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What is a Site Plan?

A site plan, also known as a plot plan, is a diagram which is meant to show proposed improvements to your property. A site plan is important because it also includes information in regards to the landscape features of a given parcel.

A site plan typically shows what already exists on a specific property, in addition to presenting what you are proposing to build on that specific land. This could, for example, include a building addition on a specific property, such as a garage.

One of the most important features of a site plan is to show the relationship between what already exists, and what is it that you are planning to have built. Site plans are all created differently; they will not all be designed equally. This is because different building authorities will require different things.

Governments require site plans in order to ensure that both local and state building codes are adhered to when it comes to making changes and additions to a specific property. Another reason why site plans are important and necessary is that governments typically retain site plans for historical records, especially in the circumstances in which homeowners construct rather significant changes to their properties.

In general, a site plan is a detailed plan, that presents the diagram of proposed improvements or additions to a particular tract of land.

Related: How do I get a Plot Plan for my Property?

The Purpose of a Site Plan

The main purpose of a site plan is to show the exact way that the intended land use relates to the features of a parcel and its surrounding area. Beyond simply showing how your proposed structure or structures relate to what already exists on your property, however, a site plan will give your building officials the ability to check local building and zoning codes.

The site plan will help to ensure that what you will potentially add to your property will fall within existing authoritative codes. Another important feature of a site plan and a building plan, in general, is that it ensures that local services such as schools, sewers, roads, water, and emergency services are adequate for what you are planning to build.

Compliance with zoning will also help to ensure that you are less likely to encounter lawsuits due to improper land use. Additionally, compliance with zoning will help to ensure that your project will be covered for potential future law sets, such as in the case of insurance coverage.

If you add something without a permit, or in a manner that does not comply with the appropriate zoning and building codes, you may not be covered by your insurance policy, in the case where you do have a loss.

Site Plan vs Floor Plan: What is the Difference?

What is the difference between a site plan and a floor plan? A floor plan is a scaled diagram concerning the arrangement of rooms in one particular story of a building. If you are interested in creating a , here at MySitePlan , we are able to take a rough sketch that is provided by you and can recreate your floor plan in AutoCAD, as part of our additional services. If you would for us to conceptualize a space, we are able to take the exterior wall dimensions and create living spaces to your specifications.

Do you have a 1000 square foot residence, and want a two-bedroom, one bath with kitchen living area? At MySitePlan we can create a series of options for you to understand the use of that particular space. This is also a popular service for commercial applications for tenant improvement possibilities. We have created a great number of large scale conceptual layouts for proposed Hotels, Apartment buildings, Elderly care facilities, and much more.

On the other hand, a site plan focuses on depicting everything within the property lines. This includes topography in regards to building structures, pathways, etc.

In most common cases, floor plans will not be included with site plans, unless the property is expected to undergo proposed changes with significant alterations to the residence's footprint. Floor plans are fairly technical, but will typically be more understandable and more relatable an individual who is not specialized in the field of site planning.

Are you wondering whether or not you need a site plan? At MySitePlan, we offer three types of site plans: the Basic Site Plan , the Medium Detail Site Plan , and the Detailed Site Plan .

Do I Need a Site Plan?

You may need a site plan if:

You are looking to understand your property dimensions.

Show your home relative to your property lines.

You want a road map for having yard work done. Mark up your instructions to avoid any confusion.

You are looking to Sketch out a new roofline.

Having encroachment issues with a neighbor? Submit a drawing of the overhanging encroachment to the city as an exhibit.

Thinking of re-doing your landscape? Start with a site plan to begin your process of what to keep and what to eliminate.

You are applying for a building permit for a new outdoor structure.

You are applying for a demolition permit for the demolition of your house or another structure.

You are applying for building permits in cities with tree protection requirements. Planning departments find it useful to determine if any extra protection is required for trees on the property.

You are looking to remove or remodel your swimming pool.

Conditional Use Permit for Commercial Properties.

Take a look at our three standard site plans , to learn more about each of our site plans, and to be able to choose the site plan that is best for you. We also provide custom hourly work , to better suit your specific preferences.

Site Planning and Design

What Does a Site Plan Include?

There are certain guides that site plans must follow in terms of site planning and design. Below we provide a list of features that site plans should typically include.

Depending on where the property is located, certain building authorities may require more or even less information than what is provided in the above list. Additional information that may be required by authorities can include lighting, trails, landscaping, draining facilities, sanitary sewer lines, garden elements, utility services that include electrical service lines and water service lines, sidewalks and other walkways. Although our drafters at MySitePlan.com would not be able to pick up on things such as utilities, those items can be added at the client's direction under our Detailed Site Plan.

Site Plan Software and Site Plan Rendering

AutoCAD Site Plan Rendering

Here at MySitePlan, we make sure to use the best and most efficient software to create your site plan. Your site plan will be designed using AutoCAD: a professional, computer-aided drafting software, that is known to provide "CAD expertise to Global Customers since 2000." The great thing about AutoCAD is that it can easily render 3D models, in order to help in the visualization of the end product. This creates a level of engineered accuracy that you will not be able to find through a regular 2D site plan diagram. Please inquire about having your custom 2D or 3D rendering quoted.

