Rich Edinger, P.E., CFM is developing resilient infrastructure systems that will withstand the test of time.
As CPL’s Southeast Region Community Practice Leader, he manages large-scale civil engineering projects from the earliest stages of design through construction, serving as a respected advisor to local leaders and residents alike. Leveraging insight gleaned from his time with the Delaware and Georgia Departments of Transportation (DOT), as well as his tenure as the Director of Public Works for the city of Suwanee, GA, he strives to build strong community foundations by increasing connectivity and engagement, and has become an embedded public servant in the process.
“Having worked in the public sector, I understand exactly where our clients are coming from. They want to make life better for their constituents, but face complex engineering hurdles,” he said. ”Our job is to help them make informed decisions that keep society moving and enable residents to thrive.”
With more than 17 years at CPL under his belt, Edinger has tackled everything from climate resiliency plans to bridge and dam rehabilitation assignments. His recent ventures include planning services for Hall County; unified development code work for the cities of Acworth, GA, and Social Circle, GA; and comprehensive civil design services for the city of Flowery Branch, GA.
A rendering of the future Farmers Market streetscape at Pine Street Park in Flowery Branch, GA.
When he isn’t meeting with clients, Edinger leads CPL’s project teams in performing erosion control inspections; conducting site reviews; and interacting with permitting agencies such as the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
Reflecting his desire to elevate quality of life throughout Georgia and beyond, in his spare time, Edinger serves as the Vice Chairman of the Gwinnett County Planning Commission. He’s also an active member of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), the Gwinnett County Stormwater Authority and the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM).
He says his perpetual goal is to keep both clients’ needs and wants top of mind.
“We don’t make our clients’ decisions for them―as their partners, we devise thoughtful strategies that help get them where they want to go,” Edinger said, adding, “The best way to support our communities is to really listen to what they have to say.”
