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OTO-Wilson Rd Culvert Replacement - Preliminary Geotechnical Report (1).pdf O:\J2900\2950 Fuss & O'Neill\30-01 Old Wilson Rd Northampton - Geotech\Report\OTO-Wilson RdCulvert Replacement - Geotech Recommendations.docx J2950-30-01 November 30, 2023 Ms. Julianne Busa, P.E. Fuss & O’Neill, Inc. 1550 Main Street, Suite 400 Springfield, Massachusetts, 01103 Re: Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts Dear Ms. Busa: O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun Associates, Inc. (OTO) is pleased to provide these geotechnical findings and recommendations for the culvert replacement project referenced above. The subject culvert spans Nashawannuk Brook and is located on Old Wilson Road, approximately 1,800 feet southwest of the intersection with Rocky Hill Road (Route 66) in Northampton, Massachusetts. A Site Locus and Boring Location Sketch are attached. Our geotechnical recommendations are based upon published information and subsurface conditions observed in two borings. Our services consisted of a review of published geologic information, the full-time observation of the borings, review of the logs and soil samples, engineering analyses, and preparation of this report. This report is subject to the limitations attached in Appendix A. The recommendations in this report should be reviewed during final design and updated as appropriate. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned. Sincerely yours, O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun Associates, Inc. Stephen McLaughlin, E.I.T Ashley Sullivan, P.E. Senior Project Manager Principal ii TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................... 1 1.1 Subsurface Conditions ........................................................................................... 1 1.2 Recommended Foundation System ....................................................................... 2 1.3 Construction Considerations .................................................................................. 2 2.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 3 2.1 Scope of Report ..................................................................................................... 3 2.2 Subject Background, Proposed Construction, and History ..................................... 3 2.3 Site Reconnaissance and Overall Description ........................................................ 3 3.0 SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS ................................................................................... 4 3.1 Local Geology ........................................................................................................ 4 3.2 Subsurface Exploration Program and Testing ........................................................ 4 3.3 Verification of Sample Descriptions on Boring Logs ............................................... 5 3.4 Subsurface Profile.................................................................................................. 5 3.5 Seismic Design Category Evaluation ..................................................................... 6 3.6 Liquefaction Potential ............................................................................................. 7 4.0 RECOMMENDED FOUNDATION SYSTEM .............................................................. 7 4.1 Existing Foundation ............................................................................................... 7 4.2 Embankment Considerations ................................................................................. 7 4.3 Deep Foundations.................................................................................................. 8 4.4 Spread Footing Foundations for Culverts and Wingwalls ....................................... 8 5.0 preliminary CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS ................................................ 10 5.1 Groundwater Considerations and Recommended Method for Water Control ....... 10 5.2 Engineered Fill Recommendations ...................................................................... 10 5.3 Excavations ......................................................................................................... 11 5.4 Obstructions......................................................................................................... 12 5.5 Protection of Adjacent Structures and Utilities ...................................................... 12 6.0 CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................... 12 iii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED) FIGURES Figure 1 Site Locus Figure 2 Boring Location Sketch SHEETS Sheet 1 General Compaction Guidelines APPENDICES Appendix A Limitations Appendix B Boring Logs Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 1 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report provides our preliminary geotechnical findings and recommendations for the design of foundations for the proposed Old Wilson Road replacement culvert over Nashawannuk Brook in Northampton, Massachusetts. Summary of Existing and Proposed Replacement Structure Type Size, Type Inlet Invert (elevation) Outlet Invert (elevation) Existing Structure Concrete Pipe Approx. 2.3 foot inner diameter N/A N/A Proposed Replacement Structure Embedded Concrete Box Culvert or Open Bottom Culvert (3 Sided Box) Less than 10-foot span N/A N/A We understand that the existing pipe culvert will be completely removed, and a new culvert will be constructed in its place. The type of structure has not been chosen, but it will likely consist of either an embedded concrete box culvert or open bottom (3-sided) box culvert with a clear span of less than 10 feet. Based upon the proposed type of structure, existing data and estimated data, we anticipate that the new culvert will be founded on shallow foundations bearing below a depth of five to six feet from the road surface, in the varved sand and silt layer. To provide a firm bearing surface of the new culvert, we recommend that footings bear on a minimum one-foot thick layer of imported Crushed Stone over the varved sand and silt present at footing levels. An organic layer, consisting primarily of a sandy silt mixed with organics, was encountered in boring NB-2. The bottom of this organic layer was observed between 4 and 4.5 feet below the ground surface. This depth is above the anticipated culvert bottom of footing elevation; and therefore, this layer will be removed as part of footing construction. If this material extends below anticipated culvert foundations and/or associated structures (headwalls/wingwalls), it should be removed in its entirety. Resulting excavations may be backfilled with Crushed Stone to proposed footing grade. 