Chocolate Factory Expansion — 2021-2023

Palmer Engineering provided civil engineering and site development services for the expansion of the Ferrero chocolate plant in Bloomington, Illinois. The project added 77,800 SF of new production and office space. Our team prepared civil construction plans for new access drives around the expansion, additional parking, and new truck docks. We expanded the existing storm detention pond to accommodate the added pavement and building space. Utilities including water, sanitary sewer, industrial waste lines, and gas lines were extended to the new building and designed for future expansions. Palmer Engineering also submitted plans to the City of Bloomington Zoning Board of Appeals and City Council for approval and coordinated with local and state officials to obtain all necessary permits. Construction coordination included management of multiple owner-requested change orders.

Kinder Bueno Expansion — 2022-2024

Palmer Engineering delivered civil engineering and site design for the 120,800 SF Kinder Bueno chocolate line expansion at the same Ferrero plant. Services included preparing construction plans for new access drives, truck docks, and utility connections. We verified that the expanded storm detention pond from the previous Chocolate Factory expansion could accommodate the new development. Water, sanitary sewer, industrial waste lines, and gas lines were extended to the new building. Plans were submitted to the Illinois EPA for stormwater permits and sanitary sewer extension, with coordination across all required local and state authorities. Construction support included managing multiple change orders requested by the owner.