New analysis by QuoteWizard, a part of the Lending Tree family, reveals how many states have sub-part infrastructure and how the poor condition of those roadways is effecting vehicles.
The bad news is that America’s roadways are crumbling. You knew that if you frequently drive anywhere north of what automakers refer to as the Sunshine Belt. QuoteWizard analyzed new numbers from the Federal Highway Administration and found that deteriorating roads and bridges cost the average driver $556 every year. In the states with the worst roads, those conditions lead to almost $1,000 per year in road repair costs.
According to QuoteWizard, the high costs are “a direct result of a combination of what the FHA considers non-acceptable roads and poor bridge decks”. Each state was ranked according to its complete score in the following categories:
- Percentage of non-acceptable roads
- Square miles of poor bridge deck
- Cost per motorist that is allocated towards repairing bridge and road infrastructure
States are ranked 1 to 50, with 1 being the worst overall road infrastructure and 50 being the best overall road infrastructure. Scroll down to see the full results.


If your shingles have lost granules and are starting to curl and buckle, it may be time to consider a roof replacement. You may also notice holes or other signs of water damage on the outside of your home. In addition, it’s time to consider repairing your gutters. If you’re unsure whether your roof needs to be replaced, check it yourself from the ground to make sure you don’t miss any spots.
Roofing replacement is one of the most important repairs you can make to your home. However, there are many things to consider before undergoing the process. First of all, a faulty roof can ruin the interior of your home. Water can ruin everything from the insulation in the attic to the kitchen and family room below. There are few things in life more devastating than a leaking roof.
When it comes to your home’s safety, a new roof is one of the most important things you can do. A leaky roof can cause damage to insulation and drywall, leading to the possibility of mold growth in your home. If you wait too long to repair your roof, it may even collapse, rendering your home uninhabitable.
A roof replacement is a complicated process, and hiring a good contractor in Plano can help you navigate the process. You should also check for communication with the company you choose. If the contractor is willing to answer your questions promptly, you’re likely to have an easy time completing the job. If a contractor has no responsive customer service, you should look elsewhere for a replacement roof.
Choosing a roof replacement material depends on the style and location of your home. Certain types of materials are better suited for flat roofs, while others are better suited for steeper roofs. For example, asphalt shingles work well for steep-pitched roofs, while wood shake shingles are not suited for flat roofs.
A roof replacement is necessary when a roof has reached its lifespan. Re-roofing, however, is not advisable for homes with metal roofing, which has a limited lifespan. Furthermore, re-roofing won’t detect damage beneath the shingles, so it’s best to opt for a full-blown roof replacement.


Conception and Validation of Smart Building Energy Management System BEMS Using the Discrete Event System Specification DEVSPublished online: Jun 23, 2014
The improvement of the energetic behavior of buildings has turned into a major issue due to the high level of energy consumption. In this context, the building is represented as a dynamical system and a system of data acquisition is developed, which allows the measurement of environmental and energetic parameters, so as to describe the behavior of the building interacting with its direct environment. Research related to energy management can be divided into two categories: predictive control (anticipative) and adaptive control (reactive). A new building energy management system (BEMS) which is the chosen system to validate, treats a long-term anticipative control and introduces a reactive control that adds another level of intelligence to the BEMS. The main goal of this paper is to propose a model using the formalism DEVS to describe and simulate the BEMS. Our motivation is explained by the fact that DEVS is a tool for modeling of discrete event systems and it divides the overall system into subsystems in order to facilitate the achievement which is consistent with the characteristics of multilayer architecture of the chosen system.
KeywordsSmart building, Building energy Management system BEMS, Multilayer architecture, Modeling and simulation DEVS
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.


One of the most versatile heavy construction equipment that you could opt for when undergoing some landscaping on your property is the excavator. Not only can it perform a myriad of tasks, but also choosing the right attachments can also greatly reduce the amount of time you will spend on your landscaping project. The excavator bucket is one of the basic attachments that you would have to consider when using an excavator. However, just because it is one of the more common attachments used does not mean that all you need to do is pick the first one you come across. Here are some of the different considerations that you should have when selecting an excavator bucket.
Consider the main purpose of the excavation project
When making a choice of an excavator bucket, you would have to consider the primary role that the excavator will be playing. For instance, if you plan on carry out extensive digging on your property, then you should consider opting for a general-purpose (GP) bucket.
On the other hand, if the primary role of the excavator will be trenching the landscape and backfilling, then you would be better suited to selecting a V-shaped bucket. This facilitates the digging of the earth at an angle, hence making it easier for you to create trenches with your excavator. Lastly, if you are planning to use the excavator to haul earth and mud from your property, then a cleanup bucket is what would be best suited for the task at hand.
Consider the type soil on your property
Another consideration to keep in mind when making a choice of excavator buckets would be the type of soil that your property has. General-purpose buckets are designed to be used when working on loamy soil. This is because the digging teeth on the bucket's edge facilitates the breaking down of hardened clumps of soil. However, if the soil on your property is exposed to extreme textures, then you may have to consider opting for specialised buckets that would be better suited at handling that type of soil.
For instance, clay tends to be quite soft and this makes it difficult to effectively dig up when it is wet. In this instance, you may want to consider a mud bucket as this type of bucket is designed to work with squishy soils. In the event that your landscape is quite hard, either due to the climate or due to the soil texture, then you should consider a rock bucket.Share


