HomeMy WebLinkAboutKING SOOPERS #146 MIDTOWN GARDENS MARKETPLACE - PDP200012 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - GEOTECHNICAL (SOILS) REPORT800 Stockton Avenue; #4
Fort Collins, CO 80524
phone: (970) 416-9045
fax: (303) 742-9666
email: kaftcollins@kumarusa.com
www.kumarusa.com
Office Locations: Denver (HQ), Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Glenwood Springs, Parker, and Frisco/Silverthorne, Colorado
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING STUDY
AND PAVEMENT THICKNESS DESIGN
PROPOSED KING SOOPERS #146 SHOPPING CENTER
NORTHWEST CORNER OF SOUTH COLLEGE AVENUE
AND WEST DRAKE ROAD
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
DRAFT
Prepared By: Reviewed By:
David Castelbaum, P.E
. James A. Noll, P.E.
Prepared For:
King Soopers
Facility Engineering Department
65 Tejon Street
Denver, Colorado 80223
ATTENTION: Mr. Kevin McKenzie
Project No. 16-3-183 November 23, 2016
Kumar & Associates, Inc
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUMMARY .......................................................................................................................................... 1
PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF WORK .................................................................................................. 3
PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION .......................................................................................................... 3
SITE CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................................. 4
SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................ 4
LABORATORY TESTING ................................................................................................................... 5
GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................... 6
SEISMIC DESIGN CRITERIA ............................................................................................................. 7
FOUNDATION RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................. 7
FLOOR SLABS AND EXTERIOR FLATWORK ................................................................................... 9
SITE GRADING ................................................................................................................................ 10
FOUNDATION WALLS AND RETAINING STRUCTURES ............................................................... 14
WATER SOLUBLE SULFATES ........................................................................................................ 14
SURFACE DRAINAGE ..................................................................................................................... 15
PAVEMENT THICKNESS DESIGN .................................................................................................. 16
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT SERVICES ................................................................. 19
LIMITATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 19
FIG. 1 – LOCATION OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS
FIGS. 2 through 5 – LOGS OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS, LEGEND AND NOTES
FIGS. 6 through 13 – SWELL/CONSOLIDATION TEST RESULTS
FIGS. 14 through 15 – GRADATION TEST RESULTS
TABLE I - SUMMARY OF LABORATORY TEST RESULTS
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SUMMARY
1. The subsurface conditions at the site were evaluated by drilling 20 exploratory borings to
depths ranging from about 15 to 50 feet below existing ground surface. Asphalt pavement
was encountered at the surface of all borings and varied from approximately 2¼to 9½ inches
in thickness with an average thickness of about 4½ inches. Three (3) of the borings
encountered aggregate base course beneath the asphalt with thicknesses ranging from
about 4½ o 6 inches. Fill materials ranging from approximately 1 to 6 feet thick were
encountered beneath the pavement in all of the borings and consist of slightly moist to moist
lean to sandy lean clays, occasionally with gravel. The fill is underlain by natural overburden
soils underlain in turn by sandstone and claystone bedrock.
The natural overburden soils encountered beneath the fill extend to depths of approximately
32 to 38 feet in eight (8) borings and to the maximum depth drilled in all of the remaining
borings. The natural soils consist predominantly of lean to sandy lean clay interlayered with
poorly-graded to silty-clayey sands. The sandy clay soils are generally soft to stiff and
occasionally very stiff, and the interlayered granular soils are generally loose to dense based
on field penetration resistance tests. Bedrock was encountered in these same eight (8)
borings beneath the overburden soils and extended to the maximum depths drilled of
approximately 40 to 50 feet. Sandstone bedrock was encountered in all eight (8) of these
borings and is weakly cemented, fine to coarse-grained, silty, moist to wet, and varies from
tan, gray to yellowish-gray, and brown to grayish-brown in color. Claystone bedrock was
encountered in one (1) boring below the sandstone at a depth of approximately 33 feet and
is sandy, moist, and grayish-brown. Based on field penetration resistance test, the sandstone
and claystone are hard to very hard.
2. Groundwater was encountered in 12 of the borings at the time of drilling at depths ranging
from about 12 to 18 feet. Groundwater levels were approximately 12 to 14½ feet when
measured between 14 and 21 days after drilling. Groundwater is not expected to affect the
proposed construction. However, groundwater levels are expected to fluctuate with season,
and may rise after wet weather or subsequent to landscape irrigation. Also, development of
perched groundwater on top of or within layers of the fine-grained (i.e., clays) overburden
soils may occur, particularly after wet weather and landscape irrigation subsequent to
development.
3. We believe that shallow spread footings are a suitable foundation system for the proposed
buildings described in this report. Footings should be placed on the undisturbed natural
sandy clay soils or properly compacted structural fill. Spread footings should be designed for
a net allowable bearing pressure of 2,500 psf.
4. The exploratory borings indicate existing fill at or near anticipated foundation bearing
elevations. These fill materials are not considered suitable for support of foundations, unless
documentation can be provided indicating otherwise, and should be removed. The footings
be should be extended through the fill to the underlying undisturbed natural soils.
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Alternatively, the existing fill materials may be replaced by properly compacted structural fill
that extends to the natural soils.
5. Slab-on-grade construction is also feasible at this site. We recommend all fill material under
slabs be removed and replaced with properly compacted structural fill. If the owner is willing
to accept the risk of potential movement, slabs may be placed on at least 3 feet of properly
compacted structural fill material.
6. Flexible and rigid pavement sections are shown in the table below. Additional pavement
design and construction criteria are presented in the body of this report.
