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HNTB
HNTB
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HNTB Corporation is an American architectural and infrastructure design firm.[1] Founded in 1914 in Kansas City, Missouri, HNTB began with the partnership made by Ernest Emmanuel Howard with the firm Waddell & Harrington, founded in 1907.

Key Information

HNTB is a top-twenty U.S.-based civil engineering and architecture design firm[2] and its architecture division generated $693 million in 2022, the second most of any architectural firm in the U.S.[3] The firm specializes in sporting facilities; Levi's Stadium, in which HNTB was ranked third on a list of the World's Top 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2015,[4] and Allegiant Stadium; transportation services such as airports, bridges, tunnels, roadways, and rail and transit systems, including renovations in places such as at Los Angeles International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, and projects for educational institutions, which includes at the College of William & Mary, University of Southern California, and University of Michigan. The firm consists of around 7,200 professional staff across 79 locations, and is active in all major architectural specialties in the United States and around the world.

History

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Waddell & Harrington was formed in 1907 as a partnership between John Alexander Low Waddell and John Lyle Harrington and was based in Kansas City, Missouri, but had offices in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The company designed more than 30 vertical-lift bridges for highways and railroads. After Howard's partnership, Waddell & Harrington eventually became Harrington, Howard & Ash. In 1941, it changed its name to Howard, Needles, Tammen & Bergendoff when Enoch Needles, Henry Tammen & Ruben Bergendoff joined as partners. In 1975, it merged with Kivett and Myers to form a sports architecture practice. In 1982, it acquired the rail firm of Thomas K. Dyer adding track, signal, communications and traction power to its portfolio, thus positioning the firm to serve the rail industry. In 1993, it formally changed its name to HNTB Corporation. In 2000, the firm became employee-owned.[5]

Services

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Architecture

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Levi's Stadium, designed by HNTB, broke ground on April 19, 2012 and was opened on July 17, 2014. The estimate construction cost was US$1.3 billion.
Along with MANICA Architecture, HNTB developed the new home for the Las Vegas Raiders, Allegiant Stadium. Work began on November 13, 2017, was opened on July 31, 2020, and had a US$1.9 billion construction cost.

HNTB's architecture projects have included Levi's Stadium in San Francisco, home of the San Francisco 49ers, completed in 2014;[6] the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport terminal, which opened in 2015;[7] an expansion of Kroger Field at the University of Kentucky;[8] Camping World Stadium reconstruction in Orlando in 2014;[9] and Bartle Hall Convention Center Ballroom Expansion in 2007.[10]

Aviation

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In 2014, Airport Business Magazine recognized two of the company's aviation experts, James Long PE[11] and Jennie Santoro,[12] with a "Top 40 Under 40" award. In 2015, HNTB's Clint Laaser, RA, LEED AP, received the same recognition.[13] The annual award by the magazine recognizes 40 aviation industry professionals under the age of 40 for their academic, professional and community achievements.

HNTB's aviation projects have earned several awards. The firm created the conceptual design for the 221-foot-tall air traffic control tower at San Francisco International Airport. In 2016, the project earned a Grand Conceptor Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies for the structural engineer of record (Walter P Moore).[14] HNTB was lead architect and performed initial planning and engineering services on the San Diego International Terminal 2 expansion project. In 2014, the project earned a Best of the Best Projects award from Engineering News-Record in the Airport/Transit category.[15]

Currently, HNTB is the architect of record on Orlando International Airport's new south terminal project.[16] The project won a 2017 American Architecture Award.[17] The firm also supports mentoring programs for young professionals in the aviation market.[18]

Bridges

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The new Tappan Zee Bridge before its opening in 2017. HNTB was the owner's engineer for the project.

Ted Zoli is currently the national bridge chief engineer at HNTB.[19]

In 2016, the National Steel Bridge Alliance gave HNTB awards for several bridge projects. These included the South Park Bascule Bridge in Seattle; the Portsmouth Memorial Bridge between New Hampshire and Maine; the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge in St. Louis; and the Falls Flyover Ramp in Wichita, Kansas.[20]

HNTB serves as owner's engineer for the New York State Thruway Authority on the New NY Bridge project, which replaces the Tappan Zee Bridge over the Hudson River in New York.[21] The new bridge is called the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.[22]

HNTB was project oversight representative for the Florida Department of Transportation on the Sisters Creek Bridge replacement in Jacksonville, Florida.[23] In 2017, the project earned a National Awards of Merit in the Transportation category from the Design-Build Institute of America.[24]

HNTB led the final design for the Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge in Boston.[25]

The company won an award for the repair of the John E. Mathews Bridge after it was severely damaged by a ship impact in September 2013.[26]

