How Surveys Support Multi-Phase Commercial Development in Texas

"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans

How Surveys Support Multi-Phase Commercial Development in Texas

Large commercial developments in Texas — such as mixed-use communities, retail hubs, office campuses, and industrial parks — are often built in multiple phases over several years. Each phase must integrate seamlessly with the previous one while preparing for future expansion.
Surveys provide the roadmap that makes this possible.

Here’s how surveying supports multi-phase commercial development from start to finish.

1. Establishing the Master Boundary for the Entire Project

Before phasing begins, developers need a clear understanding of:

• The full boundary of the development

• Acreage allocations for each phase

• Existing easements and constraints

• Right-of-way and roadway access

A survey creates the foundation for long-term planning.

2. Designing Utilities for Present and Future Phases

Utility phasing is one of the largest engineering challenges. Surveys help engineers determine:

• Connection points for each phase

• Utility corridors that must remain open

• Planned extensions for future buildings

• Capacity needs over time

This prevents costly utility relocation later.

3. Planning Internal Roadway Networks

Roads must be laid out so each phase maintains:

• Emergency access

• Delivery access

• Traffic flow

• Pedestrian routes

• Fire lane compliance

Survey data ensures roads align smoothly across future expansions.

4. Ensuring Drainage Systems Work Across All Phases

Drainage must be designed with the end project in mind, not just the first phase. Topographic surveys help engineers:

• Size detention ponds correctly

• Maintain proper slope across multiple pads

• Avoid drainage conflicts between phases

• Prevent runoff issues during construction

5. Supporting Subdivision and Parcel Creation for Each Stage

As phases progress, surveys help:

• Create new commercial lots

• Establish easements

• Define future building envelopes

• Ensure legal compliance with city requirements

This supports leasing, financing, and construction.

6. Guiding As-Built Documentation at the End of Each Phase

Each completed phase requires an as-built survey to record:

• Final building footprints

• Utility installations

• Road placements

• Drainage systems

• Easement adjustments

Accurate records ensure the next phase starts with current data.

Final Thoughts

Multi-phase developments require detailed planning, coordination, and precision. South Texas Surveying provides the comprehensive boundary, topographic, utility, and as-built surveys that Texas developers rely on to keep multi-phase projects on track from start to finish.