The FISH Center for the Sciences – Hobart & William Smith Colleges

3D rendering of a courtyard beside the FISH Center for the Sciences with students gathered around picnic tables, a walkway lined with flowering plantings, and an arched glass entrance in the background

The FISH Center for the Sciences - Hobart & William Smith Colleges

300 Pulteney, Geneva, NY 14456

Client: Hobart & William Smith Colleges
Suffolk Construction Company

Construction Completion: On-going

Project Services: Survey, Civil Engineering, Landscape Architecture, 3D Rendering, Permitting and Approvals, and Construction Administration

Project Background

The FISH Center for the Sciences is a new academic building at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, NY. Costich is working with Suffolk Design and the Colleges to bring this project to life. The four-story building will span approximately 41,000 square feet. Inside, it will house research and teaching labs, instrumentation spaces, and shared commons that connect the sciences to the liberal arts.

A New Home for STEM on the Hobart Quad

The FISH Center for the Sciences will replace Eaton Hall, a 1961 science building with structural issues. The new building sits at the southeast edge of the Hobart Quad along St. Clair Street. Its brick design draws from the historic architecture of the Quad. In addition, a glass connector will link the new center to neighboring science buildings. The project is targeting LEED Silver certification or higher. Construction began in early 2026, and the building is set to open in fall 2027.

Civil Engineering and Site Design

Our team is providing civil engineering, survey, and site development services for the FISH Center. First, we documented existing conditions and completed a subsurface utility investigation. Next, that work shaped the full site, grading, utility, and stormwater design plans. We also prepared phased erosion and sediment control plans. Finally, we coordinated municipal and agency approvals for the project.

Landscape Architecture and 3D Rendering

Costich is also leading landscape architecture for the site. Improvements include new sidewalks, plantings, walkway lighting, and outdoor seating areas. To support design review, we produced 3D site renderings of the finished campus setting. As a result, the design team and campus stakeholders could see how the site ties into the Quad. Together with Suffolk Design and the Colleges, we are creating an accessible, cohesive campus that supports the future of science at HWS.

FAQ

What is the FISH Center for the Sciences?

The FISH Center for the Sciences is a new four-story academic building at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, NY. It will bring the Colleges’ science programs together with research and teaching labs, instrumentation spaces, and collaborative commons.

Where is the FISH Center for the Sciences located?

The building sits at the southeast edge of the Hobart Quad along St. Clair Street. It replaces Eaton Hall and connects to neighboring science buildings through a glass connector.

What services is Costich providing?

Costich is providing survey, civil engineering, landscape architecture, 3D rendering, permitting and approvals, and construction administration services. This includes site, grading, utility, and stormwater design, along with new walkways, plantings, and site lighting.

How did 3D rendering support the project?

Our 3D site renderings helped the design team and campus stakeholders visualize the finished site. They showed how new walkways, plantings, and gathering spaces would connect the building to the Quad.

When will the FISH Center for the Sciences open?

Construction began in early 2026, and the building is scheduled to open in fall 2027.

Gallery

3D rendering of the FISH Center for the Sciences with a walkway across the Quad lawn leading to a glass entrance connecting the new brick building to Napier Hall — A glass connector links the FISH Center to Napier Hall at the south end of the Hobart Quad.

3D rendering of the FISH Center for the Sciences entrance plaza with students gathering near benches, bike racks, and landscaped planting beds — A landscaped entrance plaza welcomes students to the FISH Center from the Hobart Quad.

3D rendering of a curving walkway between a brick wall and the FISH Center for the Sciences, lined with flowering shrubs, small trees, and lamp posts — A landscaped walkway connects the FISH Center to surrounding buildings in the campus science precinct.

3D rendering of the rear facade of the FISH Center for the Sciences with a glass stair tower, picnic tables, and walkways crossing a green lawn — Outdoor seating and new walkways extend the FISH Center’s collaborative spaces outside.

3D rendering of the full Quad-facing facade of the FISH Center for the Sciences with curved gables, a glass entrance, and a walkway curving across the lawn toward Napier Hall — The FISH Center’s gabled brick facade draws from the historic architecture of the Hobart Quad.

3D rendering of the FISH Center for the Sciences front elevation facing the Hobart Quad, with students jogging, playing soccer, and talking on the lawn — The FISH Center frames the south edge of the Hobart Quad, an active lawn for students and faculty.

3D rendering of the side of the FISH Center for the Sciences with a walkway, side entrance, and a broad planting bed of groundcover and young trees curving along the lawn edge — Layered plantings soften the building’s edge and guide pedestrians to a secondary entrance.

3D rendering of a garden walkway between the FISH Center for the Sciences and a brick wall, with benches, pink hydrangeas, purple salvia, and young trees — Benches and flowering plantings turn a narrow service corridor into a quiet place to pause.

