NV5 performed the geotechnical investigation for this new 140-foot-high, three-legged, steel, space-frame, communication tower installation project. The site was located in a remote and rugged area east of Lake Oroville, which posed logistical and scheduling challenges for the geotechnical investigation and construction phases of the project.
We developed an innovative design approach using micropiles as an alternative to the conventional foundations that require large volumes of concrete. The use of a micropile foundation saved over $300,000 in construction costs, cut the project schedule by a full year, and reduced environmental impacts to the area by eliminating the need to regrade the access road and by reducing heavy concrete truck traffic to the site.
Use of a micropile foundation shortened construction time from 2 years to 8 months.
Additionally, Butte County contracted with NV5 to provide the construction management, engineering oversight, and special inspection services for this project.