Innovation is one of our core values, and we approach every project with curiosity and a drive to do things better. We’re always exploring alternative approaches and creative solutions to address challenges, improve outcomes, and add value for our clients and communities. This mindset allows us to stay adaptable, forward-thinking, and ready to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
While most of our projects are delivered using traditional Design-Bid-Build, we also have experience designing and managing projects under Design-Build and Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) delivery methods. Specifically, Mark Thomas has become a leader in CM/GC project delivery in California. We have delivered multiple freeway projects with Caltrans using CM/GC. We have built great working relationships and trust with Caltrans, the Independent Cost Estimators (ICE), and CM/GC contractors over the last few years. This allows for a smooth and efficient review at each design submittal and the Opinion of Probable Construction Cost (OPCC) reviews.
Mark Thomas has been at the forefront of innovative design and management solutions. Our extensive knowledge of design guidelines and design standards enables us to develop creative and approvable design solutions.
Mark Thomas designed the first operational Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) in California and first to be approved by Caltrans – the SR 120/Union Road Interchange in Manteca, CA. This new configuration was not in the Caltrans Highway Design Manual and we worked extensively with Caltrans District 10 and Headquarters to develop DIB 90, which specifies the design standards for DDIs, and to gain acceptance on our design to move into construction.
Mark Thomas pioneered a bicycle/pedestrian friendly interchange design by creating a grade-separated pathway inside the interchange, reducing conflict between cars and bikes/peds to zero. We developed the US 50/Watt Interchange, a project that improves vehicular operations on one of the busiest arterials in Sacramento, CA while enhancing bicycle and pedestrian mobility and safety.
Mark Thomas designed a reversible bus lane to alleviate the heavy traffic congestion at the US 101/Shoreline Boulevard Interchange in Mountain View, CA. The reversible bus lane will allow buses and various shuttles to zip past traffic with a dedicated system of signals. It is the one of the first of its kind in California.
Mark Thomas helped the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission and Caltrans District 5 develop the first CHP-approved bus-on-shoulder facility in California. This design allows buses to operate on the shoulder of the freeway during peak periods, improving transit reliability.
