GEOTECHNICAL EVALUATION

LAKESHORE BOULEVARD SEWER MAINTENANCE

WILLOWICK, OHIO
SME Project No. 073539.00
January 6, 2016

INTRODUCTION
This report presents the results of a subsurface exploration for the planned sanitary sewer maintenance
along Lakeshore Boulevard. We identified the subsurface conditions with a field exploration program
consisting of pavement coring and a Standard Penetration Test (SPT) boring. We obtained pavement
and soil samples during field testing and characterized the pavement and classified and tested the soil in
the laboratory. We interpreted the field and laboratory tests to develop recommendations for the
construction of the sanitary sewer manhole.

PROPOSED PROJECT AND SITE CONDITIONS

The project consists of replacing a section of 30-inch sanitary sewer. A manhole will also be constructed
in this section with an invert at about 25 feet below top of pavement. The project is located approximately
60 feet north of the intersection of Lakeshore Boulevard and Seaborn Drive within the northbound lanes.
The preceding discussion represents our understanding of the proposed project and is an important part
of our engineering interpretation. If this understanding is incorrect or if project plans change, we should
be given the opportunity to review our recommendations.

FIELD AND LABORATORY TESTING

We studied the subsurface conditions by coring the pavement and obtaining an asphalt core and base
sample. One, 30-foot deep SPT boring was drilled, and two Shelby tube samples were obtained. Due to
safety constraints, the boring was moved westward approximately 10 feet into the center turning lane. At
the end of field sampling, the borehole was backfilled with auger cuttings, a hole plug was inserted, and
the pavement was patched with cold patch asphalt. The approximate test location is shown on the
enclosed Boring Location Plan.
Samples were delivered to our laboratory where the pavement materials were characterized and the
asphalt core was photographed. The soil samples were classified in accordance with ASTM Standards.
Relatively cohesive samples were tested for water content as an indicator of soil consistency, strength,
and compressibility. Unconfined compressive strength tests were completed on the Shelby tube samples
obtained between 5 to 7 feet and 15 to 17 feet. The results of our field exploration and laboratory tests
are included on the photo and boring logs.

SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
Geological references suggest that the site is located within an area of thin lacustrine soil deposits over
glacial till. The soil borings revealed a subsurface profile consisting of asphalt underlain by slag base
followed by glacial ground moraine till.
The asphalt was approximately 8 inches thick. The core had delaminated layers and partially
deteriorated sections. The underlying base material consists of greenish blue cemented granulated blast
furnace slag. This layer was about 7 inches thick for a total pavement section thickness of 15 inches.
The underlying soil consists of brown or gray sandy lean clay with some gravel identified as glacial till.
The till is very stiff to hard in consistency, and the color changes from brown to gray at approximately 11
feet below ground surface. Although none were encountered in the boring, it is common for cobbles and
boulders to be encountered within the glacial tills in our area.
Groundwater was not encountered during the time of our exploration. The available data, including soil
color change from brown to gray, suggest the groundwater is likely to be encountered about 11 feet below
the ground surface within the gray till layer.

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GER+073539.00+1/6/16 2

Subsurface conditions at other times and locations on the site may differ from those found at our test
locations. If different conditions are encountered during construction, we should be given the opportunity
to review our recommendations.

ENGINEERING INTERPRETATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

INTRODUCTION
The new sanitary sewer line will be constructed within the gray sandy lean clay identified as glacial till. In
both the till layers noted, the unconfined compressive strength exceeds minimum strength required to be
considered an OSHA Type A soil. Although not observed in our samples, the upper 10 to 15 feet of clay
soils in northern Ohio are often desiccated which creates a blocky structure. Failures in trench sidewalls
can occur along these desiccations cracks. If this blocky structure or desiccation cracks are observed
during excavation, the soil should be considered OSHA Type B.

TRENCH EXCAVATION PROTECTIVE SYSTEM

The lower sidewalls of the waterline trench should remain near vertical during the short period that the
trenches are open. The vertical sidewalls should be accompanied by appropriate shoring or shielding as
specified by OSHA. Because the excavation will be in excess of 20 feet, OSHA requires that a registered
professional engineer design the protective system.

