State Route 51 HOV Lanes

Ninyo & Moore performed geophysical and geotechnical evaluations for the design of the highway-to-highway transition between Interstate 10 and State Route 51 and the addition of High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes on State Route 51 from Interstate 10 to Shea Boulevard. Ninyo & Moore used geophysical digital recording seismographs and monitored ground vibrations prior to and during the construction activities and evaluated that the State Department of Transportation's criteria related to acceptable levels for peak particle velocity and frequency prior to and during construction were met. Ninyo & Moore also monitored the internal deflection of the East Drainage Tunnel during construction using tape extensometers to assure that the structural tolerances of the tunnel were not exceeded as a result of the new construction. The project included the construction of five new bridges, the widening of two existing bridges, a 30-foot high median and shoulder embankment supported with mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls, reconstruction of noise walls, underpinning of an existing bridge foundation, slope stabilization with soil nails and the addition of new concrete pavement. Ninyo & Moore also provided geotechnical services related to six existing bridge embankments on State Route 51 that were improved with various grouting techniques. Our services related to this phase of the project included pre- and post-grouting exploration borings and the monitoring of movement of the adjacent abutment retaining walls during the grouting activities.