Project Spotlight: Retaining Wall Installation in Portland, Oregon

When it comes to construction projects that blend function with structural integrity, retaining walls play a crucial role. Recently, we had the opportunity to complete a retaining wall installation in Portland, Oregon, that was both technically challenging and vital for the development of a new property.

The Challenge: Meeting Emergency Fire Lane Requirements

This project involved the construction of new buildings in a relatively small area, which created a unique challenge for emergency fire lane access. Due to fire safety regulations, the property needed to incorporate specific lanes designed for emergency vehicles. These fire lanes were surveyed into the hillside, following the natural contours of the land along the property line.

Initially, the project plan called for the construction of an echo block wall to support the fire lanes. However, during the planning stages, it became clear that the original design would not meet the requirements for the available space. The echo block wall was too wide for the narrow width of the surveyed area. In order to preserve as much buildable space as possible for the property owner, a new solution had to be developed.

The Solution: Cantilevered Retaining Wall

This is where Ram Jack West came in. Our team was hired to design and install a retaining wall that would not only fulfill the structural requirements but also fit within the narrow confines of the property line. After careful assessment and collaboration with the property owner and contractor, we determined that a cantilevered retaining wall would be the most effective solution.

Cantilevered retaining walls are designed to maximize the use of available space. Instead of relying on the width of the wall itself for stability, these walls use a structural base and steel reinforcements to bear the load, allowing for a much narrower footprint. This approach enabled us to preserve valuable buildable area on the property while still ensuring that the fire lanes met all necessary safety standards.

The Outcome: A 170-Foot Retaining Wall for Safety and Space

Ram Jack West successfully installed a 170-foot long retaining wall along the property line. This wall was value-engineered to meet the width requirements for the emergency fire lanes while maximizing the available space for the owner’s development. The use of steel sections in the wall's construction provided an economical and durable solution, ensuring that the wall would serve its purpose for years to come.

By choosing a cantilevered design, we were able to provide the property owner with a retaining wall that didn’t compromise on space or safety. The project met all required standards for the fire lanes, and the owner was left with as much buildable area as possible for the new development.

Conclusion

This retaining wall installation in Portland, Oregon, exemplifies Ram Jack’s commitment to delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions for our clients. Whether you’re facing space constraints or specific safety regulations, we work with you to develop customized engineering solutions that meet your needs. If you’re planning a project that requires a retaining wall or any type of foundation work, contact Ram Jack West to learn how we can help.

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