Establishing parameters for site selection early on is essential to evaluating properties and existing buildings. With that information, we can begin to understand what the locale, topography, infrastructure, and potential expandability will be for a given project. Working with our industrial and manufacturing clients to understand and catalog considerations inherent to their desired use is one of the first steps to set a plan in motion. Then, these parameters can be overlaid on the sites under consideration to create a proper valuation of these many factors.

By first working through a high-level programming discussion, our team can establish the approximate footprint of a building area to start. Working with that area and use, we can also quickly ascertain the size of other site areas needed to support the building, most importantly parking areas, service, shipping and receiving locations, any outdoor storage needs, or employee areas. We will also consider dedicated land areas for preserving greenspace and landscape areas, as well as space for stormwater management strategies. Many of these items are dictated by local zoning and planning requirements. Lastly, when reviewing raw land area allocation, we will discuss plans for future expansions or additional stand-alone buildings. Those ideas must be considered and implemented into site planning studies to make sure this potential is not missed.
Our experiences across many industrial and manufacturing projects have led us to recommend searching for sites three to six times the original building footprint as a starting point for property searches.

Once overall potential size parameters have been established, we then have to consider infrastructure and access needs. The internal flow and function of staff and materials in the existing space will help us understand how the new building should function. We then encourage our clients to consider the ease of access to and from the site for raw materials, finished goods, and staff. We will discuss a need for daily trucking trips, needs
for a potential connection to railways, or other shipping means. The ability and capacity for public infrastructure to be brought to the site must be considered, not only to support the initial use but also for future expansions. Our team can evaluate capacities, estimate building uses, and ensure that all the necessary support infrastructure is in place for a successful project.

Other worthy discussion points for site selection can include: evaluation of unique or challenging topography to understand constructability and onsite waterways to understand wetlands, natural waterways, and drainage. Employee use of the site should be considered to allow health, wellness, and outdoor connections to be made, creating a more engaged, productive workforce. By making improvements in the site that are focused on employee wellbeing, employers can see improvements in morale, satisfaction, and productivity.

Creating a comprehensive understanding of site needs, amenities, and capacities will ensure the project is set up for successful development.