Special Services Director B.J. Owen provided city council members with an unsafe structure removal update Tuesday during a city council meeting.
He said several abandoned properties had been removed since his last update to the council.
Properties on Hwy. 31, Knowles Street, Walnut Street and Angeline Street declared unsafe by the city have now been removed. Additionally, the Sud Shed on Hwy. 31 is in the process of being removed.
Owen said, in the process of removing unsafe structures, city workers were also keeping an eye on empty or unused properties which don’t meet the definition of “unsafe.”
“While we’re doing this, we’re finding, well, this building isn’t falling down but it’s empty. What do we do about that? It raises some questions and you start looking in the code. Property maintenance codes always require that a building either be vacant or occupied.
He added a building which is considered occupied doesn’t necessarily have to have people working in it as long as it’s being used for something.
“We send out letters to on empty commercial properties that appear vacant. Vacant means empty, secure and not being used. We’re going to ask building owners on how they want to use the building.”
Owen displayed several slides for council members of buildings which the city was following up on to determine their use and status.
The problem of empty buildings with unclear uses is a city-wide issue.
“It’s not just a downtown issue. This is throughout town,” Owen said, displaying images of buildings on Hwy. 135, Gladewater Street and Main Street.
Understanding how buildings are being used helps the city make sure properties have the proper designations and certificates.
“Are they vacant? Are they empty? Are they being used? We’re not really sure. We want that decision to be made by that building owner. That’s their decision. If it’s vacant, let’s make it empty, secure and no utilities connected so we don’t have to worry about it. If it’s occupied, either by bookshelves, books or your car, there’s a certificate of occupancy for that. Codes allow us to work with you to use it that way.”
The city also has to consider zoning restrictions when issuing certificates of occupancy. For example, Owen said, a building used for storing dangerous or explosive materials may not be allowed in certain zones.
Keeping building classifications and certificates up-to-date is an ongoing process, Owen said, but it is vital for making sure buildings which need to be removed can be removed and buildings which are in use are properly registered.
“Without this process, we’re never in an opportunity to talk to (building owners).”


Water for a big city
SUE “Vodokanal of St. Petersburg” provides drinking water to 5 million citizens and tens of thousands of companies and enterprises. One more task of Vodokanal is to collect and treat wastewater.
Since 2013, endangered pinnipeds - grey seals and (Baltic and Ladoga) ringed seals- have been rehabilitated at the premises of Repino wastewater treatment plant in the Kurortny District of St. Petersburg.
10 October 2013, the biggest environmental project – the Northern Tunnel Collector construction – was completed
Since June 28, 2011 Saint-Petersburg has been fully implementing the Helsinki Commission's recommendations for preservation of the Baltic Sea
Russian-Japanese technical workshop “Exchange of experience in the field of water supply and sewerage” took place today at the territory of the Information Educational Centre of SUE “Vodokanal of St.Petersburg”.
E.I. Tselikov, Deputy Director General of Vodokanal, and Satoshi Fukui, Director General of the Construction Bureau of Osaka City Government, welcomed workshop participants. Welcoming words were followed by reports of Vodokanal specialists and Japanese delegation representatives (it worth noting that Japanese guests presentations were in Russian, and ones of the Vodokanal specialists were in Japanese).
O.N. Rublevskaya, Vodokanal Deputy Director for Development, described Vodokanal activity towards reduction of untreated wastewater discharge (nowadays 98.5% of all St.Petersburg wastewater is treated), improvement of wastewater treatment quality and surface wastewater treatment. Enhanced phosphorus and nitrogen removal technology is implemented at all municipal wastewater treatment plants. This is associated with the obligations incurred by the Russian Federation within the Helsinki Convention for the Protection of the Baltic Sea framework. O.N. Rublevskaya also informed that sewage sludge utilization challenge is completely solved in St.Petersburg (sludge is incinerated at three plants). E.D. Nefedova, Deputy Director for Production, reported regarding the water supply system of St.Petersburg and existing water treatment technologies. A unique integrated system of tap water disinfecting is used in St.Petersburg. It involves the application of chemical (chemicals addition - sodium hypochlorite and ammonium sulphate) and physical (UV water treatment) methods. E.D. Nefedova emphasized that all St.Petersburg drinking water is guaranteed safe and harmless. The company currently is actively engaged in the water supply management system development. In the near future, such system will be operated across the so-called Southern water supply zone.
Toshiharu Sazaki, Chief Secretary, Director for Water Environment, Public Works Bureau, the City of Osaka, at the beginning of his presentation showed pictures of Osaka City taken fifty years ago and today. Photos of the city's past exemplified that the environmental situation was depressing. However, the situation was reversed, and now Osaka impresses with clean water and clean air. The city has accumulated a range of management know-how that could be useful, in particular, for those involved in water supply and sanitation. Masao Ayukawa, General Manager of the design and development department of one of the Japanese companies, outlined the approximate range of issues in which technology transfer cooperation can develop. In water supply those are, for example, improving energy efficiency in water supply system and reducing environmental load, pipelines modernization projects. As for wastewater treatment - rainwater collecting and recycling technologies, sewage sludge processing and efficient use technologies.
Workshop participants noted that the experts meeting was of great practical importance. It is impossible to achieve the objective of quality services provision without the technology development and water supply and sewerage innovations implementation.