How To Create a Site Plan

The purpose of your site plan is to show an aerial view of your property, with existing structures and property features drawn to scale. Your proposed structures must be included in the diagram and drawn in a way that clearly demonstrates how your proposed specific structures will relate to what already exists on the lot.

Site Plan Guidelines

There are certain guidelines that site plans must typically adhere to, depending on the building authorities. The first and most important thing is that a site plan should be a diagram that is drawn to scale. Secondly, each and every dimension must be shown and labeled on your site plan. You should always double check with your local building authorities to ensure that this is done in a sufficient manner.

A site plan has to show both property lines, all of the appropriate dimensions. It is very important to be able to distinguish the difference between what already exists and what is proposed. This is where dashed versus solid lines, to distinguish proposed versus existing structures, comes in handy.

Additionally, a site plan must always show the necessary existing structures, such as proposed walkways and patios. Large trees on the property should also be included, as some building authorities will want to see it drawn on the site plan. Generally speaking, if your tree is has a diameter of more than two feet, then you will want to include it, showing both its diameter and its species. You would need to provide these to us.

Site preparation is extremely important. Once your plans are approved, a site plan will serve as a layout map for your proposed addition of a garage, a new room, a new driveway, or whatever else it is that you are creating.

Where Can I Get a Site Plan for My Property?

If you've decided to make alterations to your property, such as adding a shed or in-ground swimming pool, or if you're planning on selling your home, you'll need a copy of your site plan.

Your site plan is a document that shows an overhead view of your property's structures and topography, and if you haven't ever needed to have it on hand before, you might be understandably confused about where to find it. Fortunately, there are a few different places you can get a site plan, and in some cases, you may already have the document without even knowing it.

Closing documents. When you bought your home, a copy of the site plan should have been included in the paperwork you received. If you can't find it in your closing documents, your mortgage lender or title insurance provider may have copies that they can send to you. However, if it's been years since you purchased your home, you should look it over to ensure it's still an accurate representation of your property.

County government. In many places, the county government will hold copies of residential site plans in order to ensure that they conform to building regulations and city ordinances. Your local government may be able to provide you with either a hard copy of your site plan or a downloadable copy that you can print. If you decide to get your site plan from the county government, you'll need to double-check that it's up to date, and you'll probably have to pay a service fee.

Building company. If you know the builder or construction company that built your house, you can try contacting them as they may have your house plan on file. Again, depending on the amount of time that's passed, you should verify its accuracy.

Online services.If you can't track down your site plan from any of the above sources, you may think that hiring a surveyor to draw up a new site plan is your only option. Unfortunately, this can be incredibly expensive, so it's best to avoid it if possible. Instead, you can order a site plan online from a company like MySitePlan.

At MySitePlan, we use up-to-date satellite imagery, county parcel maps, and other resources to create your site plan at a much lower price than a typical surveyor. The site plans are accepted nationwide for over-the-counter permits and other minor alterations.

How to Get a Site Plan Online

Let's say that you need to have a new site plan created (and if you're reading our blog, there's a good chance you do!). You essentially have two options: have a surveyor come out to your property and draw up a site plan, or have your site plan created online.

Your first thought might be to just have a surveyor come out. After all, you're going to get the most accurate results if you actually have someone setting foot on your property, right? While that's debatable, there's one thing about hiring a surveyor that's not: they can be incredibly expensive. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the national average cost for someone to come out and conduct a land survey is $753, and rates can go as high as $1,500+ depending on the size of the area and your location.

The Nuts and Bolts of Online Site Plans

Your other option, of course, is to order a site plan online. While some homeowners might worry that they can't get an accurate site plan remotely, MySitePlan actually uses the most up-to-date satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other data sources to digitally create plot plans that are both accurate and detailed.

The other nice things about ordering a site plan online are that it's quick (MySitePlan will have your document to you within one to two business days) and, even more importantly, it's a lot less expensive than hiring a surveyor. How much so? Try ten times cheaper for our most basic plan, and about six times cheaper for our most detailed plan. You'll only pay between $69.99 and $129.99, depending on the level of detail required.

Save Money, Save Time and Effort

Just as any good online transaction should be, ordering a site plan online is incredibly straightforward. You can order a basic, medium detail, or detailed site plan straight from our website just by giving us your address, selecting a file type for the document, and uploading any helpful property documents that you have. (If you don't have any, that's fine, too!)

If you have specific questions before you order or want to learn about getting a customized site plan, you can fill out our short contact form, and we'll get back to you right away. It's up to you to decide whether you want to hire a surveyor or order a site plan online, but we hope that, now that you know how easy it is, you'll choose the latter.

Why Choose MySitePlan for Site Plans

We Make Site Plans Quick and Easy!

We are a team of highly experienced CAD designers and provide drafting services to anyone who needs a site plan but doesn't have the time or experience to draw one.

We remotely create site plans in all of Canada and the US using GIS, public records and client provided information.

Site plans are our specialty, but our skills do not stop there. Ask about any our 3D renderings, conceptual layouts, floor plans, and any other CAD-related projects you might have in mind.

At My Site Plan, we have:

Drawn 1,000's of site plans for a wide range of project types and sizes

Over 20 years of drafting experience for large and small construction and landscaping firms

Had our site plans accepted by building departments nationwide

We are proud to have grown to be the nation's largest provider of remote site plans.