DOTs

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HNTB serves, and has previously served, on a variety of projects for state departments of transportation across the U.S. The firm's DOT work has included construction engineering and inspection services on the I-595 Express Corridor Improvements Project for the Florida Department of Transportation,[27] the Johnson County Gateway Interchange for the Kansas Department of Transportation,[28] and program management consultant services on the U.S. 290 Corridor rebuild for the Texas Department of Transportation.[29]

Additionally, the firm has served on the I-94 reconstruction for the Michigan Department of Transportation,[30] the Milwaukee Zoo Interchange for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation,[31] and the Poplar Street Bridge project for the Missouri Department of Transportation.[32]

Intelligent transportation systems

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HNTB's intelligent transportation systems projects have included system design and maintenance and operations services for a smart truck parking system in Michigan [33] and the Tampa Bay SunGuide Center.[34]

HNTB also supports the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority on Tampa Connected Vehicle Pilot [35] and a Truck Parking Availability System for the Florida Department of Transportation.[36]

Tolls

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HNTB supported the Florida Department of Transportation to complete I-595 Corridor Roadway Improvements in Broward County, Florida, which reached substantial completion in 2014.[37]

Transit/Rail

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HNTB works on transit stations, commuter rail, Bus Rapid Transit, Positive Train Control, streetcars and others.[38][39][40][41][42]

The company is a supporter of high-speed rail projects.[43]

HNTB provided several services on the Chicago Transit Authority Red Line Wilson Station Reconstruction Project in Chicago, including train control, communications, mechanical, architectural, environmental mitigation support and structural.[44] The project was completed in 2017.[45]

HNTB was part of a joint venture that was lead designer on the Dallas Area Rapid Transit South Oak Cliff Extension 3 project.[46] The project was completed in 2016.[47]

HNTB won the 2017 Bronze Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Massachusetts for its work supporting the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority on the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Improvement Program.[48]

The south portal of SR99 Tunnel Project, near completion on 2021, running off alongside Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park from an aerial view.

Tunnels

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HNTB was lead designer for the SR99 Tunnel Project in Seattle.[49] The tunnel was completed in 2017 [50] and opened in 2019.[51]

HNTB was the independent design verifier for the Istanbul Strait Crossing tunnel in Turkey.[52] The tunnel, also known as the Eurasia Tunnel, established a connection between the European and Asian sides of the city, and opened in 2016.[53] The project won a 2016 Global Best Project award from Engineering News-Record, and engineering industry publication, in the Bridge/Tunnel category.[54]

Awards

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The Milwaukee Office (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) was named No 1. Best Place to Work in Milwaukee in 2020, 2021, & 2022 by Milwaukee's Business Journal.[55]

Ashley Booth, HNTB's national streetcar practice leader, was named to Mass Transit Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 2017 list.[56]

Tim Faerber, PE, a senior vice president at HNTB, received ENR Midwest's Legacy Award in 2017. Faerber was the fourth person to win the award. During his career, he has led HNTB's Illinois operations and was Great Lakes Division president from 2010 to 2013.[57]

Diana Mendes, HNTB's transit/rail market sector leader, Mid-Atlantic Division president and senior vice president,[58] was awarded the 2017 Training Professional of the Year Award by the National Transit Institute.[59]

In 2006, the American Public Works Association named the High Five Interchange as the "Public Works Project of the Year" for its massive size, its innovative design, the complexity and rapidity of its construction and the need it fulfilled for the community. HNTB Corporation received the award as the primary consultant, along with the Texas Department of Transportation as the managing agency and Zachry Construction Corporation as the primary contractor. The award was in recognition of their cooperative alliance in completing the project.[60]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
HNTB Corporation is a leading employee-owned solutions firm specializing in , , planning, design, and program and services for public and private clients across the . Founded in 1914 in , as a small bridge design partnership by Ernest Emmanuel Howard in collaboration with the established firm Waddell & Harrington, HNTB traces its roots to innovative practices dating back to 1887 through founder John Alexander Low Waddell. Over its more than 110-year history, the firm has evolved from railroad bridge expertise to a comprehensive provider of transportation solutions, including highways, facilities, rail systems, and environmentally developments, while expanding its practice through a 1975 merger with Kivett & Myers. Today, HNTB operates as a 100% employee-owned company with approximately 7,800 professionals across approximately 80 offices nationwide, emphasizing collaborative innovation and technical excellence in shaping the . In recent rankings, HNTB placed No. 11 among the top U.S. design firms by in 2025, reflecting its significant revenue and project impact in sectors like transportation and .

Overview

Corporate Profile

HNTB is an employee-owned architectural and infrastructure firm founded in 1914 in . The company employs approximately 7,800 professionals and operates across more than 80 locations coast-to-coast in the United States. HNTB's core mission centers on delivering multidisciplinary services in , , , and , tailored to transportation, public safety, and quality-of-life infrastructure. The firm emphasizes environmentally conscious approaches and innovative solutions to enhance community connectivity and . With a heritage spanning over 110 years of excellence, HNTB focuses primarily on public-sector clients, including agencies and transit authorities. Evolving from its early roots in bridge , the firm has established itself as a trusted partner in shaping resilient worldwide.