LOCATION*
Pavement Section Thicknesses (inches)
Full-Depth
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot Mix Asphalt over
Aggregate Base Course
Portland Cement
Concrete
Light Duty 7 4½ over 9 6
Heavy Duty 8½ 5½ over 10 7
*Light Duty: Automobile parking; Heavy Duty: Access drives, fire lanes.
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PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF WORK
This report presents the results of a geotechnical engineering study for the King Soopers Store #146
and retail development to be located on the northwest corner of South College Avenue and West
Drake Road in Fort Collins, Colorado as shown on Fig. 1. The study was conducted in accordance
with the scope of work in our Proposal No. P3-16-253 dated October 21, 2016.
A field exploration program consisting of exploratory borings was conducted to obtain information on
subsurface conditions. Samples of soils and bedrock obtained during the field exploration were
tested in the laboratory to determine their strength, compressibility or swell characteristics, and
classification. Results of the field exploration and laboratory testing were analyzed to develop
recommendations for the building foundations and floor slabs, exterior flatwork areas, and
pavements. The results of the field exploration and laboratory testing are presented herein.
This report has been prepared to summarize the data obtained during this study and to present our
conclusions and recommendations based on the proposed construction and the subsurface
conditions encountered. Design parameters and a discussion of geotechnical engineering
considerations related to construction of the proposed facility are included in the report.
PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION
The project will consist of re-developing an existing approximate 12.6-acre retail center currently
occupied by a large retail/outlet type store and two smaller structures. The large retail building and
one of the smaller structures will be demolished as part of the proposed construction. The proposed
construction will consist of a King Soopers store having a footprint of approximately 123,000 square
feet, a detached retail building of approximately 8,500 square feet and associated asphalt paved
driveways and parking areas. The proposed store will be a tall, single-story structure with slab-on-
grade floors typical of other King Soopers stores completed locally. A drive through pharmacy lane
will be constructed on the north side of the proposed building. The detached retail building will be
located in the northeast corner of the site.
The design team is considering reuse of the existing asphalt paved driveways and parking
areas. Part of this study will include a limited visual assessment of the existing pavement and our
opinion regarding the relative condition and structural support characteristics of the existing
pavement section.
If the proposed construction varies significantly from that generally described above or depicted in
this report, we should be notified to reevaluate the conclusions and recommendations provided
herein.
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SITE CONDITIONS
The project site is an approximate 12.6-acre rectangular property on the northwest corner of South
College Avenue and West Drake Road. The property is bordered by the City of Fort Collins Max
BRT Mason Corridor to the west and by an existing retail center to the north. The existing large retail
building occupies the northwest portion of the property and has a footprint approximately the same
as the proposed King Soopers building. Two (2) smaller retail buildings are located in the north and
southeast corners of the property. The large building and small northeast retail building will be
demolished to make way for the proposed construction.
A limited visual assessment of the existing asphalt paved driveways and parking areas was included
in this study. The majority of the pavement at the site is in fair to poor condition having elevated
levels of distress, as well evidence of prior crack sealing and patching throughout the paved
areas. Distresses noted include longitudinal and transverse cracking with crack widths measuring
approximately ¼ to 1½ inches and depths greater than approximately 1 to 1½ inches, alligator and
block cracking, potholes, some rutting and areas of pavement settlement/subsidence resulting in
ponding and standing water. These distresses are also observed within areas of prior patching and
crack sealing. The distresses are predominantly moderate in severity, followed by high and low
severity in order of decreasing area affected. Asphalt pavement was encountered at the surface of
all of the borings and varied from approximately 2¼ to 9½ inches in thickness with an average
thickness of about 4½ inches. Three of the borings encountered aggregate base course beneath
the asphalt with thickness ranging from about 4½ to 6 inches.
SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
The subsurface conditions at the site were investigated by drilling 20 exploratory borings to depths
ranging from about 5 to 50 feet below the existing ground surface. Ten (10) borings were drilled to
depths ranging from about 20 to 50 feet around the perimeter of the existing large retail building
where the proposed King Soopers store will be located. Ten (10) borings were drilled in the existing
paved driveways and parking areas to approximately 15 feet. The approximate locations of the
borings are shown on Fig. 1. The logs of the exploratory borings are presented on Figs. 2 through 4,
and the associated legend explanatory notes are also presented on Fig. 5.
Subsurface Soil and Bedrock Conditions: Asphalt pavement was encountered at the surface of all of
the borings and varied from approximately 2¼ to 9½ inches in thickness with an average thickness
of about 4½ inches. Three (3) of the borings encountered aggregate base course beneath the
asphalt with thickness ranging from about 4½ to 6 inches. Fill materials of variable thicknesses
ranging from approximately 1 to 6 feet thick were encountered beneath the pavement in all of the
borings and consists of lean to sandy lean clays, occasionally with gravel that are slightly moist to
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moist. The fill is underlain by natural overburden soils underlain in turn by sandstone and claystone
bedrock.
The natural overburden soils encountered beneath the fill extend to depths of approximately 32 to 38
feet in eight (8) borings and to the maximum depth drilled in all of the remaining borings. The natural
soils consist predominantly of lean to sandy lean clay occasionally grading to clayey sand
interlayered with poorly-graded to silty-clayey sands. The sandy clay soils are generally soft to stiff
and occasionally very stiff, and the interlayered granular soils are generally loose to dense based on
field penetration resistance tests.
Bedrock was encountered in these same eight (8) borings beneath the overburden soils at depths of
32 to 38 feet and extended to the maximum depths drilled of approximately 40 to 50 feet.
Sandstone bedrock was encountered all eight of these same borings and is weakly cemented, fine
to coarse-grained, silty, moist to wet, and varies from tan, gray to yellowish-gray, and brown to
grayish-brown in color. Claystone bedrock was encountered in one (1) boring beneath the sandstone
at a depth of approximately 33 feet and is sandy, moist, and grayish-brown. Based on field
penetration resistance test, the sandstone and claystone are hard to very hard.
