Google Data Center-Fort Wayne, IN

Keller – North America awarded Wightman a construction staking project for a new Google Data Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The initial phase of the contract led to several additional projects as site development progressed. A collaboration between Wightman’s Fort Wayne survey team and the specialized Energy team ensured the successful completion of these tasks. This included staking and providing as-built surveys for 2,300 pilings to support one of the main Google buildings on-site.

The original plan called for a single crew working over 14 weeks; however, schedule adjustments required the addition of three drilling crews, significantly increasing the scope and pace of work. Field crews from multiple Wightman offices mobilized to meet the demand, working 12-hour shifts for two months to keep the project on schedule and ensure its timely completion.

In addition to the Google Data Center project, AEP selected Wightman to provide surveying and civil engineering services for its new Zodiac Station located on the same site.

Construction staking for the new site in Fort Wayne is critically important because it establishes the physical reference points and layout on the ground that guide all aspects of construction. Construction staking is essential for such a large-scale project for several reasons:

1. Precision and Accuracy: The success of a data center depends on meeting rigorous design and structural standards. Accurate construction staking ensures the project aligns with the detailed engineering plans, preventing costly errors during construction.

2. Guidance for Contractors: Staking provides clear markers for the placement of foundations, utilities, roads, and other essential structures. This ensures contractors and crews know exactly where to excavate, pour, or build.

3. Coordination Across Disciplines: A data center involves numerous interconnected systems (e.g., electrical, HVAC, telecommunications). Proper staking helps coordinate these systems' installations to avoid conflicts or rework.

4. Compliance with Regulations: Construction staking ensures the project adheres to local zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations, minimizing the risk of legal or compliance issues.

5. Optimizing Project Workflow: By providing an accurate roadmap for the construction phases, staking helps keep the project on schedule and within budget, critical for high-value, time-sensitive projects like a data center.

6. Future-Proofing Infrastructure: Accurate staking contributes to the durability and scalability of the facility, ensuring it meets Google’s current needs while accommodating future growth or upgrades.

Construction staking is foundational (pun intended) to ensuring that every detail of the Google data center’s construction is precise, efficient, and compliant with design standards, contributing to the overall success of the project.