Carlin White CAR Transport Site Design

CAR Transport, a vehicle transportation company, needed to expand its operations in Houston, Texas, by creating a site that would accommodate both office space and storage facilities for its fleet of 18-wheelers. The challenge lay in designing a site that would meet the logistical needs of large vehicle maneuvering while staying within budget. Furthermore, the project required careful coordination with multiple regulatory agencies, including TxDOT and Harris County, to comply with various ordinances and obtain all necessary approvals.

Cost-Effective Site Design

To address the client’s budget concerns, the HR Green design team implemented a strategic design approach that minimized infrastructure costs while meeting operational needs. Key solutions included:

• Designing a hybrid pavement system that used traditional concrete for the office space and a more cost-effective crushed granite surface for the rear storage area. This material not only provided the necessary strength to support large semi-trucks but also reduced stormwater management requirements due to its pervious nature, allowing water to seep through and decreasing runoff.
• By using pervious pavement, the site also benefited from a reduction in required stormwater detention infrastructure. Some of the paved areas doubled as water detention zones, offering an efficient and sustainable solution for stormwater management.

Geometric Design and Vehicle Maneuvering

Given the need to accommodate large semi-trucks, HR Green paid special attention to the site’s geometric layout. The team designed a parking and maneuvering area optimized for the size and turning radius of 18-wheelers, supporting smooth logistics for vehicle movement on-site. The layout also allowed for maximum use of available space, keeping operational flow efficient.

Coordination with Multiple Agencies

The project required compliance with various regulations from TxDOT and Harris County. HR Green’s team worked diligently to navigate the complex approval processes. By balancing the requirements of both agencies and engaging in effective communication, the team was able to streamline the permitting process and keep the project moving forward.

Innovative Design Meets Operational Needs and Budget Goals

The CAR Transport development project successfully delivered a functional, cost-effective site that met the company’s operational needs while staying within budget. The use of crushed granite as a pervious pavement material not only saved costs but also provided an eco-friendly solution to stormwater management, demonstrating how industrial land developments can incorporate sustainable techniques.

The project expanded CAR Transport’s storage and office space, enabling smoother operations for its fleet of vehicle haulers. The innovative use of space and materials resulted in a project that balanced functionality, sustainability, and cost efficiency, benefiting both the client and the local community by supporting economic activity in the area.