Groundwater Conditions: Groundwater was encountered in 12 of the borings at the time of drilling at
depths ranging from about 12 to 18 feet. Groundwater levels were approximately 12 to 14½ feet
when measured between 14 and 21 days after drilling. Groundwater is not expected to affect the
proposed construction. However, groundwater levels are expected to fluctuate with season, and
may rise after wet weather or subsequent to landscape irrigation. Also, development of perched
groundwater on top of or within layers of the fine-grained (i.e., clays) overburden soils may occur,
particularly after wet weather and landscape irrigation subsequent to development.
LABORATORY TESTING
Laboratory testing was performed on selected soil and bedrock samples obtained from the borings
to determine in-situ soil moisture content and dry density, Atterberg Limits, swell-consolidation
characteristics, gradation characteristics, and water soluble sulfates. The results of the laboratory
tests are shown to the right of the logs on Figs. 2 through 6 and summarized in Table 1. The results
of specific tests are graphically plotted on Figs. 7 through 13. The testing was conducted in general
accordance with recognized test procedures, primarily those of the American Society for Testing of
Materials (ASTM).
Swell-Consolidation: Swell-consolidation tests were conducted on samples of the existing fill and
natural overburden soils. The tests were performed in order to determine the compressibility and
swell characteristics of the samples under loading and when submerged in water. Samples are
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subjected to a surcharge pressure of 200 or 1,000 psf, and allowed to consolidate before being
submerged.
Results of the swell-consolidation tests are presented on Figs. 7 through 13. The results of the
swell-consolidation tests indicate that the existing fill and natural overburden soils generally have low
compressibility to moderate swell upon wetting at surcharge pressures of both 200 and 1,000 psf.
Samples of the fill and natural overburden soils exhibited compression of -0.1% to low swell of 1.3%
when wetted under a 200 psf surcharge pressure, and low compressibility of -1.8% to moderate
swell of 2.4% under a 1,000 psf surcharge pressure. Swell pressures ranged from approximately
1,000 to 6,000 psf.
Index Properties: Laboratory testing was performed to determine the index properties of the soils
found at the site including: liquid limit and plasticity index, and particle-size distribution (gradation).
The index properties were used to classify the soils into categories of similar engineering properties
according to the American Association of Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) system and
the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) (ASTM D 2487). The classification of the soils
present at this site are presented in Table I and indicated on the boring logs.
GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
As previously discussed, subsurface conditions generally consist of variable depths of fill overlying
natural overburden soils. Unless documentation can be provided indicating otherwise, the existing
fill materials are not considered suitable for support of foundations or floor slabs and should be
removed. Based upon the field data and laboratory testing, the exiting fill materials have variable
moisture content and density/unit weight. The soils encountered at the site conditions are commonly
associated with increased swell potential when they are at lower moisture content and higher density
conditions which can result in heaving movements of structures or slabs placed on these types of
materials. Conversely, higher moisture content and lower density conditions are associated with
compression/consolidation resulting in settlement and potential damage to foundations and floor
slabs.
With proper site preparation, shallow spread footing foundations and building slab-on-grade
construction should be feasible. Proper site preparation should include complete removal of existing
fills within the proposed building footprint and beneath other settlement sensitive structures down to
the natural soils and replacement with compacted structural fill. The provision of a minimum
thickness of structural fill would result in more uniform bearing conditions beneath footings and floor
slab support, and in more predictable foundation settlement.
To reduce the effects of potential differential movements of the fill materials, and possible damage
as a result, we recommend that all existing fill beneath slab-on-grade floors, exterior flatwork and
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pavements be removed and replaced with structural fill. The magnitude of potential movement
across the site post-construction if the fill is left in-place cannot be accurately predicted. However,
total and differential movements on the order of 1 to 2 inches could occur. If the owner is willing to
accept the risk of potential movement(s) in excess of normal tolerances, floor slabs and exterior
flatwork adjacent to the buildings should be placed on at least 3 feet of properly compacted
structural fill. The owner should be aware that the reduced thickness of fill removal will not eliminate
the risk of movements; however, the total magnitude(s) should be reduced.
SEISMIC DESIGN CRITERIA
The Colorado Front Range is located in a low seismic activity area. The soil profile consists
generally of comparatively medium dense granular and medium to stiff clay overburden soils
overlying hard to very hard bedrock. The overburden materials will generally classify as
International Building Code (IBC) Site Class D. The underlying bedrock generally classifies as IBC
Site Class C. Based on our experience with similar subsurface profiles in the area, we recommend
a design soil profile of IBC Site Class D. Based on the subsurface profile, and site seismicity,
liquefaction is not a design consideration.
FOUNDATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Spread Footings: Based on the surface conditions encountered in the exploratory borings, the
results of laboratory testing, and previous experience, we recommend the King Soopers store and
the detached retail building be founded on shallow spread footings placed on the undisturbed natural
soils or properly compacted structural fill extending to the natural soils.
The design and construction criteria presented below should be observed for a spread footing
foundation system. The construction details should be considered when preparing project
documents.
1. Footings should be placed on the undisturbed natural soils or properly compacted structural
fill extending to the natural soils. The footings should be designed for a net allowable soil
bearing pressure of 2,500 psf.
2. Areas of loose and/or soft soils, or other deleterious materials encountered within footing
excavations should be removed and the footings extended down to underlying undisturbed
natural soils or replaced with structural fill meeting the material and placement criteria
provided in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report.