DEWATERING
Although groundwater was not encountered during our exploration, the overburden soils are
predominately fine-grained clays with low permeability and gray soils were observed. Because of these
subsurface conditions encountered, contractors should anticipate the use of standard sumps and electric
or gas powered pumps to maintain dry work conditions where groundwater flow is encountered.
Contractors should also anticipate groundwater in the granular fill used to bed and/or backfill the existing
30-inch and 84-inch sewers.

CORROSION
Although an extensive corrosion evaluation of the soils was not completed, the sandy lean clays should
be considered corrosive to uncoated ductile iron pipe.

PIPE BEDDING AND BACKFILL

Because this work is entirely under pavement, granular materials shall be used for fill. The sanitary sewer
pipe should be bedded, haunched, and initially backfilled with #57 or #67 crushed aggregates compacted
with vibratory equipment to a stable state. Final backfill placed above the pipe cover should be ODOT
Item 703.11 placed in 9-inch lifts and compacted to 100% of its maximum dry density as determined by
ASTM D698 (AASHTO T 99) using a vibratory plate compactor. Slag products should not be used for
below, around, or above the sanitary pipe as backfill material. Each lift of 703.11 final backfill should be
adjusted to within 2% of its optimum moisture content prior to compacting it.

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GER+073539.00+1/6/16 3

CLOSING COMMENTS
BASIS OF GEOTECHNICAL REPORT
This report has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted geotechnical engineering practices
to assist in the design of this project. If the project plans, design criteria, and other project information
referenced in this report and utilized by SME to prepare our recommendations are changed, the
conclusions and recommendations contained in this report are not considered valid unless the changes
are reviewed, and the conclusions and recommendations of this report are modified or approved in writing
by SME.
The discussions and recommendations submitted in this report are based on the available project
information described in this report, and the geotechnical data obtained from the field exploration at the
locations indicated in the report. Variations in the soil and groundwater conditions commonly occur
between or away from sampling locations. The nature and extent of the variations may not become
evident until the time of construction. If significant variations are observed during construction, SME
should be contacted to reevaluate the recommendations of this report. This exploration was not intended
to identify hazardous waste or other hazardous materials and its results should not be used to surmise
the presence or absence of subsurface contamination.

THIRD PARTY RELIANCE/REUSE OF THIS REPORT

This report has been prepared solely for the use of our Client for the project specifically described in this
report. This report cannot be relied upon by other parties not involved in the project, unless specifically
allowed by SME in writing. SME is not responsible for the interpretation by other parties of the
geotechnical data and the recommendations.

SIGNATURES

REPORT PREPARED BY:

REPORT REVIEWED BY:

Alison K. Frye, E.I.

Staff Engineer

John E. Dingeldein, P.E.

Principal Consultant

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GER+073539.00+1/6/16 4

BORING B-1
PAGE 1 OF 1
PROJECT NAME: Lakeshore Boulevard Sewer Maintenance

PROJECT NUMBER: 073539.00

CLIENT: CT Consultants, Inc.

PROJECT LOCATION: Willowick, Ohio

DATE STARTED: 12/21/15

COMPLETED: 12/21/15

BORING METHOD: 3-3/4" Hollow-stem Auger

DRILLER: JH/RH/RM

RIG NO.: 293-CME55-TRUCK

LOGGED BY: AKF

CHECKED BY: JED

BLOWS PER
SIX INCHES

PROFILE DESCRIPTION
0.7
1.3

RECOVERY
LENGTH (INCHES)

SAMPLE TYPE/NO.
INTERVAL

SYMBOLIC
PROFILE

DEPTH (FEET)

DRY DENSITY
(pcf) -90

100 110 120

MOISTURE &
ATTERBERG
LIMITS (%)

