Columbia, SC – BLE provided comprehensive geotechnical engineering services for the Saluda Riverwalk Phase II Bridge of the Broad River project in Columbia, South Carolina. This exciting project involved the design and construction of a new pedestrian bridge spanning an impressive 430.5 feet across the Broad River, creating a vital connection between I-126 and US-176 (Broad River Road).
BLE’s scope of work included thorough subsurface exploration, advanced laboratory testing, and detailed geotechnical reporting to support both the design and construction phases. The field work centered on collecting new subsurface data using sub-bottom profiling, a specialized marine drilling technique that accurately maps, images, and analyzes the stratification beneath the river floor. This data was instrumental in supporting planning and coordination efforts with The River Alliance.
The subsurface investigation program featured a variety of construction materials testing methods, including standard penetration testing, rock coring, and soil borings—all conducted in strict accordance with ASTM standards. In the laboratory, our team performed critical analyses such as moisture content determination, grain size distribution, Atterberg Limits testing, and compressive strength testing of rock samples.
Leveraging the team’s extensive geotechnical expertise, BLE provided a comprehensive report that interpreted field data and laboratory results to inform the project’s design. Key deliverables included seismic site classification, construction monitoring recommendations, and tailored design criteria for both site conditions and structural elements.
By maintaining involvement from subsurface investigation through construction, BLE ensured critical information was seamlessly carried forward, supporting continuity, coordination, and consistency throughout the project’s progression. This vital information helped ensure the bridge’s stability, safety, and long-term performance, contributing to a successful and enduring infrastructure asset for the Columbia community.