You start by selecting the level of detail you require for your site plan. If you are unsure, your building department is the best source of information.

Then you will be asked to provide the property's address. You may also provide any additional information you may already have, such as surveys, deeds, or sketches.

You will have the option to select the specifications for the final site plan, such as file type and dimensions.

From there, the order is assigned to one of our experienced designers. We will look up information about the property from existing data, such as satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other public information sources. If additional information is required, we will follow up with you via email.

In rare circumstances, we are unable to find the information we need. When this happens, you will be notified as soon as possible, and you will receive a full refund. However, this does not happen very often.

Once the required information is gathered, our designer works in AutoCAD to create the site plan.

Then the site plan is delivered to you. You have the chance to review the site plan. If you need any adjustments, we will make them for no additional charge.

Learn more about how we work today.

5 Things to Know When Getting a Plot Plan Online

If you wanted to get a plot plan of your property 20 or even 10 years ago, you would most likely either have to cross your fingers that the city development department or title company had one on file, or you would have to hire a licensed surveyor to draw up a new plot plan for you. Now, however, there's another option: you can order a plot plan online from AutoCAD professionals such as MySitePlan.

Here are a few things you should know if you decide to order your plot plan online.

You won't need to have someone physically come to your house. Online plot plan providers use a combination of satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other available information sources to create an up-to-date plot plan of your property without ever actually coming to your house. They can simply combine the information sources, use AutoCAD to draw the plan, and send you the final plan as a PDF file.

There is a quick turnaround time when you order a plot plan online. Since MySitePlan is able to email plot plans to our clients as PDF files, we can get your plot plan to you within two business days at most-and oftentimes it only takes one.

You can still make adjustments to a plot plan that you order online. Some people might worry that if they order a plot plan online, they won't be able to ask that adjustments be made to the final PDF. However, if you find any errors or need specific changes made to the plot plan you receive from MySitePlan, you can request to have those changes made at no extra charge.

The cost of an online site plan is significantly lower than the cost of hiring a surveyor.According to the most recent data from HomeAdvisor.com, the national average cost of hiring a land surveyor is $775, with most homeowners spending somewhere between $644 and $906 for a certified plan. As you can see My Site Site Plan's pricing for a non-certified plan is considerably less. So always make sure to verify whether you need a certified plan or not.

Online plot plans can be submitted with building permit applications. You'll want to do your research on site plan providers and make sure you're working with a company that has years of professional experience, but as long as you choose a reputable site plan provider, you shouldn't have any trouble getting your application for a building permit approved (MySitePlan has never had an over-the-counter permit denied in the past 15 years of creating plot plans).

If there's anything else you want to know about ordering a plot plan online versus hiring a surveyor, check out MySitePlan's FAQ pageor contact us today.

What Is a Site Plan, Also Known as a Plot Plan?

A site plan is an accurately scaled drawing showing the existing conditions on a unit of land, including property lines, and detailing the location of any proposed and existing development, such as structures, paving, and uses of land.

Every city has their own requirements, so make sure to check what they are in your city. We have been drawing site plans for over 15 years and have never had one denied for an over-the-counter permit. If you take one of our site plans to your city and they deny it, we will give you a full refund.

When Is a Site Plan Required?

For any building permit for new development

Any redevelopment that includes exterior work

Many types of land use applications, such as site plan review, conditional use, or land divisions

All site plans require accurate property line locations in relation to any existing and/or proposed structures, parking, or other site features, but they may have more detailed requirements as well. To determine what's required for your project, refer to your city or county application packet. This will include a list of necessary items that must be shown on the site plan, and you can use that information to determine what type of site plan you require.

If you're not sure, reach out to us with this list of requirements, and we can guide you to the most cost-effective solution.

What You Need to Know about the Site Plan Review Process

You've decided to make some big changes to your property, applied for a building permit, and submitted your site plan... and now the waiting game begins.

You may not be thrilled about having to wait to start your home improvement project, but the site plan review process is necessary to ensure you're complying with all land development regulations and building codes for your city. And waiting to have your site plan reviewed is much better than paying a hefty fine for failing to get a permit.

Of course, you may be wondering what's actually happening while you're waiting to hear back from your city's building department. The specific details will vary from city to city, but the general site plan review process is outlined below.

You submit your preliminary site plan. The first step, of course, is to submit your preliminary site plan along with applications for the necessary permits to your city's building or development department. In order to ensure a smooth review process, you should make sure your site plan includes all information that may be reasonably required for making an informed building decision, such as topography, walkways, drainage, structures, landscaping, and entry and exit points.

Your site plan goes to the appropriate officials. Your County Administrator will designate a group of officials to review your site plan and make sure it complies with all the county's ordinances and regulations. The review committee may include government members from:

Public Works

Fire Prevention

Zoning

Survey Review

Health Department

Land Development

Real Estate Services

Construction Services

Environmental Review

Landscaping Review

County officials approve plan and issue permit. Once the county officials have determined that your building plans are up to code, they will be able to issue you the appropriate permits. Depending on the project, you may just need a building permit, while other projects might require something like a demolition permit or a plumbing permit.

