Business Details
29 Years
experience
Civil Engineering & CAD Consulting Services
Founded in 1997, O'Brien & Wall is a Santa Barbara-based Civil Engineering and CAD consulting firm with 28 years of experience delivering specialized solutions for stormwater management, grading, drainage, roadway design, and infrastructure rehabilitation. Our team combines deep technical expertise in Civil 3D and Land Development Desktop software with hands-on engineering experience to reduce errors, increase productivity, and ensure precise project execution. We prioritize client collaboration, treating every project as an opportunity to align our technical capabilities with individual client goals through transparent communication and ethical practices.Our engineers and CAD specialists have supported public agencies, private developers, and engineering firms across California, developing a reputation for technical excellence and client-focused service. We maintain rigorous professional standards while embracing innovative technologies to deliver efficient, code-compliant solutions for complex civil engineering challenges.
Services
Storm Water Management
Grading and Drainage Design
Roadway and Highway Design
Civil 3D Software Consulting
Floodplain Management
Water Systems Rehabilitation
Construction Inspection
GIS Mapping Services
Parcel Closure Calculations
Software Customization
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 28 years of specialized civil engineering experience since 1997
- Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and Practitioner (QSP) certifications
- Advanced CAD expertise in Civil 3D and Land Development Desktop
- Proven track record with public infrastructure and private development projects
- Client-focused approach combining technical excellence with ethical practices
Services
Storm Water Management
Our stormwater management services include pre- and post-project planning, drainage design, and compliance solutions. We develop site-specific strategies to control runoff, prevent erosion, and meet regulatory requirements. Our engineers utilize advanced modeling tools to create sustainable systems that protect water quality while maintaining project viability.
Civil 3D Consulting
We provide specialized consulting for Civil 3D and Land Development Desktop software. Our experts help engineering firms optimize workflows, implement customized templates, and improve design coordination. This includes training programs and technical support to enhance productivity and reduce errors in land development projects.
Roadway Design
Our roadway design services cover complete street projects from concept to construction documents. We handle geometric design, pavement analysis, traffic control, and safety improvements. Our team ensures compliance with Caltrans standards while addressing unique site conditions and community needs.
Floodplain Management
We offer comprehensive floodplain analysis and mitigation strategies. Our services include hydraulic modeling, flood risk assessment, and development of flood-resistant infrastructure. We work with local agencies to create solutions that balance regulatory compliance with practical engineering requirements for vulnerable areas.
Water Systems Design
We design and rehabilitate public and private water distribution systems. Our services include pipe network analysis, pump station design, and infrastructure upgrades. We focus on creating efficient, code-compliant systems that ensure reliable water delivery while minimizing environmental impact and long-term maintenance costs.
People
Christopher Wall
Founder / Professional Engineer
With 37 years of civil engineering experience, Mr. Wall founded O'Brien & Wall in 1997 after working at Santa Barbara County Public Works. He specializes in roadway design, drainage systems, and CAD implementation for complex infrastructure projects.
Questions
What civil engineering services does O'Brien & Wall offer?
We provide stormwater management, grading and drainage design, roadway engineering, water/sewer system rehabilitation, floodplain management, and construction inspection services.
Do you offer CAD software consulting for civil engineers?
Yes, we specialize in Civil 3D and Land Development Desktop consulting, helping professionals improve productivity and design accuracy through customized workflows.
What makes your firm different from other engineering consultants?
Our unique combination of field experience, technical software expertise, and client-focused approach ensures practical, code-compliant solutions tailored to specific project needs.
Which geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Santa Barbara and Woodland Hills, California, with extensive experience in local regulatory requirements and environmental conditions.
Can you handle both public and private infrastructure projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with both municipal infrastructure improvements and private development projects across California.
What experience do you have with stormwater compliance?
As Qualified SWPPP Developers and Practitioners, we provide comprehensive stormwater management solutions meeting federal and state regulations for construction projects.
