spring through late summer, while ornamental grasses and Columnar Hornbeam trees provide
interesting forms and structure during winter. Additionally, shrubs offer pops of color throughout the space.
“I like how large and open the space is, yet it feels comfortable with the greenspace on the perimeter of the plaza,” said Klink. “The paver design on the ground mimics the shape of the elevated stage, which looks neat in photos, especially from above.”
Several functional requirements were prioritized during the design process. Flexibility was a key aspect, with the plaza designed to accommodate a variety of uses and groups. This versatility was essential for ensuring the space could be used year-round for different purposes. Accessibility was another priority, with special attention given to grading the plaza and sidewalks to ensure they were flush and free of tripping hazards, making the entire space accessible to all users. Durability and maintenance considerations also played a significant role, with materials selected for their longevity and low upkeep requirements to ensure the plaza would remain in good condition for many years with minimal maintenance.
Since opening to the public in 2016, the plaza has become a testament to
the meticulous planning and dedicated efforts of all parties involved. The initial objective was clear: to transform a longvacant lot into a vibrant, multifunctional space that would serve as a hub for community activities. The plaza now has an event schedule that includes local ballet, magic productions, live music, and more. “It’s exciting to see people coming to an event with an armful of blankets, chairs, and snacks to enjoy whatever event is going on,” said Klink. According to her, each event aligns with the mission and vision of the foundation and is always family-friendly and free.
Today, with a symbolic nod to the City’s illustrious past, the James Cultural Plaza serves as a dynamic gathering space for the City of Auburn – catering to a myriad of community needs and aspirations while creating an immersive experience for its visitors. From hosting farmer’s markets to providing intimate seating for small gatherings, this vibrant space facilitates connections and fosters a sense of belonging among Auburn’s diverse population.
Services Provided
Landscape Architecture
Civil Engineering
Structural Engineering
THE “FLYING LADY” HOOD ORNAMENT FROM AUBURN CORD DUESENBERG CARS INSPIRED STAINLESS-STEEL SKATEBOARD DETERRENTS PLACED ON THE PLAZA’S PERIMETER SEATWALLS
The Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District (SLRWD) embarked on a significant upgrade to its wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) with the design and installation of an effluent filter. Essentially, an effluent filter acts as a strainer, preventing large chunks of debris from passing through. This helps with WWTP effluent total suspended solids and effluent phosphorus removal efficiency for improved compliance with the SLRWD’s discharge permit regulations. The projects Engineering Design Phase began in early 2019 and saw the completion of construction in January 2021.
This initiative was crucial for addressing persistent issues with the aging effluent polishing pond, which had been operational since the early 2000s. The pond’s inefficiency in managing algae formation and solids settlement necessitated a modern solution to enhance the wastewater treatment process. The primary objective was to replace the outdated 2-million-gallon polishing pond with a more efficient tertiary cloth disk filtration system. This move was essential to mitigate algae formation issues and improve solids settlement and phosphorus precipitation.
The project’s scope included several significant upgrades and installations. The existing polishing pond was
dewatered and decommissioned, paving the way for the new filtration system. Installed within a new building on the existing WWTP site, this system is central to the upgraded treatment process. A new 77,000-gallon effluent equalization basin was constructed to buffer effluent flows from the existing Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) before filtration. Additionally, a poly-aluminum chloride (PAC) chemical feed system was added to enhance the treatment process, and upgrades were made to the plant site lift station to support the new system. The project incorporated AquaAerobic Systems AquaDisk cloth media filters due to their compatibility with the existing SBR system, also manufactured by Aqua-Aerobic Systems. These filters
provide a significant improvement over the previous methods, offering more effective screening of residual suspended solids and phosphorus in a compact footprint. This efficiency enables better utilization of the WWTP site, as the new system occupies less space than the decommissioned polishing pond.
While the project did not increase the overall treatment capacity, it significantly improved the efficiency of removing suspended solids and phosphorus. This improvement aligns with current regulatory standards, resulting in fewer effluent Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and phosphorus violations.
The performance of the enhanced tertiary treatment directly benefits
AQUADISK FILTER SYSTEM INLET AND BACKWASH DISCHARGE
AQUADISK CLOTH DISK FILTER BASIN
the receiving stream by reducing the environmental impact of the effluent waste stream. The new filtration system supports the long-term sustainability of the WWTP by freeing up space for potential future improvements on the site formerly occupied by the polishing pond. Moreover, the elimination of the polishing pond reduces long-term maintenance costs associated with dewatering sludge. Although the new disk filters require regular backwashing and cleaning, the process is largely automated, simplifying operation and maintenance.
One of the main challenges faced during the project was maintaining uninterrupted wastewater treatment service. Special permission from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) was required to bypass the existing polishing pond during construction, which temporarily increased effluent TSS and phosphorus levels. IDEM acknowledged this as a necessary step to achieve the project’s long-term goals. A key lesson learned was the advantage of designing pump stations with multiple pumps to handle varying flow rates efficiently. This approach allows large pump stations to
manage wet well levels more effectively if they get too high.
This project represents a significant advancement in wastewater treatment for the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District. With JPR’s guidance, the project not only addressed existing inefficiencies but also laid the foundation for a more sustainable and cost-effective operation in the long term. The implementation of the effluent filter stands as a testament to the District’s commitment to environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
The project was funded through a State Revolving Fund (SRF) grant/loan package, ensuring financial support for the critical upgrades. JPR served as the design engineer, construction administrator, and Resident Project Representative (RPR) for this project. The team’s expertise ensured that the project was executed successfully from initial design through the Final Construction Phase.
Services Provided:
Wastewater Engineering
Resident Project Representative
Funding Procurement
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.
AUSTIN KENT
Survey Crew Chief
Austin is a seasoned professional with 13 years of dedicated experience with the JPR team. From construction staking roads to wading through remote rivers for cross sections, his love for the outdoors and the variety in his work keeps him passionate about his job. Austin’s strengths lie in teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, ensuring projects are completed with precision and efficiency in diverse conditions. Dedicated and hardworking, he is a key asset to JPR. Austin is currently pursuing his FAA 107 certification to contribute to the team’s work in drone and LiDAR technologies and is eager to learn the office side of survey fieldwork, including CAD and Civil 3D.
JENNIFER RANSBOTTOM Director of Utility Management
With over 23 years of experience at JPR, Jennifer specializes in assisting municipalities and sewer districts in their operations. She excels in public speaking, guiding board trustees in their roles, and simplifying the connection process for property owners. Jennifer’s favorite aspect of her job is meeting new people and assisting board members, often volunteers, by making their responsibilities more manageable. With a deep knowledge of sewer districts and a strong ability to communicate complex information, she brings invaluable expertise and a people-focused approach to the JPR team.
DAN BYAM Senior Engineer
Since joining JPR in 2012, Dan has been integral to the design and construction administration of various civil engineering projects, with a particular emphasis on water and wastewater infrastructure. Dan’s reputation as an expert field engineer is well-earned. He excels in identifying and resolving technical challenges, ensuring projects are not only completed efficiently but also remain within budget. His meticulous attention to detail guarantees the highest quality outcomes, while his ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and stakeholders has been pivotal in driving project success.
