FODS Deployed In Coquitlam, BC
Southwest Contracting Chooses FODS To Keep Community Project On Time and Under Budget
The Burke Mountain development in Coquitlam, BC, is an ambitious master-planned community located in the northeast suburbs of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This project highlights the interplay between advanced construction techniques and community-focused design. Integral to this development is the construction of a new middle and secondary school, which is set to serve the rapidly growing Burke Mountain community. The plans for the school were approved by the British Columbia government and the Coquitlam School District in August of 2022. The plan allows over $135,000,000 in funding from the British Columbia government and an additional $25,000,000 from the Coquitlam School District.
The project includes the development of a three-storey cutting-edge Neighbourhood Learning Centre which will provide 1,000 safe seats for students in the community, as well as a 3.6-hectare park which will be accessible to both students and the local community. The modern school building is designed to meet LEED Gold equivalent standards with a 50% reduction in greenhouse gases, and will provide seismically safe seats which is part of the B.C. Government’s broader initiative to provide safer learning environments for residents for years to come.
Burke Mountain Development Rendering
The project will be completed in multiple phases with a current estimated completion date of September 2026. Hall Construction, out of Langley, British Columbia, Canada, was selected as construction manager. Hall is one of the prominent heavy civil, infrastructure, and site work contractors in Western Canada.
Retaining Wall Construction
Burke Mountain borders the Pinecone Burke Provincial Park on the north and the foothills of Coquitlam Mountain sprawl throughout the northern side of the city. One of the primary challenges of developing the 23 acre site was the significant grade difference on the site, with a 36-meter variation between the highest and lowest points. Preparing the side for construction involved significant changes to the landscape including clearing and grading as well as construction of retaining walls. The retaining walls were designed to stabilize the site and ensure a safe, accessible area for the school and its facilities. The walls were constructed using metalized hollow core anchors, with shotcrete facing designed to accent the natural beauty of the region. This approach not only provided the necessary structural support but also enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the site, creating a harmonious balance between nature and development.
The collaborative efforts between Southwest Contracting Ltd., Gemco Construction Ltd., and Station One Architects were crucial in overcoming the complex construction and logistical challenges of this project. Regular communication and a shared commitment to quality ensured that each phase of the project progressed smoothly, despite the difficult terrain and tight timelines.
School Development
With space for up to 1,000 students, Burke Mountain Secondary School provides a cutting-edge learning environment that incorporates 21st-century learning concepts. The design, created by Station One Architects, includes a large gym, an amphitheater, and an outdoor dance space, among other modern facilities, as well as collaborative spaces and outdoor learning environments. The configuration and materials of the building reflect the natural patterns of the forest and the mountain range, which greatly impacted the design of the school.
Apart from the educational facilities, the facility has community features like tennis courts, a 400-meter running track, and easily accessible public areas. With these amenities, the school becomes the focal point of community events, benefiting both students and the larger community.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
From the campus which is designed to LEED Gold equivalent standards to the management of the construction process, developers have prioritized safety and environmental responsibility in the design and construction of Burke Mountain Middle-Secondary School. The FODS Trackout Control Mat System was chosen as the stabilized entrance BMP to reduce sediment carried off of the construction site by vehicles. The use of an effective Stabilized Entrance BMP ensures that public roads are kept clean and free of debris during construction while minimizing the environmental impact of the construction operations. The FODS system is a modern alternative to rock and geotextile fabric style entrances that provides consistent performance throughout the duration of the project. By minimizing the spread of debris, the mats also reduced the need for frequent street cleaning and additional rock, which can reduce material and labor costs and contribute to a more sustainable construction process. The use of FODS is one example of how the developers have chosen the Best Management Practices for each challenge on the project.
Conclusion
The Burke Mountain Retaining Wall and Secondary School Development is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovative design, and environmental responsibility in overcoming challenging environments. By leveraging advanced construction techniques and maintaining a strong focus on community needs, the project is set to provide long-lasting benefits to the Burke Mountain area. The successful completion of this project will not only enhance educational opportunities but also foster a stronger, more connected community.
ABOUT FODS, LLC.
Based in Centennial Colorado, FODS is working to replace ineffective and costly traditional rock stabilized construction entrances, saving you time and money. Our proprietary mat design works to effectively remove debris from your vehicle tires without damaging the tire or the ground’s surface. Cited in British Columbia's E&S Handbook as BMP #17, The FODS Synthetic Mat Stabilized entrance provides the only durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly trackout control system currently available on the market. FODS Vehicle Trackout Controls BMP mats are 100% Made In the USA and 100% recyclable.
To find out more information on how we can help your project stay on schedule and in compliance contact 844-200-3637 or email us at info@getfods.com.