The Brigadoon project, a 275-lot residential subdivision in Valparaiso, Indiana, represents a complex and ambitious development led by experienced developer Rake Inc. The project involves subdividing a 100-acre farm field into a residential neighborhood, requiring extensive planning, precision engineering, and innovative geospatial solutions.
SAM was selected for the Brigadoon project due to its established expertise in surveying, engineering, and geospatial solutions. SAM’s commitment to utilizing advanced technology for land development projects made it the ideal choice for tackling the challenges of this complex subdivision. Additionally, SAM’s ability to leverage aerial LiDAR technology ensured a faster and more accurate data collection process, positioning the firm as a leader in efficient and precise land surveying.
SAM employed its advanced aerial LiDAR capabilities for site surveying. The Freefly Astro drone, a state-of-the-art platform now being deployed to multiple SAM regional offices, was used for this project. It is equipped with the Phoenix Recon XT LiDAR sensor, which offers a high density of laser strikes, ranging from 640,000 to 1.25 million per second. This level of data collection ensures that even subtle variations in elevation and terrain are accurately captured. The Recon XT sensor, while limited to two returns per laser pulse, compensates for this with a higher frequency of data acquisition, making it particularly effective for open-field environments like the Brigadoon site.
In addition to LiDAR, a Sony A7R4 camera was mounted on the drone to capture high-resolution aerial imagery. This camera provides exceptional clarity and detail, allowing for precise mapping and modeling of the site. The improved technology allows SAM to fly at higher altitudes while still achieving a ground scale distance of approximately 0.7 cm per pixel. This enhances overall image quality and ensures the data collected is highly reliable for engineering and planning purposes.
By utilizing this aerial approach, SAM was able to complete the necessary survey work in just two days, one day for setting control points and one for the flight—compared to the week or more that would have been required with traditional ground-based survey crews. The LiDAR data also allows for flexibility in the project timeline. If the client later requests additional information about specific features, such as terrain details or infrastructure placement, SAM can extract that data from the existing dataset without needing to send a survey crew back to the site.
Once the data was collected, SAM’s geospatial experts processed the aerial LiDAR and high-resolution imagery to create a detailed drawing of existing conditions. Tanner Sipes, Phase Manager, who led the aerial effort, used specialized software to transform the dense point cloud into an accurate 3D surface model. This model was then used to map critical features such as topography, drainage patterns, and other site characteristics. The detailed drawing of existing conditions provided SAM’s engineering team with a comprehensive and accurate foundation upon which to begin the subdivision design, ensuring that all subsequent planning reflects the true on-the-ground conditions of the site.
The use of aerial LiDAR also plays a critical role in optimizing project execution. While traditional ground-based surveys remain the gold standard for absolute accuracy, LiDAR offers a highly effective alternative that balances precision with efficiency. The ability to rapidly collect and process large volumes of data allows for faster decision-making and a more streamlined workflow. For the Brigadoon project, the open farmland environment was ideal for LiDAR, as there were minimal obstructions such as dense vegetation or structures that could interfere with data acquisition.
One of the most significant challenges in designing the Brigadoon subdivision is its complexity. Unlike rural developments that rely on septic and well water systems, Brigadoon requires the integration of three major infrastructure components: sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and city water supply. This necessitates a highly detailed engineering approach to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements while maintaining efficiency in design and construction.
To address these challenges, SAM’s engineering team utilized Civil 3D, a premier modeling software that allows for three-dimensional modeling of the entire site. This technology provides a comprehensive visualization of the subdivision, ensuring that the intricate network of underground utilities—including sewer lines, storm drains, and water mains, are accurately mapped to avoid conflicts. The ability to design in 3D rather than traditional 2D methods significantly enhances the precision of the planning process, reducing potential issues during construction.
SAM’s use of Civil 3D and aerial LiDAR represents a major advancement in subdivision design. By modeling all aspects of the project in three dimensions, engineers are able to visualize and plan the placement of roads, retention basins, and underground utilities with remarkable accuracy. This methodology improves construction planning by reducing the risk of unforeseen conflicts and ensures a more efficient approval process with local authorities.
SAM has been actively working on the Brigadoon project for approximately two months, with an estimated completion of the design phase by June 2025. However, the approval process, which involves multiple iterations with city regulators, could be extended an additional six months. Given the rigorous requirements for drainage reports and infrastructure compliance, SAM is committed to ensuring every detail meets local jurisdictional standards.
The Brigadoon project exemplifies SAM’s ability to tackle complex subdivision designs with precision and efficiency. Through its use of aerial LiDAR, advanced engineering software, and experienced personnel, SAM is revolutionizing how residential developments are planned and executed. By delivering high-quality data and innovative solutions, SAM is not only meeting but exceeding client expectations, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in geospatial and engineering services.