1.1 Subsurface Conditions The two soil borings were performed off the shoulder of the road, approximately 17 to 22 feet from the existing culvert alignment. The borings were terminated at depths of 19.3 and 25.8 feet below the roadway surface. Soil boring NB-2 encountered refusal in the lower granular layer. Boring locations are shown on the attached Boring Location Sketch. Boring logs are attached. Subsurface conditions at the Site generally consist of a surface layer of pavement and granular base course or topsoil and underlain by (in order of increasing depth): reworked Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 2 soils, varved sand and silt, and sand and gravel. A summary of conditions encountered in the soil borings is provided as Table 1. Table 1 Summary of Soil Boring Information Boring Ground Surface Elevation1 (ft) Depth (ft) to: Groundwater Bottom of Reworked Soils Maximum Depth Explored NB-1 N/A 5* 6 25.8 NB-2 N/A 4.5 4.5 19.3 (R) Notes: 1. No ground surface elevations have been provided at this time. Data presented in this table are based upon conditions encountered in the soil borings. Data shown in this table should be considered accurate only to the degree implied by the methods used. 2. “R” indicates drilling refusal upon likely large cobble or boulder * Borehole NB-1 was left open, and the water level was measured at 3.8 feet below ground surface after 2.5 hours. Groundwater was encountered initially at a depth of 5 to 4.5 feet below ground surface, which was near the water level in Nashawannuk Brook at the time of drilling. The water level in boring NB-1 was measured at 3.8 feet below ground surface after 2.5 hours. We anticipate that groundwater levels will fluctuate with changes in the brook level. The seismic Site Class was determined according to the AASHTO LRFD Culvert Design Specifications, Article 3.10.3.1. Using the SPT N-value, the Site was determined to be Site Class C. Based upon conditions encountered in the soil borings and the observed density of saturated Site soils, it is unlikely that liquefaction would occur under the design earthquake. 1.2 Recommended Foundation System We recommend that the new culvert and associated structures (headwalls, wingwalls) be supported on traditional spread footings bearing on at least one foot of Crushed Stone. The minimum embedment depth of foundations should be 48 inches below surrounding grade for frost, or below the maximum scour depth, whichever is greater. Any organics (such as observed in boring NB-2) be removed from beneath the footings and replaced with Crushed Stone. The Crushed Stone layer will provide a firm bearing surface and protect the subgrade from disturbance during construction. A nonwoven geosynthetic separation fabric should be installed beneath and around the Crushed Stone layer. Foundation recommendations are presented in Tables 2 and 3. Soil conditions and design parameters for use in the preliminary design of wingwalls or other retaining walls are presented in Table 4. 1.3 Construction Considerations The proposed culvert foundations will be installed below the base of Nashawannuk Brook and below the maximum scour depth. Dewatering, cofferdams or temporary bypass system may be required to install culvert elements, such as foundations and wingwalls. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 3 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Scope of Report This report provides preliminary geotechnical engineering recommendations for foundation design of the proposed replacement culvert to carry Nashawannuk Brook beneath Old Wilson Road in Northampton, Massachusetts. The location of the Site is shown on Figure 1. This report also addresses earthwork considerations associated with the proposed construction. 2.2 Subject Background, Proposed Construction, and History 2.2.1 Existing Conditions The existing concrete pipe culvert carries Nashawannuk Brook, which flows from north to south within the Site area, beneath Old Wilson Road. The existing culvert and brook alignment are shown on the attached Boring Location Sketch. The existing culvert has a diameter of 2.3 feet and length of approximately 22 feet. We understand the inlet and outfall invert elevations of the existing culvert were not available at the time of this report. The roadway surface in the subject area is approximately 3 to 4.5 feet above the water surface at the time of drilling. A buried water line is located along the centerline of the road. This utility appears to cross the location of the existing pipe culvert. 2.2.2 Proposed Construction We understand that the project includes the removal and replacement of the existing pipe culvert. The structure type has not been selected; however, we understand that either a box or 3-sided open box type structure with a span under 10 feet is currently being considered. We understand the invert elevations for the replacement culvert have not been determined. We understand that the foundation system and other elements of the replacement culvert will be chosen based, in part, upon the conditions described and recommendations provided in this report. We anticipate that the replacement culvert will be founded upon traditional concrete spread footings bearing below the design scour depth. 2.3 Site Reconnaissance and Overall Description The Site is located on Old Wilson Road, approximately 1,800 feet to the southwest of the intersection with Rocky Hill Road (Route 66) in Northampton, Massachusetts. An existing conditions survey plan has not been completed for this location. Topography along the roadway near the proposed culvert is generally flat. The roadway embankment slopes downwards towards the south and north, towards Nashawannuk Brook. The existing culvert at this location consists of a 2.3-foot inner diameter concrete pipe. Therefore, the base of the existing culvert appears to be approximately 5 to 6 feet below the roadway surface. The top of the existing culvert appeared to be approximately three feet below the Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 4 pavement surface. The location of the existing culvert is shown on the attached Boring Location Sketch. 