Business Details
33 Years
experience
Civil Engineering & Land Planning Experts in Lancaster, PA
At RGS Associates, we have dedicated ourselves to reshaping communities through integrated civil engineering and landscape architecture solutions since 1993. Our firm was founded on the principle that design matters in every aspect of our work, from initial feasibility studies to post-construction services. We pride ourselves on fostering seamless collaboration between landscape architects and civil engineers, ensuring that every project benefits from creative site design, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of regulatory requirements. With over 30 years of experience, we have cultivated long-term relationships with clients across commercial, healthcare, housing, and institutional sectors, guided by core values of trust, respect, client service, and leadership.Our 2021 merger with Glackin Thomas Panzak expanded our capabilities and geographic reach, allowing us to deliver even more comprehensive services across Pennsylvania and beyond. We approach each project with a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the creation of spaces that connect people and elevate the human spirit. Our team of registered professionals brings decades of collective experience in land planning, stormwater management, and municipal permitting, ensuring that every solution we deliver is both technically sound and aligned with our clients' unique goals. Through this unwavering dedication to excellence, we have established ourselves as trusted advisors in the industry.
Services
Land Planning
Landscape Architecture
Civil Engineering
Stormwater Management
Site Development
Municipal Permitting
Master Planning
Erosion Control
Construction Observation
Floodplain Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of experience in civil engineering and landscape architecture.
- Our integrated approach combines landscape design with technical engineering expertise.
- We maintain core values of trust, respect, and leadership in all projects.
- Our team includes registered professionals with specialized municipal permitting knowledge.
- We provide sustainable solutions that balance client goals with environmental stewardship.
What people say
Valuable partner
Beautiful testament
Great working relationship
30 years experience
Trusted advisors
Services
Land Planning
Our land planning services create sustainable frameworks for development projects. We conduct feasibility studies, prepare zoning approvals, and develop master plans that align with client goals while meeting regulatory requirements. With over 30 years of experience, we deliver strategic solutions that balance economic viability with environmental stewardship.
Landscape Architecture
We design functional outdoor spaces that enhance communities and protect natural resources. Our landscape architects create planting designs, streetscapes, and open spaces that integrate with infrastructure while prioritizing user experience. Services include 3D modeling, construction observation, and compliance with municipal requirements.
Civil Engineering
Our civil engineering team provides comprehensive site engineering solutions. We specialize in stormwater management, utility design, and floodplain restoration that meet NPDES permitting standards. Projects include sewer/water facility layouts and erosion control systems that ensure long-term functionality and regulatory compliance.
Municipal Permitting
We navigate complex land development approvals through strategic agency coordination. Our experts handle zoning variances, subdivision regulations, and PennDOT permitting. With decades of local government experience, we expedite approvals while maintaining design integrity and client objectives.
Stormwater Management
We design innovative stormwater solutions that meet environmental regulations while enhancing site functionality. Services include green infrastructure, detention basins, and erosion control plans. Our systems manage runoff volume, improve water quality, and often incorporate aesthetic landscape elements.
People
Joel Snyder
Managing Principal
With over 30 years of experience, Joel leads site planning initiatives and oversees project teams. He specializes in zoning approvals and stormwater design while managing firm operations and mentoring emerging professionals.
Mark Hackenburg
Principal
As co-owner, Mark provides strategic direction for projects and ensures adherence to budgets and schedules. He maintains key relationships with municipal leaders and advocates for sustainable land use practices.
K. Craig Smith
Principal
Craig guides clients through regulatory processes and manages design teams. With expertise in LEED coordination and municipal presentations, he ensures projects achieve both approval and construction success.
Alex Piehl
Principal
Alex leads project teams from concept through construction, focusing on client relationship management and regulatory coordination. He develops solutions that align with both project goals and community needs.
Chris Venarchick
Principal
Chris specializes in complex land development projects, including mixed-use master plans and redevelopment sites. He transforms underutilized properties into thriving community assets through innovative design solutions.
Questions
What services does RGS Associates offer?
We provide land planning, landscape architecture, civil engineering, stormwater management, and municipal permitting services for commercial, residential, and institutional projects.
How long has RGS Associates been in business?
RGS Associates has served clients since 1993, with our founding principals joining the firm in 1996 and assuming ownership in 2005.
What areas do you serve?
We operate throughout Pennsylvania with offices in Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, and Paoli. Our services extend to clients across the Mid-Atlantic region.
How do you handle regulatory approvals?
Our team navigates zoning regulations and permitting processes through strategic agency coordination, leveraging decades of local government experience to expedite approvals.
What makes your approach unique?
We integrate landscape architecture and civil engineering disciplines within cross-functional teams to deliver holistic solutions that balance technical requirements with creative design.
Can you handle large-scale development projects?
Yes, our experience includes mixed-use master plans with over 2,300 residential units and 500,000 square feet of commercial space, demonstrating our capability for complex developments.