About the Municipality
The KFN Municipal department takes care of services around the reserve, plowing and grading roads during all seasons of the year. They also assist the construction department with hauling materials- gravel, sand, etc for foundation pads of housing units. They also provide services to the community including clearing driveways, trash removal, spring cleanup. During the Hay River breakup they are also on stand-by in case of flooding to help recede the ice and water from damaging buildings. The municipal department consists of a foreman and several heavy equipment operators.
Contact the Municipal Foreman
|Phone||1 (867) 874-7721|
|Fax||1 (867) 874-3229|
We do trash removal twice a week, Tuesdays and Fridays. Local grading to keep the roads in good condition. Snow removal in the winter. We also operate the school bus to make sure children are on time.
Heavy Equipment Operator for 25 years, Six months HEO training. Born and raised on the Hay River Reserve.


Commercially operational since February 2016, the Khi Solar One thermal solar tower stands at 205 metres (673 ft). South Africa’s first solar tower plant, Khi Solar One has a reflecting area of 580,000 m² made up of 4,000 heliostats, allowing it to supply enough clean energy to power 45,000 homes.
The 50-MW concentrating solar power (CSP) station has a maximum operating system of 530°C, and can accumulate enough saturated steam to allow it to produce electricity at full capacity for two hours after sunset. The project is estimated to eliminate the production of 183,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.
It was announced in March 2016 that the plant achieved 24-hours of operation with solar energy only – the first tower plant to achieve this feat.
- On completion of the building of the main tower, we were responsible for the climbing down and removal of ties of a Wilbert tower crane.
Contact Van Doorn for a complimentary consultation for your next tower crane project.
Watch Khi Solar One Tower
The video below shows the scale of the project.


Investing in public transit infrastructure shortens commute times for families, creates good middle class jobs, grows our economy, and cuts air pollution. Since 2015, the Government of Canada has invested more than $13 billion in 1,300 public transit projects for communities across Canada. This is the largest public transit investment in Canadian history, and as we build back better from the global COVID-19 pandemic, we will continue to make these smart investments that support Canadians.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced $14.9 billion for public transit projects over the next eight years, which includes permanent funding of $3 billion per year for Canadian communities beginning in 2026-27. This announcement provides cities and communities the predictable transit funding they need to plan for the future, and is part of our plan to create one million jobs, fight climate change, and rebuild a more sustainable and resilient economy. These investments will:
- Help Canadians move around easier and create new jobs by building major public transit projects, providing dedicated planning funding to accelerate future major projects, and supporting the expansion of large urban transit systems that many Canadians depend on every day.
- Reduce pollution and create jobs for Canadians by enhancing public transit systems and switching them to cleaner electrical power, including supporting the use of zero-emission vehicles and related infrastructure, complementing the work of the Canada Infrastructure Bank.
- Support healthy lifestyles in our communities and meet the growing demand for active transportation projects, including by building walkways and paths for cycling, walking, scooters, e-bikes, and wheelchairs.
- Help Canadians living in rural and remote areas travel to and from work more easily and access essential services, by working with rural, remote, and Indigenous communities to identify and create transit solutions that meet their needs.
- Support our cities and communities by making a permanent and stable federal commitment to funding public transit, and facilitate partnerships between all orders of government, Indigenous communities, transit agencies, and other stakeholders to develop an approach to permanent public transit funding in a manner that offers the greatest benefits to Canadians.
Investing in public transit infrastructure will build strong communities across the country and deliver a better quality of life for all Canadians. The government will continue to invest in projects that best support our recovery, create middle class jobs and economic growth, and help us reach our climate targets. Together, we can create a Canada that is cleaner, more competitive, and more resilient for generations to come.
“When we invest in public transit infrastructure, we are supporting good middle class jobs, creating better commutes, fighting climate change, and helping make life easier and more affordable for Canadians. We will continue to do what it takes to ensure our economic recovery from COVID-19 and build back a more resilient country for everyone.”
“As we build back better, it is time to ambitiously invest in modern and sustainable public transit across our country, to reduce congestion, to help create a million jobs, and to support cleaner and more inclusive communities. Permanent, long-term funding for public transit will mean new subway lines, light-rail transit and streetcars, electric buses, cycling paths and improved rural transit. It will mean that Canadians can get around in faster, cleaner, and more affordable ways. And it will help drive us to net-zero emissions and ensure a more sustainable future for our kids.”
“Our government is committed to investing in public transit in communities across the country. We are working in collaboration with municipal, provincial and territorial governments to support Canadians in building a strong economy and clean environment.”
“Investing in cleaner and more affordable modes of transportation is an important part of Canada’s strengthened climate plan – one that means we will exceed our 2030 target and that will put us on a path to get to net-zero emissions by 2050. Transportation accounts for one-quarter of Canada’s emissions and represents an area that is in need of smart climate investments, like the ones that we have announced today, to support good Canadian jobs, a stronger economy, and a healthier planet.”
- Since 2015, the Government of Canada has spent over $13 billion in more than 1,300 public transit projects across Canada. These investments have helped build more than 240 kilometres of new public transit subway and light rail line, purchase over 300 zero-emission buses, and create almost 500 kilometres of active transportation trails, bike and pedestrian lanes, and recreational paths.
- Through the Investing in Canada Plan, the Government of Canada is already investing $28.7 billion to support public transit projects, including $5 billion available for investment through the Canada Infrastructure Bank.
- In October, as part of the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s three-year, $10 billion Growth Plan, the government announced that $1.5 billion of the available funding will be used to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission buses and charging infrastructure so Canadians can have cleaner commutes.
- Canada’s strengthened climate plan committed to provide permanent public transit funding. The plan encourages cleaner modes of transportation, such as low and zero-emission vehicles, transit, and active transportation, to make communities healthier, less congested, and more vibrant.
- In July 2020, the Government of Canada announced the Safe Restart Agreement, a federal investment of over $19 billion to help provinces and territories restart their economies while protecting the health of Canadians. The investment included a contribution of up to $2 billion to support municipalities with COVID-19 operating costs for six to eight months, and a commitment to cost-match more than $2.3 billion to support any additional provincial or territorial contributions for public transit.