3.0 SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS 3.1 Local Geology We reviewed the surficial geologic map for the Easthampton Quadrangle1 to evaluate likely geologic conditions at the Site. This map indicates Nashawannuk Brook flows through flood plain alluvium underlain by fine grained post-glacial lake deposits at this crossing. The glacial lake deposits include alternating layers of clay and sandy silt, commonly known as varved silt and clay. 3.2 Subsurface Exploration Program and Testing Subsurface investigations consisted of two soil borings performed on October 31, 2023, by Seaboard Drilling of Chicopee, Massachusetts. The borings were performed using a Mobile B-53 truck mounted drill rig and were advanced using hollow stem auger drilling techniques. Each boring was performed along the shoulder of Old Wilson Road (at the top of the roadway embankment), approximately 18 to 23 feet from the existing pipe culvert alignment. The boring locations were selected based upon rig access and proximity to buried utilities. Boring NB-1 was extended to a depth of 25.8 feet below ground surface and boring NB-2 encountered drilling refusal at a depth of 19 feet below ground surface. Boring locations are shown on the attached Boring Location Sketch. Boring logs are provided in Appendix B. Soil samples were collected on a continuous or semi continuous basis from the ground surface, until native soils were encountered, and at five-foot intervals thereafter. Soil samples were collected using a two-inch diameter split spoon sampler, driven 24 inches with a 140-pound automatic hammer falling 30 inches (American Society for Testing and Materials Test Method D1586 “Standard Test Method for Penetration Test and Split-Barrel Sampling of Soils”). The number of blows required to drive the sampler each six inches was recorded. The standard penetration resistance, or N-value, is the number of blows required to drive the sampler the middle 12 inches. Soil properties, such as strength and density, are related to the N-value. The field N-values are corrected to a standard 60% hammer efficiency, known as N60, to account for differing depth, sampler type, borehole diameter, and hammer efficiencies for each hammer type and drill rig. The N-values presented on the boring logs are field values, which are not adjusted for hammer efficiency. However, the adjusted N60 values were used in our engineering calculations and analysis. An O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun Associates, Inc. (OTO) engineer observed and logged the borings. Samples were classified according to a modified version of the Burmister Soil 1 Stone, Janet R. & DiGiacomo-Cohen, Mary (2018). “Surficial Materials Map of the Easthampton Quadrangle, Massachusetts” US Geological Survey, Scientific Investigations Map 3402, Quadrangle 38 – Easthampton. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 5 Classification System. Borings performed in the roadway shoulder were backfilled with soil cuttings. 3.3 Verification of Sample Descriptions on Boring Logs I, Ashley Sullivan, a Massachusetts registered professional engineer, attest that I visually and manually examined all soil samples as part of the preparation of this geotechnical report. Samples collected from the subsurface investigations were reviewed at the O’Reilly, Talbot, & Okun Associates, Inc. office, located in Springfield, Massachusetts on November 29, 2023. The soil descriptions presented on the boring logs are consistent with the soil samples collected during the Site explorations. 3.4 Subsurface Profile Subsurface conditions were interpreted based upon information collected in the soil borings and upon our review of published geologic maps. In general, subsurface conditions at the boring locations consisted of the following, in order of increasing depth: a surface layer of base course or topsoil; reworked soils; native fine-grained soils; and sand and gravel. We note that the borings were performed at the top of the roadway embankment, along the shoulder of the roadway. The ground surface elevation at each boring location appeared to be approximately 5 to 6 feet above the level of the brook channel bottom. This should be verified with survey. Soil conditions are generally favorable for the proposed construction, and it appears that the foundation for the new culvert will bear in the medium dense native soil layer present below an approximate depth of six feet from the roadway surface. Since the new culvert foundations will be below the brook level, the control of water will be a significant construction consideration. A summary of the conditions encountered in each of the soil borings is provided in Table 1. 3.4.1 Soil Conditions Surficial Layers: The borings were performed in the roadway shoulder. At NB-1, a thin sand and gravel layer (7 inches) was encountered at the ground surface. The top two inches of the surficial layer contained a significant amount of roots. Eight inches of topsoil was present at the ground surface in boring NB-2. The topsoil generally consisted of medium sand, some silt, some medium to coarse sand, and organics (roots and tree roots). Asphalt pavement was present within the roadway travel lanes. Reworked Soils/Organic Soil: Reworked soils were encountered in each of the borings, which appeared to have been placed during the construction of culvert and/or roadway embankment. The soils generally consist of stiff to medium stiff, fine to medium sand and silt or clayey silt with little coarse sand and trace fine gravel. The reworked soil layer extended to a depth of 4 and 6 feet below the roadway surface. An organic soil layer consisting of silt and fine to medium sand with trace organic sediment and an organic odor was observed between a depth of 4 and 4.5 feet in NB-2. Trace amounts of organics (roots) were also observed in boring NB-1 to a depth of 6 feet. The reworked soil and organic layers are an unsuitable bearing material and should be completely removed from Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 