N-VALUE --

PL

10

20

30

MC

10

40

20

LL

30

40

HAND PENE.
TORVANE SHEAR
UNC.COMP.
VANE SHEAR (PK)
VANE SHEAR (REM)
TRIAXIAL (UU)
SHEAR
STRENGTH (KSF)
1

REMARKS

8 inches of ASPHALT
7 inches of BASE- Green Cemented
Granulated Blast Furnance Slag

Sandy LEAN CLAY- Some Gravel and

Rock Fragments- Brown- Very Stiff to
Hard (CL)

6
7
8

SB1

18

3ST2

12

SB3

18

17
30
50

SB4

18

7
8
8

3ST5

19

SB6

18

SB7

18

SB8

SB9

15

16

4.5+

18

80

14

4.5+

14

4.5+

10
11.0

16

15

13

20

6
6
12
7
9
14

18

18

8
7
10

17

18

9
9
14

Sandy LEAN CLAY- Some GravelGray- Very Stiff (CL)

25

30

30.0

END OF BORING AT 30.0 FEET.

23

23

13.16

14

4.5+

14

4.5+

19

4.5+

18

4.5+

35
GROUNDWATER & BACKFILL INFORMATION

GROUNDWATER WAS NOT ENCOUNTERED

BACKFILL METHOD:

Auger Cuttings 0 to 30 feet,

Capped with EPCO Hole Plug
and Cold Patch

NOTES: 1. The indicated stratification lines are approximate. In situ, the transition between materials may be
gradual.

LAKESHORE BOULEVARD SEWER MAINTENANCE

PAVEMENT LOG WILLOWICK, OHIO SME#073539.00

Intact
Core of
Cemented
Slag

LOCATION
APPROXIMATE STATION
ASPHALT, in.
CEMENTED SLAG, in.
TOTAL PAVEMENT, in.

B-1
6+70
8
7
15

UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF COHESIVE SOIL

ASTM D2166

Project:
Project Location:
Project #:
Date:

Lake Shore Boulevard Sewer

Willowick, Ohio
073539.00
December 22, 2015

3500

UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRESS, PSF

3000

2500

2000

1500
Failure

1000

500

0
0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

PERCENT STRAIN

SAMPLE INFORMATION
Sample Description: Brown LEAN CLAY
Sample Location:
Sample Depth:
USCS Classification:
Height (in):
Diameter (in):
Height/Diameter Ratio:
LAB-19 (12)

B-1
5.5' - 6'
CL
5.76
2.87
2.0

TEST RESULTS
Unconfined Compressive Strength (psf): 3260
Strain at Failure (%):
Water Content (after shear) (%):
Dry Density (pcf):
Average Strain Rate (%/min):

4.8
18.0
110.4
1.1

UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF COHESIVE SOIL

ASTM D2166

Project:
Project Location:
Project #:
Date:

Lake Shore Boulevard Sewer

Willowick, Ohio
073539.00
December 22, 2015

16000

UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRESS, PSF

14000

12000

10000

8000

6000

Failure

4000

2000

0
0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

PERCENT STRAIN

SAMPLE INFORMATION
Sample Description:
Sample Location:
Sample Depth:
USCS Classification:
Height (in):
Diameter (in):
Height/Diameter Ratio:
LAB-19 (12)

Gray LEAN CLAY with

gravel
B-1
15.5' - 16'
CL
5.85
2.84
2.1

TEST RESULTS
Unconfined Compressive Strength (psf): 13160
Strain at Failure (%):
Water Content (after shear) (%):
Dry Density (pcf):
Average Strain Rate (%/min):

12.4
13.4
125.9
1.1

BORING LOG TERMINOLOGY

UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION AND SYMBOL CHART
COARSE-GRAINED SOIL
(more than 50% of material is larger than No. 200 sieve size.)

