Railway Area Flood Assessment
The railroad industry faces a unique set of environmental analysis and permitting challenges. With expertise in rail regulations and the environmental challenges faced by the industry, Pinnacle Engineering helps clients identify risks and find creative ways to overcome potential roadblocks during project planning.
Pinnacle is also equipped to quickly assist in emergency situations, such as when a long-time railroad client was experiencing numerous washouts during extreme flooding in the northern Midwest.
Environmental Challenge
A railway client contacted Pinnacle Engineering to analyze 29 miles of mainline track adjacent to a major river system that experienced flooding, causing washouts. The majority of the rail line was in a remote area, and survey and flood data were not readily available. The client was on a tight timeline; they needed the analysis performed as quickly as possible so that new, properly sized culverts could be installed.
Site Surveying & Engineering Services
Pinnacle’s engineers provided hydraulic analysis, surveying, GIS mapping, regulatory representation, environmental analyses, and environmental permitting. We adapted LiDAR (aerial topography) data from the County to create a track profile map, which included survey data, elevations of culverts and bridges, and an analysis of water levels.
Analysis & Results
Upon completion of the revised flood study, additional work was scheduled, enabling Pinnacle’s client to adjust bridge heights to avoid future damage from 100-year event floods. This is one of many successful projects Pinnacle has completed for this client over the last 20 years.
Our goal is to continue to build upon our reputation of delivering high-quality services, maintaining open and responsive communications, and providing cost-effective solutions that consistently meet our clients’ needs.
Comprehensive Solutions for the Railroad Industry
No challenge is too great when you have a trusted partner guiding you through every step. As a full-service environmental consultant, we serve as a local regulatory representative and extension of your engineering and operations team. Our railroad engineering services address every need, including compliance, data collection, engineering and permitting, inspection and analysis, and emergency response.
Pinnacle’s approach is not like most consultants; they work with our company’s best interests in mind and propose cost and time-effective remedies over remedies that are more financially beneficial to themselves. This has also built a tremendous level of trust that makes working together that much easier.
Environmental Engineer - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is very responsive to requests. They have not missed a deadline on any service thus far. They seem willing to go the extra mile when asked for input on potential projects.
Environmental Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is local and able to respond quickly. In addition to being a subject matter experts, they can take the lead with little input needed from me to do so. Pinnacle is professional, knowledgeable, and customer service oriented. They are dependable and are respected and known within the local regulatory world.
Environmental Response Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is key to our company’s operations in my area of responsibility. Honestly, there is not another professional contractor that works any harder for us than the staff at Pinnacle Eng. If they can’t do it in-house, they know someone that can. They are “Problem Solvers” at the highest level.
Manager, Midwest Operations - Oil & Gas Client
I worked closely with Pinnacle at a previous role and then incorporated their services when I moved companies. I am a huge fan of the company. They are down to earth and incredible to work with. Their portfolio is extensive and the staff they have are all amazing to work with. I am grateful to partner with them in each of my roles.
Environmental Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing
I work with Pinnacle daily over the last few years. The top impression is that they deliver. They follow through and do what they say they are going to do. They are professional and keep us out of trouble.
VP of Engineering & Construction - Renewable Energy Client
Pinnacle is always there for us. Their broad range of expertise from environmental response to environmental permitting to their vast subcontractor network makes them an invaluable resource to our organization. I call them for everything from routine projects to largescale rail-based incidents. I’m thankful to have them as a partner.
Manager of Environmental Remediation - Class I Railroad
At Pinnacle Engineering, we understand the importance of collaboration and being responsible stewards of the environment. We act as partners, working closely with you to understand your project or emergency situation, identify challenges, and help you determine the best path forward.