6 beneath footings for new structures. We note that the depth of the organic layer may vary based upon proximity to the current alignment of and historic meanders of Nashawannuk Brook. Varved Sand & Silt: A varved sand and silt layer was encountered beneath the surficial reworked soils and organic soil and was observed to extend to an approximate depth of 10 feet below the roadway surface. This soil generally consisted of medium dense, varved fine sand with some silt. The proposed culvert footings will likely bear within this layer. Sand & Gravel: Granular soils were encountered below the varved sand and silt layer. The upper portion of this layer consisted of approximately five to seven feet of loose to medium dense sand with little silt and various amounts of gravel. The density and gravel content increased with depth. The sand and gravel layer extended to the maximum depth explored, 25 and 19 feet below ground surface in borings NB-1 and NB-2, respectively. Boring NB-2 encountered auger refusal at 19 feet below ground surface, likely upon a large cobble or boulder. 3.4.1 Bedrock Conditions Rock was not encountered; however, we reviewed published geology maps. Bedrock mapped as New Haven Arkose described on bedrock geology maps for the area2, which is sedimentary rock of the upper Triassic epoch. We note that we do not anticipate that bedrock will be encountered during construction of the new culvert. 3.4.2 Groundwater Conditions Groundwater was encountered in borings NB-1 and NB-2 at a depth of 5 to 4.5 feet below ground surface. Boring NB-1 was left open for a period of 2.5 hours and the water level within the open borehole had risen to a depth of 3.8 feet. These groundwater elevations were near the water level in the brook at the time of our explorations. We note that groundwater will vary with changing water levels in Nashawannuk Brook. 3.5 Seismic Design Category Evaluation Earthquake loadings must be considered under requirements of the 2023 MassDOT Bridge Manual (MassDOT) and the most recent version of AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (AASHTO). Section 3.4 of MassDOT covers seismic analysis and design. Lateral forces generated during a seismic event are dependent on the type and properties of soils present beneath the Site as well as geographic location. The USGS Seismic Design Maps web service was used to determine seismic parameters for the Site. The peak ground acceleration (PGA), as well as the maximum considered earthquake spectral response accelerations for short periods (Ss) and for one-second (S1) were determined to be 0.058, 0.13, and 0.039, respectively, for Northampton, Massachusetts. These values are for a non-critical/non- 2 Zen, E. et al. (1983). “Bedrock Geologic Map of Massachusetts” US Geological Survey. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 7 essential bridge and based upon a seven percent probability of exceedance in 75 years for a 1,000-year event. Soil properties are represented through Site Classification. Procedures for the Site- specific determination of Site Classification are provided in Article 3.10.3.1 of AASHTO. At this Site, we evaluated Site Classification using Standard Penetration Resistance (SPT N-value). Using the SPT N-value, the Site was determined to be Site Class C. Furthermore, the Site coefficients Fpga, Fa, and Fv are determined using the PGA, Ss, and S1 values and the Site Class. For Site Class C, Fpga, Fa, and Fv were determined to be 1.2, 1.2, and 1.7, respectively. 3.6 Liquefaction Potential The potential for liquefaction of the saturated Site soils was evaluated. Based upon the density of the soils, it is unlikely that liquefaction would occur under the design earthquake. Seismic design and analysis of the proposed culvert should be performed in accordance with the specifications provided in the 2023 MassDOT Bridge Manual and the most recent AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications. 4.0 RECOMMENDED FOUNDATION SYSTEM The following recommendations are provided for preliminary design of the culvert and wingwall foundations. Foundations will be designed to resist lateral and vertical loads. Vertical loads consist of downward pressures due to the dead weight of the culvert, the weight of soils on the culvert roof, and live traffic loads, as well as uplift pressures due to overturning loads (such as buoyant and seismic forces). All foundations should be designed according to requirements provided in the 2021 MassDOT Bridge Manual (MassDOT) and the most recent AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (AASHTO). We anticipate that the most appropriate foundation system will be spread footings bearing on a one-foot-thick (minimum) layer of Crushed Stone, over the dense native soils. 4.1 Existing Foundation Construction drawings were not available at the time of this report. 4.2 Embankment Considerations We anticipate that the proposed culvert will penetrate the existing roadway embankment along Old Wilson Road. Therefore, the fills anticipated as part of this project will include: • Placement of Crushed Stone beneath footings • Backfill around and over the new culvert • Replacement of soils disturbed during construction • Backfill against wingwalls • Placement of Processed Gravel for Subbase (M1.03.1) beneath final pavements after the culvert is constructed Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 8 Geotechnical concerns associated with the settlement or global stability of embankment soils are not significant. Earthwork recommendations provided in Section 5.0 should be followed. 4.3 Deep Foundations At this time, we do not anticipate that deep foundations will be used to support the proposed replacement culvert. 