Summit Design and Engineering Services

Most infrastructure projects do not get more expensive because of one dramatic failure. They get more expensive in smaller, avoidable ways when information moves too slowly between disciplines.

When civil, structural, and geotechnical teams sit in separate firms, under separate contracts, with separate timelines, coordination becomes another risk to manage. Questions wait for handoffs. Decisions lose context. Problems surface later than they should, often when the cost of fixing them is already higher.

That is the integration argument.

At Summit, we built our model around bringing those disciplines together under one roof. One team. One point of accountability. One working conversation early enough to resolve issues before they turn into redesign, delay, or change orders.

After 30 years, we have seen the difference that makes. Better coordination is not just an internal efficiency. It shows up in project outcomes, in smoother delivery, and in the confidence, clients have that the team around the table is working from the same set of facts.

Many agencies are managing critical infrastructure with limited staff, aging assets, and more demands than time or funding allows.

In that environment, it is understandable that maintenance often becomes reactive. A pipe breaks, it gets fixed. Pavement deteriorates, it gets patched. Another issue rises to the top, and attention shifts there. That is not a sign of inattention. It is the reality of trying to keep systems operating while balancing day-to-day needs with long-term priorities.

What we are seeing more often now is a shift toward a more predictive posture. Agencies are using GIS-based condition mapping to build a clearer view of system performance. They are applying AI-assisted distress analysis to identify patterns earlier. They are building capital plans on better data, so decisions are shaped by documented conditions rather than limited visibility or gut feel.

The value is straightforward: the cost of knowing is often far less than the cost of being surprised.

For agencies carrying a lot of responsibility with finite resources, a clearer picture of infrastructure health can make all the difference.

The Carolina Hurricanes' journey to the Stanley Cup Playoffs is a reminder that success isn't always about the fastest path—it's about perseverance, teamwork, and overcoming adversity.

Those same qualities inspire us at Summit.

Over the past several seasons, more than 100 Summit employees from across the company have had the opportunity to experience Hurricanes hockey through our ticket program. What started as a benefit has become a way to celebrate achievements, build relationships, recognize great work, and create lasting memories.

Like the Canes, we've learned that growth happens through challenges, strong teams, and a commitment to supporting one another.

Here's to resilience, teamwork, and cheering on a North Carolina team that continues to inspire us on and off the ice.

Summit has supported SECU’s branch program across North Carolina by adapting prototype designs to the specific conditions of each site while coordinating architecture, civil engineering, permitting, and construction-phase services in-house.

That integrated approach is what makes program management work at this scale. With multiple disciplines working as one team, coordination stays tight, decisions move with less friction, and the work stays consistent from early planning through delivery.

It is a practical example of how integrated delivery supports long-term programs: clear standards, steady ex*****on, and accountability that carries from site to site.

Last night we attended the 2026 WTS NC Triangle Go Gala alongside many incredible transportation professionals from across the Triangle.

The evening was a great opportunity to celebrate the people and projects shaping the future of transportation while supporting the next generation of women pursuing careers in STEM and transportation-related industries. Events like the Go Gala continue to highlight the importance of connection, mentorship, and investing in future leaders.

Thank you to the WTS NC Triangle Chapter for hosting another outstanding event and bringing together such an inspiring community. We enjoyed connecting with industry partners and celebrating the impact WTS continues to make across our industry.

We want to thank Chip Vanderzee for his past year of service as president of the APWA North Carolina Chapter. At this week's Facilities and Grounds Conference he passed the gavel along to the next president and said the following about his time as president:

"I’m incredibly thankful for the outstanding team and volunteers who have supported me during my presidency, there are truly too many to name. It’s been exciting to see the continued success of our Chapter and our membership initiatives, and this conference also gives us the opportunity to recognize our Chapter Award winners and past presidents who made it all possible.”

Thank you Chip for all that you do for Summit and the community!

We are a proud sponsor of the upcoming NC APWA Facilities & Grounds Conference in Beaufort, NC, this week! Our own John Collins will be presenting on navigating ADA compliance, sharing practical guidance on exterior parking, accessible routes, and real-world compliance strategies.

We look forward to engaging with our partners in public works and hope you’ll find John Collins, Chip Vanderzee, and Randall Moore at the Summit booth.

Our Women In Search of Excellence (WISE) group hit the pavement yesterday for a site tour! Led by, Julie Foley, AIA CSI CDT, the group got a behind-the-scenes look at the new Greensboro ABC warehouse and the work that goes into delivering a complex, large-scale facility.

Julie led an engaging and insightful tour, breaking down key components of project management– from systems to project timelines, and coordination across teams.

Hearing how challenges were anticipated and addressed through strong program management and clear communication reinforced the value of experience-driven leadership on projects of this scale.

Site tours like this are a powerful way to share knowledge, strengthen our teams, and showcase the work happening in the field! We are extremely grateful to our client, Greensboro ABC, for participating in the tour and for trusting us with their projects.

We are proud to sponsor NCAFPM’s Annual Conference in Atlantic Beach next week! As a team deeply committed to effective floodplain management and resilient communities, our work is closely intertwined with NCAFPM’s dedication to advancing flood risk reduction across North Carolina.

Summit’s own Mike Robinson, Ken Ashe, and Todd Kennedy will be there, so be sure to find them at Summit’s booth if you are there!

As we head into the final week of , we’re proud to recognize the incredible work of some of our landscape architecture team and the impact they’re making across North Carolina communities.

Today we are spotlighting Tim G., Nik N., Raaga B., and Jibran S.

This team of Landscape Architects and Designers are currently leading and supporting a range of projects that are shaping vibrant, accessible, and resilient spaces. Their work spans:

Various ABC Boards

Various State Employee Credit Union (SECU) Branches

Multiple Municipalities across the State

NCDOT

Numerous Private Clients

Our team brings creativity, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to community-focused design.

Join us in celebrating the lasting impact of landscape architecture in our communities.