From our 15 years of experience in the industry, we've found that professionally drawn plans are more likely to go through the process faster. Since they are clearer and easier to understand, officials typically have less questions or concerns, and it makes the site plan review process more straightforward for them.

You will receive a decision by mail. The officials will mail a letter of confirmation to you (as the applicant) and your agent (if you have one). In most cases, you should hear back within one week of the group's scheduled review of your site plan, unless you're told otherwise.

Once you've received the necessary permits, you can go ahead with the property changes you've envisioned. And remember, if you haven't even gotten to the point of submitting the proper paperwork for review yet, you can get a PDF plot plan within two business days when you contact MySitePlan.

How Do I Get a Plot Plan for My Property?

If you're applying for a building permit, organizing an event in a rented space, or working through a boundary dispute, you may be asked to produce a plot plan. While this can cause some confusion, a plot plan is really just the same thing as a site plan-it's a two-dimensional, overhead view of a property with details like property lines, structures, and landscapes.

If you don't already have a plot plan in the closing documents for your property, the main two ways of securing one are having someone come out to draw one or getting one through an online resource like MySitePlan. Here's what you need to know about both those options.

Working with a Surveyor

If you want to have someone come out to your property to draw up a plot plan, you should work with either an experienced architect or a licensed surveyor. You can find surveyors locally by searching for the phrase "land surveyors" online or by looking in the yellow pages.

When you contact a surveyor, be sure to ask what will be included in the plot plan and get a fee estimate. The fee will be based on the size and location of your property as well as the rate charged by the individual surveyor. Rates can be upwards of $1,000, so make sure you are comfortable paying for the plot plan before you commit to hiring.

Once you've hired a surveyor, they will often come with a field crew to inspect your property. They will also use resources such as county maps and property deeds to determine the boundaries of your property. Based on their observations and research, they'll produce an up-to-date plot plan.

Working with an Online Plot Plan Provider

For many, ordering a plot plan online is the better option because it is typically less expensive and takes less time than hiring a surveyor to come out. You should, of course, compare the cost of online plot plans with the cost of hiring a surveyor. But for many projects, a simple plot plan can cost just$79 rate, and you can have it delivered in two days or less from MySitePlan.

All you need to do to order a plot plan online is to decide how much detail you need, place the plot plan with that level of detail in your cart, and purchase. If you order with MySitePlan, we'll use a combination of satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other information that you provide to get you a PDF of an up-to-date, accurate plot plan in two days or less.

However, this method isn't suitable if the permit for your project specifically asks for a land survey, so check the requirements. If you're uncertain, feel free to reach out to us, and we can help guide you to a solution that will fulfill the requirements set out by your location.

What You Need to Know about the Site Plan Review Process

You've decided to make some big changes to your property, applied for a building permit, and submitted your site plan... and now the waiting game begins.

You may not be thrilled about having to wait to start your home improvement project, but the site plan review process is necessary to ensure you're complying with all land development regulations and building codes for your city. And waiting to have your site plan reviewed is much better than paying a hefty fine for failing to get a permit.

Of course, you may be wondering what's actually happening while you're waiting to hear back from your city's building department. The specific details will vary from city to city, but the general site plan review process is outlined below.

You submit your preliminary site plan. The first step, of course, is to submit your preliminary site plan along with applications for the necessary permits to your city's building or development department. In order to ensure a smooth review process, you should make sure your site plan includes all information that may be reasonably required for making an informed building decision, such as topography, walkways, drainage, structures, landscaping, and entry and exit points.

Your site plan goes to the appropriate officials. Your County Administrator will designate a group of officials to review your site plan and make sure it complies with all the county's ordinances and regulations. The review committee may include government members from:

Public Works

Fire Prevention

Zoning

Survey Review

Health Department

Land Development

Real Estate Services

Construction Services

Environmental Review

Landscaping Review

County officials approve the plan and issue the permit. Once the county officials have determined that your building plans are up to code, they will be able to issue you the appropriate permits. Depending on the project, you may just need a building permit, while other projects might require something like a demolition permit or a plumbing permit.

From our 15 years of experience in the industry, we've found that professionally drawn plans are more likely to go through the process faster. Since they are clearer and easier to understand, officials typically have less questions or concerns, and it makes the site plan review process more straightforward for them.

You will receive a decision by mail. The officials will mail a letter of confirmation to you (as the applicant) and your agent (if you have one). In most cases, you should hear back within one week of the group's scheduled review of your site plan, unless you're told otherwise.

Once you've received the necessary permits, you can go ahead with the property changes you've envisioned. And remember, if you haven't even gotten to the point of submitting the proper paperwork for review yet, you can get a PDF plot plan within two business days when you contact MySitePlan.

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Site Plan: Everything you Need to Know in 2020

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A site plan, also known as a plot plan, is a diagram which is meant to show proposed improvements to your property. A site plan is important because it also includes information in regards to the landscape features of a given parcel.

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Landscape architecture is important to the environment for several reasons. It allows less resources to be used, produces less waste, supports recycling when possible and uses policies that achieve long-term results [1]. Landscape architecture focuses on the relationship between people and the environment [2].

As the world's population grows the pressure on our resources increases. Landscape architects have always known that the landscape is a living breathing thing and we can reap its benefits in line with how much we invest in it [3].

