GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS. IN: BRIDGE ENGINEERING: SUBSTRUCTURE DESIGN

The goal of a geotechnical study is to: determine the subsurface stratigraphy and stratigraphic relationships; define the physical properties of the earth materials; and evaluate the data generated and formulate solutions to the project specific and site specific geotechnical issues. The geotechnical issues considered include: foundation issues; earth pressure issues; construction and constructibility considerations; and groundwater issues. This paper includes discussions of: field exploration techniques; definition of the requirements for and extent of the site investigation program; evaluation of the site investigation results and development/scoping of the laboratory testing program; and data presentation and site characterization.