Glossary

This glossary contains information about several terms relevant to the services we offer and topics we encounter in our areas of expertise in land planning, civil engineering, and landscape architecture. Enjoy learning about our industries and what we do!

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

ADA Compliance
ADA Compliance ensures that buildings, facilities, and public spaces meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law mandates accessibility features for individuals with disabilities, such as ramps, elevators, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and appropriate signage. Beyond physical accommodations, ADA Compliance may also involve considerations for communication accessibility, such as assistive listening systems or Braille materials. At Eberly & Associates, we help ensure that site plans are ADA compliant, from schools to hospitals and more. Adhering to ADA standards is not only a legal requirement but also a vital step toward inclusivity and equitable access.

Adaptive Reuse
Adaptive reuse involves transforming an existing structure to serve a new purpose while retaining its original framework. This practice preserves the cultural or historical significance of a building, reduces waste, and often revitalizes communities. Examples include converting factories into residential properties, or churches into event spaces. Adaptive reuse blends architectural creativity with sustainable practices, breathing new life into old spaces.

Some of our Atlanta adaptive reuse projects at Eberly include: Armour Yards, The Works, Stockyards, and The Candler Hotel.

B

Biofiltration System
A biofiltration system uses natural processes involving soil, plants, and microorganisms to filter and treat stormwater runoff. These systems improve water quality by removing pollutants, sediments, and nutrients before the water reenters local waterways. Commonly integrated into urban landscapes, biofiltration systems can take the form of rain gardens, bioswales, or constructed wetlands. They provide an environmentally friendly solution for managing stormwater while enhancing aesthetic and ecological value.

Buildout
Buildout refers to the process of customizing and completing an interior space to meet the specific needs of its occupants. This can include installing walls, flooring, lighting, HVAC systems, and other fixtures. Common in commercial real estate, buildouts transform raw or unfinished spaces into functional areas for businesses, such as offices, retail stores, or restaurants. The scope of a buildout varies based on the lease agreement and tenant requirements.

C

Civil Engineering
Civil engineering encompasses the design, construction, and maintenance of essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges, buildings, water systems, and drainage networks. It combines technical expertise with environmental and regulatory considerations to create systems that support public safety, transportation, and urban development. Civil engineers often collaborate with other professionals to address challenges such as erosion, stormwater management, and sustainable design.

Construction Administration
Construction administration involves the oversight of a construction project by architects or engineers to ensure it adheres to design documents, building codes, and quality standards. This phase includes reviewing contractor work, managing changes to the project, and facilitating communication between stakeholders. By providing professional guidance, construction administration minimizes errors, reduces delays, and ensures the project aligns with its intended vision.

D

Due Diligence Report
A due diligence report is an exhaustive analysis conducted before acquiring property to evaluate potential risks and opportunities. It covers zoning regulations, environmental conditions, utility access, and legal encumbrances like easements or liens. The report provides critical information for informed decision-making, helping buyers understand the property’s value, limitations, and potential for development.

E

Easement
An easement grants a third party the legal right to use a portion of another’s land for a specific purpose without owning it. Common examples include utility easements for power lines, access easements for shared driveways, or conservation easements to protect natural habitats. Easements are binding agreements that can affect property value and development plans.

The Eberly Way
At Eberly & Associates, Inc., we have a standard of excellence in design, focusing on customer responsiveness and service known as The Eberly Way. One component of The Eberly Way is our focus on quality and a respect for the procedures that enable our team to deliver quality service and exceptional results to our clients. This has been a core element of our company for 40 years and will inform our management decisions for the decades to come. Excellent work for our clients is a source of pride for our company and the driving force that energizes our culture. By fostering a culture that values collaboration and creativity, we cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive. Learn more about our culture.

Erosion Control
Erosion control includes strategies and practices designed to prevent soil erosion caused by wind, water, or construction activities. Methods range from installing silt fences and erosion blankets to using vegetation or retaining walls. Effective erosion control safeguards natural landscapes, protects water quality, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations during construction.