GW

CU =

Clean Gravel (Less than 5% fines)

Well-graded gravel;
gravel-sand mixtures,
little or no fines

GP

Poorly-graded gravel;
gravel-sand mixtures,
little or no fines

Gravel with fines (More than 12% fines)

GM

Silty gravel; gravel-sandsilt mixtures

GC

Clayey gravel; gravelsand-clay mixtures

Clean Sand (Less than 5% fines)

SAND
50% or more of
coarse
fraction smaller than
No. 4 sieve size

SW

Well-graded sand; sandgravel mixtures, little or

no fines

SP

Poorly graded sand;

sand-gravel mixtures,
little or no fines

Sand with fines (More than 12% fines)

SM
SC

Silty sand; sand-siltgravel mixtures

Clayey sand; sandclaygravel mixtures

FINE-GRAINED SOIL
(50% or more of material is smaller than No. 200 sieve size)
ML
SILT
AND
CLAY
Liquid limit
less than
50%

CL

SILT
AND
CLAY
Liquid limit
50%
or greater

HIGHLY
ORGANIC
SOIL

Inorganic silt; sandy silt

or gravelly silt with slight
plasticity
Inorganic clay of low
plasticity; lean clay,
sandy clay, gravelly clay

OL

Organic silt and organic

clay of low plasticity

MH

Inorganic silt of high

plasticity, elastic silt

CH

Inorganic clay of high

plasticity, fat clay

OH

Organic silt and organic

clay of high plasticity

PT

Peat and other highly

organic soil

OTHER MATERIAL SYMBOLS

Topsoil

Void

Sandstone

D60
D10

greater than 4; CC =

D30

between 1 and 3

D10 x D60

GP

Not meeting all gradation requirements for GW

GM

Atterberg limits below A

line or PI less than 4

GC

Atterberg limits above A

line with PI greater than 7

SW

CU =

D60
D10

greater than 6; CC =

D30

between 1 and 3

D10 x D60

Not meeting all gradation requirements for SW

SM

Atterberg limits below A

line or PI less than 4

SC

Atterberg limits above A

line with PI greater than 7

When laboratory tests are not performed to confirm the classification of soils exhibiting borderline classifications, the two possible
classifications would be separated with a slash, as follows:
For soils where it is difficult to distinguish if it is a coarse or finegrained soil:

Above A line with PI

between 4 and 7 are
borderline cases requiring
use of dual symbols

SP

SC/CL (CLAYEY SAND to Sandy LEAN CLAY)

SM/ML (SILTY SAND to SANDY SILT)
GC/CL (CLAYEY GRAVEL to Gravelly LEAN CLAY)
GM/ML (SILTY GRAVEL to Gravelly SILT)

For soils where it is difficult to distinguish if it is sand or gravel,

poorly or well-graded sand or gravel; silt or clay; or plastic or nonplastic silt or clay:

SP/GP or SW/GW (SAND with Gravel to GRAVEL with Sand)

SC/GC (CLAYEY SAND with Gravel to CLAYEY GRAVEL with
Sand)

SM/GM (SILTY SAND with Gravel to SILTY GRAVEL with

Above A line with PI

between 4 and 7 are
borderline cases requiring
use of dual symbols

Determine percentages of sand and gravel from grain-size curve.

Depending on percentage of fines (fraction smaller than No. 200
sieve size), coarse-grained soils are classified as follows:

Sand)
SW/SP (SAND or SAND with Gravel)
GP/GW (GRAVEL or GRAVEL with Sand)
SC/SM (CLAYEY to SILTY SAND)
GM/GC (SILTY to CLAYEY GRAVEL)
CL/ML (SILTY CLAY)
ML/CL (CLAYEY SILT)
CH/MH (FAT CLAY to ELASTIC SILT)
CL/CH (LEAN to FAT CLAY)
MH/ML (ELASTIC SILT to SILT)
OL/OH (ORGANIC SILT or ORGANIC CLAY)

Less than 5 percent.....GW, GP, SW, SP

More than 12 percent...GM, GC, SM, SC
5 to 12 percent.....Cases requiring dual symbols

DRILLING AND SAMPLING ABBREVIATIONS

SP-SM or SW-SM (SAND with Silt or SAND with Silt and Gravel)