By Shamsher Prakash
Read or Download Soil Dynamics PDF
Best civil engineering books
Ballast performs an essential function in transmitting and dispensing teach wheel a lot to the underlying sub-ballast and subgrade. Bearing means of music, teach velocity, driving caliber and passenger convenience all rely on the soundness of ballast via mechanical interlocking of debris. Ballast attrition and breakage take place gradually less than heavy cyclic loading, inflicting music deterioration and rail misalignment―affecting protection and important widespread and dear tune upkeep.
Tunnel engineering is likely one of the oldest, best but in addition demanding engineering disciplines and calls for not just theoretical wisdom but in addition sensible event in geology, geomechanics, structural layout, concrete building, laptop know-how, building method expertise and development administration.
This e-book provides numerous modernization plans protecting tracks, locomotives, and rolling inventory. To make the insurance complete, it contains very important statistical facts and examples. Supplemented with a few illustrations and examples, the textual content aids effortless figuring out of the layout equipment mentioned
- Civil Engineer's Reference Book, Edition: Fourth Edition
- Rock Slope Stability Analysis, 1st Edition
- International Mining Forum 2006, New Technological Solutions in Underground Mining: Proceedings of the 7th International Mining Forum, Cracow - Szczyrk - Wieliczka, Poland, February 2006
- Applied Soil Mechanics with ABAQUS Applications
- Computational Mechanics - New Frontiers for the New Millennium
- Comparative Plant Ecology: A Functional Approach to Common British Species
Additional resources for Soil Dynamics
A study of the voussoir arch. National Building Studies Research Paper No. 11. HMSO, London, 1951. 2. Castigliano. Elastic Stresses in Structures. , 1919. 3. Pippard A J S. The approximate estimation of safe loads on masonry bridges. Civil Engineer in War, Vol 1,365. Inst. Civ. , London, 1948. 4. Military Engineering Experimental Establishment. Classification (of civil bridges) by reconnaissance and correlation methods. MEXE. Christchurch, 1963. 5. Chettoe C S, and Henderson W. Masonry arch bridges-a study.
In addition, the County has a good selection of various types of concrete and steel bridges and also 15 mechanically operated opening bridges. PLAN OF ACTION FOR UPGRADING THE CONDITION OF THE BRICK ARCH STRUCTURES In view of the poor condition of the smaller structures in the County, it was decided that the following plan of action should be followed. Smaller culverts round about the 1 metre span were not easily accessible for major repairs. For this reason a decision was made to commence a 10 year reconstruction programme.
Specialist teams of workers - initially the County Council's Direct Labour Organisation, and later contractors were employed to carry out major maintenance to the structures on a rolling programme. 40 GENERAL Each bridge, when repaired, would be totally renovated, ideally so that no further work would be required for, say, 10 years. Work would include underpinning the bridge abutments with concrete. This would often require damming off the stream beds and carrying out the repair of small sections at a time to prevent collapse of the abutments.


