Urban is pleased to announce that Bill McGarrigel, PE, has been named the Member of the Year by the American Council of Engineering Companies’ New Jersey chapter (ACEC New Jersey) at the organization’s 2020 New Jersey Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet. The firm’s design work on the White Horse Circle in Hamilton Township was also recognized with an Honor Award in the Small Project category.

“It is an honor to receive this award from ACEC New Jersey, an important organization that recognizes and promotes the interests of our firm and our peers,” said Mr. McGarrigel, who serves as a vice president and general manager for transportation planning and design services. “Our industry is driven by the results of our collective efforts and not an individual. This award is as much about the success of those around me, from family, co-workers at Urban, and peers at ACEC New Jersey, as it is about my accomplishments.”

An integral member of the Urban team for more than 20 years, Mr. McGarrigel is responsible for nationwide strategic planning of pursuits and teaming for transportation planning and design initiatives, while working hand in hand with leaders in each of the firm’s office locations. His extensive portfolio of experience includes managing and designing complex transportation projects and serving as project director/manager for the planning and design phases of numerous projects throughout the county. Mr. McGarrigel holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Penn State University and is a registered Professional Engineer in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

White Horse Circle in Hamilton Township was often avoided by drivers because of its confusing crisscrossing lanes and its reputation for accidents. NJDOT explored ways to improve safety at the circle and enlisted Urban to develop a modern roundabout. Rather than cutting through the circle, all approaching drivers would yield to circulating vehicles, which would in turn remove several conflict points that existed in the original configuration. The firm designed a single/double lane hybrid roundabout that was 170 feet in diameter with 16-foot-wide lanes. The new roundabout serves as an aesthetically pleasing gateway into Hamilton that is safer for drivers and is now the winner of multiple awards.

ACEC New Jersey is the leading advocate for New Jersey's consulting engineering profession, striving to enhance the business practices of professional engineering companies in the planning, design and construction industry. ACECNJ’s current membership includes 115 engineering firms employing more than 5,500 people in New Jersey alone.