Chicago’s Project Coordination Office Leading Urban Infrastructure Management

Discover how our Project Coordination Office (PCO) model streamlines construction, reduces disruptions, and keeps Chicago moving.

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Why Right of Way Coordination Matters

Chicago’s roadways are more than just paths for vehicles, they’re the backbone of the city’s infrastructure, protecting vital utilities and supporting daily life for millions. Effective Right of Way (ROW) management ensures safe, reliable transportation, uninterrupted utility services, and efficient use of public resources. Collins leads the way in proactive ROW coordination, helping Chicago set the standard for urban infrastructure management.

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About Project Coordination Office (PCO)

Under the direct supervision of the Chicago Department of Transportation Division of Infrastructure Management (CDOT DIM), the Project Coordination Office (PCO) is dedicated to aligning utility operations, roadway preservation, and event logistics across Chicago. Our multidisciplinary team of engineers, planners, and field specialists brings deep technical expertise and a collaborative spirit to every project. Since 2012, Collins Engineers, Inc. has administered the PCO, building trust among public agencies, private utilities, and community stakeholders.

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Innovative Tools & Technology

The PCO leverages cutting-edge technology to optimize infrastructure coordination: These tools empower the PCO to deliver seamless communication and proactive conflict mitigation.

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dotMaps

A cloud-based GIS platform providing real-time, interactive views of planned and active projects, enabling stakeholders to identify and resolve conflicts before they impact the city.

Screenshot of the ChiStreetWork website homepage, featuring a search bar and description of the portal for Chicago's infrastructure projects, over a city skyline background.

ChiStreetWork

An online portal offering public transparency into construction projects, special events, and street impacts citywide.

ChiStreetWork Website

Coordination Strategies & Workflow

This comprehensive workflow maximizes efficiency and preserves the integrity of Chicago’s public assets.

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Plan Reviews & Permitting

Standardized submission and review of multi-year capital improvement programs.

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Conflict Detection & Resolution

Identifying overlapping projects and resolving surface and subsurface conflicts through dotMaps and stakeholder engagement.

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Agreements & Restoration

Developing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Perimeter Restoration Agreements (PRAs) to finalize restoration of the City’s ROW.

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Field Verification & Moratoriums

Ensuring completed work meets standards and protecting new infrastructure through moratoriums.

Get Involved

Learn valuable skills of coordination and project delivery across a variety of projects, grow in yourself and your expertise as you navigate an ever-changing field, and apply leading-edge technologies to optimize infrastructure management practices.

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Case Studies: Coordination in Action

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Democratic National Convention 2024

Coordinating a national-scale event required adaptive strategies, real-time technology, and cross-agency collaboration. The PCO and CDOT’s leadership ensured seamless logistics and minimal disruption.

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Chicago Marathon

Each year, the PCO aligns dozens of projects to keep the marathon route safe and accessible, enforcing construction moratoriums and supporting rapid post-event recovery.

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Local Block Parties & Festivals

From neighborhood celebrations to citywide parades, the PCO applies its proven coordination model to maintain safety, accessibility, and community vibrancy.

Want the Full Story?

Explore how Collins Engineers, Inc. and CDOT’s Project Coordination Office (PCO) are redefining urban infrastructure management. Learn about the strategies, technologies, and case studies that keep Chicago moving, efficiently and safely.

Click Here to Read the White Paper

Connect with the PCO Office

Are you an agency, utility provider, or community leader interested in learning more about the PCO? Contact us to learn how our coordination model can benefit your next project or event.

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