Civil Engineering for Community and Sustainability: The Story Behind Mace Parking Lot
How do you turn a parking lot into more than just a place to park? For HECO Engineers, the answer lies in purposeful civil engineering and designing spaces that reflect community needs, environmental priorities, and practical functionality. The Mace Parking Lot in Eagle, Idaho, exemplifies this philosophy. Nestled near the Boise River and the City Greenbelt, this small but impactful project brought thoughtful design and collaboration to the forefront.
Listening to the Community
At the heart of this project was a commitment to listening—really listening—to the community. Early in the design process, public input played a critical role in shaping the final layout. Feedback from Eagle residents helped refine everything from parking stall placement to access points, ensuring the space truly met local needs.
The result? A design that feels like it belongs to the community it serves.
Community collaboration wasn’t just a checkbox; it was the foundation of the design. By incorporating suggestions and addressing concerns, the final product reflects a shared vision—one that balances functionality and community values.
Balancing Nature and Progress
Designing in harmony with the natural environment is never easy, but it’s always worth the effort. The Mace Parking Lot project tackled several environmental challenges, including floodplain constraints and nearby wetlands. HECO Engineers developed sustainable grading practices to ensure the design would support the environment while meeting functional needs.
Floodplain management wasn’t just an afterthought—it was integral to the project. Every decision, from cut-and-fill calculations to drainage plans, was made with the goal of protecting the natural landscape. By carefully addressing these constraints, the design minimizes its environmental impact while maintaining long-term resilience.
A Design That Serves Everyone
Accessibility is about more than meeting code requirements; it’s about creating spaces that welcome everyone. The Mace Parking Lot features ADA-compliant stalls, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the area. Safe entry and exit improvements along Eagle Road further enhance the site’s usability, ensuring that visitors can come and go with ease.
Perhaps most importantly, the parking lot connects people to what matters—the Boise River and the City Greenbelt. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a cyclist, or someone looking for a quiet spot to enjoy nature, this space is designed with you in mind.
From Vision to Reality
Bringing the Mace Parking Lot from concept to completion involved careful planning and collaboration. HECO Engineers guided the project through every stage, from initial designs and environmental considerations to public input sessions and construction oversight. The result is a functional, welcoming space that embodies the principles of thoughtful engineering.
Reflecting on the Impact
The Mace Parking Lot is more than just a project—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and careful design. By blending community input, environmental responsibility, and practical functionality, it has become a space that Eagle residents can be proud of.
From Vision to Reality
Bringing the Mace Parking Lot from concept to completion involved careful planning and collaboration. HECO Engineers guided the project through every stage, from initial designs and environmental considerations to public input sessions and construction oversight. The result is a functional, welcoming space that embodies the principles of thoughtful engineering.
Reflecting on the Impact
The Mace Parking Lot is more than just a project—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and careful design. By blending community input, environmental responsibility, and practical functionality, it has become a space that Eagle residents can be proud of.
Looking ahead, HECO Engineers is ready to bring this same level of care and expertise to future projects. If you’re envisioning a project that combines innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, let’s start the conversation.