Parking Upgrade

Upgrading Western Iowa Tech Community College's parking lots 5 and 6 in Sioux City significantly enhances the daily experience for students, faculty and staff. As the campus grows, there is a strong demand for attentive and efficient solutions.

A well-planned upgrade can solve many challenges including the number of spaces, accessibility, safety, drainage and environmental impacts.

This project involved the replacement of 8,870 sq. yards of pavement, as well as adding storm sewer, landscape islands and lighting. Careful planning and management were essential to minimize disruptions to students, faculty and staff during a two-stage construction sequence.

A few challenges were encountered during utility installation that required additional consideration. The first was the discovery of an unknown watermain after the proposed watermain had already been installed. A plan revision was quickly developed to maintain the recently installed new water main, while still allowing for the recently-discovered water main to be tied in. The project was able to continue with little delay.

Additionally, there was an existing underground roof drain pipe that was too deep to gravity drain to the proposed storm sewer manhole just downstream. A revision was made to remove a portion of the existing pipe, as well as modify the delivered storm sewer manhole to tie in the roof drain line.

Stormwater flow and drainage were also critical components of the paving improvements. Improved drainage with new subdrains (1,171 LF), storm sewer (832 LF), and intakes throughout the parking lot, were installed to capture stormwater efficiently and effectively.

Another consideration was to optimize the parking lot layout for access by delivery vehicles, service vehicles, and garbage service. The reconstructed parking lot included 166 new parking stalls including six handicapped spaces, 5-ft. sidewalks, new landscaped islands with lighting, and a new fire hydrant.

By creating defined islands, traffic flow was improved, guiding vehicles of all uses through the designated pathways for easier navigation and increased safety. The installation of new LED lighting provides improved illumination for both vehicles and pedestrians, increasing security and visibility during evening hours.