DiPrete Engineering and Bluewater Property Group
collaborate on 3.8 million s/f Amazon Distribution Center

Johnston, RI DiPrete Engineering collaborated with Bluewater Property Group on the new Amazon Distribution Center. The project design and permitting began in 2020, following a thorough evaluation of potential development concepts initiated in 2018. DiPrete played a role in executing various aspects of the project, including comprehensive land surveys, ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, engineering, design, permitting, and construction oversight.

The project occupies 196 acres. The centerpiece of this development is a new building, consisting of 3,897,212 gross s/f and encompassing five stories. Primarily designed as an auto-sort facility, the structure reflects a commitment to efficiency and innovation. Accommodating the needs of the facility, the project includes parking with a capacity for 1,805 spaces, ensuring access for employees and visitors alike. In addition, the site provides 379 trailer spaces and 69 loading spaces, planned to facilitate seamless operations and logistics.

Emphasizing efficiency and commitment to timelines, DiPrete Engineering navigated an expedited design and permitting path, showcasing its capability to deliver high-quality results within challenging constraints. A notable feature of the project was the relocation of a solar field that previously occupied the site. DiPrete Engineering seamlessly integrated the solar field’s design, permitting, and relocation into the overall project development, demonstrating a holistic commitment to sustainable practices.

The complexity of the project required extensive collaboration and compliance with various regulatory bodies, including the town of Johnston, RI Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT), Army Corps of Engineers, Providence Water, and Narragansett Bay Commission sewer. DiPrete Engineering’s meticulous approach ensured adherence to environmental standards and the acquisition of necessary permits.

The project’s design included the implementation of an extensive stormwater management system, strategically devised to address water quality concerns, manage peak runoff, and control volume increases into the Pocasset River Watershed.

DiPrete extended its involvement beyond site engineering by collaborating closely with RIDOT. This public/private partnership, involving RIDOT, the town of Johnston, and Bluewater Property Group, aimed at enhancing safety along Hartford Ave. – Rte. 6. The improvements included the installation of two traffic signals, lane widening, the addition of a safety median, and drainage enhancements.

The completion of the Amazon Distribution Center project is a testament to DiPrete Engineering’s technical expertise and ability to navigate intricate project requirements. 

Beyond its economic impact on the town, the project underscores the significance of public-private partnerships in fostering thriving communities.