PROJECT SUMMARY:
As with many sections of the aging creeks and storm water
runoff channels, failure of an approximately 25 year old gabion
wall (due to rust and other natural forces) was directly
threatening the ability of the channel to effectively handle
storm water runoff. Additionally a sanitary sewer line
directly behind the wall was endanger of collapse or breach.
PROJECT SOLUTION:
Ideal crews rebuilt a 75' section of this failed gabion wall
where storm water emptied directly into the channel.
Twenty foot pilings had to be driven into soft mud with added
backfill to protect the sanitary sewer line very near by during
construction.
Ideal also subcontracted sub-surface constructors to install
sheet pile to keep the 60 inch sanitary line from faring into
the creek.
The only access to the area was through the channel, so crews
had to construct a temporary rock road to the site. Crews then
used the remaining rock from this temporary access road to
enhance protection of the remaining areas and prevent scouring
during times of heavy flow until MSD funds are available to
complete the project.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
The major concern with this project was completing it prior to
the heavy spring rain season. Safety was the number one
factor when work crews were on site because the channel area
was extremely prone to flash flooding. The channel had
been known to rise 15 feet within an hour. For this
reason Ideal crews constantly monitored weather conditions and
were in direct contact with MSD personnel who would alert them
to any potential flood hazard.
