PORTS & HARBORS

Group Delta, an NV5 company, provided a geotechnical investigation and fault hazard study for the design and construction of a new cement unloading facility proposed within Warehouse C of the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal. The planned improvements include new cement loading and weighing structures and a new recessed truck access route through the warehouse. Two new cement loading silos are planned, along with the addition of pneumatic piping that will be used to blow cement from within the holds of ships at dock several hundred feet west into 21 separate stockpiles within the warehouse.

Our team conducted borings and 51 cone penetrometer test (CPT) soundings, which extended from 85 to 95 feet below grade. The CPT soundings were used to develop several detailed geologic cross sections that clearly identified the location and strike of the Rose Canyon fault. Our team also provided photographic documentation of the existing distress to the warehouse. Soil samples collected from the explorations were tested for environmental contaminants, including Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Volatile Organic Compounds, Toxic Metals, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, Organochloride Pesticides, Organophosphorus Pesticides, and Chlorinated Herbicides.

Our team provided recommendations for use in the design of the proposed pile foundations under the anticipated axial service loads and lateral seismic design loads, as well as recommendations for the design and construction of the proposed retaining walls, slabs, and pavements in the warehouse. We also provided recommendations for a structural setback from the active fault location.

Added Value

• Comprehensive Geotechnical & Fault Hazard Analysis: Our team conducted deep borings and 51 CPT soundings to map subsurface conditions and accurately delineate the Rose Canyon fault, enabling informed structural setback recommendations and seismic design considerations.
• Environmental Risk Mitigation: Our team collected and tested soil samples for a wide range of contaminants—including hydrocarbons, VOCs, toxic metals, and pesticides—ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safe construction practices.
• Foundation & Structural Design Support: Our team delivered tailored engineering recommendations for pile foundations, retaining walls, slabs, and pavements under both axial and seismic loads, supporting the safe and efficient construction of new silos, piping systems, and truck access routes.