Proj Overview

Project Overview

An innovative precast/prestressed concrete retaining wall system that minimized the number of different panels required and reduced panel and footing weight was used to shave four months off the construction schedule for this 4,000-ft retaining wall project. The new retaining wall system offers numerous advantages.

Precast Solution

There are no special forms required to fabricate the segments. The segments are light and easy to transport. The ease of fabrication of the precast segments provides the opportunity for small precasters to bid on a project. The gap between the precast segments provides contractors with adequate tolerances for proper fit. The system is fast and easy to erect, improves work zone safety, can be used for curved alignments, and can handle multiple aesthetic options. Finally, sections of the retaining wall can be easily replaced in the future.

 

Awards_
2011 PCI Design AwardsBest Special Solution: Transportation
Project Team

Engineer

Alfred Benesch & Company 

Contractor

Davis Construction Inc., Lansing, MI 

Owner

Michigan Department of Transportation 

Precaster

Kerkstra Precast, Grandville, MI

Key Project Attributes

  • The ease of fabrication of the precast segments provides the opportunity for small precasters to bid on a project
  • The precast retaining wall system minimized the number of different panels used
  • Precast reduced panel and footing weight and was used to shave four months off schedule

Project/Precast Scope

  • Deck area: 160,240 ft 2 of wall area
  • Length: 6,762 ft
  • 12 walls, a total of 6,762 ft long