3D rendering of a walkway along the side of the FISH Center for the Sciences, with evergreen shrubs against the brick wall and a groundcover-planted slope with young trees on the other side — Groundcover and new trees stabilize the slope beside a walkway along the FISH Center.

Additional Information

Learn more about the FISH Center for the Sciences by visiting the Hobart and William Smith Colleges website:
https://www.hws.edu/offices/president/statements/the-fish-center-for-the-sciences.aspx

Read more about how faculty shaped the building’s design in the Pulteney St. Survey:
https://www.hws.edu/alum/pss-spring26/articles/fish-center.html

Learn more about the transition from Eaton Hall to the FISH Center on the Hobart and William Smith Colleges website:
https://www.hws.edu/news/2026/when-the-birds-move-out.aspx

Learn more about state support for the project on the Hobart and William Smith Colleges website:
https://www.hws.edu/news/2025/hws-awarded-5-m.aspx

Read more about the project’s construction timeline on the Finger Lakes Times website:
https://www.fltimes.com/news/hobart-and-william-smith-gets-5-million-state-grant-for-science-building/article_84b9ec14-e66b-4826-bbf3-383df808a811.html

September 30, 2026September 30, 2026

COSTICH SUMMER 2026 NEWSLETTER

Summer’s a wrap! Check out what we’ve been up to over the last several months…

Click here to view the COSTICH Summer newsletter!

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September 8, 2026September 4, 2026

Sands Family YMCA

351 North St, Canandaigua, NY 14424

Client: YMCA of Greater Rochester, CJS Architects
Construction Completion: Fall 2023

Project Services: Land Survey, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation & Construction Observation

Costich has worked on this site since 2021, carrying the original 13-acre facility from concept through construction closeout and returning in 2026 to help design its next chapter. The same integrated team of land surveyors, civil engineers, and landscape architects has seen the project through from raw land to a growing community asset.

Turning Donated Land into a Community Hub

The site at North Street and North Bloomfield Road began as open land donated to give the YMCA of Greater Rochester a new home within Canandaigua’s city limits. Costich’s survey team completed topographic and boundary surveys across the parcel. As the design evolved, Costich supported it with subdivision mapping, utility location, and instrument surveys through final approvals.

Civil Engineering from Grading to Closeout

Costich led site design through schematic, design development, and construction documentation, including grading, drainage, and sanitary sewer design. The scope carried well past permit approval: the team managed stormwater pollution prevention design and inspections throughout construction, coordinated backflow prevention submittals, and supported construction administration through final punch list.

Landscape Architecture Rooted in the Community

Costich’s landscape architecture team shaped the site from early concept sketches through final planting plans, including pedestrian circulation, meadow and stormwater-area plantings, and detailed design supported by renderings and site furnishing selections. The result connects the building to its surrounding fields and gathering spaces.

The completed facility opened October 2, 2023, bringing gymnasiums, indoor pools and splash pad, group exercise studios, a teaching kitchen, an innovation station for S.T.E.A.M. programs, and a licensed childcare center to the Canandaigua community. In 2026, Costich returned to the site to begin design on its next phase of growth.

One Team, from Groundbreaking to Growth

From the first topographic survey to the latest Planning Commission approval, one integrated team of surveyors, engineers, and landscape architects has helped the Sands Family YMCA grow alongside the community it serves.

Gallery

Front entrance plaza with seating and flagpole at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — A welcoming entrance plaza with seating, a flagpole, and curved walkways greets visitors to the Sands Family YMCA.

Foundation planting bed with ornamental grasses and shrubs along the Sands Family YMCA building in Canandaigua, NY — Layered plantings of ornamental grasses, shrubs, and perennials line the building facade at the Sands Family YMCA.

Fenced lawn area and flowering perennial beds at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — Flowering perennial beds and a fenced lawn area add color and function to the grounds surrounding the Sands Family YMCA.

Sands Family YMCA building and parking lot with landscaped planting island in Canandaigua, NY — The Sands Family YMCA sees daily use from the Canandaigua community, supported by site infrastructure and landscaping designed by Costich.

Completed parking lot and landscaped entrance at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — The finished Sands Family YMCA site features paved parking, landscaped islands, and mature plantings designed to welcome the Canandaigua community.

Parking lot curbing and paving preparation under construction at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — Curbing and sub-base paving take shape in the parking area as construction continues on the Sands Family YMCA building.

Sands Family YMCA building under construction with exterior panel installation in Canandaigua, NY — Exterior construction progresses on the Sands Family YMCA, with erosion control and site stabilization measures in place across the surrounding grounds.

Graded earthwork and stone access drive during early site construction at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — Early site work at the Sands Family YMCA included large-scale grading and stone-lined access drives to prepare the 13-acre site for construction.

Stormwater retention pond and outlet control structure at the completed Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua, NY — A stormwater retention pond with outlet control structure manages runoff from the Sands Family YMCA site, part of Costich’s SWPPP design and compliance work.