SP-SC or SW-SC (SAND with Clay or SAND with Clay and

Gravel)
GP-GM or GW-GM (GRAVEL with Silt or GRAVEL with Silt and
Sand)
GP-GC or GW-GC (GRAVEL with Clay or GRAVEL with Clay
and Sand)
If the fines are CL-ML:
SC-SM (SILTY CLAYEY SAND or SILTY CLAYEY SAND with
Gravel)
SM-SC (CLAYEY SILTY SAND or CLAYEY SILTY SAND with
Gravel)
GC-GM (SILTY CLAYEY GRAVEL or SILTY CLAYEY GRAVEL
with Sand)
GM-GC (CLAYEY SILTY GRAVEL or CLAYEY SILTY GRAVEL
with Sand)

2ST
3ST
AS
GS
LS
NR
PM
RC

SB

VS
WS

OTHER ABBREVIATIONS

Boulders
Cobbles
Gravel- Coarse
Fine
Sand- Coarse
Medium
Fine
Silt and Clay

WOH
WOR
SP
PID
FID

Greater than 12 inches

3 inches to 12 inches
3/4 inches to 3 inches
No. 4 to 3/4 inches
No. 10 to No. 4
No. 40 to No. 10
No. 200 to No. 40
Less than (0.0074 mm)

60
50

CH
A LINE
PI=0.73 (LL-20)

30

CL

MH & OH

20
10

ML & OL

CL+ML

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

Glacial
Till

Weight of Hammer
Weight of Rods
Soil Probe
Photo Ionization Device
Flame Ionization Device

DEPOSITIONAL FEATURES

PLASTICITY CHART

40

90

100

Parting
Seam
Layer
Stratum
Pocket
Lens
Hardpan/Till

Lacustrine
Mottled

Varved

Occasional
Frequent

Interbedded

LIQUID LIMIT (LL) (%)

Asphalt

Shelby Tube 2 O.D.

Shelby Tube 3 O.D.
Auger Sample
Grab Sample
Liner Sample
No Recovery
Pressure Meter
Rock Core diamond bit. NX size, except
where noted
Split Barrel Sample 1-3/8 I.D., 2 O.D.,
except where noted
Vane Shear
Wash Sample

PARTICLE SIZES

PLASTICITY INDEX (PI) (%)

GRAVEL
More than 50% of
coarse
fraction larger than
No. 4 sieve size

GW

VISUAL MANUAL PROCEDURE

LABORATORY CLASSIFICATION CRITERIA

as much as 1/16 inch thick

1/16 inch to 1/2 inch thick
1/2 inch to 12 inches thick
greater than 12 inches thick
deposit of limited lateral extent
lenticular deposit
an unstratified, consolidated or cemented
mixture of clay, silt, sand and/or gravel, the
size/shape of the constituents vary widely
soil deposited by lake water
soil irregularly marked with spots of different
colors that vary in number and size
alternating partings or seams of silt and/or
clay
one or less per foot of thickness
more than one per foot of thickness
strata of soil or beds of rock lying between or
alternating with other strata of a different
nature

CLASSIFICATION TERMINOLOGY AND CORRELATIONS

Siltstone

Base

Coal

Limestone

Concrete

Shale

Fill

Cohesive Soils

Cohesionless Soils
Relative Density

N-Value
(Blows per foot)

Very Loose
Loose
Medium Dense
Dense
Very Dense
Extremely Dense

0 to 4
4 to 10
10 to 30
30 to 50
50 to 80
Over 80

Consistency
Very Soft
Soft
Medium
Stiff
Very Stiff
Hard

N-Value
(Blows per foot)

Undrained Shear
Strength (kips/ft2)

0-2
2-4
4-8
8 - 15
15 - 30
> 30

0.25 or less
0.25 to 0.50
0.50 to 1.0
1.0 to 2.0
2.0 to 4.0
4.0 or greater

Standard Penetration N-Value = Blows per foot of a 140-pound hammer falling 30 inches on a 2-inch O.D. split barrel sampler, except
where noted.

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