Project Planning & Preparation

Helping communities and developers turn complex project beginnings into structured, actionable plans.

> Services > Project Planning & Preparation

The Problem: Early-stage confusion causes delays later.

Too often, communities and developers rush into design or permitting without a clear understanding of what’s required. This lack of upfront planning creates downstream problems: permit applications get rejected, project scopes shift unexpectedly, and critical deadlines are missed.

One of the biggest risks in early-stage work is assuming everyone is on the same page. Council, consultants, regulators, and community members often have different understandings of a project’s intent and timeline. Without structured alignment early, even small miscommunications can snowball.

Another frequent issue is sequencing. When you don’t know which approvals depend on others—or how long each step might take—you end up with gaps in your timeline and rushed decisions. Funding applications might close before your studies are complete. Engineers may be working off outdated assumptions.

RDC solves these challenges by designing order from uncertainty. We work with clients to create a coherent roadmap that sets expectations, aligns deliverables, and ensures that the first steps lead logically to the next. When planning is clear from the beginning, execution becomes smoother and more predictable.

Here's how we can help

Project Planning & Preparation is a foundational consulting service designed for municipalities, developers, and infrastructure clients who need structure before design and execution. This service focuses on creating a clear, well-aligned path through the early stages of project development—when uncertainty is high, regulatory and stakeholder needs are still unclear, and decisions made now will echo for the life of the project.

Whether it’s a rural community considering a new utility expansion or a private developer eyeing a multi-phase subdivision, RDC’s approach helps clients define scope, establish realistic timelines, and identify potential roadblocks early. This saves time, reduces risk, and ensures projects can progress without costly surprises.

The value lies not just in getting started, but in getting started well. We help our clients map permitting pathways, align technical and non-technical stakeholders, and build confidence with decision-makers—from council chambers to funding agencies. Our process includes regulatory reviews, stakeholder planning, milestone forecasting, and early-stage documentation frameworks that provide clarity from day one.

This service is especially valuable for teams with limited internal capacity or those navigating unfamiliar infrastructure landscapes. With RDC, clients don’t just get advice—they get a system for moving forward with discipline, foresight, and integrity.

Need structure before you engage your design team?

Talk to RDC

Structure at the Start

By front-loading clarity and coordination, you prevent chaos later. Our frameworks reduce risk and increase project momentum.

We help you plan with purpose—so your project unfolds with fewer surprises.

WHAT WE DO

How we support your early-stage project planning

From defining scope to regulatory foresight, our systems-based planning keeps projects on track from day one.

Project Scope & Timeline Mapping
Build a realistic plan everyone can follow.
We help you define the boundaries, goals, and realistic milestones of your project—before you engage designers or apply for funding.
Regulatory Strategy & Permitting Prep
Know what approvals you need—and when.
Our structured permitting strategy maps out every required approval and ensures nothing catches you off guard during execution.
Stakeholder & Consultant Coordination
Get aligned before you spend a dollar on design.
We align everyone involved—from council to engineers—to avoid duplicated work and ensure that all efforts move in sync.

Examples of how this Service applies to our target sector(s)

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Here's how Project Planning & Preparation works in the real world

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Downtown Saskatoon Utility Strategy (DEED Project)
Developed a comprehensive utility servicing strategy for Saskatoon’s new Downtown Event and Entertainment District, aligning complex infrastructure upgrades with long-term urban growth. Successfully coordinated with city departments and utility providers to ensure regulatory compliance and future readiness.
Highway 11 Commercial Site Development
Led planning and civil design for a new commercial site along Highway 11, balancing local development goals with regional planning standards. The project supports economic growth while aligning with P4G regulatory frameworks.
Multi-Jurisdictional Site Development for Inland Steel
Managed site planning and infrastructure design for multiple Inland Steel recycling facilities across Saskatchewan and Alberta. Oversaw utility servicing, permitting, and regulatory compliance across seven municipal jurisdictions.
South Area Development Plan – RM of Corman Park
Contributed to long-term infrastructure planning and zoning bylaw strategy for a major development corridor adjacent to Saskatoon. Ensured regulatory alignment and stakeholder collaboration across water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
City of Yorkton Bridges & Stormwater Project
Managed the design and delivery of new traffic and pedestrian bridges, along with major stormwater and sanitary upgrades. Oversaw cross-disciplinary collaboration and on-site supervision to improve city infrastructure and environmental resilience.