Contrary to speculations, the Lagos State government, yesterday, said no directive had been given for the demolition of the two high-rise buildings standing at the site of the 21-storey collapsed building in Ikoyi.
The state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, who disclosed this in a statement, said that the panel of inquiry instituted into the collapse of the building had continued to sit and an integrity test on the two buildings is yet to be conducted.
He added that it was, therefore, wrong to assert or speculate that the buildings would be demolished. Omotosho said two more bodies had been recovered from the site yesterday, which brings the number of bodies retrieved from the site to 45.
MEANWHILE, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has set up a nine-member investigation panel on the collapse of the 21-storey building at Ikoyi, Lagos.
President, COREN, Ali Rabiu, at a press briefing yesterday, said that the decision was taken in pursuant to Section 1 (1) (h) of the Engineers (Registration) Amendment) Act, 2018, which empowers the council to investigate engineering failures.
He said panel would carry out a comprehensive inquisition on the remote and or immediate cause of the collapse and others. Chairman of the panel, George Okoroma, said that investigation into the data would be the focus of the panel.


Look at these beautiful historic clinker brick, unfortunately both chimneys are cracked, loose and crumbling above the roofline due to excessive saturation decay caused by inadequate flashing, cracks in the crown and metal coverings that do not adequately protect the chimney from PNW rain. Clinker bricks are partially-vitrified bricks used in the construction of buildings. Clinker bricks are produced when wet clay bricks are exposed to excessive heat during the firing process, sintering the surface of the brick and forming a shiny, dark-colored coating. Clinker bricks have a blackened appearance, and they are often misshapen or split. Clinkers are so named for the metallic sound they make when struck together.
We’re going to take these chimneys down to below the roofline and rebuild reusing the historic clinker bricks. Stay tuned for updates on this restoration project.
Have a restoration project in the Portland Metro Area?
Give us a call! 503-758-4710


Tan Construction Inc. is a general construction design-build firm. Our main objective is to provide the highest quality service to our clients. Over the years, we have established an outstanding reputation for quality, value and on-time performance. Our combination construction management and highly skilled employees ensures us of being able to provide our clients with a turn-key solution for design-build, design-bid-build, renovation and environmental remediation projects.
For us it’s all about process. Our quality management systems provide for plan review, testing, inspection and submittal and RFI reviews from start-up to punch list. Our project management system is made effective through clear and direct communications, and systematic reporting and tracking. In the cost estimating and facility assessment components, we utilize proprietary systems and software which allow our project managers to gather, store, and access data. This data allows our team to understand the projects needs and advancement in a measurable system to creatively and effectively manage and problem solve. These systems are the most effective tools for our client budgets, schedules and design objectives and provide our clients with more accurate evaluations and appraisals than our competitors.
At Tan Construction we are dedicated to building lasting partnerships with our clients by providing exceptional craftsmanship, responsive action, and service-oriented professionalism. We believe consistent quality, competitive estimating, clear communication, and rigorous safety standards are of the utmost importance.
Our Mission Statement: “We are committed to providing our customers quality construction, at a cost effective budget. We take great pride on our accomplishments. And build on them every day.”
North American Industry Classification System
Tan Construction, Inc. specializes in Department of Defense, industrial, and commercial projects. We carry the following NAICS codes:
Construction, repair, and refurbishment of roadways, airfields, parking lots, sidewalks, etc.
Self performance of site preparation, earth work, demolition, concrete, HVAC, electrical, fire protection, lightning protection.
Professional relationship with multiple qualified design firms; experienced in design-build process.
Thorough estimating and planning, reinforced by safety and quality control programs, bring our clients’ designs to fruition.
New construction, renovation, repair and maintenance of building structures and systems.
Installation, repair, and replacement of EPDM, PVC, sheet and standing seam metal, shingle, built-up, modified bituminous, and stone ballast roofing systems.
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Return to FAQs page
Return to TiltPlate page
The stackable TiltPlate configuration allows the mast to extend above the TiltPlate. The boom truss u-bolts are positioned so the boom truss mast and cables do not interfere with the main mast in the normal or tilted over position. The normal offset of the moveable plate insures there is no interference between the main mast and the boom truss cables. There is an adapter for the KARLock to use it with the stackable models. Click here for the KARLock page and a picture of the adapter.
WARNING: Stacking TiltPlates or mounting another antenna above a TiltPlate will put
a significant additional load on your tower, mast, and thrust bearings. Be
sure to consider this when designing your project. Array Solutions
is an excellent source for information on heavy duty masts. If you are
considering an extended mast, this is worth a read:
The stackable option was tested in the summer of 2009 by Steve/W4QMC, Jim/KE5JCN and Bob/WA5VSK.
Stackable configuration now available at no extra cost.
Bob / WA5VSK -- Stackable TiltPlate with KARLock, lower antenna installed.
Note: In Bob's installation, the boom truss cable is attached to the main mast. The preferred method is to install the boom truss mast on the moveable plate of the TiltPlate. The cable tension is then kept constant as the tower is lowered.
Below - closeup shows the KARLock engaged.
Click for more pix of Bob's installation on the main page.
The KM1C Project
If you are considering stacking TiltPlates, click to view the project page for Bill / KM1C