Additional Information

Learn more about the ongoing expansion by going to the FingerLakes1 website:
FingerLakes1

Learn more about the Sands Family YMCA by going to the YMCA of Greater Rochester website:
YMCA of Greater Rochester

Learn more about the project’s origin by going to the YMCA of Greater Rochester website:
YMCA of Greater Rochester

Learn more about the original announcement by going to the Rochester Business Journal website:
Rochester Business Journal

Learn more about the grand opening by going to the 13WHAM website:
13WHAM

August 24, 2026September 23, 2026

Wireless Infrastructure for Venue Operations

Verizon Response mobile wireless unit deployed on the tarmac at the Rochester Airshow

Wireless Infrastructure and Venue Operations

Client: Verizon Wireless
Project Services: Land Survey, Civil Engineering, Schematic Design, Design Development & Construction Documentation, Utility Coordination, Permitting / Municipal Approvals, Environmental Services.

How Costich Supports Venue Operations Through Wireless Infrastructure

A venue only works if it can handle its crowd, and today that includes handling what the crowd’s phones are doing. Ticketing, concessions, wayfinding, media, and basic safety communications all run over wireless service now, which means network capacity has become an operational requirement for any venue hosting large numbers of people, not an amenity. What changes from venue to venue is how that demand shows up. A stadium needs it every day it is open. A one-weekend festival needs it for exactly one weekend, on a site that has to return to normal the moment the crowd leaves. Costich works with Verizon Wireless to engineer the infrastructure behind that coverage, and the approach looks different depending on how the venue itself operates.

A Venue That Runs Year Round: ESL Ballpark

ESL Ballpark operates on a full season schedule, which means its wireless demand is constant rather than tied to a single date. Costich provided civil engineering and construction drawing support for a new Verizon Wireless facility built into the ballpark’s existing video board structure, an unmanned facility with its own associated utilities designed to improve wireless service throughout the stadium.

The scope covered site construction drawings for the antenna and ground equipment areas, equipment cabinet layout, concrete pad and pier details, grading and erosion control, electric and fiber routing, grounding plans, and equipment mounting coordination, incorporating multiple antenna sectors including 5G, C-Band/CBRS, panel, and Matsing equipment. Because ESL Ballpark is an active public venue owned by Monroe County, the design had to work around existing stadium features, access constraints, utilities, structural conditions, and visual considerations without interrupting how the venue actually operates day to day. Standalone infrastructure was the right fit here, since the venue’s demand for coverage never really turns off. The project was completed in 2026.

A Venue That Exists for a Weekend: Rochester Airshow

The Rochester Airshow turns an airfield into a temporary venue for one of the region’s largest single-weekend events, and its operational needs look nothing like a stadium’s. There is no year-round crowd to plan around, no existing infrastructure built for public gatherings, and no reason to leave anything behind once the event ends. Costich supported Verizon Wireless with a temporary wireless facility engineered specifically for the compressed footprint of the Airshow, coordinating equipment placement, power, and grounding to meet the site’s access and safety requirements for the duration of the show.

That is the core difference from a venue like ESL Ballpark. The airfield is not a venue in the everyday sense, it becomes one for a few days a year, and the infrastructure supporting it has to be deployed, operated, and removed on that same timeline, in coordination with airport operations and everything else happening on the same footprint during the event.

A Venue That Is Also a Village: Canal Days in Fairport

Canal Days turns the Village of Fairport into one of the region’s largest festival venues, drawing crowds along the Erie Canal for two full days before the village goes back to being a village. Costich supported Verizon Wireless with a temporary wireless facility sized to that surge in demand, sited, powered, and grounded within the footprint of the event in coordination with the Village of Fairport and the realities of a festival that closes streets and reshapes pedestrian flow for its duration.

It is a good example of how “venue” is not always a fixed piece of infrastructure. Fairport operates as a village the rest of the year and as a regional event venue for one weekend, and the wireless infrastructure supporting Canal Days has to respect both of those identities, showing up when the crowd does and disappearing when it doesn’t.

The same temporary setup also supports Fairport Music Fest, an event held in the same footprint months apart from Canal Days. Rather than engineering a new solution for each event, Costich designed a temporary facility that can be redeployed as is, which keeps costs and turnaround predictable for the client every time the site comes back into use.

Supporting However a Venue Operates

ESL Ballpark, the Rochester Airshow, and Canal Days are three very different kinds of venues: a stadium that operates year round, an airfield that becomes a venue for one weekend a year, and a village that becomes one for two days. Costich’s work with Verizon Wireless across all three comes down to the same approach, engineering wireless infrastructure that matches how each venue actually operates rather than applying one standard solution everywhere. That means standalone facilities where the demand is constant, and temporary, fully removable facilities where the demand is not.

For venue owners and operators around Rochester and the greater Western New York market, that is the value Costich brings to telecommunications projects, civil engineering built around how a venue really functions, whether that is 81 games a season or a single weekend on the calendar.

