Introduction to ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden and Its Attractions
The ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, opened in 1996, has flourished into a 32-acre haven showcasing plants from the American Southwest and around the globe. At the heart of the gardens lies a nature path encircling a pond and a stage used for various entertainments. As part of a series of proposed improvements, the existing stage and pavilion were set for demolition to make way for a new, enhanced stage and pavilion, complete with new pedestrian paths and landscaping.
Significant Upgrades: Project Scope
The unexpected groundwater conditions presented a formidable obstacle for Wizer Electric, a contractor based in Albuquerque. The structural engineer contacted Ram Jack New Mexico and sought specialized assistance to address these difficulties. Ram Jack installed piers that were crucial for supporting the new stage and maintaining the stability of the pond area.
Helical Pier Installation: Ensuring Structural Stability
The project posed a significant challenge due to the presence of shallow groundwater, which could lead to soil liquefaction during seismic activity. Soil liquefaction occurs when saturated soil loses its strength and acts like a liquid, resulting in ground instability. To combat this, the helical piers were meticulously designed to ensure vertical support for both the pavilion columns and the pond’s retaining wall. The solution involved the installation of helical piers and tiebacks with precise specifications:
- Retaining Wall Structure:
- 20 Helical Tieback Piers: 2 7/8” diameter with a 8”/10” double configuration, topped with New Construction brackets, installed to a 15-Kip working load.
- 9 Vertical Helical Piers: 3.5” diameter with a 12”/14” double configuration, topped with New Construction brackets, installed to a 40-Kip working load.
- New Pavilion Structure and Outdoor Sound Stage:
- 10 Vertical Helical Piers: 2 7/8” diameter with a 10/12/14 inch disc configuration, topped with New Construction brackets, installed to a 15-Kip working load.
The vertical piers were about 43 feet deep on average, and the tiebacks were about 53 feet long on average.
Verification Test Ensures Integrity and Reliability of Helical Piers
To ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the installation, a verification test was conducted. This test involved subjecting the piers to 200% of the designed working load of 15 Kips for both vertical and tieback piers. The successful completion of this test confirmed the reliability of the helical piers under the anticipated loads.
Successful Foundation Solutions for ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden’s New Structures
Using helical piers provided a robust and reliable foundation solution for the new stage/pavilion at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden. This approach effectively addressed the challenges posed by the shallow water table and proximity to the pond, ensuring the stability and longevity of the new structures. The project highlights the capabilities of Ram Jack New Mexico along with their innovative pier solutions to overcome site-specific challenges and meet the demands of a challenging construction site. To see another project that included similar difficulties and success, read here: Helical and Resistance Piers at HP Data Center.