If your family's new home uses a septic system, then there are some actions that you can take to increase its health and longevity. By taking good care of the septic system, it will process your home's waste water for decades to come. To this end, follow these tips to keep your septic system flowing and successfully processing waste water:
Tip: Keep Harmful Substances Out of the Septic Tank
Septic tanks rely on bio-digesting bacteria to break down the solids and turn them into liquids that can safely pass out of the tank down the leach lines to the leach field. In order to prevent problems with the bio-digesting bacteria in your home's septic tank, you should never introduce any of these things into the tank:
- non-septic safe toilet paper
- cooking grease and oils
- water softener brine
In addition, you should not use a garbage disposal with a septic system, because the bio-digesting bacteria cannot dissolve meat and other foods. You should also ask that no tampons or feminine hygiene product wrappers be flushed down the toilets because they will lead to both plumbing and septic system clogs.
Tip: Install a Septic Tank Outlet Filter
If there are many people living in your home or residents with long hair, then you should consider having an outlet filter installed on your septic tank the next time it is serviced. An outlet filter is a simple device that is made out of wire mesh. The mesh filter prevents solid materials and hair from prematurely traveling out of the septic tank and down the leach lines.
An outlet filter is especially important in homes where a lot of loads of laundry are run each week. Laundry water contains a lot of lint and fibers that should not be permitted to pass from the septic tank down the leach lines.
Tip: Pump and Clean Out the Septic Tank Regularly
Finally, to prevent permanent damage to the septic system's leach lines and leach field, you should have the septic tank regularly pumped dry and cleaned out. During the cleaning process, your plumbing contractor will scrub the walls of the septic tank to remove any grease or oils that have built up on its sides. Left unchecked, these contaminants can damage the concrete tank. Once the tank is clean, then the plumber can inspect the tank for damage and make any necessary repairs. Contact a company like River City Septic & Excavating to have this service done.


Maintaining your pavement is an essential part of keeping your business running efficiently. By assertive pavement upkeep, we indicate maintaining your pavement before it becomes local paving contractor near me a difficulty. This may save your valuable local paving contractor near me time and cash in the end. Within this post, we shall explore the many advantages of assertive pavement servicing!
Benefit Top: Positive Pavement Servicing Can Save You Funds
The expense of pavement maintenance is usually much higher than the fee for proactive pavement routine maintenance. By purchasing positive pavement servicing, it is possible to stay away from the great costs associated with pavement restoration.
Gain #2: Proactive Pavement Upkeep Will Save You Time
Positive pavement upkeep can save you time by stopping problems before they arise. It will help you avoid the hassle and inconvenience of working with a pavement difficulty.
Advantage #3: Positive Pavement Routine maintenance Can Improve The Lifespan Of The Pavement
Assertive pavement routine maintenance can raise the lifespan of the pavement by avoiding damage before it happens. This will save you dollars over time by preventing the necessity to change your pavement ahead of time.
Reward #4: Assertive Pavement Routine maintenance Can Improve The Look Of Your Pavement
Proactive pavement upkeep can increase the look of your pavement by maintaining it in excellent condition. This can create a beneficial impression on the consumers and help to draw in new business.
Gain #5: Positive Pavement Upkeep Can Improve The Basic safety Of Your Pavement
Assertive pavement servicing can boost the basic safety of your respective pavement by avoiding risks before they take place. This can produce a less dangerous atmosphere for the workers and clients.
As you can see, there are numerous advantages to positive pavement upkeep. By using this kind of routine maintenance, you save time and money and boost the visual appeal and security of the pavement. For those who have any questions about positive pavement maintenance, you should call us right now! We would gladly answer any queries. Thanks for reading through!


The VLW-X series of Vertical “V” clamps consist of a welded steel housing and two polyurethane wedges.
This clamp is designed for use in vertical mine shafts and other applications where the cable itself applies a constant directional tension.
The welded steel housing has two main components; the body and a cross latch which ensures that the cable tension does not cause the steel body to deform. The body is installed on mine shaft timbers and the cable trained into the cavity. Once all cable clamps and the cable are in place, the polyurethane wedges are inserted around the cable and driven into place. The main cable clamp restraint is loosened and the cable allowed to settle into the distributed cable “V” cable clamps
The clamp eliminates all other forms of vertical support. Each body and wedge assembly is designed for a small range of cable diameters. This ensures the used that a particular cable is supported within the closing tolerances. Other uses may be vertical pole drops in mine and utility applications, the support of vertical pipe runs or horizontal cable runs where cable tension is reasonably constant.
Ordering Information, By Cable Diameter
Use the chart below to choose the correct part number to match your cable diameter.
|Catalogue No.||Nom.Diam. ±0.125”|


Scheduled Power Outage – June 22nd
Posted By sbieber on May 29, 2021
On Tuesday, June 22nd, a planned power outage for the building has been scheduled as a result of the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power upgrading the electrical system of Broadway Hollywood and other buildings in the area. The power outage is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. and could last until 5:00 p.m.
During the outage, the only areas in the building that will have power will be the common areas. No residential units will have power. Charging stations will be provided in the main lobby.
Please contact management at firstname.lastname@example.org with any questions or concerns.