So here is a list of 10 reasons why landscape architecture is important.

#1 Preservation of nature

People like living in a green environment full of plants and trees. Major cities still have plants and trees built into their planning. In a modern urban environment, you will see concrete flooring and wooden decking but you will always see plants in the spaces between and around them.

People are more aware nowadays of the importance of preserving the environment and because of this, landscape architecture is now viewed as more important than it used to be.

Landscape architecture provides solutions to many existing environmental issues, protects ecology and helps to protect national treasures.

#2 Regeneration of polluted areas

All industrialized places in the world have problems with pollution, especially if they have factories there. Factories are needed to provide a source of economic growth and jobs for people but are also harmful to the environment.

If a factory is particularly bad polluter it can leave the area unusable for a long time after the factory is gone.

These negative effects can be fixed through landscaping and planting after the area is cleaned up.

A great example of this is Westergasfabriek Park in Amsterdam.

#3 Storm-water management

Climate change and pollution are severely affecting freshwater supply in many areas.

The endangerment of wetlands is especially big problem because they have a lot of biological diversity, filter stormwater and control floods.

Landscape architecture protects wetlands and seeks solutions to provide storm-water management in a natural way.

#4 Cleaning soil and water

There is a vast amount of soil and water that is polluted and needs to be cleaned up. One way of doing this by phytoremediation.

Phytoremediation is a low cost solution which involves the direct use of living green plants for removal, degradation, or containment of contaminants in soils, sludges, sediments, surface water and groundwater. Simply put, plants are used to help clean up the contaminants in soil.

For example, in an area where the soil contains heavy metals and other toxins, phytoremediation can be successfully applied to clean these substances away.

It is obviously a very cost-effective and visually pleasing solution which has a great effect on soils as it takes in pollutants and metabolizes them into harmless by-products [5].

#5 Air purification

Plants and trees as most people know produce oxygen but less people know that they also absorb air pollutants.

This helps to filter the air and makes it cleaner.

Everyone is concerned about outdoor air quality but according to NASA research, indoor air quality can be tackled with the use of plants too.

#6 Care for plants

We all know that plants and trees are important. Landscape architecture helps to protect and care for them.

To allow plants grow properly they need good quality soil, the right amount of water, the correct level of sun exposure and protection from pests. Landscape architecture takes all these things into account when trying to find the right plants composition for each site.

There are even online tools available which landscape architects use to find the right plants for each location [5].

#7 Orchards in urban areas

Landscape architects often promote ideas like orchards in urban areas, for they not only look good, produce oxygen and promote social well-being but also provide nutritious fruits.

Cultivating orchards in cities is a good educational tool for children to learn how to grow and harvest their own food as well as socialize [6].

#8 Relief from hot weather

Sitting under a tree can be pleasant but it also has an important practical effect - trees provide a cooling effect. This is especially important in an urban environment, where the concrete structures increase heat and their density doesn't not allow for open green spaces.

Small parks, known as 'Pocket parks,' are a good solution here. They provide shade from the sun and a quiet peaceful place to go in a noisy urban environment.

#9 Provides outdoor recreation

Landscape architecture provides outdoor recreation areas. This increases the quality of the physical well-being of the local population giving them more choices for recreation and the chance to get social connections with other people using the space.

#10 Positive influence on people's state of mind

By spending some time in nature, even just sitting, it has a positive effect on people's state of mind and mood.

So having more green spaces correlates with having better mental health.

Spending time outdoors also encourages social interaction either with those you chose to go with or new people who you meet in this communal space.

References

[1] https://goo.gl/WfhDSP
[2] http://geography.ucdavis.edu/concentration/landscape-architecture-and-environmental-design
[3] http://cligs.vt.edu/how-can-landscape-architects-lead-sustainable-development/
[4] http://homedesignlover.com/landscape-designs/10-reasons-why-landscape-design-matters/
[5] http://landarchs.com/30-reasons-why-landscape-architecture-is-more-important-than-you-think/
[6] http://landarchs.com/can-urban-orchards-really-help-create-amazing-communities/

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reasons why landscape architecture is important

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Reasons Why Landscape Architecture Is Important | Greentumble

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Landscape architecture is important to the environment for several reasons. It allows less resources to be used, produces less waste, supports recycling when possible and uses policies that achieve long-term results [1]. Landscape architecture focuses on the relationship between people and the environment [2]. As the world's population grows the pressure on our resources increases.

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MegaDevelopment Cheat Sheet and Site Plans

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MegaDevelopment Cheat Sheet and Site Plans

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McDermott

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Editor's note: This article was originally published in August 2017 and has since been updated with the most recent information.
There's a lot of talk about Philly's growing skyline these days. Numerous cranes already dot the sky, and countless corners of the city have been transformed into construction sites.

But as research shows, Philly's skyline still has a long way to go compared to other major U.S. cities, like Chicago and New York. And developers are definitely noticing: There is approximately 8 million square feet of new construction set to change Philly's skyline in 2018 alone.

What's more, there are numerous projects in the works that are valued at $1 billion or more each. Many of what we'd call megaprojects will take years to complete, but some of them are set to debut as early as 2018.

Here's a look at some of the transformative developments that cost at least $1 billion. These big-time projects will not only reshape the areas they're being built in, but will also make a noticeable impact on the city's skyline.