4.4 Spread Footing Foundations for Culverts and Wingwalls The proposed culvert and associated wingwalls/headwalls may be founded upon shallow spread footings bearing on a one-foot-thick (minimum) layer of Crushed Stone over native Site soils. Tables 2 and 3 provides soil properties and preliminary design parameters for use in design of spread footings. Spread footings should bear a minimum of four feet below adjacent ground surface for frost protection; below the design scour depth; and below organic soils layers, whichever is greater. For preliminary design, we anticipate that footings for the new culvert and associated structures will bear in the varved sand and silt. A review and update to the soil properties and design parameters provided in this report should be performed during final design. We recommend that a nonwoven geosynthetic separation fabric be placed beneath and around the Crushed Stone layer beneath footings to prevent the migration of stone into the underlying silty soils. Table 2 Properties and Preliminary Design Parameters for Shallow Foundations Bearing on 1-foot Crushed Stone over Dense Native Soils Property/Design Parameter Recommended Value Angle of Internal Friction 34 Degrees Soil Unit Weight 125 pcf Interface Friction Angle1 17 degrees (Crushed Stone) 14 degrees (Native Silty Soils) Friction Factor1 0.4 (Crushed Stone) 0.25 (Native Silty Soils) Bearing Resistance Factor2, φb 0.45 Sliding Resistance Factor2,3, φτ 0.8 Passive Earth Pressure Component of Sliding Resistance2,3, φep 0.5 Notes: 1. Interface friction and friction factor for Crushed Stone and/or Native Silty Soils in contact with pre-cast concrete from AASHTO Table 3.11.5.3-1. 2. Bearing and sliding resistance factors from AASHTO Table 10.5.5.2.2-1. 3. Sliding resistance factors for footings placed on Crushed Stone leveling pad. 4. See bearing capacity values in Table 3. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 9 Table 3 Bearing Resistance for Varying Footing Embedment Depth and Width Footing Embedment Depth1 Bearing Resistance2 Strength Limit State (ksf) Service Limit State Nominal (ksf)3 Nominal Factored Footing Width (B) = 2 feet 4 10.3 4.6 3 2 6.3 2.8 3 0 2.3 1.0 3 Footing Width (B) = 4 feet 4 13.1 5.9 3 2 8.6 3.9 3 0 4.1 1.9 3 Notes: 1. Scour depth unknown at time of report writing; embedment depth dependent on constructed footing geometry & design scour depth 2. Bearing capacity values assumed firm bearing surface, i.e. subgrade is over excavated by a minimum of 12 inches and 12 inches of crushed stone placed beneath footings 3. Bearing resistance for settlement of 1 inch. Table 4 Soil Properties and Design Parameters for Headwalls, Wingwalls1 Soil Property/ M1.03.0 Type B Native Soils and Fill Design Parameter Gravel Borrow Angle of Internal Friction 36 degrees 34 degrees Equivalent Fluid Pressure (Active)3 35 pcf 40 pcf Equivalent Fluid Pressure (At Rest)4 50 pcf 55 pcf Notes: 1. Values presented in this table assume drained soil conditions. 2. Footings and retaining walls shall not bear on non-engineered fill. 3. Active Equivalent fluid pressure assumes that retaining walls will be unbraced and free to deflect (cantilevered), level backfill from AASHTO Table 3.11.5.5-1. Values should be revised if sloping backfill. 4. At Rest Equivalent fluid pressure assumes that retaining walls will be braced, level backfill from AASHTO Table 3.11.5.5-1. Values should be revised if sloping backfill. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 10 4.4.1 Lateral Earth Pressures Static lateral earth pressures will be imposed against the proposed culvert, wingwalls, and any other earth retaining structures (such as earth support systems used during construction). In addition, dynamic lateral earth pressures under the design earthquake must be considered. These structures should be backfilled with MassDOT Gravel Borrow (M1.03.0 Type B). A drainage system should be provided as required by MassDOT specifications. Soil properties and design parameters for the determination of lateral loading under drained conditions are provided in Table 4. 4.4.2 Scour Protection A scour analysis was not available at the time of this report. The footings should extend below the design scour depth, if applicable. 5.0 PRELIMINARY CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS The following section presents preliminary construction considerations for the proposed project. These recommendations should be reviewed during final design. 5.1 Groundwater Considerations and Recommended Method for Water Control Groundwater was encountered at a depth of approximately 5 to 4.5 feet below ground surface at the time of explorations. We note that the groundwater levels fluctuate in relation to the water level of Nashawannuk Brook. Groundwater will be present in excavations for foundations and the installation of the new culvert, and stream flow will need to be diverted. During periods of relatively low water levels, it should be possible to dewater small, short duration excavations extending only a couple feet into the water table using sump pits and submersible pumps or well points. However, for work during high water periods, the contractor will either need to stop work or install a more robust system. 5.2 Engineered Fill Recommendations Four types of engineered fill are recommended: • Gravel Borrow (MassDOT designation M1.03.0, Type B) for use immediately behind culvert walls and wingwalls • Processed Gravel for Subbase (M1.03.1) for use immediately below pavements • Special Borrow (M1.02.0) for use as miscellaneous fill • Crushed Stone (M2.01.4) for use immediately below footings, in drainage structures, and in place of Gravel Borrow Grain size distribution requirements are presented in Table 5. The existing Site soils do not likely meet requirements for reuse as engineered fill due to the high silt content of the surficial soils. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 11 Table 5 Grain Size Distribution Requirements Fill Type/Use Gravel Borrow Processed Gravel for Subbase Special Borrow Crushed Stone MassDOT Designation M1.03.0, Type B M1.03.1 M1.02.0 M2.01.4 Sieve Size Percent Finer by Weight 3 inch 100 100 100 (6” max) --- 2 inch --- --- 90 – 100 --- 1 ½ inch --- 70 – 100 --- --- 1 inch --- --- --- 100 ¾ inch --- 50 – 85 --- 90 – 100 ½ inch 50 – 85 --- --- 10 – 50 ⅜ inch --- --- --- 0 – 20 No. 4 40 – 75 30 – 60 20 – 65 0 – 5 No. 50 8 – 28 --- --- --- No. 200 0 – 10 0 – 10 0 – 12 --- 5.2.1 Compaction Recommendations Compacted fill should be placed in lifts ranging in thickness between 6 and 12 inches depending on the size and type of equipment. Recommended degrees of compaction and compaction means and methods are presented on Sheet 1. Compaction within five feet of the culvert or wingwalls should be performed using a hand-operated roller or vibratory plate compactor weighing 250 pounds or less. 5.3 Excavations The need for temporary earth support should be evaluated by the contractor. Sloping and earth support may be needed if the excavation cannot be safely sloped to remove fill soils, install utilities, and construct the new culvert and its associated foundations. The contractor should evaluate the potential for basal heave when designing earth support and dewatering systems and include provisions to prevent this condition from occurring. 