Environmental Planning and Permitting Services

A geographic information system (GIS) is a technological tool that can be used to manipulate, analyze, and visualize spatial data to inform strategic decisions. The LA Group staff includes dedicated GIS professionals who employ database development, spatial analysis and digital map production to provide a robust foundation upon which sustainable design decisions are made.

The integrative nature of GIS enables a holistic approach to interpreting multifaceted systems through the layering of multiple datasets into a single comprehensible visualization. Additionally, by utilizing GIS and remote sensing data during the initial stages of a project, the utility of a site can be estimated prior to substantial time and financial investment.

Environmental analysis of a property is a critical component of the development process. The analysis determines the physical constraints of a particular property with respect to its existing conditions such as wetlands, surface waters, floodplains, slopes, soils and vegetation. Analysis of these conditions by an environmental planning firm is necessary for understanding the development potential of a piece of property and determining environmental permits required to move forward.

The initial phase of understanding a parcel’s development potential is analysis of existing conditions. Environmental analysis, coupled with understanding regulatory controls, is a necessary prerequisite to responsible design.

Ideally, environmental analysis should be conducted early on before substantial time or money has been invested in the design of a project. If environmental analysis is performed first, then the subsequent design phase can incorporate all the relevant information concerning existing environmental conditions.

The LA Group utilizes environmental analysis to not only understand a parcel’s physical constraints but to enhance the quality and sustainability of the firm’s designs. The LA Group works to create a distinct sense of place that integrates the existing natural conditions with the unique program goals and vision of each individual client.