Short answer: Before a commercial building goes up, the site typically needs clearing or demolition, excavation and grading, underground utilities (water, sanitary and storm), storm water management such as a retention pond, a paved parking lot with curbs, sidewalks and final grading. Site work can be a large share of total project cost, so plan it early.
1. Site Evaluation
Start with a survey, soils information and a review of the local site plan requirements. Poor soils, high groundwater or a lack of nearby utilities can change the budget significantly.
2. Clearing and Demolition
Existing buildings, pavement, trees and foundations have to come out. See demolition.
3. Earthwork and Grading
The site is cut and filled to plan elevations and the building pad is prepared. Balancing cuts and fills on site avoids costly trucking. See excavation and grading.
4. Underground Utilities
Water service, sanitary sewer and storm sewer are installed and connected to municipal systems, along with manholes, catch basins and, for restaurants, grease interceptors. See underground utilities.
5. Storm Water Management
Most Michigan communities require new developments to control storm water runoff, often with retention or detention ponds or underground storage, plus soil erosion and sedimentation control during construction.
6. Paving and Concrete
Parking lots, drive aisles and drive-thru lanes are built on a compacted aggregate base, then finished with curbs, gutters, sidewalks and accessible ramps. See parking lots and concrete.
7. Final Grading and Restoration
Topsoil, final grades and landscaping areas finish the site and direct water away from the building.
Why One Contractor for Site and Building Helps
When the site contractor and building contractor are different companies, schedule gaps and finger-pointing are common. RBF Construction performs site development and general contracting under one contract across Southeast Michigan. Request a bid.
About This Guide
Written by the team at RBF Construction, Inc., a licensed and insured general contractor and site developer in Flint, Michigan, serving Genesee, Oakland and Southeast Michigan. Rules vary by community, so confirm requirements with your local building department. Questions? Call 810-938-8498.