Empowering Projects with Comprehensive Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Services

HOW OUR CIVIL ENGINEERS AND SURVEYORS DELIVER EXCELLENCE

At GLS, we understand that detailed subsurface utility information is critical to the success of any infrastructure project. Our civil engineers and surveyors are proud to offer comprehensive Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) services across all quality levels, ensuring projects are safer, more efficient, and cost-effective. By integrating advanced technology, rigorous standards, and collaborative expertise, we support clients from initial planning through construction.

What is SUE and Why It Matters

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is a disciplined approach to identifying, mapping, and managing underground utilities. By reducing the risks associated with unknown or poorly documented utilities, SUE minimizes costly conflicts, delays, and safety hazards during construction. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), implementing SUE can save up to $4 for every $1 invested by avoiding utility relocations and project redesigns.

We Provide SUE Services Across All Levels (A to D)

▶ Records Research (Level D)

Research is a foundational step, relying on existing records to identify potential utilities.

• What We Do: Our team collects and reviews utility records, as-built drawings, and historical data from utility owners, municipalities, County Clerk's Offices and other sources.

• How We Support: We compile a comprehensive utility inventory that identifies existing easement estates, providing a baseline for planning and identifying areas needing further investigation.

• Value: Offers a cost-effective starting point, helping clients understand the scope of subsurface utilities early in the project.

▶ Surface Feature Survey (Level C)

This step builds on the previous by incorporating visible surface features to refine utility mapping.

• What We Do: Our surveyors conduct field investigations to locate manholes, valves, hydrants, and other visible utility indicators, correlating them with research data.

• How We Support: Using high-precision GPS and total stations, we create detailed mapping surveys that align surface features with record data.

• Value: Enhances accuracy for preliminary design, reducing uncertainty about utility locations.

▶ Utility Designation (Level B)

This step involves non-invasive geophysical methods to designate utility locations with greater precision and involves Levels C & D.

• What We Do: Our engineers and surveyors use advanced tools like ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic locators, and radio detection to map utilities in two dimensions (horizontal alignment).

• How We Support: We locate/define utility locations on-site and produce detailed CAD drawings, ensuring designers have reliable data for the evaluation/planning of conflict analysis.

• Value: Minimizes the risk of utility conflicts during excavation, saving time and costs while improving safety.

▶ Utility Test Holes (Potholes - Level A)

Provides the highest level of accuracy through physical exposure of utilities and includes Levels B through D.

• What We Do: We perform vacuum excavation or hand-digging to expose utilities, verifying their exact location, depth, size, material, and condition.

• How We Support: Our team delivers precise 3D coordinates and detailed documentation, integrated into project plans for final design and construction.

• Value: Eliminates guesswork, ensuring utilities are accurately accounted for during construction, and prevents costly unsafe conflicts.

Our Approach to SUE Excellence

Advanced Technology

We leverage state-of-the-industry equipment to deliver reliable results:

• GPR and Electromagnetic Tools: For accurate utility detection across various soil conditions.

• High-Precision Surveying: Using GPS, LiDAR, and robotic total stations for precise mapping.

• Data Integration: Combining the SUE results within BIM/GIS/CAD platforms for seamless project coordination and conflict identification.

Collaborative Expertise

Our civil engineers and surveyors work as a cohesive team, bringing complementary skills to every project:

• Engineers: Analyze utility data, assess risks, and integrate findings into design plans.

• Surveyors: Conduct fieldwork, verify data accuracy, perform research/plotting of recorded easement estates to produce detailed deliverables.

• Project Managers: Ensure clear communication with clients, utility owners, and contractors.

Benefits of Our Comprehensive SUE Services

• Enhanced Safety: Accurate utility mapping reduces the risk of conflicts/strikes, protecting workers and the public.

• Cost Savings: Early identification of utility conflicts avoids expensive redesigns and construction delays.

• Improved Efficiency: Reliable data streamlines design and construction, keeping projects on schedule.

• Client Confidence: Transparent deliverables and rigorous quality control build trust and support informed decision-making.

Partnering for Success

Our civil engineers and surveyors are dedicated to supporting your project with comprehensive SUE services. Whether you need preliminary records research or precise test hole data, we have the expertise and tools to deliver. By integrating SUE into your project, we help you build smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

Contact our team today to learn how our SUE services can reduce risks and enhance the success of your next infrastructure project.

GLS Services