Ownership and Leadership

HNTB transitioned to an employee-ownership model in 2000 through the establishment of the HNTB Ownership Plan, an (ESOP) that allows eligible employees to become partial owners of the firm immediately after their first paycheck. This plan is exclusive to HNTB employees and enables them to build long-term wealth by sharing in the company's financial success, which has grown significantly since inception—from $13 million in total employee account value in the first year to much larger figures today. The ownership structure fosters a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement, as employees are directly invested in the firm's performance and long-term sustainability. Under this model, HNTB Corporation operates as a of HNTB Holdings, Ltd., with emphasizing a shared vision and employee-driven decision-making to align operations with collective goals. The current is headed by Robert Slimp, PE, who serves as Chairman and of HNTB Holdings, Ltd., overseeing the firm's strategic direction, including key initiatives in infrastructure innovation and client services. Supporting him is an executive team that includes Thomas O'Grady, PE, as President, who manages company-wide operations; Douglas Mann, FASLA, as Corporate Development President, focusing on growth strategies; and other corporate presidents such as Diana Mendes, AICP, for Infrastructure & Mobility Equity, and Jim Ray for Advisory services, all contributing to and strategic alignment across regions. The employee-ownership structure has a profound impact on HNTB's approach to infrastructure projects, promoting long-term commitment and encouraging in sectors like transportation and urban development by incentivizing employees to prioritize sustainable, high-impact solutions. This model, recognized annually as one of the top majority employee-owned U.S. companies, reinforces a unified focus on quality and adaptability in a competitive industry.

History

Founding and Early Development

The roots of HNTB trace back to the late 19th century through the work of Dr. John Alexander Low Waddell, who established a consulting practice in , in 1887, focusing on innovative bridge designs including early movable structures. In 1907, Waddell partnered with John Lyle Harrington to form Waddell & Harrington, a firm renowned for pioneering vertical lift bridges and contributing to advancements, with Harrington playing a key role in mechanical designs for railroad and highway crossings. This partnership designed over two dozen vertical lift bridges before dissolving in early 1914 due to professional disagreements, establishing a legacy in that influenced HNTB's foundational expertise. HNTB was formally founded in 1914 in , as the partnership of Harrington, Howard & Ash, comprising John Lyle Harrington, Ernest Emmanuel Howard, and Louis R. Ash. Howard, who had previously worked under Waddell, brought expertise in to the new firm, which initially emphasized bridge design and structural work for railroads. The partnership quickly built on the predecessors' reputation, securing commissions in the Midwest amid growing demand for transportation infrastructure during the early automotive era. In its early years, the firm concentrated on bridge engineering and structural design projects for railroads and emerging highways, primarily in and neighboring states, solidifying its standing in . Notable initial achievements included the design of the (now the Vancouver–Portland Bridge), completed in 1917 from Waddell & Harrington's plans, and early Harrington, Howard & Ash projects such as the 12th Street Trafficway in Kansas City, opened in 1926, which improved urban connectivity. These efforts, along with vertical lift bridge constructions like those for the Lake Shore and Southern Railway, demonstrated the firm's innovative approach to movable spans and helped establish its reputation for reliable, high-impact infrastructure solutions in the region.

Expansion and Key Mergers

In 1941, the firm underwent a significant renaming to Howard, Needles, Tammen & Bergendoff (HNTB), incorporating the names of key partners Enoch Needles, Henry Tammen, and Ruben Bergendoff, who brought expertise in engineering and contributed to pivotal national infrastructure projects such as bridges and transportation systems. This change marked a formal acknowledgment of their roles in expanding the firm's capabilities beyond its early focus on bridge design. Following , HNTB experienced substantial growth, diversifying into aviation and projects while establishing long-term relationships with clients from the (DOT). This era saw the firm leverage its prowess to support the nation's burgeoning needs, including major developments and early planning, solidifying its position as a key player in . A pivotal merger occurred in 1975 when HNTB acquired Kivett & Myers, a prominent Kansas City-based architectural firm known for designing iconic airports, stadiums, and . This integration added critical architectural expertise, enabling HNTB to diversify into and multidisciplinary projects, particularly in and sports facilities, and launched its dedicated practice. By 1993, the firm reorganized from a structure and formally incorporated as , shortening its name to reflect its established while reinforcing its commitment to a broad, integrated approach across , , and disciplines. This incorporation enhanced operational efficiency and supported further consolidation of its expanded service offerings.

