DESCRIPTION

The exterior design of this 373,000 sf garage was very important due to the architectural heritage of UVA’s historical buildings, many of which were designed by Thomas Jefferson. This parking garage services the University.

CHALLENGE

The site underlain with residual silts varying from soft to stiff based on the differential weathering of the parent bedrock in the area. There was also a very soft area of alluvium deposited recently by a stream that traversed the site. Caissons to bedrock and Geopier Foundations were priced for the job to support column loads up to 1575 kips.

SOLUTION

The Geopier design was selected which allowed the columns to be supported on conventional spread footings designed for 8 ksf and saved over $500,000 when compared to the caisson alternative. A total of approximately 580 Geopier elements were installed at the site on schedule despite having to contend with a record snowfall in the area and the need for installation in two phases between January and April to allow for stream diversion at the site.