Underhill Geomatics: A Contractor that knows the BC Landscape
Publish Date: January 2010
It's been almost 100 years since Underhill and Underhill first began providing land survey services in the lower mainland. Today, as Underhill Geomatics, the Vancouver based firm is still at the forefront of surveying and mapping technology – and is playing a key role in the 2010 Winter Games.
Starting in 2005, Underhill successfully bid to provide layout surveys for the short track speed skating ovals at the Pacific Coliseum and Killarney Rinks, then cadastral surveys for the opening ceremonies at BC Place, and topographical surveys for Canada Line stations, including Waterfront, Robson, and Yaletown. The City of Vancouver also contracted Underhill as survey consultants to ensure project control at the Olympic Village Site.
"The spin-off work from 2005 to 2009 has also been enormous," says Underhill executive Chris Cryderman.
One project involved determining GPS antenna locations as part of an Aircraft Navigation System. Another project required Underhill to map the underground utility corridor to upgrade electrical services from Hastings Park to the Pacific Coliseum. A third project involved 3D GPS photo control to help map security from Chilliwack to Whistler.
Opportunities like the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games don't come often," says Cryderman who sees 2010 projects changing the region in the same way Expo 86 turned Vancouver into a world city.
"Infrastructure projects initiated in support of the Games will benefit us socially, and economically, for many years to come," says Cryderman who believes this is a unique opportunity for employee development. "The experience gained by our staff is a once in a lifetime thing."
As a surveying company that navigates the business world with a moral compass, Underhill makes every effort to remain on a path of sustainability. Digital delivery of survey plans and reports reduces paper waste and minimizes the impact on the environment. The recycling of old computers through organizations like Free Geek Vancouver ensures that machines are reused. And a vehicle fleet that is 20% hybrid helps to reduce Underhill's carbon footprint.
The company's environmental conscience is equally matched by a sense of social responsibility. Underhill proudly helps First Nations reclaim lost territory by demarcating boundaries for various land claims.
"Underhill has completed more First Nation Land Claim surveys than any other company in Canada," says Cryderman. For most of these surveys, Underhill hires Aboriginal staff and utilizes Aboriginal businesses as sub-contractors. Full-time Aboriginal employees also enjoy a long history at Underhill Geomatics.
As Underhill approaches a centenary birthday, others can benefit from its pioneering work. For companies that would like to take part in the 2010 business, but are unsure whether they could compete in the bidding process, Cryderman offers some encouraging words.
"Many of the 2010 related projects we have done have been for smaller contractors, and had nothing to do with our size, bidding experience, or location. There are definitely opportunities for everyone."
Cryderman also offers a message of hope to those companies that fail to win official 2010 contracts. "It's not too late; you can still be involved in the spin-offs."
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