On the rise since breaking ground in 2014, the Liberty Property Trust-developed Comcast Technology Center is set to be the shot in the arm for Philadelphia. Standing at 1,121 feet, the Foster+Partners designed tower will not only be Philly's first supertall building, but also the tallest tower in the state of Pennsylvania and outside of New York City and Chicago. (Its sister tower, the 973-foot-tall Comcast Center that was built in 2008, will be dethroned and become the second tallest in the city.)

The 60-story Comcast Technology Center recently topped off and is expected to open in 2018. When it does, it will be the home of Comcast's tech gurus, as well as the company's own CEO, who bought the only three condos available in the building on the 45th floor.

Meanwhile, the upper levels of the tower will feature a Four Seasons Hotel, which will be the most highly situated hotel in the entire country. It's a return for Four Seasons to Philadelphia; the hotel was originally located on Logan Square, and has since been replaced by the Logan Hotel.

The city of Philadelphia and really the entire region is expecting a lot when Comcast Technology Center opens. It's expected to bring in 4,000 new jobs, and on top of being the world-class, innovative headquarters for Comcast employees, it will also be a tourist attraction for the city, with multiple areas and restaurants open to the public.

The City of Philadelphia and a host of developers, designers, and transportation heads have embarked on an ambitious 35-year plan to create 18 million square feet of new development-including a new neighborhood and 40 acres of green space-all within University City.

Amtrak and its long list of consultants have hosted numerous public open houses over the years, gathering community input and feedback on its plans for the 30th Street Station District. In 2016, it released the final master plan, based on months of feedback.

Adjacent to the proposed Schuylkill Yards (more on that below), the 30th Street Station District has an incredibly long list of projects it plans to undertake, everything from improving traffic and pedestrian safety around 30th Street Station to creating more public space around it to creating an entire neighborhood over the rail yards.

Most recently, Amtrak halted its search for a master developer amid the Amazon HQ2 search frenzy, with the idea that the site might be a contender for the e-commerce giant's new headquarters. The search is expected to pick up again in early 2018. Here's the full 35-year timeline to help wrap your around the massive undertaking.

The elaborate press conference alone announcing Schuylkill Yards in March 2016 was just the beginning of what's in store for the Drexel University-Brandywine Realty Trust venture. The $3.5 billion development is set to transform 14 acres in University City into a leading innovation hub of the region, with eight high-rises, totaling 6.9 million square feet. It's also one of the three contenders pitched as a spot for Amazon HQ2 to set up shop.

The groundbreaking of the 1.3-acre elliptical park called Drexel Square kicked the project off in November. The public space is being built first as a sign of goodwill to the community. Brandywine Realty Trust is also announced its $5 million Neighborhood Engagement Initiative, which will address and fund five specific areas that neighbors of the future project have highlighted in past community meetings, from job growth to affordable housing to educational support.

Drexel and Brandywine say that the entirety of Schuylkill Yards to expected to take 20 years, so this is a project Philly will be watching for a long, long time.

uCity Square, $1 billion

With the January 2017 groundbreaking of its first tower, 3675 Market, uCity Square is also positioning itself as becoming an innovation-driven district, similar to Schuylkill Yards. It was also considered a prime spot for Amazon HQ2 in Philly's official bid.

In total, it's a 6,000,000-square-foot project. uCity Square has 2.5 million square feet of existing property, with another 350,000 square feet under construction. Yet another 3.65 million square feet is still in the pre-development stages.

Within that 6 million-square-foot district will be two public spaces and the build-out of new roads that will better connect the development with the surrounding neighborhoods, such as Powelton Village. But given that the completion of uCity Square is way down the road, it has allowed University City District to build a temporary meadow on its construction site.

The project is being developed by the University City Science Center and Wexford Science + Technology, which specializes in working with institutions to develop what it calls "Knowledge Communities."

Liberty on the River, $1.2 billion

This major multi-phase project has been in the works for some time by developer K4 LLC and architect Barton Partners. It covers 17 acres-almost all of the land between Washington Avenue and Reed Street-and will bring 10 residential high-rises totaling 2,000 units, 100 townhouses, and one 22-story hotel to the expansive site on the Delaware River near Pennsport.

But the project has hit numerous speed bumps along the way. Most recently, a bill that would have allowed taller buildings to be constructed on the Delaware River waterfront has been delayed, with the developer planning to work with the neighborhood residents over the summer on the zoning bill and project's future.

Meanwhile, the project has applied for $44 million total in RACP state grants for the project. It remains to be seen if the state will grant its big ask.

The University of Pennsylvania Hospital's $1.5 billion project Penn Medicine Pavilion is the largest capital project in Penn's history. It's also arguably one of the most ambitious and interesting healthcare projects in the city right now.

The Foster+Partners-designed, 1.5-million-square-foot building will stand 16 stories tall on the site of the former Penn Tower and be home to 500 new patient rooms and 47 operating rooms. Its summer concrete pour was the largest in the history of Philadelphia.

Navy Yard, $1 billion+

Philadelphia's historic Navy Yard has been booming with new development for years now, with more than $1 billion in both public and private investment. It all started when Urban Outfitters bought a property here for $1 and turned it into their massive headquarters. Today, the Navy Yard is home to 1,200 acres, housing some 150 companies and is drawing big-name designers like Bjarke Ingels and Field Operations to its projects.

