Recent DLZ Projects

DLZ has recently attended ribbon cuttings for several projects we have participated in.

Left: DDOT JASON HARGROVE TRANSIT CENTER FORMER STATE FAIR ADAPTIVE REUSE – DLZ performed A/E design services associated with the new Transit Center developed at the former State Fairgrounds in Detroit.

Bottom Left: OTTAWA COUNTY – FAMILY JUSTICE CENTER – DLZ performed A/E design services for the Justice Center. The project program totals approximately 56,000 SF to accommodate courtrooms and administrative office space for Juvenile Court, Probate Court, Friend of the Court, the County Clerk, and Probation services.

Bottom Center: KALAMAZOO PUBLIC SAFETY STATION NO. 2 – DLZ completed architecture, engineering, and construction administration services for a new Public Safety Station to replace an existing facility that had become functionally obsolete.

Bottom Right: ARPA DETROIT COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR PARKING LOTS – DLZ performed full engineering design and construction administration services associated with six municipal parking lots in various locations in Detroit. This project strengthens Detroit’s neighborhoods by adding off-street parking capacity in priority commercial corridors.

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DLZ West Michigan Golf Outing

DLZ successfully organized its third annual golf outing at the Ravines Golf Course in Saugatuck, Michigan. The event was a tremendous success, offering an enjoyable and memorable day for all attendees. Guests had an incredibly fun time playing golf while also taking in the beautiful surroundings of the course. The event was memorable due to the welcoming atmosphere and excellent organization, demonstrating DLZ’s dedication to building a strong community and providing enjoyable experiences for its community.

Independence Township is a Recipient of the Affordability and Planning Grant

DLZ is pleased to announce that Independence Township is a recipient of the Affordability and Planning (AP) Grant, from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in the amount of $441,770.00 for the Drayton Plains Water Main Extension project. This project will address water quality concerns for the residents in the Drayton Plains area, as they are currently served by private individual wells. The Sashabaw Road/Maybee Road corridor has a history of contamination from two (2) leaking underground storage tanks (LUST), with confirmed releases, which have contributed to poor water quality. These 2 sites have been registered through the EGLE LUST program since 1991.

The AP Grant is available as part of EGLE’s Clean Water Plan designed to provide funding to address water infrastructure needs across the state. The Township is 1 of 17 communities to receive this highly competitive funding. DLZ assisted the Township with the grant application and will be providing design engineering and grant administration services in the coming months. Congratulations, to Independence Township!

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Employee Spotlight:
Dava Lakatos

Q: How long have you worked for DLZ and what do you do there?
A: I’ve been with DLZ for the last 2.5 years, and am currently a Civil Engineer II out of the Muskegon office.

Q: What is the most interesting project you were part of?
A: The most interesting project I have been a part of was the E. Medical Center Drive Bridge Widening project in the City of Ann Arbor. The project consisted of widening the bridge and road, as well as the relocation and coordination of extremely sensitive communication conduits that serviced the UM hospital within the bridge duct bank. As a young engineer, this project was a great learning experience to see all project components come together from start to finish.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your career?
A: DLZ has provided the opportunity to expand my skill set by working on a variety of civil projects from pump stations, safety paths, water distribution, transportation, funding opportunities, and DWSRF project plans. I thoroughly enjoy learning from and working with my fellow staff here at DLZ.

Q: What is something people don’t know about you?
A: I love anything to do with outdoors whether it’s hunting, fishing, camping, or hiking! My dad and I used to compete in archery leagues together at our local club.

Q: What’s your secret talent no one knows about?
A: Growing up, I was a competitive gymnast and dancer, but I really loved ballet on pointe. I am still taking ballet classes and practicing at home.
Now in my spare time, I volunteer by assistant coaching the competitive dance team I grew up a part of. A majority of the coaches are dancers I competed with, so it’s been a great way to spend time with old friends and give back to the program.

Q: Who has been the most influential person in your life?
A: My parents are the most influential people in my life. Throughout all stages of my life, they have encouraged me through all endeavors, and I credit many of my accomplishments to them. They are the most selfless and supportive people as they had to sacrifice so much mentally, physically, and financially for our family.