CONCORD, Mass. – Construction activities continue on Phase 1 of the $30.9 million Muddy River Flood Risk Management and Environmental Restoration project in Boston, Mass., and starting on April 30 will involve a short duration loud bang sound to test for load carrying capacity of deep foundations.

As the test starts there will be a bang sound like a gunshot. The sound will last less than a second. Traffic will be stopped for a brief moment (less than 5 minutes) just prior to the test so that drivers aren’t startled by the sound. There will be three tests a day, about 15 – 30 minutes apart.

The Statnamic Load Test is a type of test for assessing the load carrying capacity of deep foundations. The testing is the best way for the project team to determine the proper length of the supporting shafts. These drilled shafts are needed to support the concrete culverts and wing walls that will be installed under the Riverway, under Brookline Avenue and near Avenue Louis Pasteur. The existing earthen material in these areas is poor and the project team needs to determine the proper depth for the drilled shafts to properly carry the loads of the culverts and walls.

The testing is being coordinated with the local police and an email notice will be sent out to the project contact list each day prior to test activities to notify people when the testing will be done. Testing will be done every other day and should be completed by May 10, 2013.

For Muddy River project construction updates visit the project website at: http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/ProjectsTopics/MuddyRiver.aspx

If you have questions contact Project Manager Mike Keegan at MuddyRiver@usace.army.mil or call 978-318-8087.