B&N led the environmental efforts of the Muskingum Avenue & Putnam Hill Park Improvements project. The B&N team prepared the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation by way of an Environmental Assessment (EA) and obtained a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) from FEMA. This enabled the City of Zanesville to secure $5.46 million in federal funding through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. These critical approvals set the stage for extensive design and construction improvements that restored a key transportation corridor and enhanced a beloved community park.
To stabilize the corridor, the team excavated more than 69,000 cubic yards of earth and reconstructed both the north and south slopes of Muskingum Avenue. This work enabled the road to reopen for the first time in six years, dramatically improving connectivity and safety for residents. Beyond roadway restoration, the project also delivered major infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of a new wastewater force main and a reconstruction of Putnam Hill Park overlooking the avenue.
Throughout the project, B&N ensured full environmental and regulatory compliance, coordinating and performing NEPA documentation, archaeological surveys, surface water delineation and Section 404/401 permitting and mitigation. These efforts, combined with FEMA and SHPO coordination, underscored the project’s commitment to preserving natural and historic resources while delivering essential infrastructure improvements.
The result is a safer, stronger and more resilient corridor that brings lasting value to the City of Zanesville, restoring access, mitigating future risks and revitalizing a landmark community space for generations to enjoy.