Kraemer North America uses FODS to Stop Erosion on $20.4 Million Dollar Sinking US 36 Highway Emergency
Kraemer North America Uses FODS to Combat Erosion on Emergency $20.4 Million U.S. 36 Highway Repair Project
In a high-stakes effort to address the sudden collapse of a major highway, Kraemer North America has risen to the challenge, spearheading a critical emergency repair project on the eastbound section of U.S. 36. Selected by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) for their expertise, Kraemer is tasked with repairing this crucial stretch of roadway between Denver and Boulder. The $20.4 million project is a response to unexpected structural failures in a section of highway that had been newly constructed just five years ago.
A Problem Rooted in Oversight
The collapse of the U.S. 36 highway was attributed to saturated clay soils beneath the roadway, an issue exacerbated by heavy rainfall. The original construction failed to account for the unstable soil composition, leading to a dramatic failure when large chunks of concrete broke away from the retaining wall under the highway. This structural compromise caused a partial collapse, severely disrupting traffic and highlighting the need for a robust and immediate solution.
To address this emergency, Kraemer North America’s team has undertaken the complex task of reconstructing and replacing the affected portion of the highway. The work requires not only precision engineering but also innovative approaches to mitigate further environmental and structural challenges, including erosion and trackout management.
Leveraging FODS Trackout Control Mats for Efficiency
A key component of Kraemer’s approach has been the implementation of FODS Trackout Control Mats as a reusable construction entrance. Recognizing the need for a stabilized and environmentally friendly construction access point, Kraemer turned to FODS for a solution that would be fast, effective, and minimally invasive to the ground beneath.
FODS Trackout Control Mats are designed to provide unparalleled efficiency in managing erosion and preventing trackout from construction sites. The mats can be deployed on any substrate, including gravel, and installed in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for high-pressure situations like this emergency repair project. By placing the mats directly onto the gravel entrance of the repair site, Kraemer successfully stabilized their access point without causing additional ground disturbance.
Addressing Erosion, Dust, and Trackout
One of the primary challenges of any large-scale construction project is the management of environmental impact. Dust, erosion, and trackout—the debris carried off-site by vehicle tires—pose significant risks to both the immediate environment and surrounding infrastructure. For Kraemer, these risks were amplified by the proximity of Old Wadsworth Boulevard, a heavily trafficked road adjacent to the repair site.
The deployment of FODS Trackout Control Mats proved instrumental in mitigating these challenges. By capturing debris before it left the site, the mats minimized the amount of trackout onto Old Wadsworth Boulevard. Additionally, the mats reduced dust generation and helped control erosion at the site, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and maintaining safety standards for nearby residents and motorists.
A Model for Sustainable Construction Practices
The success of FODS Trackout Control Mats in the U.S. 36 highway repair project underscores their value as a sustainable and reusable solution for construction site management. Unlike traditional gravel construction entrances, which can be time-consuming to install and often require extensive ground preparation, FODS mats offer a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative. Their reusable nature also aligns with modern sustainability goals, reducing waste and promoting long-term resource conservation.
A Rapid Response to a Critical Need
The emergency repair of U.S. 36 highlights the importance of proactive planning and innovative solutions in the face of infrastructure challenges. For Kraemer North America, the ability to quickly adapt to the situation—from stabilizing the construction entrance to addressing the root causes of the collapse—has been key to the project’s progress.
FODS Trackout Control Mats have played a pivotal role in enabling this rapid response. Their quick installation and effectiveness in controlling environmental impacts have allowed Kraemer to focus on the broader task of reconstructing the highway, ensuring that traffic flow between Denver and Boulder can be restored as quickly and safely as possible.
Partnering for Progress
The collaboration between Kraemer North America and FODS exemplifies the power of partnerships in tackling complex infrastructure problems. By combining Kraemer’s engineering expertise with FODS’ innovative solutions, the team has set a benchmark for how emergency repair projects can be managed efficiently and responsibly.
The deployment of FODS mats also serves as a case study for other contractors facing similar challenges. Whether for emergency repairs or planned construction, FODS Trackout Control Mats offer a versatile and reliable option for managing site access and minimizing environmental impact.
Conclusion
The U.S. 36 highway collapse was an unfortunate reminder of the critical need to account for soil composition and environmental factors in infrastructure design. While the failure posed significant challenges, it also presented an opportunity for Kraemer North America to demonstrate their ability to deliver under pressure, employing cutting-edge solutions to address both structural and environmental concerns.
FODS Trackout Control Mats have been an integral part of this effort, providing a fast, effective, and sustainable solution for managing the construction site. As the project progresses, the lessons learned from this emergency repair will no doubt inform future infrastructure initiatives, ensuring greater resilience and sustainability in our nation’s roadways.
For more information on how FODS can support your construction needs, contact us at 844-200-3637 or info@getfods.com. You can also read more about this project in the January 2020 issue of SWS.
Read more in SWS January 2020 Digital Issue.
Contact us for a quote today at 844-200-3637 or info@getfods.com!