All foundation elements, floor slabs, and other debris resulting from demolition of structures
should be removed from within the new building footprints. Any irregular or otherwise
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unsuitable foundation excavations should be backfilled with structural fill as described in the
“SITE GRADING” section of this report. Special compaction procedures including hand
compaction methods may be required in tight confined excavation areas in order to meet the
compaction requirements.
3. The results of our field exploration indicate existing fill at or below anticipated foundation
bearing elevations. The existing fill materials are not considered suitable for support of
foundations and should be removed. The footings should be extended through the fill to the
underlying undisturbed natural soils.
Alternatively, the existing fill materials can be replaced by properly compacted structural fill
that extends to the natural soils. Structural fill should meet the material and placement
criteria provided in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report. New fill should extend down
from the edges of the footings at a 1H:1V (horizontal-to-vertical) projection.
4. Spread footings should have a minimum footing width of 16 inches for continuous footings
and 24 inches for isolated pads.
5. A minimum 4-inch void should be provided beneath grade beams between pads
6. Exterior footings and footings beneath unheated areas should be provided with adequate soil
cover above their bearing elevation for frost protection. Placement of foundations at least 30
inches below the exterior grade is typically used in this area.
Resistance to lateral sliding can be determined using working values of 0.3 for a coefficient
of friction along the bottom of the footings and 185 for an equivalent fluid weight for passive
pressure against the sides the footings.
Compacted fill placed against the sides of the footings to resist lateral loads should be non-
expansive materials. Fill should meet the material requirements and be moisture conditioned
and compacted as indicated in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report.
7. Continuous foundation walls should be reinforced top and bottom to span an unsupported
length of at least 10 feet.
8. Care should be taken when excavating the foundations to avoid disturbing the supporting
materials. Excavation methods which minimize soil disturbance, such as hand excavation or
careful soil removal with a backhoe positioned outside of the excavation may be required.
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9. The natural fine-grained soils may pump or deform excessively under heavy construction
traffic. The use of track-mounted construction equipment and other equipment that exert
lower contact pressures than pneumatic tires should be used, and the movement of vehicles
over proposed foundation areas should be restricted to help reduce this difficulty.
10. A representative of the geotechnical engineer should observe all footing excavations prior to
concrete placement
FLOOR SLABS AND EXTERIOR FLATWORK
Removal and replacement of existing fill to reduce potential movements (i.e., settlement and/or
heave) was discussed previously in the “Geotechnical Engineering Considerations” section of this
report. Ideally, all existing fill material should be removed from below floor slabs and exterior
flatwork; however, if the owner is willing to accept the risk of movements in excess of normal
tolerances associated with leaving some of the existing fill in place, a partial removal alternative may
be considered where a minimum of 3 feet of the existing fill material below floor slabs and adjacent
exterior flatwork is removed and replaced with structural fill meeting the material and placement
criteria provided in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report.
To reduce the effects of differential movement, floor slabs should be separated from all bearing walls
and columns with expansion joints which allow unrestrained vertical movement. Floor slab control
joints should be used to reduce damage due to shrinkage cracking. Joint spacing is dependent on
slab thickness, concrete aggregate size, and slump, and should be consistent with recognized
guidelines such as those of the Portland Cement Association (PCA) and American Concrete Institute
(ACI). The joint spacing and slab reinforcement should be established by the designer based on
experience and the intended slab use.
General Floor Slab Recommendations: The following measures should be taken to reduce damage
which could result from movement should the underslab materials be subjected to moisture
changes.
1. Floor slabs should be separated from all bearing walls and columns with expansion joints
which allow unrestrained vertical movement.
2. Floor slabs should not extend beneath exterior doors or over foundation walls, unless saw
cut at the wall after construction.
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3. Interior non-bearing partitions resting on floor slabs should be provided with slip joints at the
tops or bottoms so that, if the slabs move, the movement cannot be transmitted to the upper
structure. This detail is also important for wallboards, stairways and door frames. Slip joints
which will allow at least 2 inches of vertical movement are recommended.
If wood or metal stud partition walls are used, the slip joints should preferably be placed at
the bottoms of the walls so differential slab movement won’t damage the partition wall. If
slab bearing masonry block partitions are constructed, the slip joints will have to be placed at
the tops of the walls. If slip joints are provided at the tops of walls and the floors move, it is
likely the partition walls will show signs of distress, such as cracking. An alternative, if
masonry block walls or other walls without slip joints at the bottoms are required, is to found
them on spread footings and to construct the slabs independently of the foundation. If slab
bearing partition walls are required, distress may be reduced by connecting the partition
walls to the exterior walls using slip channels.
4. Floor slab control joints should be used to reduce damage due to shrinkage cracking. Joint
spacing is dependent on slab thickness, concrete aggregate size, and slump, and should be
consistent with recognized guidelines such as those of the Portland Cement Association
(PCA) or American Concrete Institute (ACI). We suggest joints be provided on the order of
12 to 15 feet apart in both directions. The requirements for slab reinforcement should be
established by the designer based on experience and the intended slab use.
5. If moisture-sensitive floor coverings will be used, mitigation of moisture penetration into the
slabs, such as by use of a vapor barrier, may be required. If an impervious vapor barrier
membrane is used, special precautions will be required to prevent differential curing
problems which could cause the slabs to warp. ACI 302.1R addresses this topic.
6. All plumbing lines should be tested before operation. Where plumbing lines enter through
the floor, a positive bond break should be provided. Flexible connections should be provided
for slab-bearing mechanical equipment.
SITE GRADING
Site Preparation: Prior to site grading operations, the large retail building and the smaller structures
in the northeast corner will be demolished. All existing foundation elements and floor slabs of these
two structures should be completely removed prior to any site grading within these areas. Based on
our understanding of the proposed construction and observed site topography, site grading is
expected to consist of permanent minor cuts and fills, likely on the order of 2 to 3 feet or less.