And it's not over yet. The Navy Yard one of the three Amazon HQ2 contenders pitched by Philly in the city's official bid. Plus, the campus, largely developed by Liberty Property Trust, has long-term plans for more mixed-use developments that could mean that one day people will actually be able to live on campus. It has applied for a $5 million state grant for a mixed-use rehabilitation project that includes 36,000-square-feet of retail and commercial space and residential units.

Smaller, though still major developments

Philly's development boom isn't just about megaprojects that are shelling out billions of dollars. There are other smaller, but still significant developments in the works that will transform neighborhoods and the city itself. Some, like the major mixed-use project East Market, are already well underway, while others, like the Penn's Landing capping, are still in the very beginning stages. The following projects represent developments that are worth $200 million or more.

East Market, a 4-acre mixed-use development that will span an entire block between Market and Chestnut streets, is very much still under construction since its 2014 groundbreaking. But when all is said and done, the multi-phase project led by National Real Estate Development will bring 562 residential units between two towers and major retailers like Wawa, City Fitness, Iron Hill Brewery, Mom's Organic Market, and the Design Center to the Market East corridor.

Fashion District of Philadelphia, $365 million

Across the street from the East Market development will be the future Fashion District of Philadelphia, setting up shop in the former Gallery Mall. First pitched as the Fashion Outlets, the project underwent a rebranding and now plans to bring a new kind of shopping experience to the old mall on Market, with fancy movie theater, high-end retail, and a food hall.

Already well under construction, Shoemaker and Skanska have been renovating about 1,400,000 square feet of both interior and exterior space, making it the largest retail repositioning project in the region. When construction finishes in November 2018, the PREIT-developed project will span three city blocks.

Penn's Landing, $225 million

When construction on the I-95 highway began in 1959, its intention was to serve as a connector between the suburbs and downtown Philadelphia and link the city's riverfront on the Delaware with the airport. While it serves as a major mode of transportation, it has also cut off the riverfront from the rest of the city.

The city plans to change the damage of I-95 by capping four acres of it and building an eight-acre park at Penn's Landing. Also in store: 1,500 new housing units, 500 hotel rooms, and more than 100,000-square-feet of retail, restaurants, and entertainment. Total funding has been committed for the project, which is expected to finish construction in 2021.

SLS Philadelphia Hotel & Residences, $240 million

It's been four years since developer Carl Dranoff announced his plans to build the 45-story SLS Philadelphia hotel and condo building right on Broad Street. While the wrecking ball has since razed the former Philadelphia International Records building, the site remains vacant as the project awaits the $19 million it applied for through the state's RACP program.

The project calls for 90 condominium residences, 152 hotel rooms, and 4,600 square feet of ground floor retail space. When completed, the tower will be the tallest ground-up residential building in Pennsylvania.

If and when that money comes through, Dranoff, who most recently debuted the luxury condo high-rise One Riverside on the Schuylkill, will have sufficient funding to begin work on the project.

W Hotel and Element by Westin, $359 million

Developer Chestlen Development is bringing two hotels to the corner site at 15th and Chestnut: A 295-room W Philadelphia and a 460-room Element Philadelphia Hotel. Clocking in a 51 stories, the tower broke ground in 2015 and at the time had one of the largest concrete pours in Philly's history. It's expected to open in spring 2018 and totals 770,607 square feet.

One of the last remaining undeveloped lots on the Schuykill is expected to become home to two glassy, skinny towers designed by Gensler and developed by PMC Property Group. The proposal calls for two residential towers: A 32- and 28-story, totaling 600 total units.

Most recently, the project cleared its latest hurdles: Extending a zoning permit that allows the developer to build the project by-right and clearing the Civic Design Review, though not without concerns. The development is expected to break ground this year, though it is not clear if it will be a multi-phase project.

Aramark Headquarters, $230 million

Along with River Walk, PMC Property and Gensler are also make up the developer-design team behind Aramark's big move to 2400 Market Street. Aramark's announcement that it was staying put in September 2016 made big waves after rumors swirled that the big-time food service company was planning to move its headquarters out of Philadelphia.

With construction well underway, the plan calls to transform the existing structure into a a modern, 600,000-square-foot, nine-story building. Aramark, the anchor tenant, will occupy the top five floors and 300,000 square feet of space, while Fitler Club, a membership-only lifestyle club, will set up shop on the lower levels. In keeping with the company's green goals, the plan calls for 8,000 square feet of outdoor terraces that will look over the Schuylkill River.

1911 Walnut, $300 million

After years of tweaks and community meetings, one of the last-remaining vacant lots in Rittenhouse Square is going to be developed and transformed into 1911 Walnut. Developed by Southern Land Company and designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz Architecture, 1911 Walnut will be 47 or 48 stories tall with both rentals and condos, some of which will include mixed-income housing. Preliminary construction work began with demolition of the Oliver H. Bair Funeral Home garage this year, but an official groundbreaking isn't expected until 2019.

