Barry Isett & Associates (Isett) has completed the acquisition of RJD Engineering, a Hazleton‑based civil and municipal engineering firm. As a result, the firm continues to expand its municipal engineering services throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. The acquisition closed on December 31, 2025, with RJD’s team officially joining Isett on January 5, 2026.
A Strategic Expansion in Greater Hazleton
The acquisition builds on a long‑standing professional relationship between the two firms. For years, Isett and RJD Engineering worked together to support municipalities across the Greater Hazleton region. Through this transition, municipal clients will continue working with familiar professionals while gaining access to additional resources and expertise.
At the same time, the integration strengthens Isett’s ability to meet growing infrastructure needs as development continues across Northeast Pennsylvania.
Strengthening Municipal Engineering Services
Leading the transition are RJD’s owners, Bob Dougherty, PE, and Joey Calabrese, PE, who bring decades of experience as civil and municipal engineers. They join Isett along with a licensed surveyor, three full-time construction observers, and one part-time construction observer. The team will continue serving local municipalities as part of Isett’s Municipal Services Department, with access to expanded resources and specialized expertise across the company.
Previously, RJD Engineering served as municipal engineer for Hazle Township, Butler Township, the Municipal Authority of Hazle Township, and the Greater Hazleton Joint Sewer Authority. Isett has also served as the City of Hazleton’s engineer for more than 20 years. This shared history reflects a long‑standing commitment to the region and its communities.
As a result of the acquisition, municipalities now have access to a broader range of services. These include surveying, environmental and geotechnical engineering, landscape architecture, grants support, and code services. Together, these capabilities help communities plan and build infrastructure that supports long‑term growth and quality of life.
Regional Impact and Leadership Perspectives
“This integration honors RJD’s legacy while opening the door to new opportunities for the communities we serve,” said Andrew Lawler, President & COO of Barry Isett & Associates. “By combining our strengths, we can deliver innovative solutions and responsive service that help municipalities plan for growth and thrive.”
In addition, Gregg Pavlick, Vice President, Northeast PA, emphasized the local impact of the transition. “This acquisition reflects our investment in the Hazleton region,” said Pavlick. “Together, our teams bring strong expertise that will support critical infrastructure projects and deliver lasting value.”
“We are excited to be joining the Isett team,” said Dougherty and Calabrese of RJD Engineering. “Ensuring continuity for our clients was important to both organizations. Moving forward, we look forward to providing municipalities with a full‑service menu of expertise backed by a talented team.”
From left to right: Joey Calabrese, PE, Andrew Lawler, President & COO, Bob Dougherty, PE, and Gregg Pavlick, VP, NE Region