Other Venues We've Supported

New York State Fair
Highmark Stadium
Harborfest
GrassRoots Festival
Fairport Music Festival
Adirondack Balloon Festival
1812 Lacrosse Shootout Tournament

Gallery

Verizon Wireless antenna equipment mounted on the video board structure at ESL Ballpark in Rochester, NY — Verizon Wireless equipment integrated into the video board structure at ESL Ballpark, part of Costich’s civil engineering support for the stadium’s wireless facility.

Street-level view of the ESL Ballpark video board and wireless equipment structure near the stadium entrance in Rochester, NY — The video board structure at ESL Ballpark, viewed from the stadium entrance, houses the Verizon Wireless equipment Costich engineered into the existing structure.

Close-up of the antenna and equipment mast on the Verizon Response unit at the Rochester Airshow — A close-up of the telescoping antenna mast on the Verizon Response unit deployed for the Rochester Airshow, showing the panel antenna and radio equipment engineered for temporary coverage.

Verizon Response mobile wireless unit deployed for Canal Days in a parking area in Fairport, NY — A Verizon Response mobile wireless unit staged in a parking lot near the Canal Days event footprint in the Village of Fairport, providing temporary network capacity for the festival crowd.

Verizon BISON mobile wireless unit deployed at the 1812 Lacrosse Shootout tournament — A Verizon BISON unit staged within the 1812 Sports & Entertainment compound at the 1812 Lacrosse Shootout, supporting network coverage for tournament weekend crowds.

July 8, 2026July 8, 2026

West Henrietta Road Delta Sonic Car Wash

Delta Sonic West Henrietta carwash facility showing redesigned circulation, landscape plantings with ornamental grasses, and improved sight lines at sunset.

West Henrietta Road Delta Sonic Car Wash

2970 West Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623

Client: Benderson Development
Construction Completion: Summer 2026

Project Services: Land Survey, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation & Construction Observation

Improving Site Circulation and Regulatory Compliance at a High-Traffic Intersection

Benderson Development faced a persistent operational challenge at the Delta Sonic carwash facility at 2970 West Henrietta Road in Rochester, New York. The site suffered from entry conflicts, constrained parking flow, and sight line obstructions that created friction during operations and contributed to congestion at the busy West Henrietta and Mount Hope intersection. The problem wasn’t just about moving cars through the property more efficiently. It was about reducing pressure on a major neighborhood intersection and improving the facility’s ability to serve customers without creating bottlenecks.

Integrated Design Across Disciplines

Costich’s approach required civil engineering, surveying, and landscape architecture to work as a single team, not separate disciplines. The civil engineers redesigned the site circulation, reconfigured drive lanes, and adjusted grading to eliminate entry conflicts and improve sight lines at critical decision points. The surveyors provided precise stakeouts and as-built documentation throughout construction to ensure the design intent was executed in the field. The landscape team positioned plantings strategically to enhance visibility without sacrificing site character.

Parallel to circulation redesign, Costich integrated stormwater management directly into the site geometry. Rather than adding detention ponds or surface features as afterthoughts, the team designed underground detention systems, rainwater collection infrastructure, and bio-retention areas that worked within the new circulation pattern. This integration meant the site could improve operationally while meeting NYSDEC compliance requirements without requiring additional land or creating visual clutter.

Regulatory Coordination

A project of this scope required Costich to navigate submissions and approvals across multiple agencies with overlapping jurisdictions: the Monroe County Water Authority for backflow prevention and water main certification, the Monroe County Department of Health for sanitary and potable water systems, the New York State Department of Transportation for road entrance permits and ongoing inspections, and the Town of Henrietta for site plan modifications under the Mixed-Use Redevelopment Area Overlay District.

Costich maintained continuous SWPPP compliance throughout construction, conducting regular inspections and producing detailed reports to ensure that site work itself did not create environmental risk. Managing these parallel approval processes required coordination, documentation, and the ability to respond quickly to agency comments without derailing the overall timeline.

Outcomes

Site plan approval was granted in October 2024. Construction proceeded through late 2024 and into 2026, with the facility operational as of June 2026. The improvements have proven significant. Traffic flow within the property is measurably better, reducing the time vehicles spend navigating entry, parking, and exit sequences. More importantly, the improved site circulation has reduced congestion at the West Henrietta and Mount Hope intersection itself. The surrounding commercial area benefits from a facility that no longer creates bottlenecks during peak periods.

This project demonstrates Costich’s ongoing partnership with Benderson Development and Delta Sonic. It also illustrates how coordinated site engineering solves multiple problems simultaneously: operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and neighborhood impact.

