Geotechnical engineering supports major bridge capacity solution 

Client challenge

The Goethals Bridge opened in 1928 as one of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s first bi-state development projects. By the 2010s, it couldn’t support modern-day traffic volume and commercial growth. It also did not meet modern structural safety standards. So, the Port Authority commissioned a new six-lane, cable-stayed bridge with bike and pedestrian access.

Because of our ability to handle complex projects and our knowledge of local resources, the lead designer retained Haley & Aldrich as one of three geotechnical engineering firms to handle this fast-paced project under the public-private partnership design-build-operate-maintain process.

Our approach

Haley & Aldrich planned the geotechnical portion of the project and had responsibility for a $1.5 million investigation program that included 141 land- and water-based borings, seismic cone penetrometer tests, and probes. This program provided the data to inform our designs of foundations for retaining walls, bridge approach embankments, and a new railroad bridge, which would allow for widening of the highway running over the Goethals Bridge.

We managed the barges, ATVs, and truck rigs required to access the areas that needed investigating. We also closely coordinated tasks with the structural designers, our subcontractor drillers, and the contractor to deliver the subsurface data in a timely manner. With these coordinated efforts, we ensured the delivery of design segments in the proper sequence and avoided delays.

We also produced multiple data reports to support fast-paced and sequenced design packages, and we worked closely with the broader design team to respond to multiple Port Authority reviews. We ultimately delivered foundation designs that incorporated varied elements to meet the challenges of the project, including axial and lateral capacity of different pile types and drilled shafts.

Value delivered

• Supported the construction of new bridge with improved safety conditions and performance
• Through close coordination with project team, ensured the delivery of design segments in the proper order and avoided delays
• Delivered foundation designs that incorporated varied elements to meet the challenges of the project