Our design experience for high rise developments range in size from seven to 25-storeys, including a Step 2 mass timber building project with 179 units and an 18-storey mixed use building that included ducted split heat pumps utilized in the penthouse and commercial spaces.
Project of Note: The Jukebox – Victoria, BC
This 9-storey development is a 215-unit mixed-use condo building with 11 ground floor commercial units.
Projects range from two to six-storeys, with upwards of 132 units. Developments include apartments buildings and townhouses.
Project of Note: The Travino – Royal Oak
The Travino development located in Royal Oak consists of five individual mixed-use commercial and residential buildings situated above a common underground parking structure. The development includes wide use of solar domestic hot water, on-site storm water treatment, and energy efficient variable refrigerant flow heating and cooling systems. Avalon has designed the mechanical, plumbing and fire suppression systems for the first two phases of construction, including approximately 120 residential suites, the parkade, and a large portion of commercial space. We are currently working on the design for the third phase.
Projects consist of buildings with both residential and commercial units, and other projects with additional townhouse and student housing.
Project of Note: Wale Road – Colwood, BC
Two five-storey mixed-use buildings with a total of 63 residential units and five commercial units. Split-type heat pump systems are provided in the commercial spaces.
Townhouse projects include a large 184 unit mixed-use development, and a nine-building development of 36 townhouses with VRF heating and cooling systems.
Project of Note: Salt Spring Commons – Salt Spring Island, BC
Nine buildings consisting of 24 residential townhouse units and one common building. The project was to Step 3 of the Step Code, utilizing heat recovery ventilators and split-system ductless heat pump units.


Please select from the specialist services below for more info:
Technologies, Plumbing, Insulations & Paints
Integrating new technologies into older buildings, if undertaken sympathetically, can improve energy efficiency, solve problems and save money.
Colin Clark Builders Ltd can provide complete heating installations, or adaptations to existing heating systems to utilise more sustainable heat sources such as heat pumps, PV solar panels (electricity), Solar thermal tube panels (hot water), woodburners/backboilers, biomass etc.
We work closely with companies like Skyreach Solar, and Jupiter Underfloor Heating to bring together the best of the new technologies with the expertise and knowledge to create plumbing and heating systems to provide significant reductions on running costs and carbon emissions.
Insulation is widely recognised as the most effective way of improving the efficiency of your home, but we also recognise that it is equally important to use natural materials whenever possible, for many reasons – health, environment, performance, breathability, etc.
We keep our finger on the pulse for new products all the time, and can advise on the various different eco-friendly materials now available, as well as the all important cost implications. We have built up good relations with our suppliers of natural building materials and can offer competitive prices for various natural insulations, which now compare favourably to the costs of mass-produced rigid PIR and fibreglass type insulations.
Through the centuries, highly breathable finishes such as limewashes and distempers have proven their worth and will always be good options for finishing lime plasters and lime renders, or directly onto brickwork, where breathability is required. However, there are occasions where other choices can be useful. For this reason we have researched the best alternatives and frequently work with claypaints and specialist silicate masonry paints from the leaders in the field to provide finishes with breathability, excellent colour-matching and longevity as well as uniformity of finish among other benefits.


Reclaim your Yard from Standing water
Foliage Design System offer several options that improve yard drainage. These systems move the standing water on your property back into the earth and away from high risk flood areas. Thus, protecting your yard and property.
Foliage Design Landscaping Can Help You:
- Design a drainage system for your property that protects your foundation and takes water away from your landscape
- Fix water drainage issues created by negative slope
- Grade and level the property ensuring water is steered away from problem areas
Systems We offer
A perforated PVC pipe will be put into the ground. We will then cover the pipe with gravel and soil on your property. This system will capture excess water and move it to a different location on your property. Thus, solving your water issues.
French Drains and
This drainage system catches and holds excess water on your property. After installation the water can slowly percolate back into the ground water system. We will then cover the area with decorative rock or sod depending on your preference.
Similar to catch basins, rain gardens capture and hold water which will prevent water from sitting on the surface of your property. After that, a variety of water loving plants are planted over the top. This eliminates your water problems and will enhance your landscape.