Gallery

Delta Sonic West Henrietta parking area showing improved circulation, landscape islands with trees and plantings, and clear sight lines across the lot. — The redesigned parking layout eliminates congestion and provides clear sight lines. Strategic landscape islands frame the circulation pattern while enhancing the site’s visual character.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta entry area showing improved sight lines, hardscape design, ornamental plantings, and clear traffic flow from building perspective. — The redesigned entry provides clear sight lines and intuitive traffic patterns. Costich’s integrated grading and landscape design eliminated sight line obstructions that previously created entry conflicts.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta service building showing Costich's landscape design with ornamental plantings, concrete edging, and integrated grading. — Costich’s landscape design integrates plantings and grading at building edges, creating clear sight lines and professional site appearance while supporting operational efficiency.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta exit drive showing improved traffic control, landscape islands, and clear sight lines to stop sign at roadway. — The redesigned exit circulation provides clear sight lines and intuitive traffic control, reducing conflicts at the property edge and improving flow to West Henrietta Road.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta full site view showing improved circulation layout, wayfinding signage, landscape design, and clear traffic flow patterns. — The redesigned site circulation provides intuitive traffic flow, clear wayfinding, and improved sight lines across the entire facility. The benefits extend beyond the property to reduce congestion at the West Henrietta and Mount Hope intersection.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta main carwash building framed by landscape design, ornamental plantings, boulders, and integrated site circulation. — Strategic landscape framing enhances the facility’s presence while maintaining clear sight lines. Costich’s landscape architecture works in concert with site circulation to create a professional, accessible commercial environment.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta oil change and service building showing landscape islands, ornamental plantings, concrete edging, and improved parking circulation. — Landscape islands and strategic plantings guide circulation between the carwash and service areas while maintaining clear sight lines and operational efficiency.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta roundabout featuring central landscape island with ornamental plantings, guiding vehicle circulation and improving traffic flow. — The redesigned roundabout provides intuitive traffic flow and clear sight lines. The central landscape island guides vehicle movement while enhancing the site’s visual character and operational efficiency.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta circulation showing DO NOT ENTER sign, landscape plantings, and clear traffic flow between carwash and service buildings. — The redesigned circulation with clear traffic control signage and landscape framing eliminates entry conflicts. Strategic plantings and parking organization improve wayfinding across the facility.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta landscape planting bed featuring colorful shrubs with red and yellow foliage, concrete edging, and mulch along parking circulation area. — Strategic plant selections with seasonal color variation enhance site character and visual interest while supporting traffic flow and sight line management.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta construction phase showing site grading work, concrete roundabout edging, and earthwork with construction equipment on site. — Active grading and earthwork underway. Concrete edging for the roundabout circulation redesign is in place during this phase of site construction.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta roundabout construction showing concrete edging structure, lighting pole installation, grading work, and oil change/service buildings in background. — The roundabout structure takes shape with concrete edging and lighting poles installed. Site grading and infrastructure work continue across the facility during construction.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta stormwater detention pond with aerator fountains, riprap bank protection, wooden perimeter fencing, and service buildings visible in background. — The redesigned stormwater detention system with aerator fountains manages site runoff while meeting NYSDEC compliance requirements. Riprap erosion protection and strategic pond placement integrate environmental compliance into the site design.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta stormwater detention pond showing concrete walls, riprap erosion protection, stone veneer facing, and outlet structure during construction phase. — The stormwater detention system under construction shows concrete walls, riprap bank stabilization, and stone veneer facing designed for durability and regulatory compliance.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta parking areas closed for site redesign, showing finished concrete paving work, building construction, and concrete edging for improved traffic flow. — Operational areas were closed to enable the comprehensive site redesign. Concrete paving and building work proceeded while Costich improved traffic flow and circulation patterns.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta stormwater detention pond under early construction showing concrete walls, earthwork, and construction equipment during initial site development. — Early construction of the stormwater detention system. Concrete pond walls are installed as part of Costich’s integrated site redesign to manage runoff and improve circulation.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta detention pond showing concrete walls, outlet structure with riprap protection, and facility operations continuing in background during construction. — The stormwater detention pond takes shape with concrete walls and outlet structure installed. The facility continues operations while Costich constructs the drainage infrastructure.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta heavy excavation and grading work showing CAT excavator, raw earthwork, detention pond area, and construction staging during early site preparation. — Excavation and grading work underway as Costich reconfigures the site. Heavy equipment moves earth to support the new circulation pattern and stormwater infrastructure.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta construction materials staging showing corrugated drainage pipes, utility tubing, and construction equipment near the carwash building during site preparation. — Drainage pipe and utility materials staged on site for installation. The corrugated tubing and pipes are part of Costich’s stormwater and site infrastructure redesign.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta service building under construction showing brick and stone facade, Tyvek wrapping, concrete site edging, and raw grading during early construction phase. — The service building takes shape with masonry and stone veneer installation. Concrete edging defines the redesigned circulation pattern as site grading preparation continues.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta carwash building under construction showing steel frame, blue metal roof, large glass facade, and site grading with concrete utility structure in foreground. — The carwash building structure takes shape with steel framing and metal roof installed. Site utilities and grading work continue as the building envelope progresses.