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Material types encountered during site grading will likely consist of sandy clay soils (fill and natural).
These materials can be excavated with earth moving equipment typically used for the proposed
construction.
As indicated previously, all existing fill material beneath foundation areas should be removed. These
materials can be replaced, if needed to restore final foundation level elevation(s), with properly
compacted structural fill. New structural fill should extend down from the edges of the footings at a
1H:1V (horizontal-to-vertical) projection.
The ground surface underlying all fills should be carefully prepared by removing all organic matter
and scarification to a minimum depth of 12 inches. The scarified materials should be moisture
conditioned and compacted as indicated in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report.
If grading is performed during times of cold weather, the fill should not contain frozen materials. If
the subgrade is allowed to freeze, all frozen material should be removed prior to additional fill
placement or footing, slab or pavement construction.
Site grading should be planned to provide positive surface drainage away from all building and
parking areas. The buildings and parking areas should be placed as high as possible on the site so
that positive drainage away from these features can be provided. Surface diversion features should
be provided around parking areas to prevent surface runoff from flowing across the paved surfaces.
Cut and Fill Slopes: Permanent unretained cuts in the overburden soils and fill slopes up to 10 feet
high should be constructed at a 2H:1V (horizontal-to-vertical) or flatter inclination for stability
purposes and at a 3H:1V or flatter inclination for limiting the potential for erosion. If groundwater
seepage is encountered during or prior to cut slope excavation, a stability evaluation should be
conducted to determine if the seepage would adversely affect the cut
Good surface drainage should be provided around all permanent cuts and fills to direct surface
runoff away from the slope faces. Fill slopes, cut slopes and other stripped areas should be
protected against erosion by vegetation or other methods.
Temporary Excavations and Dewatering: Temporary excavations should be constructed in
accordance with OSHA requirements, as well as state, local and other applicable requirements. Site
excavations will encounter fill and natural clay soils that classify as OSHA Type B soils, although
loose areas of fill and/or natural granular soils may classify as OSHA Type C soils. Excavations
encountering loose granular soils, or groundwater, will require much shallower side slopes than
those allowed by OSHA and/or temporary shoring
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Material Specifications: Unless specifically modified in the preceding sections of this report, the
following recommended material and compaction requirements are presented for compacted fills on
the project site. The geotechnical engineer should evaluate the suitability of all proposed fill
materials for the project prior to placement.
1. Structural Fill beneath Foundations, Slab-on-Grade Floors, and Settlement-Sensitive Exterior
Flatwork: Structural fill should consist of the on-site soils. If needed, imported fill materials
should be non-expansive soils with a maximum of 70% passing the No. 200 sieve and a
maximum liquid limit and plasticity index of 35 and 20, respectively. Imported fill materials not
meeting these criteria may be acceptable if they meet the swell criteria presented in Item 6
below.
2. General Site Grading Fill: Fill placed for general site grading or beneath pavements and
exterior flatwork that is not sensitive to settlement should consist of on-site soils, or imported
materials if required.
3. Pipe Bedding Material: Pipe bedding material should be a free draining, coarse grained
sand and/or fine gravel. The on-site soils are predominantly fine-grained and not suitable for
use as pipe bedding.
4. Base Course: Base course material(s) should meet the specifications for Class 5 or Class 6
Aggregate Base Course stated in the current Colorado Department of Transportation
(CDOT) “Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction”.
5. Utility Trench Backfill: Materials excavated from utility trenches may be used for trench
backfill above the pipe bedding provided they are; not frozen, do not contain unsuitable
material or particles larger than 4 inches, and can be placed and compacted as
recommended herein.
6. Material Suitability: Unless otherwise defined herein, all fill material should be a non-
expansive soil free of vegetation, brush, sod, trash and debris, and other deleterious
substances, and should not contain rocks or lumps greater than 4 inches in diameter. Fill
material should be considered non-expansive if the material does not swell more than 0.5%,
when remolded to 95% of the maximum dry unit weight at optimum moisture content as
determined by ASTM D698 and wetted under a 200 psf surcharge pressure.
The existing on-site soils should be suitable for use as general site grading fill and as
structural fill beneath foundations, floor slabs, exterior slabs, and pavements provided any
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organic or other deleterious material or debris are removed. Rocks, debris or lumps should
be dispersed throughout the fill and concentrations of these materials should be avoided.
The geotechnical engineer should evaluate the suitability of proposed import fill materials
prior to placement. Evaluation of potential structural fill sources, particularly those not
meeting the above liquid limit and plasticity index criteria, should include determination of
laboratory moisture-density relationships and swell-consolidation tests on remolded samples
prior to acceptance.
Placement and Compaction Specifications: We recommend the following moisture content and
compaction criteria be used on the project:
1. Moisture Content: Prior to compaction, fill materials should be adjusted to within -1 to + 3
percentage points of optimum moisture content for clayey soils and within ± 2 percentage
points of the optimum moisture content for predominantly granular materials.
2. Placement and Degree of Compaction: Unless otherwise defined herein, compacted fill
should be placed in maximum 8-inch thick loose lifts. The following compaction criteria
should be followed during construction.
Percent
Fill Location Compaction
1
Beneath Footing Foundations……………………………………………………….…. 98
Adjacent to Footing Foundations………………………………………………………. 95
Wall Backfill:
Less than 8 feet BFG
2
……………………………………………………………… 95
Exterior more than 8 feet BFG……………………………………………………. 98
Settlement Sensitive Areas………………………..……………………………… 98
Beneath Floor Slabs, Settlement-Sensitive Flatwork:
Less than 8 feet BFG………………………………..…………………………….. 95
More than 8 feet BFG……………………………..………………………………. 98
Utility Trenches:
Interior……………………………………………………………………………….. 98
Exterior - Less than 8 feet BFG…………………………………………………. 95
Exterior - More than 8 feet BFG…………………………………………………. 98
Beneath Pavements:
Less than 5 feet BFG………………………………………………………………. 95
More than 5 feet BFG……………………………………………………………… 98
Aggregate Base Course…………………………………………………………… 98
Landscape and Other Areas……………………………………………………………. 90
1
Relative to the maximum dry unit weight as determined by ASTM D 698.
