KS Engineers, P.C. (KSE) provided comprehensive construction management, resident engineering, and inspection services for Essex County in connection with the construction of a new five-level parking deck at Turtle Back Zoo. KSE was responsible for project oversight, field inspection, contract administration, quality assurance, schedule monitoring, document control, and construction coordination throughout all phases of the project. The firm served as a key liaison between Essex County, the design team, contractors, and specialty consultants, ensuring that the project was constructed in accordance with approved plans, specifications, budget requirements, and schedule objectives while maintaining a high standard of quality and safety.
KSE managed a broad range of construction administration responsibilities, including the review and approval of contractor submittals and shop drawings, coordination and tracking of Requests for Information (RFIs), evaluation of contractor payment applications, and facilitation of project progress meetings. The team reviewed change order requests, analyzed associated cost and schedule impacts, and provided recommendations to Essex County to support informed decision-making. Through continuous field presence and proactive communication, KSE monitored construction activities, documented progress, resolved field issues, and coordinated stakeholder interactions to promote efficient project execution and minimize delays.
The project involved construction of a new parking structure with a capacity of 492 vehicles on the former site of the train house within the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex. While the new facility replaced a portion of the existing surface parking area, the remaining parking lot continued to serve visitors to the recreation complex. The parking deck was strategically designed to accommodate a future sixth level, providing Essex County with flexibility to expand parking capacity as demand increased. KSE’s inspection team verified compliance with design requirements, monitored construction quality, and ensured that completed work met all applicable codes, standards, and project specifications.
As the project approached completion, KSE conducted final building inspections and worked closely with the architect and contractor to identify outstanding items necessary for substantial completion. The team prepared and managed the final punch list, monitored corrective actions, and verified completion of remaining work. KSE also reviewed contractor-prepared record drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, warranties, and other closeout documentation for completeness and accuracy prior to submission to Essex County. To support successful project delivery, KSE assembled a multidisciplinary team that included MZM Construction & Management Company, a New Jersey-certified DBE, MBE, and WBE firm providing scheduling services, and KEY-TECH Laboratories, a New Jersey-certified Small Business Enterprise providing materials testing services. This integrated approach ensured effective project controls, technical oversight, and quality management throughout construction.
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