Str8Grade’s Civil Engineering

Grande Estates
Development

Project Overview

Grande Estates Subdivision is a two-phase residential community located in Bertram, Texas, consisting of 197 planned residential pad sites. The project presented unique challenges as it was originally designed by another engineering firm, and construction was already underway when significant inefficiencies and compliance issues came to light. While many firms recognized the complexity of correcting and advancing the project, Str8Grade Engineering rose above the challenge. Our team stepped in with the expertise, creativity, and determination needed to evaluate existing conditions, develop innovative solutions, and guide the subdivision to successful completion.
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The Challenge

When Str8Grade Engineering joined the Grande Estates project in Bertram, construction had already been underway for more than a year. Existing conditions created significant barriers that required creative solutions and precise engineering to move the development forward. The team addressed:

  • Utility Depth Issues: Evaluating and re-mapping existing water and wastewater infrastructure, including a lift station and force main, to bring the system into city compliance.
  • Flat Site Drainage: Designing practical drainage strategies for a site with limited slope, ensuring stormwater could be managed effectively without disrupting previously installed improvements.
  • Roadway Design: Developing roadway plans that balanced safety, drivability, and pedestrian accessibility while maintaining proper drainage slopes.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Coordinating with the City of Bertram to ensure approvals were secured by correcting and modifying existing infrastructure rather than pursuing costly reconstruction.
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The Solution

Str8Grade Engineering created a tailored strategy that preserved existing improvements while delivering solutions to achieve compliance, functionality, and long-term performance. The approach included:

  • Utility Infrastructure Mapping: Completing a detailed survey of constructed utilities, documenting depths, and preparing modifications for city approval.
  • Water and Wastewater Solutions: Redesigning portions of the utility system, including the lift station and force main, to meet regulatory requirements and ensure reliable operation.
  • Drainage Solutions for a Flat Site: Designing a cost-effective stormwater management plan that relied on surface drainage rather than underground storm sewer networks, a system that was successfully proven during a 100-year storm at project completion.
  • Roadway Modifications: Adjusting roadway slopes to balance safety, drivability, pedestrian accessibility, and proper drainage while minimizing disturbance to previously installed infrastructure.
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The Outcome

Through Str8Grade’s innovative and practical engineering solutions, Grande Estates Subdivision was completed as a safe, functional, and compliant residential community. The project delivered:

  • A cost-effective stormwater system that performed successfully during a 100-year storm.
  • Water and wastewater infrastructure that met city requirements and ensured long-term service reliability.
  • Safe and accessible roadways designed for both vehicles and pedestrians.
  • A fully compliant subdivision plan approved by the City of Bertram without unnecessary reconstruction of completed improvements.

Our Solution

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1

Strategic Site Grading & Pad Prep

We began with a full site analysis and topographic survey to understand the land’s contours. Our team developed a precise grading plan that created level building pads while minimizing earthwork. This approach ensured smooth transitions across the site and reduced long-term maintenance.
2

Stormwater & Erosion Control

To handle flash flooding and protect the development’s integrity, we engineered a robust drainage system using detention basins, culverts, and overland flow paths. Erosion control measures—such as riprap channels and vegetated swales—were integrated throughout the community.
3

Road Network Engineering

We designed a complete internal street network that met all municipal and fire access codes, including curb layouts, turning radii, and ADA-compliant sidewalks. Access points to county roads were engineered for visibility, safety, and traffic flow.
4

Water & Wastewater Systems

Working with utility providers and municipal guidelines, we designed a water distribution system with sufficient pressure and redundancy. The wastewater network was engineered with gravity-fed mains and, where needed, lift stations to serve the full buildout of the community.
5

Utility Coordination

Our team established utility corridors for power, gas, and telecom providers, coordinating trenching schedules and ensuring services were available at every lot before vertical construction began. Conflict avoidance and future-proofing were top priorities.
6

Environmental Sensitivity & Compliance

We protected key natural features, including trees and drainage channels, throughout the site. All plans adhered to local, state, and TCEQ regulations, and we prepared a comprehensive Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the entire development.
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Conclusion

Grande Estates Subdivision demonstrates Str8Grade Engineering’s ability to step into complex projects, evaluate existing conditions, and deliver creative solutions that save time and resources. By focusing on compliance, functionality, and long-term performance, Str8Grade transformed a challenging development into a successful residential community. This project highlights our reputation for solving difficult engineering problems and delivering projects that support both developers and the communities they serve.

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Delivering Smarter, More Resilient Communities.

Str8Grade Engineering takes on complex challenges with practical, forward-thinking solutions that keep projects on track and built to last. By focusing on compliance, efficiency, and long-term performance, we deliver results that create value for clients and strengthen the communities they serve.

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Garrett Haley

Wheelhouse Development

Str8Grade Engineering has done a great job on many projects over multiple years for our development company. From navigating municipal approvals to keeping our clients' design needs in mind, Nathan Fuller and his team are always highly responsive, provide professional civil engineering work, and produce quality plans. Their knowledge of engineering and design options is exceptionally impressive.

Oscar Galan

Classic Design Group

Working with Str8Grade Engineering has been an excellent experience. Nathan Fuller and his team brings expertise, clear communication, and a true commitment to quality, making every project smoother and more successful.

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What Makes Str8Grade Different?

What Makes Str8Grade Different?

Str8Grade Engineering approaches every project with the mindset that challenges are opportunities to deliver smarter solutions. Our team combines technical expertise, practical insight, and innovative thinking to ensure projects are completed efficiently and built for long-term success.

What sets us apart is our commitment to partnership. We work closely with clients, stakeholders, and communities to create solutions that are not only functional but also add lasting value. With Str8Grade, you can expect responsive service, clear communication, and engineering that is focused on doing the job right.

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