2
BFG = Below Final Grade.
3. Subgrade Preparation: Areas to receive new fill should be prepared as recommended in the
specific sections of this report to provide a uniform base for placement of new fill. All other
areas to receive new fill not specifically addressed herein should be scarified to a depth of at
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least 8 inches and recompacted to at least 95% of the maximum dry unit weights as
determined by ASTM D698 at moisture contents recommended above.
Subgrade preparation should include proof-rolling with a heavily loaded pneumatic-tired
vehicle or a heavy, smooth-drum vibratory roller. Areas that deform excessively during
proof-rolling should be removed and replaced to achieve a reasonably stable subgrade prior
to placement of compacted fill or construction of slabs, flatwork or pavements
FOUNDATION WALLS AND RETAINING STRUCTURES
Foundation walls and retaining structures associated with the loading docks which are laterally
supported and can be expected to undergo only a moderate amount of deflection should be
designed for an at-rest lateral earth pressure computed on the basis of an equivalent fluid unit
weight of 65 pcf for backfill consisting of the on-site fine-grained soils and 55 pcf for backfill
consisting of imported granular materials conforming to CDOT Class 1 Structure Backfill
requirements.
Cantilevered retaining structures less than 15 feet in height which can be expected to deflect
sufficiently to mobilize the full active earth pressure condition should be designed for a lateral earth
pressure computed on the basis of an equivalent fluid unit weight of 55 pcf for backfill consisting of
the on-site soils and 40 pcf for backfill consisting of imported granular materials conforming to CDOT
Class 1 Structure Backfill.
All foundation and retaining structures should be designed for appropriate hydrostatic and surcharge
pressures such as adjacent buildings, traffic, construction materials and equipment. The pressures
recommended above assume drained conditions behind the walls and a horizontal backfill surface.
The buildup of water behind a wall or an upward sloping backfill surface will increase the lateral
pressure imposed on a foundation wall or retaining structure.
WATER SOLUBLE SULFATES
The concentrations of water-soluble sulfates measured in 3 samples of the overburden soils from the
exploratory borings range from non-detectable to 0.01%. These concentrations of water-soluble
sulfates represent a Class 0 severity of potential exposure to sulfate attack on concrete exposed to
these materials. The degrees of severity of potential exposure range from Class 0 to Class 3 as
presented in ACI 201.2R-08. Based on the water-soluble sulfate concentrations measured, we
believe that no special requirements for sulfate resistance of the cementitious material(s) will be
required for concrete exposed to the on-site soils.
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SURFACE DRAINAGE
Proper surface drainage is very important for acceptable performance of site structures during
construction and after the construction has been completed. Drainage recommendations provided
by local, state and national entities should be followed based on the intended use of each structure.
The following recommendations should be used as guidelines and changes should be made only
after consultation with the geotechnical engineer.
1. Excessive wetting or drying of the foundation and slab subgrade(s) should be avoided during
construction.
2. Exterior backfill meet the material and placement requirements outlined in the “SITE
GRADING” section of this report.
3. Care should be taken when compacting around the foundation walls and underground
structures to avoid damage to the structures. Hand compaction procedures, if necessary,
should be used to prevent lateral pressures from exceeding the design values.
4. The ground surface surrounding the exterior of site structures should be sloped to drain
away from the foundations in all directions. We recommend a minimum slope of 12 inches in
the first 10 feet in unpaved areas. Site drainage beyond the 10-foot zone should be
designed to promote runoff and reduce infiltration. A minimum slope of 3 inches in the first
10 feet is recommended in the paved areas. These slopes may be changed as required for
handicap access points in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
5. The upper 2 feet of the backfill should be relatively impervious material compacted as
recommended above to limit infiltration of surface runoff.
6. Ponding of water should not be allowed in backfill material or within 10 feet of the
foundations, whichever is greater.
7. Roof downspouts and drains should discharge well beyond the limits of all backfill.
8. Landscaping which requires relatively heavy irrigation and lawn sprinkler heads should be
located at least 10 feet from foundations. Irrigation schemes are available which allow
placement of lightly irrigated landscape near foundation walls in moisture sensitive soil
areas. Drip irrigation heads with main lines located at least 10 feet from the foundation walls
are acceptable provided irrigation quantities are limited.
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9. Plastic membranes should not be used to cover the ground surface adjacent to foundation
walls.
PAVEMENT THICKNESS DESIGN
A pavement section is a layered system designed to distribute concentrated traffic loads to the
subgrade. Performance of the pavement structure is directly related to the physical properties of the
subgrade soils and traffic loadings. Soils are represented for pavement design purposes by means
of the subgrade resilient modulus, MR, for flexible pavements and the modulus of subgrade reaction,
k, for rigid pavements. Both values are empirically related to strength.
Subgrade Materials: The results of the field and laboratory studies indicate the pavement subgrade
materials across the site are expected to consist of sandy clay, fill and natural. Based on laboratory
test results, the subgrade materials at the site predominantly classify as A-6 and A-7-6 soils with
group indices between 0 and 23 in accordance with the American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) soil classification system. Soils classifying between A-6 and A-7-
6 are generally considered to provide poor subgrade support. For design purposes, a resilient
modulus value of 3,025 psi was selected for flexible pavements and a modulus of subgrade reaction
of 40 pci was selected for rigid pavements.
