Engineering-Focused Design & Drafting for Telecom/Broadband, Utilities, Tech, & Energy

Project Title: New Mexico FTTX Network Buildout 

Summary: FineLines completed design for a client building a fiber optic network in the Santa Fe area. We started with a high-level feasibility study of the area to determine best locations and routes to take as well as the cost implications of a full build out. Next, we subdivided the area and designed out the detailed network components including routing, structure placement, cabling, splice locations, cabinet location, and service areas at a detailed level. We then turned these designs into legible and actionable construction plans for use by the construction teams. Alongside construction drawings, we also created permit drawings to be reviewed and approved by the relevant permitting authorities. Finally, we created dashboards and online maps of the network using ArcGIS Online for client tracking purposes.

Our Task: We were tasked with producing an HLD analysis packet, designing out the service area as needed, creating construction documents for use in the field, constructing permit drawings for project approvals, and developing online maps/dashboards for client tracking.

Challenges: Our challenge was to design out this area that contained a mix of newer developments, old neighborhoods with limited information, major state highways, and commercial areas. Each of these areas require special attention as we had to meet specific permitting requirements while keeping the design efficient and economical.

Solutions: We were able to overcome these obstacles and meet our client expectations by tapping into our extensive design experience and knowledge of fiber optic networks to make the best decisions possible.

Outcomes:

The project deliverables were completed ahead of schedule and included:

• 1 high-level analysis packet
• 486,580’ of proposed route
• 8,556 serviceable locations (homes)
• 2,029,999’ of fiber optic cables
• 419 splice locations
• 11 city permits
• 5 DOT permits
• 11 construction drawings
• 1 OLT permit
• 1 interactive web map
• 1 dashboard
• 1 field editing app

Project Title: DOT Permitting in Illinois 

Summary: When venturing into new markets, it is common to experience road blocks and issues that can delay project completion timelines. In this example, our client was a telecommunications company looking to expand into the Illinois market. Doing this requires extensive research on permit requirements and development of workflows to meet those requirements. In order to keep permitting on track, we were able to decipher compliance requirements and turn them into actionable workflows. We developed an attractive template that was used to create high-quality permit drawings, imperative for quick approvals.

Our Task: Our task was to research permit requirements for Illinois DOT, create a working template in ArcGIS, develop a workflow process for efficient turn arounds, and produce high-quality permits.

Challenges: When working with permitting authorities, especially state DOT permitting authorities, it is important to follow their existing specifications and requirements. The approval process is strict and revisions often have long turnaround times resulting in halted construction. Because of this, it is crucial to have accurate, up-to- standard permits in order to get them approved the first time.

Solutions: Our team utilized previous experience working with DOT permitting authorities to develop efficient workflows and compliant layouts. With the use of ArcGIS, we are able to efficiently produce permits of the highest quality and can ensure timely approval of permits.

Outcomes:

• Permit requirements and workflow documentation
• 70+ permits completed and approved
• ArcGIS Pro template