Squash Bend Substation

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Alliant Energy replaced outdated substations as well as one that burned with this substation named Squash Bend (the original name of the town that became North Liberty). ​The substation included a screen wall as well as pollinator plantings surrounding the substation that support honey bee and other native species. This was one of two pilot pollinator planting sites for Alliant substations that have become commonplace at both rural and urban substations.

As part of this project, Shive-Hattery designed an 8’ PCC trail approximately 1/3 of a mile long. This future trail will connect the existing trail along Highway 965 to the residential neighborhood to the east, giving residents access to the vast network of trails that go across the city of North Liberty. The trail design faced many challenges, including a complete regrading of the right-of-way along N Dubuque St. and a railroad crossing. After reviewing existing conditions and surrounding areas, Shive-Hattery was able to come up with a grading solution that not only accommodated the 8’ trail but also maintained positive drainage for stormwater running through the area.

A nearby railroad crossing also presented challenges, but Shive-Hattery was able to design a crossing with pavement markings, detectable warnings and paving up to the rails that will not only maintain railroad access through the area, but also provide a safe crossing for pedestrians and cyclists.