"ABM played a critical role in helping us identify what we could be doing better—how we could be more efficient and sound from an infrastructure perspective."
"Their expertise helped us hit the mark on sustainability, financial responsibility, and community impact," Union City, Indiana, Mayor Chad Spence.
Overview
In a small community where resources are finite, Union City, Indiana, faced the challenge of upgrading critical infrastructure while balancing financial, sustainability, and community priorities.
Through a strategic partnership with ABM, the city implemented a comprehensive energy, lighting, HVAC, and infrastructure upgrade that exceeded financial, operational, and community goals—maximizing outcomes while minimizing waste.
Challenges
Leaky roofs and outdated systems posed risks to both the buildings and their irreplaceable contents
Union City’s historic infrastructure, including a museum housed in a former railroad hotel, required urgent repairs. Leaky roofs and outdated systems posed risks to both the buildings and their irreplaceable contents.
Additionally, high energy consumption—particularly at wastewater treatment facilities—placed a significant financial burden on the city’s budget, limiting opportunities for community growth and development.
Key challenges
- Aging infrastructure in need of modernization
- High energy costs straining the city’s budget
- Preserving historic structures while improving efficiency
- Overcoming permitting and regulatory hurdles for renewable energy solutions
An Engineering & Infrastructure Solution
ABM’s industry-pioneering Engineering & Infrastructure Solutions team, led by Chris Mastrianni, Joe Boetsch, Ann Smith (LEED AP), and Erick Dustin, worked closely with Union City leadership to design a future-focused plan.
Key Project Components
- Energy Efficiency & Sustainability: Integration of solar arrays to reduce dependency on the grid and lower operational costs
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Modernization of lighting, HVAC systems, and wastewater treatment facilities to improve efficiency and performance
- Financial Innovation: A strategic financial model that leveraged energy savings to fund additional infrastructure improvements
- Community Impact: Reinvesting cost savings into critical areas such as parks, streets, and sidewalks
Results & Impact
By thinking outside the box and leveraging innovative solutions, ABM helped Union City achieve:
- Significant Energy Cost Savings: Enabling reallocation of funds to community growth initiatives
- Improved Infrastructure Efficiency: Enhancing operational performance across city facilities
- Preserved Historic Structures: Protecting the city’s heritage while modernizing key assets
- Sustainability & Resiliency: Positioning the city for a more energy-independent future
Union City Powers a Sustainable Future
Union City’s successful partnership with ABM showcases how smart infrastructure investment can drive long-term sustainability, financial efficiency, and community growth.
By prioritizing innovation, fiscal responsibility, and sustainability, Union City has set a precedent for how small communities can thrive through strategic energy and infrastructure improvements.
