Prior to construction of the new Department of Revenue building, Braun Intertec was retained to provide services in connection with the relocation of a historic structure from the site.

We conducted a geotechnical survey, an archaeological investigation, and Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments in order to facilitate the structure relocation. Soil suitability for reuse and foundation support alternatives was evaluated during the geotechnical survey.

Challenges

Due to the short schedule, all archeological and remediation activities would need to be conducted simultaneously to site clearing and building construction.

Several areas of the site required archeological screening, sampling and characterization under state laws. Additionally, many areas were confirmed or suspected soil contamination due to past industrial and commercial activities at the site. Some contamination was due to contaminated fill placed during historical development of the neighborhood.

Solutions

During construction, we performed special inspections, observations and tests relative to excavation and compaction operations, placement of standard and lightweight concrete, masonry construction, steel erection, fireproofing, and paving. Dynamic pile testing for the parking ramp was per-formed.

Exploratory borings and in-situ pressure meter testing were performed to evaluate the engineering properties of existing fill, soils and bedrock present throughout the site for structural support. Based on our findings, it was determined that the building could be supported on spread footings sized to exert bearing pressures of 6,000 to 8,000 pounds per square foot.

The presence of buried organic soils, and the proximity of sandstone bedrock to the ground surface in the area favored supporting the ramp on steel pipe piles rather than spread footings. The piles were driven to refusal on the sandstone bedrock.

Excavations necessary for soil corrections, building foundation work and construction were screened for historical significance and contamination. Appropriate archaeological information was recorded and various stockpiles of contaminated soil were generated, sampled and disposed of or reused according to regulatory approvals.

All activity required clear and concise coordination between the clients, contractors, subcontractors, and a nearby daycare center concerned about children’s exposure to airborne contamination during site activities.

Our ability to coordinate multiple tasks afforded this client the luxury of working with one consultant, providing both cost and time savings.