Recent Milestones

In 2000, HNTB implemented the HNTB Ownership Plan, an (ESOP) that transitioned the firm to 100% employee ownership, fostering greater engagement and aligning employee contributions with long-term company success. This initiative has since deposited over $777 million in matching contributions and dividends into employee accounts, growing from an initial value of $13 million in its first year to significantly higher totals, enhancing retention and motivation across the workforce. Entering the , HNTB experienced substantial growth, expanding its footprint to more than 80 offices across the as of 2025, with a strategic emphasis on sustainable and smart infrastructure solutions to address evolving environmental and technological demands. This period marked increased investments in resilient designs, such as zero net energy plans initiated in to benchmark and optimize building performance for reduced emissions. In the 2020s, HNTB capitalized on major legislative opportunities, particularly the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) of 2021, which facilitated new contracts in transit and resilience projects, including a $158 million federal grant for the rehabilitation of Connecticut's —the first large bridge project funded under the law. The firm also secured over $25 million in BIL-enabled grants for Department of Highways initiatives focused on safety and multimodal improvements, alongside $50 million for enhancements at key U.S. facilities, underscoring its role in advancing national infrastructure resilience. By 2025, HNTB continued its adaptive expansion with several office relocations and enlargements, including moves to larger spaces in and to accommodate regional growth in infrastructure demand, and new facilities in and the to support sustainable transit and climate-resilient projects. These developments reflect the firm's ongoing commitment to integrating advanced technologies and climate adaptation strategies amid rising demands for equitable and eco-friendly infrastructure.

Services

Architecture

HNTB offers full-service architecture tailored to sports venues, transit hubs, and public buildings, where designs integrate aesthetic appeal with functional performance to create enduring spaces for movement, gathering, and connection. This approach emphasizes user-centered environments that harmonize form and utility, drawing on a multidisciplinary perspective to address complex programmatic needs. The firm's architecture practice originated in 1975 through a merger with Kivett & Myers, a Kansas City-based firm renowned for innovative designs, which marked a pivotal diversification from HNTB's foundational engineering focus into comprehensive architectural services. This integration expanded the practice's capabilities, evolving it into a national entity with over 300 architects across seven studios, prioritizing innovative and inclusive designs that enhance community impact. Post-merger, the emphasis shifted toward blending architectural vision with engineering precision, fostering growth in high-profile building typologies. Key methodologies include principles that prioritize , such as and carbon neutrality goals—for example, at , aiming for zero net , zero net carbon, and by 2030—embedded from project inception to promote long-term resilience. HNTB's corporate commitments include reducing by 80% from buildings and operations by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. HNTB's unique expertise lies in large-scale, high-profile structures that often involve public-private partnerships (P3s), where the firm provides strategic advisory to navigate , , and integrated delivery models for transformative . This capability supports billion-dollar initiatives by combining architectural innovation with financial and regulatory acumen, ensuring viable outcomes for public entities.

Aviation

HNTB provides specialized services in planning, design, and operations, encompassing terminal design, expansions, baggage systems, and sustainability upgrades for both commercial and facilities. These services support the full spectrum of infrastructure, from airside elements like runways to landside features such as terminals and supporting systems, ensuring efficient and safe functionality. In terminal design, HNTB emphasizes modular and flexible structures that accommodate future growth while maintaining operational continuity during , including features for enhanced passenger experiences such as contactless processes and optimized layouts. For runway expansions, the firm integrates solutions that align with airfield requirements, focusing on and capacity improvements without disrupting ongoing operations. Baggage systems designed by HNTB incorporate automated technologies, including RFID tracking and in-line screening, to streamline handling and reduce delays. Sustainability upgrades form a core component, involving energy-efficient lighting, waste diversion strategies, and integrations to lower carbon footprints and operational costs. HNTB's key approaches prioritize compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards, including fire safety protocols and airfield integration guidelines, to meet regulatory demands across all projects. Passenger flow optimization is achieved through strategic layout designs that minimize touchpoints and congestion, enhancing security and efficiency for travelers. The firm also addresses resilience to weather and climate impacts by incorporating seismic-resistant features, water management systems, and adaptive infrastructure to mitigate risks like extreme weather events. These methods ensure airports remain operational and adaptable in challenging conditions. The firm's expertise extends to south terminal developments, where HNTB serves as architect of record for complex expansions that integrate new facilities with existing infrastructure, focusing on vertical circulation and passenger-centric amenities. In air traffic control integrations, HNTB designs towers and support systems that incorporate advanced technology and exceed seismic standards, facilitating seamless coordination between ground operations and airspace management. These areas highlight HNTB's multidisciplinary approach, often referencing intelligent transportation systems for automated monitoring and data integration in airport environments. HNTB has experienced significant growth in aviation services, particularly through post-9/11 security-focused initiatives, such as the development of integrated explosives detection in baggage systems to enhance screening capabilities. Following the , the firm has expanded involvement in recovery projects, prioritizing designs that reduce physical interactions and support rebounding passenger volumes with resilient, hygienic facilities. This evolution underscores HNTB's adaptation to evolving regulatory and operational needs in the sector.