F

G

GDOT permit
A Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) permit is required for projects impacting state-maintained roads, highways, or rights-of-way. This permit ensures that construction activities align with state transportation standards, prioritizing safety, accessibility, and minimal disruption to traffic.

Green Roof
A green roof, also known as a living roof, consists of vegetation and a growing medium installed over a waterproof membrane on a building’s rooftop. It provides benefits like improved insulation, reduced urban heat island effect, and better stormwater management by absorbing rainwater. Green roofs can also extend the lifespan of the roof structure and create an attractive outdoor space in urban environments.

GUPS Permit
The Georgia Utilities Permitting System (GUPS) facilitates permits for utility-related activities on state property. It streamlines the approval process for projects involving the installation, repair, or relocation of utility infrastructure like water lines, fiber optics, and electrical systems.

H

Hardscape Design
Hardscape design involves the planning and creation of non-living features in outdoor spaces, such as pathways, patios, retaining walls, and fountains. It complements landscaping by adding structure and function to outdoor areas, balancing aesthetic appeal with practicality. Hardscaping often incorporates durable materials like stone, concrete, or wood to withstand weather and wear.

Healthcare Construction
Healthcare construction specializes in designing and building facilities like hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. This type of construction prioritizes patient safety, accessibility, and adherence to stringent regulatory standards. Projects often involve advanced HVAC systems, specialized medical equipment installations, and infection control measures to create environments that support health and wellness.

Some of our healthcare engineering projects at Eberly include: Whiteford Health Center, a new entryway for Wellstar North Fulton, a pediatric emergency department for Wellstar Douglas Hospital, The Learning Academy at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, emergency department and in-patient expansion for Piedmont Fayette Hospital, and the Correll Pavilion at Grady Hospital.

Hydrology Study
A hydrology study examines the movement, distribution, and quality of water within a site or region. It evaluates factors like rainfall, drainage patterns, groundwater flow, and potential flood risks. These studies are critical for understanding a site’s water dynamics, ensuring proper stormwater management, and mitigating environmental impact during development.

I

Infrastructure Engineering
Infrastructure engineering focuses on the planning, design, and construction of foundational systems that support communities, such as roads, bridges, utilities, and water treatment facilities. Engineers balance technical, environmental, and economic considerations to develop infrastructure that enhances quality of life and promotes sustainable growth.

J

K

L

Land Disturbance Permit
A land disturbance permit is required for activities that alter the land’s natural state, such as clearing, grading, or excavating. It ensures compliance with environmental and erosion control standards, protecting nearby ecosystems and water resources during construction.

Land Entitlement
Land entitlement is the process of obtaining legal approvals to use or develop land for a specific purpose. It involves securing permits, zoning changes, and utility access while addressing environmental and community concerns. Successful land entitlement sets the foundation for development projects to move forward smoothly.

Land Use Planning
Also referred to as just ‘land planning’, land use planning involves analyzing and determining the appropriate use of land. Land planners consider things like location, what a community needs, the environment, the impact on the local economy, transportation and accessibility, and other factors in order to create a long-term strategic vision for how to develop and use the land. At Eberly & Associates, the ultimate goal of land planning is to create visually appealing spaces that cater to diverse needs, fostering a positive and inviting environment for all who interact with it.

Landscape Architecture
Landscape architecture integrates art, science, and design to create outdoor environments that are both functional and beautiful. This discipline considers factors like site conditions, environmental impact, and community needs to design parks, gardens, campuses, and urban spaces that enhance quality of life.

Landscape Design
Landscape design focuses specifically on planning and arranging outdoor elements like plants, pathways, and lighting to achieve aesthetic and functional goals. It often involves creating harmonious relationships between built and natural elements, resulting in inviting and sustainable outdoor spaces.

LEED Certification
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is a globally recognized system for evaluating sustainable building practices. Projects earn points across categories like energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor air quality, with certification levels ranging from Certified to Platinum. LEED certification demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable design.

