What are the construction steps in land development?

Few things in land development are done universally every time, but there are 10 key steps in the construction of a land development project that almost always apply. Since land development construction is very costly and technical in nature, smart developers spend significant time on-site during construction. Not only that, it’s a hell of a lot of fun!

Step 1 - Construction Cost Review:

Review the approved construction plans and the quotes earlier obtained for each phase. Verify that each bid award fully covers the required construction elements to include, time, materials, machinery required, availability and any seasonal considerations. Review costs against budget to verify that construction is still economically feasible. Hold key contractor and engineer meetings, Finalize construction phase timeline. Then sequence construction and schedule the contractors for on-site project work. Set project marketing date.

Step 2 - Rough Grade Land:

This is the first dirt moving step. Clear and grub the land and section off the cut and fill areas within the project. The land is in its raw and uneven state. The primary goal is to rough cut the land to define and shape it. This includes leveling, cutting, forming, filling, grading of slopes and establishing the grade for drainage and storm water.

Step 3 - Install Wet Utilities:

Construction of sanitary sewer, storm drains, water system and fire suppression systems. Install sewer pipeline, sewer lift stations, water pipelines, storm drain lines, storm drain structures, pump stations, detention ponds, retention ponds and reservoirs. Alignment of structures and routing of lines must strictly comply with the technical specifications on the construction plans.

Step 4 - Install Dry Utilities:

Excavate, directional drill (as required) and install the required infrastructure for electrical power, telecommunications, natural gas and cable/fiber optics for TV, telephone and internet. As with wet utilities, precise alignment and routing of infrastructure lines is of critical importance. Backfill soils to grade.

Step 5 - Road Improvements:

From the engineered and prepared sub base that is properly compacted and graded - construct and install road sub surface, curbs, gutters, asphalt paving and striping. Note: The preparation and compaction of sub grade is of critical importance to long-term road stability. Install street signs.

For details see: Road Construction In Land Development: https://www.landdevelopmentrealities.com/home/2020/8/3/v09ipvf9g9osk15z75xgdv5wskbiit-fktfy-jb8nf-dbfhh-c2xey

Step 6 - Barriers and Walls:

Construct structural and retaining walls. This can include artificial materials like concrete, formed masonry - or stabilized native materials like retained rock, soil or earth lined swales.

Barrier walls are constructed to shed all water and to prevent water penetration. A common material is pre-cast concrete. Cavity walls are designed to be mostly impervious, but also include internal drainage systems to route any liquid penetration.

Step 7 - Install Fencing:

Install required perimeter fencing, dividing fencing and fencing barriers to provide privacy and seclusion, and/or to prevent intrusion or escape according to the approved plans. Extremely important to verify fencing is located exactly where and how it is required. Full compliance with required construction methods, material specifications and dimensions.

Step 8 - Finish Grading:

Rough grading should have brought elevations to within a few inches of final. Finish grading is done to shape the final contours and establish the final elevations. If done correctly during rough grading, there should only be minor additions or removals from the existing grade.

Final phase of digging, grading, removal of material, sloping, compacting and leveling of homesites to include filling of elevated pads where applicable.

Step 9 - Flatwork:

Construct sidewalks, walkways and other impervious surfaces such as community area slabs, bike trails and walking trails. Precise leveling and construction prevents unwanted water retention or pooling, while allowing for proper shedding of water to approved drainage collection points.

Step 10 - Landscaping / Amenities:

Install trees, shrubs, plantings, mulch, rock and other materials that provide aesthetic appeal to the project. Other amenities can include fountains, ponds, ground lighting, entry gates and accent lighting. Consideration must be given for irrigation, electrical power for lighting, fountains, entry gates and common areas.

For more details see: Amenities in Land Development Projects: https://www.landdevelopmentrealities.com/home/2019/10/31/amenities-in-land-development-projects

Construction steps of land development:

As mentioned earlier, construction preparation by the developer is key and so is accurate execution by the contractors. Remember, land development construction is a major capital expenditure and it is essential for the land developer to stay on top of each construction phase and the individual steps involved. Good luck!

Contact me at: ldr@landdevelopmentrealities.com