ALTA Title Survey: The Hidden Key to Shovel-Ready Projects

Land surveying level instrument set up at a large construction site with cranes and buildings in the background, representing an ALTA Title Survey for major projects

When news broke that the Chicago Bears’ stadium project in Arlington Heights hit another delay, everyone talked about politics, money, and the big “what now.” Lawmakers in Springfield called it a “bye week” for negotiations, leaving the huge redevelopment site waiting for progress. But while the spotlight fades, quiet work still happens behind the scenes […]

When GNSS Fails: A Construction Surveyor Plan B

Construction surveyor using GNSS rover at night under green aurora lights

If you’re a construction surveyor, you probably remember the talk earlier this month when the northern lights painted the skies over Illinois. Everyone was sharing photos of the rare aurora. But while the city looked up, survey crews were looking down, wondering why their rovers suddenly struggled to stay fixed. That same solar storm that […]

Property Survey Required Before Any ADU Project Begins

Surveyor using tripod equipment to complete a property survey on residential land before building an ADU coach house

Chicago recently made a big housing move. On September 26, 2025, the City Council approved a major expansion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These small homes—like coach houses, basement apartments, and attic units—are now allowed across more neighborhoods. The decision is expected to spark a wave of new building applications. But here’s the thing: before […]