Author: Angela Doherty

Since 1998, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has evaluated the state of America’s infrastructure through its Infrastructure Report Card, which assesses 17 categories including public parks, bridges, dams, drinking water, stormwater, and transit. In the 2025 Report Card, the nation received its highest overall grade to date: a C.

While this marks progress, it also underscores a long-standing issue—our infrastructure has consistently received low marks, and for years, little was done to reverse the trend. That began to change in 2021, when the Biden-Harris Administration enacted the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, committing $1.2 trillion to revitalize the nation’s infrastructure.

Yet, despite this historic investment, communities across the country continue to grapple with the pressing challenge of maintaining and modernizing aging infrastructure. From deteriorating roadways to outdated school buildings and overburdened stormwater systems, the need for resilient, future-ready infrastructure is more urgent than ever.

At AHBL, we are committed to being part of the solution. Our work is rooted in the belief that infrastructure is more than concrete and steel, it’s the foundation of vibrant, healthy communities. Through thoughtful planning, innovative design, and a deep understanding of local needs, we help extend the life of existing infrastructure while enhancing safety, accessibility, and sustainability.

Tackling our aging infrastructure may seem like a daunting and complex challenge, but the path forward begins with a single step. Our project portfolio reflects this mindset – each renovation, modernization, or improvement, no matter the scale, is a meaningful stride toward addressing the long-standing infrastructure issues affecting our communities. A few notable examples include:

Morton Elementary School Renovation

AHBL is providing structural engineering services to support essential infrastructure upgrades at Morton Elementary School, originally built in 1948. To bring the facility up to current building codes and improve long-term functionality, the project included seismic retrofits, hazardous material abatement, energy code updates, and enhancements to ADA access and circulation. These improvements are modernizing the aging facility, increasing its safety, accessibility, and resilience.

Lincoln Elementary School

AHBL provided structural engineering services to support the modernization and upgrades at Lincoln Elementary School, originally constructed in 1971. The 34,167 SF facility underwent seismic improvements guided by an ASCE 41 Tier 1 evaluation, along with the addition of a secure entry vestibule and a central courtyard to enhance safety and functionality. Steel pin piles were used to support the new structural slabs, and the modernization was completed in 2021, strengthening the school’s resilience and extending its service life.

 

Sound Transit Auburn Station

AHBL is providing civil engineering and surveying services to support critical infrastructure improvements at Auburn Station. The project includes a new multi-level parking garage, scheduled for completion in 2027, and enhancements to surrounding infrastructure such as upgraded intersections, ADA-compliant ramps, and improved drainage systems. Additional improvements include pedestrian and bicycle facilities, new bus shelters, and smart bike lockers, all designed to increase accessibility and support multi-modal transportation.

Projects like these emphasize the importance of proactive maintenance and strategic investment in our infrastructure. While aging infrastructure presents a significant challenge, the path toward progress lies in the collective commitment of policymakers, engineers, architects, and our communities. At AHBL, we’re proud to contribute to that effort and remain dedicated to advancing resilient infrastructure that meets today’s needs while building a safer, more sustainable future.

By continuing to invest in thoughtful upgrades and modernization efforts, we can transform aging systems into assets that support growth, equity, and resilience for generations to come.

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