Bridges and Structures

HNTB offers comprehensive bridge engineering services, encompassing the , rehabilitation, and preservation of various bridge types, including cable-stayed, suspension, arch, , , and movable structures such as bascule bridges. The firm provides full-service capabilities from and advanced modeling to oversight, with specialized expertise in accelerated bridge construction techniques that minimize disruptions in high-traffic areas. Additionally, HNTB conducts seismic to enhance structural resilience in earthquake-prone regions and performs load rating assessments to evaluate capacity and ensure safety for evolving transportation demands. Building on its founding as a movable bridge firm over a century ago, HNTB has maintained a strong legacy in bascule and other operable bridges, leveraging historical technical knowledge to innovate in complex span designs. The firm's approach integrates strategies, including for proactive preservation and condition evaluations that extend while optimizing resources. In terms of materials, HNTB incorporates innovations such as high-performance for decks, epoxy-coated for , and corrosion-resistant options like stainless-steel reinforcement to combat without frequent maintenance. In modern applications, HNTB focuses on urban crossings that accommodate , transit, and vehicular while addressing the challenges of aging through targeted replacement and rehabilitation projects. These efforts emphasize and , such as using grade 70 for enhanced strength in arch and tied-arch configurations, ensuring bridges meet contemporary safety and environmental standards. The firm's work also occasionally integrates with underground elements in bridge corridors to support cohesive networks.

Highways and DOT Projects

HNTB offers extensive services in highway design and management for state and federal Departments of Transportation (DOTs), focusing on enhancing interstate and urban roadway systems to improve safety, efficiency, and accessibility. The firm's expertise encompasses corridor planning, which involves comprehensive route studies to optimize alignments for long-term mobility and connectivity, as exemplified by the Opportunity Corridor project in , , where HNTB led planning to integrate a new urban roadway with existing infrastructure while promoting economic revitalization. Interchange design services emphasize geometric configurations that reduce bottlenecks and accommodate varying traffic volumes, incorporating advanced modeling to ensure seamless integration with surrounding networks. Additionally, pavement rehabilitation projects address deterioration through resurfacing and structural upgrades, such as the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation in , , where HNTB managed the restoration of 7.5 miles of interstate pavement alongside ramp and signage improvements to extend service life and minimize disruptions. HNTB employs rigorous analytical approaches in its highway work, including traffic capacity analysis to forecast demand and evaluate operational impacts, as conducted for the Corridor project between and , where modeling informed capacity enhancements for multi-state freight routes. Environmental impact assessments form a core component, evaluating potential ecological effects and ensuring through studies like the environmental re-evaluation for Utah's I-15 Technology Corridor, which addressed mitigation for sensitive habitats. To support project viability, HNTB assists DOTs with funding through federal aid programs, leveraging its strategic grant services to secure discretionary allocations from sources such as the , enabling the advancement of high-priority infrastructure initiatives. The firm's designs adhere to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) standards for consistent signage, markings, and signals, as applied in traffic engineering tasks for the New Hampshire DOT, where HNTB ensured compliance in roadway safety evaluations. Integration of smart technologies, such as data-driven monitoring systems, further refines highway performance while aligning with broader digital infrastructure goals. On a nationwide scale, HNTB's projects bolster economic corridors and freight movement, including the 16-mile West Davis Highway in Utah, a design-build effort that links expanding communities to interstates, alleviating congestion and supporting regional commerce. These endeavors highlight HNTB's commitment to scalable, resilient highway solutions that drive national transportation equity and efficiency.

Intelligent Transportation Systems

HNTB provides comprehensive services in intelligent transportation systems (ITS), specializing in the deployment of advanced sensors, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication technologies, and to optimize transportation networks. These services encompass research, design, implementation, , and network design, enabling clients such as state departments of transportation to incorporate ITS into both new and existing corridors. By leveraging probe and decision-support tools, HNTB facilitates the collection and analysis of information to improve across multimodal systems. Key technologies in HNTB's ITS portfolio include traffic management centers that utilize for monitoring and response, adaptive signal control systems that dynamically adjust traffic flows to enhance by 10-50%, and robust cybersecurity measures to protect connected communications from vulnerabilities. HNTB's dedicated ITS Lab in Parsippany, , supports these technologies through secure simulations for testing V2I hardware, roadside units, and signal controllers, ensuring compatibility and performance in controlled environments. These elements address challenges in network and application development, promoting reliable integration of connected systems. The primary benefits of HNTB's ITS solutions lie in reducing urban congestion—where crashes contribute to 30-50% of peak-period delays—and enhancing overall safety by minimizing , which accounts for 90% of incidents. Additionally, these systems support the integration of autonomous and connected vehicles by enabling crash-free operations through advanced V2I interactions and pedestrian detection features, fostering safer and more equitable mobility. Such advancements also improve travel-time reliability and capacity without major physical expansions. HNTB's focus on ITS has grown significantly since the 1990s, aligning with (FHWA) guidelines that prioritize comprehensive corridor solutions for congestion management and connected initiatives. This evolution includes early adoption of active tools like variable speed limits and sensors, progressing to regulatory advancements in 2016-2017 that emphasized cybersecurity and automated pilots. Through ongoing collaboration with FHWA and state agencies, HNTB continues to advance ITS as a cornerstone of future-proof transportation infrastructure.

