Target Store – Buffalo, MN

The Challenge

This project involved the full civil site design for a new Target store in Buffalo, MN. As part of a national retailer’s expansion into a growing suburban market, the project required site layout optimization, extensive utility coordination, grading strategies for a large parking lot, and stormwater management solutions that complied with local and state regulations.

Civil Engineering Contributions

• Site Layout and Grading: Responsible for developing the site grading plan to support large paved areas, ensure ADA-compliant pedestrian access, and maintain positive drainage across the site. Coordination with architectural entry points and truck service areas was critical.

• Stormwater Management Design: Designed a stormwater system with detention and treatment features in compliance with city and watershed district standards. Ensured pre- and post-development runoff rates were balanced and that water quality criteria were met.

• Utility Infrastructure: Designed the domestic water, fire service, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer systems. Coordination was required with local utility providers, franchise utilities, and city engineers to finalize connection points and service alignments.

• Access and Circulation Planning: Developed site access points, drive aisles, and parking layouts that supported both customer and delivery vehicle circulation, including provisions for future outlot development.

• Agency Coordination: Collaborated with the City of Buffalo, MnDOT, and review consultants to secure site plan approvals and permits. Responded to technical comments and assisted with documentation through final approval.

The Outcome

• Fully Permitted Civil Site Package: Grading, drainage, utility, and erosion control plans were approved and integrated into construction documents.

• Successful Store Opening: The civil design supported on-time construction and long-term performance of this high-traffic retail site.

• Foundation for Future Commercial Development: Site design anticipated potential future expansions or adjacent parcel development.