Juneau Access Roads
Geotechnical Exploration | Bridge Project
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Project Description
A road to provide access between Juneau and the continental road system has been proposed for decades. The only alternative to air transportation to and from Juneau had been by ferry or barge service. Demand on these services had become increasingly high, primarily during the summer. The proposed project consisted of constructing a new road to Juneau through upper Lynn Canal via Skagway or Haines. Construction would be through some of Alaska’s most pristine roadless regions, crossing Berners Bay, Katzehen River and the Tongass National Forest, and would increase travel opportunity while reducing time and costs.
Team Members
Alaska Department of Transportation, Public Facilities (ADOTPF), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), United States Forest Service (USFS), Golder Associates, Crux Subsurface Inc.
Crux’s Role
ADOTPF utilized Crux’s drilling services to conduct geotechnical drilling operations on proposed bridge sites in Berners Bay. Due to the remote location of the project area and the season for completing work, Crux developed a program to both accommodate access requirements and drilling conditions.
The geologic conditions present along the project sites were variable, consisting of deep glacial deposits in the river valleys and deltas, and shallow bedrock along the river valleys. Borings were drilled to depths of 250 feet in deep alluvial deposits.
Work was completed through the winter months to accommodate the design schedule requirements for this segment of the alignment. Inclement weather and short daylight hours made for a challenging drilling program. Environmental protection was a major concern to the USFS and ADOTPF. Crux worked closely with these agencies, utilizing experience and specialty equipment to provide a low-impact, environmentally sensitive drilling program.
Difficult Access
Access to the boring locations was limited to helicopter or boat. Crux developed a program that utilized a staging location at the end of the road near Berners Bay. Crews and equipment were transported daily form this location to the boring locations using a contract helicopter.
Borings located in the Lace-Berners River channel required the use of specialty platforms. These platforms were placed in the river channel during low tide and set 6 ft above ground elevation to accommodate tide change. Platforms were utilized for drill setup, work decks and helicopter landing zones.
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To request additional information, please use our Contact Page or call 866-CRUXSUB (866-278-9782).