5.3.1 Removal of Existing Culvert and Obstructions The existing culvert will be removed as part of this project. If the new alignment differs from the existing alignment, the excavation should be backfilled with Special Borrow compacted to a minimum of 95% of the maximum dry density (as determined by ASTM D1557). If the excavation extends below the groundwater table, it may be appropriate to backfill portions of the excavation below the groundwater table with Crushed Stone. Abandoned buried utilities containing asbestos (such as electrical conduit insulation or transite pipe) are commonly found during construction excavations. Furthermore, former structures (pipes, conduits, foundations walls) may contain or be covered with materials containing asbestos. Such materials should be handled in accordance with MassDEP’s asbestos regulations (310 CMR 7.15). We recommend that suspect materials be Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Recommendations Old Wilson Road Culvert Replacement Project Northampton, Massachusetts November 30, 2023 12 managed appropriately and tested by a Department of Labor Standards (DLS) certified asbestos inspector prior to disturbances. 5.3.2 Sloping and Earth Support Soil may become unstable when excavations extend deeper than four feet or beneath the groundwater table. The upper non-engineered fill and native silty sand encountered in the upper 20 feet are estimated to be Type C soils for slope stability purposes. The maximum allowable slope for excavations of Class C soils is 1.5H:1V (34°). All excavations should conform to current OSHA requirements. These conditions apply only to excavations above the groundwater table. We note that protective systems for any excavation exceeding 20 feet in depth must be designed by a registered professional engineer. All excavations should conform to current OSHA requirements. The contractor should also follow requirements in 29 CFR 1926.651(H)(3) for excavations that interrupt the natural drainage of surface water. In areas where sloping is not feasible, a temporary earth support system will be required during construction. The design and engineering of the temporary earth support systems should be the responsibility of the contractor. Prior to construction, we recommend that the contractor evaluate the need for a temporary earth support system to protect the existing roadway and personnel during construction. 5.4 Obstructions Large boulders, cobbles, or other obstructions may be encountered in the non-engineered fill. We recommend that provisions be made to remove obstructions, if encountered. 5.5 Protection of Adjacent Structures and Utilities Nearby utilities include a water line and other utilities maybe present. The contractor should evaluate the need for temporary support and/or geotechnical monitoring of existing utilities. 6.0 CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS This preliminary report should be reviewed and updated once a final survey is performed, proposed culvert structure and alignment are finalized, and hydraulic and structural studies are completed. Additional recommendations may be recommended if the proposed structure and span, foundation depth and/or alignment differs from what is presented in this report. TABLES FIGURES PROJECT No. FIGURE No. 293 Bridge Street, Suite 500 Springfield, MA 01103 413.788.6222 O'Reilly, Talbot & Okun E N G I N E E R I N G A S S O C I A T E S www.OTO-ENV.com OLD WILSON ROAD CULVERT REPLACEMENT OLD WILSON ROAD NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS SITE LOCUSO:\J2900\2950 Fuss & O'Neill\30-01 Old Wilson Rd Northampton - Geotech\FiguresJ2930-30-01 1 Topographic Map Quadrant: EASTHAMPTON, MA Map Version: 1964 Current As Of: 1979 Date: OCTOBER 2023 1:25,000 SCALE NATIONAL GEODETIC VERTICAL DATUM 1929 10 FOOT CONTOUR INTERVAL 0 1000 FEET 0 0.5 1.0 MILES 0 0.5 1 KILOMETERS SITE FIGURE No.PROJECT No.293 Bridge Street, Suite 500 Springfield, MA 01103 413.788.6222 O'Reilly, Talbot & Okun E N G I N E E R I N G A S S O C I A T E S www.OTO-ENV.com OLD WILSON ROAD CULVERT REPLACEMENT OLD WILSON ROAD NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS SITE SKETCHO:\J2900\2950 Fuss & O'Neill\30-01 Old Wilson Rd Northampton - Geotech\FiguresJ3017-01-012DESIGNED BY: CYI DRAWN BY: CYI CHECKED BY: SMM DATE: 11/29/2023 REV. DATE: SCALE IN FEET 1" = 50' 25'0'50' LEGEND: APPROXIMATE SOIL BORING LOCATION PERFORMED BYSEABOARD DRILLING ON 10/31/2023, OBSERVED BY OTO NOTES: 1. BASE MAP INTERPRETED FROM MASS GIS2. SAMPLE LOCATIONS ARE SHOWN ACCORDING TO TAPED MEASUREMENTS TAKEN FROM EXISTING SITE FEATURES 3. ALL DATA IS TO BE CONSIDERED ACCURATE ONLY TO THE DEGREE IMPLIED BY THE METHODS USED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS PLAN APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF NASHAWANNUCK BROOKOLD WILSON ROADAPPROXIMATE PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF EXISTING CULVERT, 2'-4" FEET INNER DIAMETER CONCRETE PIPE APPROXIMATE ROADWAY SURFACE NB-1 NB-2 TABLES SHEETS PROJECT No. SHEET No. 293 Bridge Street, Suite 500 Springfield, MA 01103 413.788.6222 O'Reilly, Talbot & Okun E N G I N E E R I N G A S S O C I A T E S www.OTO-ENV.com Westfield Intermodal Transit Center Elm and Arnold Streets Westfield, Massachusetts N O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun [ A S S O C I A T E S ] ENGINEERING SITE C 2003 National Geographic Holdings, Inc. Topographic Map Quadrant: West Springfield, MA Map Version: 1977 Current as of: 1979 Table 1-1 Degree of Compaction Recommendations Location Minimum Compaction Below Structures (Foundations and Slabs) 95% Below Pavements/Sidewalks/Exterior Slabs 95% Against Basement Walls/Retaining Walls 92% Utility Trenches 95% General Landscaped Areas 90% Notes. 1. Percentage of the maximum dry density as determined by Modified Proctor ASTM D1557, Method C. 2. When location falls into two or more categories, the engineer should be notified to determine appropriate compaction efforts and/or methods. 