Shore Systems Group, LLC was contracted by Whitestone Engineering & Consulting and Gladwyne Partners to provide a foundation stabilization solution for a failing retaining wall in Gladwyne, PA. This critical project aimed to arrest the movement of the structure and ensure long-term stability.

Project Overview

What

This project involved the stabilization of a failing poured-in-place retaining wall that had separated at the construction joints and begun rotating towards the loading dock area.

Where

Gladwyne, PA

When

The project was executed during the winter of 2021, with Shore Systems Group completing the necessary stabilization work efficiently and on schedule.

Methodology

How

To stabilize the wall, Shore Systems Group utilized a drilled and grouted hollow bar tie-back and waler system. The installation process included:

Coring (12) 6-inch holes through the 14-inch-thick wall at engineered locations.
Utilizing a TEI MME drill mounted to a Kobelco SK140 excavator.
Drilling and simultaneously grouting T40 hollow bars to a depth of 30 feet, including a 20-foot bond zone and 10-foot unbonded length, with 5000 psi neat grout.
Installing a hot-dip galvanized (HDP) field-fabricated W12x26x32’ waler.
Terminating hollow bars with 6”x6”x.75” bearing plates and associated hardware.
Load testing each anchor to engineered capacities and locking off the system.

Why

Over time, sections of the retaining wall had begun shifting due to hydrostatic pressure caused by a disjointed or broken underground storm drain. Additional contributing factors included settling catch basins and the accumulation of plowed snow, leading to water ponding behind the wall. This system was chosen to mitigate these issues by providing lateral restraint and preventing further movement of the structure.

Overcoming Challenges

Problems and Solutions

The primary challenge was the shifting wall caused by hydrostatic pressure and settling conditions. Shore Systems Group tackled this by designing and implementing a tie-back and waler system that effectively arrested movement. By strategically coring holes through the wall and anchoring the structure into stable ground, Shore provided a long-lasting solution. Additionally, the team conducted precise load testing to confirm that each anchor met the required engineering specifications before completion.

Conclusion

Through expert engineering, precise installation, and strategic problem-solving, Shore Systems Group successfully stabilized the failing retaining wall in Gladwyne, PA. This project highlights Shore’s ability to tackle complex structural challenges with innovative foundation solutions, ensuring the long-term integrity of critical infrastructure.