Driving Transportation Projects Forward in the Carolinas
When it comes to her career, Jennifer Farino is inspired by this Vince Lombardi quote: “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”
Jennifer, Charlotte Area Leader at RS&H, keeps this quote in mind as she works toward her project goals in the Carolinas. She is currently working on several transportation projects, including I-485 Express Lanes, Cornelius Roundabouts and I-77 South Express Lanes projects to name a few.
When she entered the engineering field, Jennifer didn’t know what to expect but quickly discovered her work would truly make a difference in our communities.
“As I started my career, I dabbled in structure design as well as hydraulic design but found my true passion in roadway design,” said Jennifer. “I love how every project is different and is a big puzzle that just needs to be put together in the most efficient, cost-effective way.”
Success with Harkers Island Bridge Replacement
Jennifer served as the project manager and lead engineer on the Harkers Island Bridge Replacement project. The Earl C. Davis Memorial Bridge and Bridge No. 96 carrying State Road 1332/1335 (Harkers Island Road) over The Straits waterway in Carteret County, North Carolina, provides the only vehicular access to Harkers Island from mainland Carteret County. They are both more than 45 years old and due for replacement. The project was recently featured in the ENR Design Sourcebook.
Maintenance of traffic was a challenge due to this route being the only vehicular access to and from Harkers Island. Stakeholder coordination was a critical component of ensuring a successful project outcome. Jennifer and her RS&H team coordinated extensively with contractors to determine and understand the construction challenges and mitigate potential environmental impacts to expedite the permitting application process.
The team performed environmental analysis, coordinated public involvement and outreach, as well as NEPA/404 Merger team meetings and prepared the categorical exclusion in compliance with NEPA.
Driving Growth in the Carolinas
In 2013, RS&H hired Jennifer to assist with design-build projects. Since then, she has transitioned to overseeing approximately 30 associates serving State and Municipal DOTs and Aviation clients. Jennifer has helped successfully deliver many projects and garner repeat business for RS&H since her first day with the company. She earns the respect she receives from all her clients because she is dependable and consistent as a project manager.
“Jennifer knows and understands technical details very well. She always takes time to explain details so that we could make proper decisions in a timely manner. She always keeps us informed and is a great partner for us,” said Hon Yeung, Division 2 Project Development Engineer for the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
Positive Impact
In the past several years, RS&H has experienced accelerated growth and partnership with clients in the Carolinas. Jennifer played a significant role in these accomplishments.
“Jennifer truly leads by example. She is very good at team building, engaging, motivating and mentoring associates. Her commitment to quality and discipline to RS&H’s success is very well known to our clients,” said RS&H Vice President Radha Krishna Swayampakala.
Learn more about how Jennifer and the rest of the Transportation team can help on your next project.
This post was originally published on July 25, 2019, and updated on September 20, 2022.