3. Crushed stone should be compacted in lifts of 12 inches to form a dense matrix using either traditional compaction methods (vibratory plate and/or roller) or tamping with an excavator bucket in deep excavations. It is generally not necessary to perform laboratory or field density testing on crushed stone. Table 1-2 General Guidelines for Compaction Means and Methods Compaction Method Maximum Stone Size (Inches Diameter) Maximum Lift Thickness (Inches) Minimum Number of Passes Below Structures & Pavement Non- Critical Areas Below Structures & Pavement Non- Critical Areas Hand-operated Vibratory Plate and confined spaces 3 6 8 6 4 Hand-operated vibratory drum roller (less than 1000 pounds) 3 6 8 6 4 Hand-operated vibratory drum roller (at least 1,000 pounds) 6 8 10 6 4 Light vibratory drum roller (minimum 3000 pounds) 6 10 14 6 4 Heavy vibratory drum roller (minimum 6000 pounds) 6 12 18 6 4 Note: The contractor should reduce or stop drum vibration if pumping of the subgrade is observed. OLD WILSON ROAD CULVERT REPLACEMENT OLD WILSON ROAD NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL COMPACTION GUIDELINESO:\J2900\2950 Fuss & O'Neill\30-01 Old Wilson Rd Northampton - Geotech\FiguresDESIGNED BY: ALS DRAWN BY: CYI CHECKED BY: DATE: 10/13/2023 REV. DATE: J2930-30-01 1 TABLES APPENDIX ALIMITATIONS LIMITATIONS 1. The observations presented in this report were made under the conditions described herein. The conclusions presented in this report were based solely upon the services described in the report and not on scientific tasks or procedures beyond the scope of the project or the time and budgetary constraints imposed by the client. The work described in this report was carried out in accordance with the Statement of Terms and Conditions attached to our proposal. 2. The analysis and recommendations submitted in this report are based in part upon the data obtained from widely spaced subsurface explorations. The nature and extent of variations between these explorations may not become evident until construction. If variations then appear evident, it may be necessary to reevaluate the recommendations of this report. 3. The generalized soil profile described in the text is intended to convey trends in subsurface conditions. The boundaries between strata are approximate and idealized and have been developed by interpretations of widely spaced explorations and samples; actual soil transitions are probably more erratic. For specific information, refer to the boring logs. 4. In the event that any changes in the nature, design or location of the proposed structures are planned, the conclusions and recommendations contained in this report shall not be considered valid unless the changes are reviewed and conclusions of this report modified or verified in writing by O'Reilly, Talbot & Okun Associates Inc. It is recommended that we be retained to provide a general review of final plans and specifications. 5. Our report was prepared for the exclusive benefit of our client. Reliance upon the report and its conclusions is not made to third parties or future property owners. TABLES APPENDIX BBORING LOGS BLOWS/FOOT (SPT N-Value) 0-4 Very soft 4-10 Soft 10-30 Medium Stiff 30-50 Stiff >50 Very stiff Hard MATERIAL FRACTION SMALLEST Coarse DIAMETER Fine None SILT Coarse 1/4" (pencil)clayey SILT Medium 1/8"SILT & CLAY Fine 1/16"CLAY & SILT SILT/CLAY see adjacent table 1/32"Silty CLAY COBBLES 1/64"CLAY BOULDERS TERM % OF TOTAL and 35-50% some 20-35% little 10-20% trace 1-10% BORING LOGS SUMMARY OF THE BURMISTER SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (MODIFIED) RELATIVE DENSITY (of non-plastic soils) OR CONSISTENCY (of plastic soils) STANDARD PENETRATION TEST (SPT) COHESIONLESS SOILS COHESIVE SOILS CONSISTENCY(SPT N-Value) Very loose <2 Loose 2-4 *Based upon uncorrected field N-values >30 Method: Samples were collected in accordance with ASTM D1586, using a 2" diameter split spoon sampler driven 24 inches. If samples were collected using direct push methodology (Geoprobe), SPTs were not performed and relative density/consistency were not reported. N-Value: The number of blows with a 140 lb. hammer required to drive the sampler the middle 12 inches. WOR: Weight Of Rod (depth dependent) WOH: Weight Of Hammer (140 lbs.) RELATIVE DENSITY BLOWS/FOOT Medium dense 4-8 Dense 8-15 Very dense 15-30 MATERIAL: (major constituent identified in CAPITAL letters) COHESIONLESS SOILS COHESIVE SOILS GRAIN SIZE RANGE PLASTICITY IDENTITY GRAVEL 3/4" to 3" 1/4" to 3/4" Non-plastic SAND 1/16" to 1/4" Slight 1/64" to 1/16" Low Finest visible & distinguishable particles Medium ADDITIONAL CONSTITUENTS COMMON TERMS Cannot distinguish individual particles High 3" to 6" in diameter Very High > 6" in diameter Wetted sample is rolled in hands to smallest possible diameter before breaking.Note: Boulders and cobbles are observed in test pits and/or auger cuttings. ORGANIC SILT: Typically gray to dark gray, often has strong H2S odor. May contain shells or shell fragments. Light weight. Fibrous PEAT: Light weight, spongy, mostly visible organic matter, water squeezed readily from sample. Typically near top of layer. Fine grained PEAT: Light weight, spongy, little visible organic matter, water squeezed from sample. Typically below fibrous peat. DEBRIS: Detailed contents described in parentheses (wood, glass, ash, crushed brick, metal, etc.) BEDROCK: Underlying rock beneath loose soil, can be weathered (easily crushed) or competent (difficult to crush). RQD: Rock Quality Designation is determined by measuring total length of pieces of core 4" or greater and dividing by the total length of the run, expressed as %. 