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ACEC California Celebrates Engineering Excellence

On February 19, 2026, the American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC California) will hold its prestigious Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet, celebrating twenty outstanding engineering projects from public and private sectors. These projects are recognized for their remarkable innovation, complexity, and contributions to the community, setting standards for quality infrastructure across the state.

Honoring Excellence

Tyler Munzing, the Executive Director of ACEC California, expressed pride in recognizing the exceptional work of member firms that deliver impressive value and technical excellence to local communities. During the event, the winner of the coveted Golden State Award, designated for the best overall project, will also be revealed.

The importance of quality infrastructure is underscored, with projects aimed at enhancing drinking water safety, improving transportation efficiency, and ensuring structurally sound public spaces. The award-winning projects serve to regenerate California by improving the community’s health, safety, and sustainability.

Notable Projects Honored

Davenport Park Expansion and Landfill Gas Control System

One of the standout projects is the Davenport Park Expansion, led by Anchor QEA in Long Beach. This ambitious initiative aims to convert a former landfill into a vibrant, accessible community park. It integrates civil engineering techniques with recreational features to foster community health and fitness while employing a Landfill Gas (LFG) Control System that ensures emissions control and compliance with environmental safety standards.

LAX/Metro Transit Center

Another remarkable project is the LAX/Metro Transit Center, designed as a multimodal hub to connect Los Angeles International Airport with various transportation networks. The project promotes sustainable travel and enhances accessibility for both airport employees and residents in South LA, significantly reducing congestion and supporting economic growth. The innovative structural design addresses the challenges posed by the busy airport's high seismic activity while driving over $150 million in investment into small and diverse businesses.

Artesia Boulevard Bridge Emergency Repairs

The City of Compton's Artesia Boulevard Bridge project represents a proactive response to infrastructure integrity, focusing on fire protection techniques that can serve as a model for urban resilience. The innovative emergency repairs tackled severe fire damage while pioneering effective safety measures, re-establishing critical transportation links for residents, particularly in relation to essential services and educational institutions.

McKinley Street Grade Separation

Biggs Cardosa Associates Inc. has also excelled, completing California's first steel network tied arch bridge that eliminated hazardous railroad grade crossings, significantly enhancing safety and reducing traffic delays. This achievement not only demonstrates engineering excellence but also emphasizes the project's impact on public safety and environmental sustainability.

Together, these projects showcase how thoughtful engineering can bring transformative impacts to communities across California. They illustrate a forward-thinking approach, balancing innovation with socio-economic benefits and environmental considerations.

Commitment to Community and Environment

These achievements are more than just engineering triumphs; they reflect a commitment to improving community well-being and environmental stewardship. Projects like the Watts Skatepark, which enhances recreational opportunities in South Los Angeles, and the Mount Vernon Viaduct, which strengthens mobility, showcase how integrated engineering solutions can bolster both societal and ecological health.

As California faces ongoing challenges related to climate change and urbanization, the recognition of these engineering feats serves as an inspiration for future innovations. The Engineering Excellence Awards not only celebrate current achievements but also set a robust foundation for the future of engineering in California, promoting resilient infrastructures that respond to the community's needs.

In conclusion, the diverse range of projects honored at this year's ACEC California awards highlights the vital role engineering plays in shaping a sustainable future for communities and improving quality of life. As we look forward to the awards ceremony, it's apparent that collaboration among engineering firms, public agencies, and community stakeholders is crucial for building a more resilient California.

Conclusion

This year’s recognition from ACEC California is a testament to the transformative power of engineering, showcasing how each project plays a crucial role in creating a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly infrastructure for all residents.