Delta Sonic West Henrietta early site preparation showing CASE bulldozer grading work, earth material piles, staged construction materials, and neighboring commercial properties. — Bulldozer grading and site preparation underway. Construction materials including concrete blocks and rebar are staged as the site reconfiguration begins.

Additional Information

Learn more about this project by going to the Town of Henrietta website:
Delta Sonic Carwash Modification | Henrietta NY

Learn more about this project by going to Delta Sonic’s website:
Car Wash, Oil Change & Auto Detailing in Henrietta, NY | Delta Sonic

July 2, 2026September 10, 2026

Sydor Optics – 40 Jetview Drive Manufacturing Facility

40 Jetview Drive, Chili, NY 14624

New 100,000 Square Foot Manufacturing Facility
Site is Approximately 27.066 +/- Acres of Which 20+/- Acres Will Be Disturbed By Construction

Client: Sydor Optics
Project Investment: $32 Million
Construction Completion: ongoing

Project Services: Land Survey, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation & Construction Observation

Project Background

Sydor Optics is one of Rochester’s most recognized precision manufacturers, supplying flat optical components to aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and medical industries worldwide. When the company announced a $32 million investment to expand its manufacturing operations in Monroe County, anchored by a new 100,000-square-foot production facility in Chili, New York, they needed a civil engineering partner who could manage the full scope of design, environmental review, and municipal approvals.

Costich Engineering delivered that scope from the ground up.

The new facility at 40 Jetview Drive sits across the street from Sydor’s existing campus at 31 Jetview Drive and will double the company’s current manufacturing footprint. The project is currently under construction, with earthwork underway and completion targeted for 2027.

What Costich Did

Site work for a project of this scale requires coordination across multiple agencies, tight sequencing of approvals, and design that accounts for real site constraints. The Costich team handled all of it.

On the civil side, the work included full site development plans covering grading and erosion control, utility layout, stormwater management, pavement design, and site profiles. A new dedicated access road, Sydor Way, was established off Jetview Drive as part of a subdivision of the remaining parcel into three lots. Stormwater infrastructure was designed on the east side of the site, consistent with the property’s natural drainage pattern, and supported by a SWPPP and Notice of Intent filed with the NYSDEC.

On the approvals side, Costich prepared and submitted the Full Environmental Assessment Form for SEQRA review, coordinated submissions to the Greater Chili Outside Sewer District, Monroe County Water Authority, and Monroe County Department of Health, and secured Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals approvals through the Town of Chili.

Landscape architecture services included schematic design options with supporting precedent materials, with outdoor gathering space incorporated near the building’s office and conference areas.

Construction administration is ongoing, including NYSDEC-required SWPPP inspections, watermain certification, and letter of credit draw requests.

Gallery

Colored site plan rendering for Sydor Optics 100000 square foot production facility at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili New York showing building footprint parking landscape plantings and stormwater pond — Site plan for Sydor Optics’ new 100,000-square-foot production facility in Chili, New York, showing the proposed building, parking, landscaping, and stormwater management.

Earthwork underway at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili New York with CAT articulated dump trucks and an excavator clearing and grading the site for the Sydor Optics production facility — Earthwork in progress at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili, New York. Site clearing and grading are underway for Sydor Optics’ new 100,000-square-foot production facility.

CAT articulated dump truck hauling material across graded site at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili New York during earthwork phase of Sydor Optics production facility construction — Active grading operations at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili, New York, as the site is prepared for Sydor Optics’ new production facility.

Graded and cleared site at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili New York with excavator working in the background during earthwork phase of Sydor Optics production facility construction — Site clearing and grading in progress at 40 Jetview Drive in Chili, New York, with vegetation buffer remaining along the eastern perimeter.

Proposed plant palette board for Sydor Optics executive patio plantings prepared by Costich Engineering showing selected trees shrubs perennials and grasses including Black Hills Spruce Heritage River Birch Oakleaf Hydrangea and Karl Foerster Reed Grass — Proposed plant palette for the executive patio area at Sydor Optics’ new 40 Jetview Drive facility, prepared by Costich Engineering’s landscape architecture team.

Additional Information

Learn more about this project by clicking here:
Building the Next Chapter of Precision Optics | Sydor Optics

Learn more about this project by clicking here:
Sydor Optics announces $32M expansion project at Rochester site

Learn more about this project by clicking here:
Sydor Optics to Invest $32 Million to Expand Its Manufacturing Operations in Monroe County

Learn more about this project by clicking here:
Sydor Optics acquisition fuels growth before new Rochester facility

Learn more about this project by clicking here:
Company | Sydor Optics

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026

COSTICH SPRING 2026 NEWSLETTER

It’s Springtime! Check out what we’ve been up to over the last several months…

Click here to view the COSTICH Spring newsletter!