100-90% excellent; 90-75% good; 75-50% fair; 50-25% poor; 25-0% very poor. PID: Soil screened for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using a photoionization detector (PID) referenced to benzene in air. Readings in parts per million by volume. Glacial till: Very dense/hard, heterogeneous mixture of sand, silt, clay, sub-angular gravel. Deposited at base of glaciers, which covered all of New England. Varved clay: Fine-grained, post-glacial lake sediments characterized by alternating layers (or varves) of silt, sand and clay. Fill: Material used to raise ground, can be engineered or non-engineered. COMMON FIELD MEASUREMENTS Torvane: Undrained shear strength is estimated using an E285 Pocket Torvane (TV). Values in tons/ft2. Penetrometer: Unconfined compressive strength is estimated using a Pocket Penetrometer (PP). Values in tons/ft2. Page 1 of 1 25.8 Doug 9 Nick 0 Hollow Stem Auger A (1 5/8" O.D.) FIRST (ft) 5.0 2" O.D. Split Spoon LAST (ft) 3.8 Automatic TIME (hr) 2.5 140 lb / 30" DEPTH (ft)ELEV. 3/5/3/3 16/24 S-1 --GRAVEL 1,2 (0-2')0.75 -0.8 REWORKED SOILS 2/2/3/2 17/24 S-2 -- (2-4') -5.0 5/6/7/7 14/24 S-3 --≡ (5-7')6.0 -6.0 VARVED SILTY SAND 6/9/9/11 13/24 S-4 -- (7-9') 3/8/12/26 14/24 S-5 -- (10-12')11.0 -11.0 SAND AND GRAVEL 50 for 5"2/5 S-6 --3 (15-15.4') 15/19/43/50 19/24 S-7 -- (17-19') 30/39/39/37 17/24 S-8 -- (20-22') 35/50 for 4"12/10 S-9 -- (25-25.8')25.8 -25.8 4 1. Boring performed in shoulder alongside roadway. 2. Intermittent auger grinding at 3-4', 9-10', 11-15', 17-20', 20-25'. 3. Steady grinding from 15-16'. 4. Water level of brook on west side of roadway approximately 3'-10" from ground surface after 2.5 hours. LOG OF BORING NB-1 PROJECT Old Wilson Rd Culvert Replacement CONTRACTOR Seaboard Environmental Drilling START DATE 10/31/2023 DISTURBED SAMPLES HELPER CASE DIAMETER N/A JOB NUMBER 2950-30-01 FINAL DEPTH (ft) DRILLING EQUIPMENT B-53 Truck Mounted Rig LOCATION Northampton, MA SURFACE ELEV (ft) FOREMAN CASING ENGINEER/SCIENTIST Caren Irgang WATER LEVEL ROD TYPE HAMMER DROP N/A FINISH DATE 10/31/2023 UNDISTURBED SAMPLES BIT TYPE HAMMER WGT N/A BORING LOCATION North of existing culvert, west side of roadway SAMPLER ROCK CORING INFORMATION HAMMER TYPE TYPE N/A HAMMER WGT/DROP SIZE N/A DEPTH (ft)/ SAMPLES SAMPLES SAMPLE DESCRIPTION (MODIFIED BURMISTER) REMARKS/ WELL CONSTRUCTION PENETR. RESIST. (bl / 6 in) REC. (in) TYPE/ NO. FIELD TEST DATA PROFILE End of exploration at 25.8' Very dense, gray, fine to medium SAND, some silt, little gravel, little coarse sand, trace clay, wet 5' 10' Top 6'': Stiff, gray, fine to medium SAND and clayey SILT, trace organics (tree root), wet (silty pieces, some rust staining, tree root at bottom), trace fine gravel Bottom 8'': Medium dense, gray, fine SAND and SILT, trace organics (tree root), wet (1/2" fine sand varves) Top 7'': Medium dense, gray to brown, varved fine SAND, some silt, wet (trace rust staining in top 3",1/16" silt, 1/4" sand and silt varves) Bottom 6'': Medium dense, gray to gray brown, varved fine SAND, some silt, wet Medium dense, gray, fine SAND, some gravel, little coarse sand, little silt, wet Poor recovery, gravel in spoon. From Cuttings: Gray, fine to medium SAND, some gravel, little coarse sand, little silt, wet Very dense, gray, fine to medium SAND and GRAVEL, little silt, wet Very dense, gray, fine to medium SAND and GRAVEL, some coarse sand, little to some silt, wet Top 7'': very dark brown, fine GRAVEL, some fine to coarse sand, little silt, trace organics (roots), damp (significant amount of roots in top 2") Bottom 9'': Stiff, brown, fine to medium SAND and clayey SILT, little coarse sand, trace fine gravel, damp (1" layer medium to coarse sand at 3" from top) Medium stiff, brown, fine to medium SAND and clayey SILT, little coarse sand, trace fine gravel, damp (2" layer medium to coarse sand with roots at 4" from top, bottom 8" moist) LOG OF BORING NB-1 Remarks: 25' 20' PROJECT NO. 2950-30-01 15' Page 1 of 1 19.3 Doug 7 Nick 0 Hollow Stem Auger A (1 5/8" O.D.) FIRST (ft) 4.5 2" O.D. Split Spoon LAST (ft) N/A Automatic TIME (hr) N/A 140 lb / 30" DEPTH (ft)ELEV. 2/3/1/1 20/24 S-1 --TOPSOIL (0-2') REWORKED SOILS 2/2/3/4 24/24 S-2 -- (2-4') 3.5 -3.5 ORGANICS 5/4/6/7 20/24 S-3 -- -4.5 (4-6') VARVED SILTY SAND 9/8/9/8 20/24 S-4 -- (6-8') 10.0 -10.0 4/5/4/4 10/24 S-5 --SAND (10-12') 1 4/4/9/12 21/24 S-6 -- (15-17') 17.0 -17.0 SAND AND GRAVEL 2 50 for 3"2/3 S-7 -- 19.0 -19.0 3,4 (19-19.3') 1. Auger grinding at 14'. 2. Steady grinding from18.5-19'. 3. Auger refusal at 19'. Applied 500 pounds of down pressure. 4. Water level of brook on west side of roadway at approximately 4'-6" from ground surface. LOG OF BORING NB-2 PROJECT Old Wilson Rd Culvert Replacement CONTRACTOR Seaboard Environmental Drilling START DATE 10/31/2023 DISTURBED SAMPLES HELPER CASE DIAMETER N/A JOB NUMBER 2950-30-01 FINAL DEPTH (ft) DRILLING EQUIPMENT B-53 Truck Mounted Rig LOCATION Northampton, MA SURFACE ELEV (ft) FOREMAN CASING ENGINEER/SCIENTIST Caren Irgang WATER LEVEL ROD TYPE HAMMER DROP N/A FINISH DATE 10/31/2023 UNDISTURBED SAMPLES BIT TYPE HAMMER WGT N/A BORING LOCATION South of existing culvert, east side of roadway SAMPLER ROCK CORING INFORMATION HAMMER TYPE TYPE N/A HAMMER WGT/DROP SIZE N/A DEPTH (ft)/ SAMPLES SAMPLES SAMPLE DESCRIPTION (MODIFIED BURMISTER) REMARKS/ WELL CONSTRUCTION PENETR. RESIST. (bl / 6 in) REC. (in) TYPE/ NO. FIELD TEST DATA PROFILE 10' 5' Top 3'': Medium dense, gray to brown to black, SILT and fine to medium SAND, moist (organic odor) Bottom 17'': Medium dense, gray to brown, varved fine SAND, some silt, little medium sand, trace coarse sand, wet (2" layer silt some fine sand in middle and 5" from bottom) Top 7'': Medium dense, brown gray, fine SAND, some silt, wet (1" layer some silt at 5" from top) Next 10'': Medium dense, brown gray, varved fine SAND, little silt, wet (1/16-1/8" fine sand varves) Bottom 3'': Medium dense, brown gray, varved fine SAND, some silt, wet (1/8-1/2" fine sand varves) Top 8'': Loose, very dark brown, medium SAND, some silt, some fine to coarse sand, trace fine gravel, trace organics (roots, tree roots), damp (TOPSOIL) Bottom 12'': Loose, dark brown, fine to medium SAND and SILT, some coarse sand, trace fine gravel, moist (trace rust staining at 8" from bottom) Top 16'': Loose, brown, fine to medium SAND and SILT, little coarse sand, wet (trace rust staining) Bottom 8'': Medium stiff, gray to brown, clayey SILT, some fine sand, little medium sand, trace coarse sand, trace organics (roots), damp (trace rust staining) 15' Loose, gray, fine to medium SAND, little silt, little coarse sand, trace gravel, trace (-) clay, wet (some silt in top 4") Dense, gray, GRAVEL and fine to medium SAND, little silt, little coarse sand, wet 20'Auger refusal at 19', likely upon boulder Medium dense, gray, fine to medium SAND, little silt, little coarse sand, trace gravel, wet (1/2-2" layer fine sand trace silt at 3" and 5" from bottom, gravel piece at bottom) 25' Remarks:PROJECT NO. 2950-30-01 LOG OF BORING NB-2