Business Details
47 Years
experience
Transportation Engineering & Planning Experts
Gorove Slade is a premier transportation engineering and planning firm dedicated to advancing solutions that enhance mobility and connectivity in the communities we serve. Founded in 1979, we have built a reputation for excellence through our client-focused approach, combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of the built environment. Our team of engineers, planners, and designers specializes in multimodal transportation systems, addressing the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers. With offices in Alexandria, VA, and serving clients across the Mid-Atlantic region, we prioritize innovative, sustainable solutions that balance practical challenges with forward-thinking design. Our work spans public and private sectors, including transformative projects like The Wharf and Audi Field, demonstrating our commitment to improving the human experience through transportation.Active in industry organizations such as the Institute of Transportation Engineers and Urban Land Institute, we advocate for best practices and community-centric development. Our culture emphasizes collaboration, staff development, and a 'One Firm' ethos, ensuring cohesive service across all projects. Recognized for our expertise in traffic impact studies, parking optimization, and transportation demand management, we empower clients to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and achieve their vision. With over 45 years of experience, we remain a leader in shaping transportation networks that support vibrant, walkable communities.
Services
Transportation Planning
Traffic Engineering
Parking Studies
Multimodal Solutions
Traffic Impact Analysis
Signal Design
Transportation Demand Management
Corridor Studies
Campus Planning
Entitlement Support
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of experience in transportation engineering and planning.
- Our client-focused approach ensures tailored solutions for complex projects.
- Expertise in multimodal transportation systems, including pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.
- Deep local knowledge of Mid-Atlantic regulatory and transportation networks.
- Award-winning team with leadership roles in industry organizations like ITE and ULI.
What people say
Expertise in multimodal solutions
Client-focused approach
Award-winning team
Deep local knowledge
Transformative project outcomes
Services
Transportation Planning
Our transportation planning services focus on creating efficient, sustainable mobility networks that integrate all travel modes. We analyze traffic patterns, land use, and regulatory requirements to develop strategies that enhance connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers. By prioritizing data-driven insights and community engagement, we deliver solutions that reduce congestion, improve safety, and support long-term urban development goals.
Traffic Engineering
We specialize in traffic engineering solutions that optimize roadway performance and safety. Our services include signal design, intersection analysis, traffic simulation modeling, and compliance with federal and state standards. Using advanced tools like Synchro and VISSIM, we identify bottlenecks, improve flow, and implement measures that reduce accident risks while ensuring efficient vehicle and pedestrian movement.
Parking Studies
Our parking studies evaluate demand, turnover, and space utilization to create efficient parking strategies. We conduct shared parking analyses, design layouts, and develop management plans that minimize land use while meeting regulatory requirements. These solutions help clients maximize property value and reduce traffic impacts associated with inadequate parking infrastructure.
Multimodal Solutions
We design integrated transportation systems that prioritize walkability, cycling, and public transit alongside vehicular traffic. Our multimodal approach includes bike lane planning, pedestrian safety improvements, and transit-oriented development strategies. By balancing diverse needs, we create accessible, environmentally friendly networks that reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles and enhance urban livability.
Traffic Impact Analysis
We conduct comprehensive traffic impact studies to evaluate how new developments affect local transportation networks. These analyses inform mitigation strategies, permitting requirements, and infrastructure upgrades, ensuring projects comply with jurisdictional standards while minimizing community disruption. Our findings help clients secure approvals and implement solutions that support safe, efficient traffic flow.
People
Chris Tacinelli
President & CEO
Chris Tacinelli has led Gorove Slade since 2007, guiding its expansion across the Mid-Atlantic region. With expertise in transportation engineering and public-private collaboration, he champions solutions that optimize mobility across all modes. A graduate of Syracuse University, he actively mentors industry professionals and contributes to trade publications.
Chad Baird
Vice President
Chad Baird specializes in traffic impact studies and transportation planning for Northern Virginia developments. With over two decades of experience, he manages on-call engagements and focuses on Prince William and Fairfax County projects. He holds a degree from Roger Williams University and coaches youth baseball in his community.
Dan VanPelt
Vice President
Dan VanPelt leads urban transportation initiatives in the DC region, leveraging 25+ years of experience. A Washington University alumnus, he contributes to industry webinars and mentors professionals while focusing on human-scale urban design and walkability improvements in jurisdictions like Arlington and Alexandria.
Tushar Awar
Vice President
Tushar Awar co-leads Gorove Slade's Loudoun County practice, specializing in traffic simulation and signal design. A Virginia Tech graduate, he manages on-call contracts and emphasizes data-driven solutions. Outside work, he enjoys cricket and Hindi comedy, reflecting his Pune, India roots.
Katie Wagner
Principal
Katie Wagner leads the Maryland office, focusing on multimodal planning and transit-oriented development. A licensed engineer in four states, she contributed to Montgomery County's strategic plans and received awards from CREW DC and NAIOP. She advocates for policies that streamline development while enhancing transportation access.
Questions
What transportation services does Gorove Slade offer?
We provide traffic engineering, transportation planning, parking studies, multimodal solutions, traffic impact analysis, and entitlement support for public and private sector clients.
Which areas does Gorove Slade serve?
We primarily serve Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland, with expertise in regional transportation networks and regulatory frameworks.
How does Gorove Slade handle complex projects?
Our team combines technical expertise with collaborative problem-solving, leveraging 45+ years of experience to navigate regulatory challenges and deliver tailored solutions.
What industries do Gorove Slade's services support?
We work with developers, institutions, schools, universities, and government agencies on projects ranging from mixed-use developments to transit-oriented planning.
Is Gorove Slade involved in industry advocacy?
Yes, we actively participate in organizations like the Institute of Transportation Engineers and Urban Land Institute to advance transportation best practices.
