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Evaluating Soil-structure Interaction and Site Response in Urban Excavation: Insights From the I-495 Project Next

Description: 

The interaction between soil and structural systems is crucial for ensuring stability and performance in urban excavation projects. This study examines the design, installation, and monitoring of a multi-phase soil nail wall reinforced with temporary and permanent shotcrete, constructed as part of the I-495 Project Next in McLean, Virginia. The project involved installing 70 soil nails and applying shotcrete over a total area of approximately 3,270 sq. ft., with temporary shotcrete providing immediate stability and permanent shotcrete ensuring long-term stability, durability, and aesthetic requirements. A comprehensive monitoring plan was implemented to evaluate soil-structure interaction and site response. The monitoring system, utilizing methodologies such as differential leveling for vertical settlement and lateral displacement monitoring, employed Total Station equipment (LEICA TS-16) and adhesive reflective targets to track movements of both the existing abutment and the newly constructed soil nail wall. By comparing baseline pre-construction data to real-time monitoring results, potential perpendicular, lateral, and vertical displacements were accurately identified, confirming minimal displacements within design tolerances. This study highlights the importance of a well-integrated soil nail and shotcrete system in managing soil-structure interaction and site response in complex urban excavation projects. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating monitoring systems into excavation projects to evaluate ground motion, site response, and soil-structure interaction. This study contributes practical insights to geotechnical engineering practices, particularly in urban and regional settings, and highlights the significance role of monitoring in mitigating risks associated with ground movement in complex infrastructure projects.

Keywords: Soil-structure interaction, soil nail wall, shotcrete, site response, ground motion, monitoring, geotechnical engineering, structural stability.

Session: Why Ignore the Structure? Soil-structure Interaction and Site Response at Local and Regional Scales [Poster]

Type: Poster

Date: 4/17/2025

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: Abdul Ahad

Student Presenter: Yes

Invited Presentation: 

Poster Number: 7

Authors