Tolls and Revenue Management

HNTB provides specialized services in design, operations, and financing, leveraging its national leadership in tolling to support agencies in implementing efficient revenue collection systems. The firm offers expertise in (ETC) systems, including all-electronic tolling (AET) conversions that eliminate traditional cash booths and enable seamless vehicle processing at highway speeds. These systems integrate advanced technologies such as overhead gantries and video-based license plate recognition to capture tolls without stopping traffic, enhancing safety and reducing congestion. In toll plaza design, HNTB focuses on modernizing for (ORT), which allows vehicles to pass through at full speed while maintaining integrity. Representative designs include barrier-separated express lanes and reconstructed plazas that accommodate high-volume , such as those processing over 25 million vehicles annually, with features like adaptive layouts for future expansions. Complementing these, HNTB develops forecasting models, including for payment propensity and assurance data mapping, to quantify lost sources and improve planning for toll operators. These models forecast on-time payments to high accuracy levels, aiding in budgeting and debt repayment strategies. HNTB employs methods like cashless tolling via transponders, which facilitate prepaid accounts and across systems, streamlining payments and reducing administrative costs. adjusts toll rates in real-time based on to maintain reliable speeds, as seen in early implementations of variable-pricing corridors that set global precedents for congestion management. The firm also structures public-private partnership (P3) contracts for toll projects, providing consulting to optimize , risk allocation, and long-term operations under availability payment or toll concession models. This approach supports funding through innovative financing while ensuring regulatory alignment. HNTB's expertise extends to modern strategies, where tolls incentivize mode shifts and fund infrastructure without major capital outlays, including the nation's first such program in . Applications include priced managed lanes that offer premium travel options alongside free alternatives, dynamically tolled to alleviate peak-period bottlenecks. For bridge toll integrations, HNTB designs systems that fund maintenance and expansions through dedicated revenue streams, converting legacy structures to AET for improved efficiency and equity in access. These efforts prioritize equitable tolling programs to ensure affordability across user groups.

Transit and Rail

HNTB provides comprehensive planning, design, and construction services for public transit and rail systems, encompassing , heavy rail, (BRT), and . These services include the development of station architecture tailored to enhance and operational efficiency, as well as precise track alignments to optimize system performance and safety. The firm delivers fully integrated solutions across all project phases, from feasibility studies and environmental reviews to final design and , ensuring seamless execution for diverse transit modes. In approaching transit and rail projects, HNTB employs advanced ridership modeling techniques, such as integrated travel demand and modeling, along with forecasting and passenger behavioral surveys, to predict usage and inform service planning. The firm prioritizes accessibility compliance under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), incorporating features like high-contrast signage, tactile maps, clear public address systems, and elements to support diverse users, including seniors and those with disabilities. For , HNTB integrates strategies, including battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, , and efficient charging infrastructure, to reduce emissions and promote zero-emission operations while optimizing fleet performance based on route-specific needs. HNTB's expertise extends to integrating transit and rail systems with broader initiatives, fostering multi-modal hubs that connect various transportation modes in compact, walkable environments. This approach emphasizes (TOD) to create equitable communities, reducing , lowering transportation costs by up to 40 percent, and decreasing by 30 percent through inclusive land-use policies and community collaboration. Such integrations support economic vitality by increasing and employment opportunities in high-density areas. The firm's transit and rail practice has grown significantly in response to increasing urban density and the availability of federal transit funding, such as through the () programs. HNTB leverages its deep experience with grants, including over two decades of program management expertise, to help agencies access billions in resources like the allocations for operating and capital expenses, enabling expanded services and recovery efforts. This expansion aligns with national trends toward sustainable, high-capacity transit to address and demands.