1001 S. Broad Street

Although the total project cost has not been divulged, Bart Blatstein's massive mixed-use project planned for South Broad and Washington Avenue will undoubtedly bring big changes to the corridor whenever it breaks ground. Long a vacant eyesore, the 195,000-square-foot site was recently acquired by the developer for $20 million. He plans to build a 34-story tower with some 1,000 residential units, office space, and 160,000-square-feet of retail in what Blatstein has referred to as a "shopping village."

This project hasn't come without its hurdles: Blatstein only recently bought the site, months after he had begun the design and zoning processes with the city. And neighbors have expressed concern about the scope and size of the project compared to the rest of the neighborhood. Blatstein, who has said, "I believe in this project 100 percent," has not revealed a groundbreaking date yet.

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Here's your Philly megadevelopment cheat sheet

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Editor's note: This article was originally published in August 2017 and has since been updated with the most recent information. There's a lot of talk about Philly's growing skyline these days. Numerous cranes already dot the sky, and countless corners of the city have been transformed into construction sites.

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Urban Jungle refers to a lush oasis located amongst concrete and buildings, creating an escape from big city life by bringing the beauty of a green environment into your home, in other interiors, and in public spaces. We believe surrounding yourself with plants is not only stylish and aesthetically pleasing, but seeing green helps us feel more relaxed and calm, which in turn benefits our everyday mood and enhances our life.

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We are Philadelphia's premier urban garden specialist for design, installation, and maintenance of indoor and outdoor large-scale residential and commercial projects. Fill out this form to get started!

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Urban Jungle refers to a lush oasis located amongst concrete and buildings, creating an escape from big city life by bringing the beauty of a green environment into your home, in other interiors, and in public spaces.

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McDermott

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Landtech Blog | Civil and Structural Engineers | Fremont CA

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The planning process, as with many situations in life, can be the most important, and for the building process, one part of the initial development stage is the creation of an accurate site plan to guide the project.

A site plan shows the full relationship of the building to the land, and is a graphical representation that includes special requirements such as site access and circulation, parking, walkways, and landscape/hardscape areas. Typically, the initial concept site plan is drawn by an architect, and the engineer's role is to help develop it further.

1. Site plans can help you understand potential constraints early on in the process.

Some critical issues that need to be addressed that are integrated into the site plan are the following:

site access and circulation, including fire department access,

drainage vs. latest environmental clean water requirements,

utility services,

any site specific encumbarances such as easements/ dedications, and

jurisdictional setbacks.

The site plan needs to depict developable building areas in relationship to the land, parking requirements, and other zoning as well as site specific constraints. This is why a topographic survey supplemented with a good depiction of underground drainage and utility services on-site or in the adjoining streets is of key importance at an early stage of the project. You can integrate the proposed site development with the topographic survey to get a comprehensive understanding of how the proposed development is served and works with the known existing constraints and features.

2. Accurate site plans can help you determine the project's constructability and prevent future mistakes.

Given the initial information from the initial conceptual site plan and the topographic survey, the site plan can then be reworked to incorporate any accommodations or changes. Every square foot counts-sometimes, you may end up with a smaller or bigger project that you thought you had. Or perhaps you may need to make changes to your budget because of the information that you found. An accurate site plan can signal you to make necessary changes, and also save you from making costly construction mistakes throughout the building process. This can save valuable time and resources and allow for a fully functional and cost-effective building project in the end.

3. Site plans are part of the construction document process to meet permitting standards of local jurisdictions.

Accurate and detailed site plans serve as a talking point for the regulatory agencies that have jurisdiction over the project for approvals. Meeting early on with the relevant public/ private jurisdictions to discuss and better understand potential issues is extremely valuable. During the permitting process, the reviewing agencies may offer comments or concerns over details of the project site plan, and the civil engineer can help in finding solutions and guide the development of the plans as needed. The City of Fremont, for example, has a planning review permit process that often requires an accurate site plan.

An accurate site plan can can help you understand site constraints, prevent potential mistakes, and serve as part of the construction document process to meet permitting standards. The design and permitting review process associated with site planning can be a challenging, yet rewarding and extremely valuable process that the civil engineer can facilitate.
Need help with site planning? Get in touch with our experienced civil engineers who can help you with the entire process. Call us at 510-505-9501 ext. 11, or email at info@landtech.com, and we will respond promptly.
OR Download a Project Planning Checklist to help you through the process: Checklist- Steps for Planning A Successful Bay Area Project (4)

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Why Accurate Site Plans are Essential to Moving Your Project Forward - Landtech Blog | Civil and Structural Engineers | Fremont CA

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The planning process, as with many situations in life, can be the most important, and for the building process, one part of the initial development stage is the creation of an accurate site plan to guide the project. A site plan shows the full relationship of the building to the land, and is a graphical ...

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A Local Project related to Landscaping & Design

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A Local Project related to Landscaping & Design

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McDermott

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WRT | Planning + Design | FDR Park Redevelopment Master Plan

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WRT is a national collaborative practice of city and regional planners, urban designers, landscape architects, and architects headquartered in Philadelphia.

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WRT - a Local Landscape Architecture firm

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WRT - a Local Landscape Architecture firm

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McDermott

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WRT | Planning + Design | Parks + Open Space

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WRT is a national collaborative practice of city and regional planners, urban designers, landscape architects, and architects headquartered in Philadelphia.