Design Traffic: Since anticipated traffic loading information was not available at the time of this
report preparation, an 18-kip equivalent single axle loading (ESAL) value of 73,000 was assumed for
the paved parking surfaces and an ESAL of 219,000 was assumed for truck routes. The values are
selected based on our past experience for facilities of this nature. The Kroger Site Development
Standards identify a “Light Duty” and a “Heavy Duty” pavement thickness requirement for projects
constructed under their jurisdiction. We believe that the ESAL values of 73,000 and 219,000 should
be considered to classify as Light Duty and Heavy Duty pavement sections, respectively. The
Heavy Duty pavement section should be constructed in locations of heavy vehicular traffic
movements such as truck and tanker routes.
If estimated daily traffic volumes for the development are known to be different from those assumed,
we should be provided with this information in order to re-evaluate the pavement sections provided
below.
Existing Pavement: Typical rehabilitation strategies for reuse of existing pavements include an
asphalt overlay that may include surface-milling prior to placement of the new overlay. The overlay
analysis is based on the AASHTO Component Analysis approach where a structural coefficient for
the existing asphalt is used depending upon the condition of the asphalt. A structural coefficient is
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also included for existing aggregate base course. In our opinion, based on the overall poor condition
of the existing pavement due to the amount and severity of the distresses observed, little structural
contribution (i.e., a low structural coefficient) would be provided by the existing pavement. Any
surface-milling to address the distresses would reduce the thickness of the existing asphalt, thereby
reducing the overall structural contribution further. Additionally, there would be no structural
contribution from an aggregate base course layer and the soils at the site are poor subgrade support
materials. Therefore, in our opinion, reuse of the existing asphalt pavement is not recommended,
and the proposed paved driveways and parking areas should be fully reconstructed pavement
sections.
Pavement Design: Alternatives for flexible pavements of full-depth hot mix asphalt (HMA) or a
composite section of HMA over aggregate base course (ABC), and rigid pavements of Portland
cement concrete (PCC) are presented in the table below. The pavement sections were determined
in accordance with the 1993 AASHTO pavement design procedures.
LOCATION
Pavement Section Thicknesses (inches)
Full-Depth
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot Mix Asphalt over
Aggregate Base Course
Portland Cement
Concrete
Light Duty 7 4½ over 8 6
Heavy Duty 8½ 5½ over 9 7
*Light Duty: Automobile parking; Heavy Duty: Access drives, fire lanes.
Truck loading dock areas and other areas where truck turning movements are concentrated should
be paved with 8 inches of Portland Cement Concrete (PCC). The PCC pavement should contain
sawed or formed joints to ¼ of the depth of the slab at a maximum distance of 12 feet on center.
Concrete pavements may be a suitable alternative for parking lots, the fuel center and delivery
areas.
Pavement Materials: The following are recommended material and placement requirements for
pavement construction for this project site. We recommend that properties and mix designs for all
materials proposed to be used for pavements be submitted for review to the geotechnical engineer
prior to placement.
1. Aggregate Base Course: Aggregate base course (ABC) used beneath HMA pavements
should meet the material specifications for Class 5 or Class 6 ABC stated in the current
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) “Standard Specifications for Road and
Bridge Construction”. The ABC should be placed and compacted as outlined in the “SITE
GRADING” section of this report.
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2. Hot Mix Asphalt: Hot mix asphalt (HMA) materials and mix designs should meet the
applicable requirements indicated in the current CDOT “Standard Specifications for Road
and Bridge Construction”. We recommend that the HMA used for this project be designed in
accordance with the SuperPave gyratory mix design method. The mix should generally meet
Grading S or SX specifications with a SuperPave gyratory design revolution (NDESIGN) of 75.
The mix design for the HMA should use a performance grade PG 58-28 or PG 64-22 asphalt
binder. Placement and compaction of HMA should follow current CDOT standards and
specifications.
3. Portland Cement Concrete: Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) pavement should meet Class
P specifications and requirements in the current CDOT “Standard Specifications for Road
and Bridge Construction”. The owner should be aware that rigid PCC pavements will be less
tolerant of differential settlement or heave-related movement than flexible asphalt
pavements. Where rigid PCC pavement is constructed, providing reinforcing and doweling
as discussed below would help reduce the risk of pavement distress due to differential
settlement or heave-related movement.
The above PCC pavement thicknesses are presented as un-reinforced slabs. Based on
projects with similar heavy vehicular loading in certain areas, we recommend that dowels be
provided at transverse and longitudinal joints within the slabs located in the travel lanes of
heavily loaded vehicle, loading docks and areas where truck turning movements are likely to
be concentrated. Additionally, curbs and/or pans should be tied to the slabs. The dowels
and tie bars will help minimize the risk for differential movements between slabs to assist in
more uniformly transferring axle loads to the subgrade. The current CDOT “Standard
Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction” provides some guidance on dowel and tie
bar placement, as well as in the Standard Plans: M&S Standards.
The PCC pavement should contain sawed or formed joints to ¼ of the depth of the slab at a
maximum distance of 12 to 15 feet on center. The proper sealing and maintenance of joints
to minimize the infiltration of surface water is critical to the performance of PCC pavement,
especially if dowels and tie bars are not installed.
Subgrade Preparation: Prior to placing new fill or the pavement section, the entire subgrade area
should be thoroughly scarified and well-mixed to a depth of 12 inches, adjusted to a moisture
content and compacted as indicated in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report. Fill placed
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beneath the pavement should meet the material and compaction requirements for structural fill
presented in the “SITE GRADING” section of this report.