M

Master Planning
Master planning provides a comprehensive vision and strategy for the long-term development of a site or area. It outlines land use, infrastructure, design elements, and phasing plans to ensure cohesive growth. Master plans balance current needs with future goals, guiding decisions over decades.

Mixed Use Development
Mixed-use development (also referred to as multiuse development) combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within a single project or area. By integrating diverse uses, it promotes walkability, reduces commuting, and fosters vibrant communities. Examples include urban developments featuring apartments above retail shops or complexes combining offices, homes, and entertainment venues.

Multifamily Development
Multifamily development refers to residential construction that includes multiple housing units within one building or complex, such as apartments, townhomes, or condominiums. These developments provide efficient use of land and resources while accommodating a diverse range of residents, from individuals to families. They often include shared amenities like gyms, pools, or common spaces, enhancing the sense of community.

Multiuse
Multiuse (also referred to as mixed-use) describes spaces, developments, or projects designed to support a variety of functions or activities. This can include properties that blend residential, commercial, and recreational uses, such as a community center that houses retail stores, office spaces, and event venues. Multiuse design encourages flexibility, convenience, and vibrant, interconnected environments.

N

Nationwide Permit
A Nationwide Permit (NWP) is a streamlined authorization issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for activities with minimal environmental impact on waterways or wetlands. It simplifies the permitting process for qualifying projects, such as small-scale construction or maintenance activities, while ensuring compliance with federal environmental regulations.

Notice of Intent
A Notice of Intent (NOI) is a formal document filed to inform regulatory agencies of a project’s intent to discharge stormwater during construction. It is a key step in obtaining coverage under general permits like the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), ensuring compliance with water quality standards.

NPDES Permit
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit regulates the discharge of pollutants into water bodies to protect water quality. Required for construction sites and industrial operations, this permit ensures proper management of stormwater runoff and adherence to environmental regulations.

O

P

Planting Design
Planting design is the strategic planning and arrangement of vegetation in a landscape to achieve aesthetic, ecological, and functional objectives. It considers factors such as plant species, climate, soil conditions, and maintenance needs to create sustainable and visually appealing outdoor spaces.

Q

R

Real Estate Developer
A real estate developer oversees the planning, financing, construction, and marketing of property projects. They manage everything from land acquisition and zoning approvals to design and construction, transforming concepts into viable and profitable developments.

Rezoning
Rezoning is the process of changing the zoning classification of a property to allow for different types of development or use. This often involves working with local government authorities and addressing community concerns to align the project with broader urban planning goals.

S

Site Analysis
Site analysis evaluates the physical, environmental, and regulatory characteristics of a property to inform planning and design. This assessment includes factors such as topography, soil conditions, utilities, and local zoning laws, ensuring that proposed projects align with site-specific constraints and opportunities.

Site Master Plan
A site master plan provides a comprehensive blueprint for the development and use of a property. It integrates elements like land use, infrastructure, landscaping, and phasing to create a cohesive vision for the site’s growth over time, balancing functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics.

Stormwater Management
Stormwater management encompasses strategies and infrastructure designed to control and treat rainwater runoff. These systems reduce flooding, prevent erosion, and protect water quality by capturing, storing, and filtering stormwater. Examples include detention basins, permeable paving, and green infrastructure.

T

Tree Protection
Tree protection involves measures to preserve and safeguard trees during construction or landscaping activities. This includes creating buffer zones, avoiding root damage, and following local ordinances to maintain the environmental and aesthetic value of trees on a site.

U

V

W

Water Feature
A water feature refers to an architectural or natural element involving water, such as fountains, ponds, or waterfalls. In the context of Wellstar or similar developments, water features may serve aesthetic, recreational, or therapeutic purposes, enhancing the ambiance and functionality of a site.

X

Y

Z

Zoning
Zoning is the regulation of land use by local governments to designate areas for specific purposes, such as residential, commercial, or industrial development. Zoning laws help manage urban growth, protect property values, and maintain community character while balancing economic and environmental considerations.