Tunnels and Underground Infrastructure

HNTB provides , design, and services for underground infrastructure, specializing in transportation and utility tunnels that support urban mobility and critical systems. The firm's expertise encompasses a full spectrum of underground , from initial geotechnical investigations to operational maintenance, ensuring resilient and efficient subterranean networks. HNTB employs advanced tunneling methods, including bored tunnels using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) for precise excavation in challenging subsurface conditions, and cut-and-cover techniques for constructing enclosed structures in densely developed areas. TBM operations are a core strength, enabling the creation of large-diameter, segmental-lined tunnels with minimal surface impact, while cut-and-cover approaches facilitate integration with existing urban . These methods are supported by rigorous geotechnical analysis, including and geophysical surveys, to assess soil stability and predict settlement risks. Groundwater control represents a key focus of HNTB's underground services, incorporating hydrogeological modeling, strategies, and solutions to manage seepage and maintain structural integrity during construction and operation. Ventilation systems are designed with (CFD) and smoke exhaust system (SES) analyses to ensure optimal air quality, pollutant dispersion, and emergency egress capabilities, integrating fire life safety features for occupant protection. In addressing seismic challenges, HNTB incorporates specialized and retrofit measures to enhance resilience in earthquake-prone regions, drawing on advanced structural modeling to mitigate deformation and collapse risks. The firm prioritizes minimizing urban disruptions through techniques such as adjacent structures and real-time settlement monitoring, reducing impacts on surface traffic and utilities during . Environmental efforts include ground improvement methods and risk assessments to control contamination and preserve ecosystems, aligning with sustainable principles. HNTB's practices adhere strictly to the (FHWA) tunnel design and construction manuals, as well as international standards for and , ensuring compliance across all project phases from feasibility studies to final inspections. This commitment to authoritative guidelines underpins the firm's reputation for delivering high-reliability underground solutions that meet regulatory and operational demands.

Notable Projects

Iconic Stadiums and Venues

HNTB has played a pivotal role in designing several landmark sports and entertainment venues, leveraging its expertise in , interior , and innovative delivery models to create facilities that enhance fan experiences and integrate with urban environments. Among its most notable contributions are and , both of which exemplify the firm's ability to deliver high-profile projects on time and within budget while incorporating advanced features. Levi's Stadium, completed in 2014 in , serves as the home of the and represents a $1.3 billion investment in a technologically advanced open-air venue with a capacity of up to 75,000 seats. HNTB served as the lead architect, overseeing the design of the stadium's expansive lower seating bowl—the largest in the at the time—and premium club spaces, including 9,000 club seats and 176 luxury suites, through a collaborative "creative council" process that integrated sponsor branding into interior architecture. The project utilized a hybrid design-build delivery model, which facilitated close coordination among stakeholders to ensure efficient execution. Key sustainable features include a 27,000-square-foot with native Bay Area vegetation, 1,162 photovoltaic panels generating solar power for net-zero energy performance on game days, a geothermal system, and usage, earning the stadium Gold certification as the first venue to achieve this distinction. HNTB's contributions supported state-of-the-art facilities for food service, training, and operations, contributing to the venue's role as a multi-purpose hub for sports, concerts, and community events. Allegiant Stadium, opened in 2020 in , , is a $1.9 billion domed facility housing the Las Vegas Raiders with 65,000 seats expandable to 72,000, designed in association with where HNTB acted as architect of record. The project employed a design-build approach to accelerate to just 42 months, resulting in delivery under budget and featuring ultra-modern elements like a translucent roof for natural light and heat control, a retractable natural grass field—the second of its kind in the U.S.—and expansive interior spaces such as an 80-foot-tall lanai lounge and a field-adjacent . HNTB's interior architecture emphasized fan-centric design, including uninterrupted connectivity via 2,400 screens and premium views from all seating areas, while enabled innovative features like massive lanai doors for outdoor integration. is advanced through the roof's energy-efficient properties, supporting the venue's operations in a . This project has transformed the surrounding area into a vibrant , hosting Super Bowls and major concerts. Through these projects, HNTB has set benchmarks for multi-use venues that blend , and urban revitalization, demonstrating how architectural and public-private can create enduring assets. Levi's Stadium's sustainable innovations have influenced subsequent facilities toward greener designs, while Allegiant Stadium's rapid execution and experiential focus have elevated standards for domed arenas in seismic-prone regions.

Major Bridge Replacements

HNTB played a pivotal role as owner's engineer for the New York State Thruway Authority in the replacement of the 62-year-old Tappan Zee Bridge with the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, a $3.98 billion public-private partnership (P3) design-build project completed in 2017. The new structure features twin cable-stayed spans stretching 3.1 miles across the , providing eight general-purpose lanes plus shoulders to accommodate over 50 million vehicles annually, a substantial increase from the original bridge's capacity. Accelerated construction methods enabled the parallel build of the new spans, minimizing long-term traffic disruptions during the transition. Another landmark replacement project designed by HNTB is the in , , completed in December 2005 ahead of schedule at a cost of $261 million. This innovative five-level at the junction of Interstate 635 and U.S. Highway 75 replaced an outdated loop design, incorporating 43 bridges and direct connectors to handle peak commuter and freight volumes exceeding 300,000 vehicles daily. The project earned the American Public Works Association's Public Works Project of the Year award for its engineering innovation and efficiency. These replacements highlight HNTB's feats, including phased of existing structures to ensure and continuity of service, rigorous environmental protections such as NEPA-compliant for Hudson River ecosystems, and capacity enhancements that doubled traffic throughput in congested corridors. By integrating advanced design expertise with sustainable practices, HNTB has demonstrated leadership in modernizing America's aging bridge infrastructure, setting benchmarks for future national renewal efforts.

