A major electric utility company was required to relocate two electric transmission lines that service the entire city of Waco, TX. They had five months to reroute two miles of transmission line. Kleinfelder served as the foundation designer, structural engineer, PLS-POLE modeling engineer (power delivery), and the prime construction contractor. Kleinfelder also provided construction observation, materials testing, and construction management services.

Challenging Site Conditions

Difficult site conditions would not allow a traditional foundation system. The traditional large diameter drilled shaft would significantly impact both the project cost and schedule. The electric utility company and their construction team only used drilled shaft foundations for their transmission line structures in the past and did not use any other foundation systems.

Identifying The Most Feasible Foundation Option

Kleinfelder performed an initial foundation design and cost feasibility study for different types of applicable foundation systems. Our design experts determined that a group of auger-cast pile foundations, with a pile cap would be the most feasible foundation option for this project. Auger cast piles would limit ground disturbances, foundation installation would be easier, and would meet the schedule requirement.

Project Results

Using a non-traditional foundation system rather than a traditional drilled shaft foundation saved the client approximately $800,000 in foundation costs and allowed for much quicker installation. Construction activities were completed significantly ahead of schedule, which helped the client avoid a depreciation penalty and gives the client additional foundation options in the future.

Project Details

Location:
Waco, Texas

Owner:
Major Electric Utility Company in Texas