Maine Department of Transportation
Interstate and non-Interstate Trusses and Signs from Kittery to Bangor, Maine

Nobis performed a geotechnical evaluation for proposed replacement of interstate and non-interstate trusses and signs foundations from Kittery to Bangor, Maine. The services were performed as a subcontractor to Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB) for MaineDOT. The project included replacement of existing sign structures with new structures performed in three phases along interstate I-95, I-295, I-395 and other auxiliary state roads leading to the interstates system. The total value of Nobis work was over $200,000.

As part of this project, Nobis coordinated and observed three geotechnical subsurface investigation programs consisting of a total of 70 test borings. Nobis coordinated and observed the drilling activities, prepared and implemented a traffic control plan to protect public and worker safety while drilling the borings on the interstate highway, and coordinated with local MaineDOT districts and utility companies. All interstate highway work was also performed with the protection of Maine State Troopers. Detailed test boring logs with engineering soil classifications were prepared by Nobis.

Undisturbed soil samples with Shelby tubes were collected in areas were cohesive soils were encountered. Soil laboratory tests consisting of grain size, moisture content, hydrometer and consolidation tests were performed to determine the stress history for selected locations.

Based on the encountered subsurface conditions, a geotechnical engineering report was prepared outlining recommendations for a foundation system including bearing capacities, estimated settlements and addressing groundwater control. Drilled shaft foundations were designed where shallow foundations were not feasible.