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March 23, 2026August 31, 2026

XC International at Rochester International Commerce Center

XC International

Rochester International Commerce Center, Chili, NY

Client: XC International, LLC
Construction Completion: Summer 2026

Project Services: Land Surveying, Civil Engineering, Site Planning, Landscape Architecture, Permitting and Approval Coordination, SWPPP Support, Construction Administration

Project Background

The XC International project at Lot A-R103 within the Rochester International Commerce Center represents an important investment in the company’s continued growth and long-term operational future in the Rochester region.

Costich Engineering has supported the project through multiple phases of development, providing land surveying, civil engineering, site planning, landscape architecture, permitting coordination, and construction-phase support. Working across disciplines helps create continuity from early site planning through final completion and positions the project to move efficiently toward occupancy. Construction continued through one of the region’s most difficult winters in recent memory, reflecting the coordination needed to keep a project like this moving regardless of conditions.

The project is now in the closing stages of construction, with remaining work focused on interior finishes and the continued establishment of newly installed landscaping as XC International prepares for move-in. Projects like this do more than deliver a finished building. They create the infrastructure a business needs to support daily operations, strengthen long-term functionality, and establish a space aligned with the needs of the company as it moves forward.

For Costich, projects of this kind reflect the value of coordinated site development from concept through closeout. By bringing together technical services across the life of a project, our role is to help deliver sites that are practical, well-planned, and built to support long-term success.

Gallery

XC International building exterior with mechanical utility equipment, foundation planting beds, and newly planted trees at sunset — A view of the XC International facility highlighting completed foundation plantings and newly installed street trees along the site perimeter.

Wide view of XC International building's full row of loading dock doors and paved truck court at sunset — A wider view of the XC International loading dock, showing the full extent of the dock configuration and truck court area.

XC International building loading dock with multiple dock doors, safety railing, and truck court pavement at sunset — The completed loading dock area at XC International, featuring multiple dock positions and a fully paved truck court.

Vegetated stormwater management pond at XC International site with newly planted tree and neighboring building at sunset — A vegetated stormwater management pond supports site drainage at XC International, with wetland grasses establishing along the banks.

Graded site perimeter with newly planted evergreen trees and existing tree buffer along XC International property line at sunset — Newly planted evergreens establish a landscape buffer along the site perimeter at XC International, framed by the existing tree line.

Row of newly planted evergreen trees along XC International site perimeter with delivery truck and roadway in background — A row of newly planted evergreens takes shape along the XC International site perimeter, adjacent to the surrounding roadway.

Exterior view of the XC International facility under construction at Rochester International Commerce Center in Chili, New York, showing the unfinished entrance, building façade, and active site conditions. — Exterior construction progress at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Front view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the unfinished entrance structure, glass framing, and active interior work area with construction equipment visible inside. — Front entrance construction at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Interior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing steel framing, exposed structural elements, and active buildout within the new space. — Interior buildout underway at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Wide exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the building façade, active site grading, and stormwater pond in the foreground. — Exterior view of the XC International facility and site improvements in Chili, New York.

Exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the main building, unfinished entry structure, and surrounding site conditions near the stormwater management area. — Exterior construction progress at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the warehouse structure, open façade bays, active site work, and construction equipment in front of the building. — Warehouse construction progress at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Close exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the warehouse structure, open end-wall framing, and active site conditions around the building. — Warehouse structure under construction at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Interior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the warehouse space, exposed structural steel, and floor preparation work underway inside the building. — Interior warehouse construction progress at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing an open warehouse bay and construction equipment positioned at the building entrance during active site work. — Construction equipment at the warehouse entrance of the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Interior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the large warehouse space, structural steel framing, and prepared floor area inside the new building. — Interior progress within the warehouse space at the XC International facility in Chili, New York.

Wide exterior view of the XC International facility under construction in Chili, New York, showing the warehouse building, active construction equipment, and stormwater pond in the foreground. — Wide view of the XC International facility and site work in Chili, New York.

March 17, 2026July 27, 2026

Costich Engineering Named 2026 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award Honoree

ROCHESTER, NY (March 17, 2026) Costich Engineering, Land Surveying & Landscape Architecture, D.P.C. is pleased to announce that it has been named a 2026 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award honoree, recognizing the fastest-growing, privately owned minority- and woman-owned business enterprises in the Finger Lakes Region. Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce will reveal the second annual MWBE Award rankings at the MWBE Awards celebration on Thursday, June 11, in downtown Rochester.

Sarah Costich, President and CEO of Costich Engineering, said, “We are honored to be recognized by Greater Rochester Chamber as a 2026 MWBE Award honoree. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our clients, and the strong relationships that have supported our growth over the years. As a Rochester-based firm, it is especially meaningful to be recognized within the regional business community we are proud to serve. Our continued growth has been driven by a commitment to high-quality work, responsive service, and a collaborative approach that helps our clients and communities move forward.”