Transit Extensions and Upgrades

HNTB has played a pivotal role in the Chicago Transit Authority's Red Line Extension, serving as program manager since the contract award in 2018. The project involves planning and preliminary engineering for a 5.6-mile southward extension from the existing 95th/Dan Ryan station, adding four new stations to enhance access for underserved communities on 's Far South Side. As of November 2025, despite a temporary federal funding pause in October 2025, the initiative continues to advance through final engineering, supported by a $1.97 billion federal New Starts grant and a state transit funding bill passed in late October 2025, with construction phases—including groundbreaking in early 2026—to follow, aiming to provide equitable transit options including bus connections and parking for low-income and minority residents. In the , HNTB contributed to the Sound Transit , an 8.5-mile addition that opened on August 30, 2024, extending service from Northgate in to Lynnwood in Snohomish County. As project manager for the engineering and architecture team, HNTB handled final design and construction support for guideways, four new stations, parking garages, and civil components, including innovative solutions for utility relocations, sustainability, and community integration such as multiuse trails and public art. This extension marks the first connection across the county line, linking riders to the , , and Sea-Tac Airport while incorporating bus transfer facilities to boost regional mobility. HNTB has also advanced transit upgrades through and enhancements in automated systems, exemplified by its design contributions to the South Airport Automated Complex at . Integrated with the new Terminal C expansion, this facility provides seamless multimodal access via electric shuttles connecting terminals, parking, rental cars, buses, and future , prioritizing passenger equity and efficiency in a high-volume environment. These upgrades emphasize sustainable, electric-powered operations to reduce emissions and incorporate features for improved . Across these projects, HNTB's efforts have yielded enhanced urban connectivity, such as shorter commute times and better links to employment centers, alongside environmental benefits including lower from electrified systems. Economically, initiatives like the Red Line Extension and Lynnwood Link are projected to spur development in corridors by improving transit access, fostering job growth, and supporting equitable urban revitalization without relying on extensive new infrastructure.

Awards and Recognition

Engineering Excellence Awards

HNTB has earned multiple American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Awards, which recognize projects for their innovation, technical complexity, and positive societal impact in advancing delivery. The awards evaluate submissions based on criteria such as uniqueness and originality of techniques, future value to the profession, social and economic benefits including , project complexity, and overall successful execution. In 2025, HNTB received 12 national ACEC Engineering Excellence honors, including two prestigious Grand Awards for the East-West Connector, a expansion enhancing intercity connectivity, and the Sound Transit , a project improving regional transit access. These accolades underscore HNTB's role in delivering transformative transportation solutions that address mobility challenges and promote economic growth. Additionally, HNTB secured three 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards from ACEC New York for key regional initiatives, further demonstrating the firm's expertise in complex urban engineering. Earlier notable recognitions include the 2006 Public Works Project of the Year award from the American Public Works Association for the High Five Interchange in Dallas, Texas, a pioneering five-level stack interchange that revolutionized traffic flow management and set benchmarks for urban highway design. These awards highlight HNTB's longstanding commitment to engineering projects that balance technical innovation with public benefit.

Workplace and Innovation Honors

HNTB's office received recognition as a Best Place to Work by the Milwaukee Business Journal in 2020, 2021, and 2022, with particular emphasis on the advantages of its employee-owned structure that promotes collaboration and professional growth. In 2022, the office ranked first in the large company category, reflecting high employee satisfaction driven by inclusive environments and ownership benefits. These honors highlight HNTB's commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture as an employee-owned firm. In 2025, HNTB was awarded Strategic Advisor of the Year by the P3 Awards, acknowledging its leadership in public-private partnerships and innovative approaches to delivery. The recognition emphasizes HNTB's in guiding complex advisory services from policy development to implementation, advancing industry innovation. HNTB has earned placements in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Firms, ranking seventh in 2024 based on revenue and demonstrating excellence in design innovation. The firm has also been honored for its diversity initiatives, including Employer of the Year awards from Women's Transportation Seminar chapters in Greater New York and Columbus in 2025 for mentoring programs and career advancement for women, as well as the 2023 Corporation of the Year by the of Minority Transportation Officials for fostering inclusion. These accolades reinforce HNTB's employee-owned model, which cultivates a culture of diversity, in practices, and continuous improvement, contributing to broader industry progress.

References

  1. https://www.[linkedin](/page/LinkedIn).com/company/hntb
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