Civil Engineering Projects

This sixteen unit townhome development was created in coordination with Northstar Mountain Properties' Highlands development at the Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort in Truckee, California near Lake Tahoe. The conceptual design for the development centered on the idea of a housing project with the ability to ski from the comfort of your home. The ski in / ski out grading concept has been greatly accepted by the homeowners, developers, and the public. Environmental emphasis was implemented with the use of erosion control measures and underground infiltration systems. The use of these underground infiltrators reduces the possible eye sores typically created with detention ponds. Underground infiltrators minimize the possibility of erosion that would require maintenance to stay in compliance with the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board of California. Working closely with the Architect the units were located to maximize views, save trees, and match the surroundings of the alpine area. The design of this project entailed site grading, design of the sewer, storm drain, and water main. The design conforms to the Storm Water Management Manual (SWMM) and the Placer County Land Development Manual per Placer County code requirements, along with the strict requirements of the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board of California. A Technical drainage report for the development was created to size the hydraulic systems and the on-site retention needed to negate the downstream effects of the proposed development. 

Sierra Sunrise is a proposed 50 unit residential condominium development on a 15.5 acre site near Tramway Drive, off of Kingsbury Grade, in Douglas County, Nevada. The site is very close to the Lake Tahoe Basin and the Heavenly ski resort that has ski lifts at the end of Tramway drive. Therefore, the site will see a good amount of snow and is very steep with large areas of rock outcroppings and stands of tall conifer trees. Because of the topography and natural conditions of the site our vision for the design is to minimize the development footprint and disturbance area, thus preserving well over half of the site. Instead of spreading the development areas throughout the site we are proposing a relatively compact building footprint. This allows us to minimize the areas required for vehicular circulation and utilities to service the building. The civil engineering is fairly complicated as many retaining walls are required to minimize the construction footprint on the steep slope, while maintaining strict storm water quality control measures. In addition, required parking will be located under the building footprint to limit the amount of grading and tree removal that would be required for surface parking. Sustainable design, “Green,” elements will include maximizing open space, protect/restore habitat, limiting both roof and non-roof heat island effects and light pollution reduction. The project proposes to use both active and passive solar design to optimize energy performance as well as investigating other forms of on-site renewable energy; using recycled, reused, rapidly renewable and regionally extracted and manufactured materials on both the interior and exterior of the building; and working with the General Contractor to develop a construction waste management plan to recycle and divert as much material from local landfills as possible. 

  Telesto provided planning, surveying and engineering services for the Kings Beach Housing Now project for Domus Development in North Lake Tahoe, California. The Kings Beach Housing Now project will demonstrate substantial environmental, social and economic benefits for the region. The project aims to provide new income restricted housing and environmental improvements that will enhance the quality of life contributing to the long-term economic vitality of the region. The housing will promote a healthier environment through green buildings, storm water management and “smart growth” practices. By also supporting higher density infill development and increasing transit ridership, it will counter the environmental ills associated with sprawled development. The project builds on key redevelopment opportunities utilizing existing disturbed, blighted or underutilized properties. Through unique partnerships with Placer County, local community groups and landowners, the project proposes to build approximately 90 units of walkable, sustainable affordable housing and mixed use commercial on approximately 3.5 acres. The engineering involves enhanced designs to protect water quality in the Lake Tahoe area. The project includes the coordination with various Placer County agencies and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency to provide affordable housing in the Kings Beach area. The project consists of 6 sites throughout the Kings Beach area that will be developed to provide approximately 100 units. The project falls under the Placer County EQ & TRPA CEP, or community Enhancement Program, which requires close coordination with Placer County for the CEP submittal. Coordination with Caltrans was required to develop a joint use storm water treatment facility along SR-28. Civil design for the project requires knowledge and use of the Placer County Land Development Manual, the Placer County Storm Water Management Manual, the TRPACode or Ordinances and Caltrans Standard Specifications and Details.  

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