To be eligible for the Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards program, companies must be privately owned, headquartered in the nine-county Greater Rochester region, have a minimum of $250,000 in revenue in each of the three most recent fiscal years, and have a minimum of 51% ownership, operation, and control by minorities and/or women.

Bob Duffy, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, said, “Congratulations to Costich Engineering for earning their spot as a 2026 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award honoree. As one of the fastest growing MWBEs, this honor showcases its role in shaping our regional community and building a better community for us all. This year’s list of MWBE Award honorees is a diverse assortment of companies that continue to innovate and drive our region forward. Collectively, these organizations create thousands of jobs and add close to $450 million in revenue. We look forward to celebrating together in June and connecting to propel future growth and opportunity.”

Costich Engineering, Land Surveying & Landscape Architecture, D.P.C. is a third-generation, WBE-certified multidisciplinary firm based in Rochester, New York. The firm provides civil engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, and environmental services to public- and private-sector clients throughout the Greater Rochester region and beyond. With a reputation for technical excellence, responsiveness, and long-term client relationships, Costich Engineering supports projects that strengthen infrastructure, guide development, and enhance communities across Western New York.

About Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is the nine-county Finger Lakes Region’s one-stop shop for business support, influence, and community connection. Rooted in advocacy, compliance, talent, and belonging, our organization combines an unmatched depth and breadth of business support with the agility and dedication to turn possibility into progress and accelerate opportunity and action. We’re committed to providing our 1,300+ members the connections, resources, and influence they need to move business forward, faster. Here, you’re in good company.

March 10, 2026October 28, 2026

Finger Lakes Credit Union Ridge Road

Finger Lakes Credit Union

715 Ridge Road, Webster, NY 14580

Client: Finger Lakes Federal Credit Union
Construction Completion: October 2026

Project Services: Land Surveying, Civil Engineering, Site Planning, SWPPP Design and Inspections, Accessibility Coordination, Utility Coordination, Landscaping Plan Development, Permitting and Approval Coordination

Project Background

Costich Engineering provided land surveying and civil engineering services for Finger Lakes Credit Union’s new Webster branch, which opened to members in October 2026 at the corner of Ridge Road and Hatch Road. The 2,600-square-foot building gives the credit union a permanent, owned location in Webster, half a mile from the leased office it replaced.

From Leased Space to a Permanent Home in Webster

Finger Lakes Federal Credit Union, now operating as Finger Lakes Credit Union, has served Webster members since its 2021 merger with Webster Federal Credit Union. That branch operated out of a leased building at 815 Ridge Road that had become outdated and larger than the credit union needed. Rather than renew, the credit union purchased the corner parcels at Ridge and Hatch and built new. The project received final Planning Board approval in August 2025, broke ground in December 2025, and opened with a ribbon cutting on October 15, 2026.

Survey and Site Civil from Due Diligence Through Construction

Costich’s work began with ALTA/NSPS survey support during due diligence. It continued through site planning, grading, utilities, accessibility, landscaping, and permitting coordination with the Town of Webster. The site layout is organized around a drive-through lane and a curbed circulation loop that wraps the building, with parking and landscaped areas fronting Ridge Road. Costich also prepared the project’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and performed the required SWPPP inspections throughout construction, keeping erosion and sediment controls in place along the site perimeter as work moved from earthwork to paving. Steel framing went up in January, and construction continued through the winter to reach the fall opening.

A Corner Site Built Around Member Convenience

The completed branch includes a drive-through lane and a 24-hour drive-up ATM, with access from Hatch Road near one of Webster’s busiest commercial stretches of Ridge Road. Costich has supported other recent development in Webster, including the McAlpin Industries manufacturing expansion on Publishers Parkway.

FAQ

What does site civil engineering for a bank or credit union branch involve?

Branch sites are built around vehicle circulation. Drive-through lanes, ATM access, parking, and pedestrian routes all have to work together on a compact parcel, along with grading, drainage, utilities, landscaping, and municipal approvals. On the Finger Lakes Credit Union Webster branch, Costich organized the site around a multi-lane drive-through and a curbed circulation loop that wraps the building.

How long does a branch project take from approval to opening?

Timelines vary by site and municipality. The Webster branch received final Planning Board approval in August 2025, broke ground that December, and opened in October 2026, about 14 months from approval to opening.

When is a SWPPP required for a commercial project in New York?

Projects that disturb one or more acres of soil, or smaller areas that are part of a larger plan of development, need coverage under the NYSDEC Construction General Permit. That requires a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and regular inspections by a qualified inspector throughout construction. Costich prepared the SWPPP and performed the required inspections for the Webster branch.

Why start a site development project with an ALTA/NSPS survey?

An ALTA/NSPS survey documents boundaries, easements, utilities, and existing conditions to a national standard, so owners and lenders know what they’re working with before design begins. Costich provided ALTA/NSPS survey support during due diligence on the Webster branch.