Pavement design procedures assume a stable subgrade and the pavement subgrade should be
proof-rolled, preferably within 48 hours prior to paving. The proof-roll should be performed using a
heavily loaded pneumatic-tired vehicle such as a loaded water truck or large front-end loader. Areas
that deform under wheel loads that are not stable should be removed and replaced to achieve a
stable subgrade prior to paving. The contractor should be aware that the clay soils and claystone
may become somewhat unstable and deform under wheel loads if placed near the upper end of the
moisture content range.
Drainage: The collection and diversion of surface drainage away from paved areas is extremely
important to the satisfactory performance of pavement. Drainage design should provide for the
removal of water from paved areas and prevent the wetting of the subgrade soils.
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT SERVICES
Kumar & Associates, Inc. should be retained to review the project plans and specifications for
conformance with the recommendations provided in our report. We are also available to assist the
design team in preparing specifications for geotechnical aspects of the project, and performing
additional studies if necessary to accommodate possible changes in the proposed construction.
We recommend that Kumar & Associates, Inc. be retained to provide construction observation and
testing services to document that the intent of this report and the requirements of the plans and
specifications are being followed during construction. This will allow us to identify possible variations
in subsurface conditions from those encountered during this study and to allow us to re-evaluate our
recommendations, if needed. We will not be responsible for implementation of the
recommendations presented in this report, if we are not retained to provide construction observation
and testing services.
LIMITATIONS
This study has been conducted in accordance with generally accepted geotechnical engineering
practices in this area for exclusive use by the client for design purposes. The conclusions and
recommendations submitted in this report are based upon the data obtained from the exploratory
borings at the locations indicated on Fig. 1, and the proposed type of construction. This report may
not reflect subsurface variations that occur between the exploratory borings, and the nature and
extent of variations across the site may not become evident until site grading and excavations are
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performed. If during construction, fill, soil, rock or water conditions appear to be different from those
described herein, Kumar & Associates, Inc. should be advised at once so that a re-evaluation of the
recommendations presented in this report can be made. Kumar & Associates, Inc. is not
responsible for liability associated with interpretation of subsurface data by others.
Swelling soils and bedrock occur on this site. Such soils are stable at their natural moisture content
but will undergo high volume changes with changes in moisture content. The extent and amount of
perched water beneath the building site as a result of area irrigation and inadequate surface
drainage is difficult, if not impossible, to foresee.
The recommendations presented in this report are based on current theories and experience of our
engineers on the behavior of swelling soil in this area. The owner should be aware that there is a
risk in constructing a building in an expansive soil area. Following the recommendations given by a
geotechnical engineer, careful construction practice and prudent maintenance by the owner can,
however, decrease the risk of foundation movement due to expansive soils.
DC/jan/es
cc: book, file
Project No.:
Project Name:
Date(s) Sampled:
Date(s) Received:
Boring Gravel
(%)
Sand
(%)
Liquid
Limit
(%)
Plasticity
Index (%)
B-1 18.5 107.7 6 59 35 31 12 A-7-6 (0) Clayey Sand (SC)
B-2 9.3 103.1 1 39 60 33 15 A-6 (6) Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-3 19.5 107.6 11 22 67 34 20 A-6 (11) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-3 22.3 97.2 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-3 10.5 118.6 Silty, Clayey Sand (SC-SM)
B-3 27.2 96.2 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-3 24.6 99.7 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-3 23.6 103.2 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-4 22.8 98.1 85 38 18 A-6 (15) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-5 22.2 99.1 88 38 19 ND A-6 (17) Lean Clay (CL)
B-6 16.8 102.8 2 27 71 33 15 A-6 (9) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-7 15.2 103.8 20 20 60 34 15 A-6 (7) Fill: Sandy Lean Clay with Gravel (CL)
B-8 21.0 104.5 72 36 20 A-6 (12) Fill: Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-9 14.8 108.4 88 35 18 A-6 (15) Fill: Lean Clay (CL)
B-10 19.7 105.0 Fill: Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-10 19.5 99.5 0.01 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-10 8.2 121.6 11 66 23 NV NP A-1-b (0) Silty Sand (SM)
B-10 24.8 99.6 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-10 26.1 98.1 Lean to Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-10 15.6 112.3 Poorly-Graded to Silty Sand (SP, SP-SM)
B-10 18.2 106.6 Sandstone
B-11 15.8 111.3 88 39 20 A-6 (18) Fill: Lean Clay (CL)
B-12 16.7 106.8 64 37 23 A-6 (12) Fill: Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-13 17.3 103.0 78 40 26 A-6 (19) Fill:Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-14 18.1 104.5 84 35 17 ND A-6 (13) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-16 18.9 108.7 82 44 29 A-7-6 (23) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-16 18.4 105.7 68 40 29 A-6 (17) Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-17 11.4 111.2 76 35 19 A-6 (13) Fill: Lean Clay with Sand (CL)
B-19 16.4 111.4 1 29 70 Fill: Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
B-20 12.6 112.8 15 24 61 34 14 A-6 (6) Fill: Sandy Lean Clay with Gravel (CL)
B-12 &15* 4 29 67 34 13 < 5 A-6 (7) Sandy Lean Clay (CL)
* Composite sample.
1
1
1
1 - 4
4
4
34
1
29
4
1
4
1
1
1
4
9
14
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4
Summary of Laboratory Test Results
Table I
Sample Location Natural Gradation Atterberg Limits
Moisture
Content
(%)
Natural
Dry Unit
Weight
(pcf)
Percent
Passing
No. 200
Sieve
Depth
(Feet)
AASHTO
Classification
(Group Index)
Soil or Bedrock Type
October 25 & 28; November 1 & 2, 2016
16-3-183
King Soopers #146
19
14
9
4
1
November 1 & 2, 2016
R-Value
4
1
Water
Soluble
Sulfates
(%)