Thursday, September 05, 2013
Timeshare Travel - New Bridge for San Francisco Bay
A graceful white tower is part of the self-anchored suspension span of the new Bay Bridge, which officially opened this past Monday, September 2, 2013.
Whether you cross the Bay Bridge as a driver, a bicyclist or a pedestrian, you’ll undoubtedly be taken with its gleaming white paint job, its graceful tower and its spider web of suspension cables, not to mention its sweeping views, which can now be easily enjoyed unlike the old bridge which blocked them.
The new span replaces a structure that was damaged during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. It is designed to withstand the strongest earthquake estimated by seismologists to occur at the site over a 1,500-year period.
The Bay Bridge is actually composed of several parts, beginning with a sleek skyway from the Oakland side that leads to the new, self-anchored suspension bridge - with its looming, single white tower.
The span then leads onto Yerba Buena Island in the middle of the bay. On the other side of the island, the old double-decker west span, which has been retrofitted to higher earthquake standards, completes the crossing to San Francisco.
But as esthetically impressive as the $6.4 billion new span may be, its graceful looks overshadow its main mission: to not only remain standing after a devastating earthquake but to be able to carry emergency vehicles and supplies across the bay soon after the ground stops shaking.
Seismic engineers who designed the span used a variety of innovative techniques, some borrowed from offshore construction, to help make the bridge strong, yet flexible enough to withstand the greatest seismic forces imaginable.
Before installing any of the innovations on the span, pieces were built and tested in laboratories from Reno to San Diego.
Engineers admire the old Bay Bridge, saying it was meticulously designed and well-assembled. But it is riddled with seismic deficiencies because when the span was built, seismic engineering was neither common nor sophisticated.
The new span includes a 15.5 foot-wide bike and pedestrian path that will be extended onto the island after the old eastern span is removed.
Check out the many budget-friendly San Francisco timeshare rentals available.
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Photo Credit: en.wikipedia.org


Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Inc., a trusted name since 1991, recently completed a residential driveway paving project in Spring Valley, WI. Our client, a loyal customer, chose us for our reliable services years ago. When they recently faced a cracked concrete driveway, they trusted our expertise in residential asphalt paving. And they’re not the only ones! Our pavement services extend across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Having grown from a two-man sealcoating operation, we’re proud to offer WI homeowners our services and improve local communities.
Asphalt Excellence: Transformative Residential Driveway Paving by Trusted Experts in Spring Valley, WI
Facing a cracked concrete driveway lacking visual appeal, the Spring Valley, WI client opted for the superior asphalt option. Asphalt’s unparalleled durability ensures longevity, withstanding the rigors of weather and heavy use. Beyond durability, the sleek and smooth finish of asphalt adds an aesthetic appeal that enhances the overall look of the property, providing a practical yet visually pleasing solution for residential homeowners.
During our meticulous residential driveway paving process, we commence by carefully removing the damaged pavement, ensuring a clean slate for the transformation. The next step involves addressing the subbase, focusing on comprehensive repairs to create a solid foundation. Precise grading follows, where our skilled contractors skillfully sculpt the surface for optimal drainage, preventing potential issues in the future. This thorough approach guarantees resilient and visually appealing pavement that exceeds our client’s expectations. Our trained crew also paid particular attention to seamless transitions with other paved areas.
This residential driveway paving project, completed in just one day, reaffirmed the customer’s trust in our contractors. In the client’s words, “The job exceeded my expectations. The efficiency was impressive; they finished it in just one day!” This showcases our dedication to delivering prompt and high-quality residential paving services.
Property owners in Spring Valley and beyond can trust Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Inc. for reliable residential pavement services, whether that’s a repair on a private road or seal coating a drive. Consider the upgrade to asphalt for its durability and aesthetic benefits.
Enhance your property with our proven expertise. Contact us today for a driveway transformation that stands the test of time.


Project 3 – Passive New Build
Ashmore Building were engaged by a private client in Co. Meath to complete the build of a new single family Passive home on a large site.
Ashmore were delighted to be given the opportunity to construct this house. The opportunity to construct a fully certified passive house made was a challenge Ashmore relished. Attention to detail is crucial in achieving the passive house standard and great professionalism and expertise is needed to convert lines on a drawing into a building that achieved a Passive House Certification.
We developed a close working relationship with architect Micah T Jones who was readily available to answer any queries that arose, which allowed us to benefit from their knowledge on Passive housing also.
The fine detail started below ground on this house, XPS insulation was used in the rising walls from the foundation up. Low conductivity Basalt Fibre wall ties were used to tie the blockwork together. The 300mm wide cavity was filled with Dritherm insulation. All these details and products were an integral part of achieving the passive standard.
Passive House, Co. Meath
Project Size: 2527 sq. ft
Project Duration: 12 Months
Mechanical: TJ McCann Heating and Plumbing
Electrical: Global Electrical
Plastering: AD Plastering
Windows: True Windows and Doors


» NYS Seeks New Rail Grants For 8 Projects
Meeting the April 4th deadline, New York State today applied for a total of $517 million in new Federal Rail Grants, to fund eight specific projects.
The new grant applications submitted to the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) seek to obtain a portion of the $2.4 billion in federal funds which Florida Governor Rick Scott recently returned.
The eight projects, and their costs, are:
• Rebuilding Harold Interlocking - $294.7 m - The project would construct dedicated tracks for Amtrak use in this busy area. Currently Amtrak trains between New York and points north towards New England must share tracks with Long Island RR commuter trains.
• Moynihan Station Development - Phase 2 - $49.8 m - Final design for the continuing project to expand current capacity at New York’s Penn Station.
• Upper Hudson High-Capacity Signal System - $112.0m - This project would replace the current outdated signal system between Croton-Harmon and Poughkeepsie on the Metro North Railroad. Both Amtrak and Metro North trains would greatly benefit from the added capacity and reliability a new system would provide.
• Hudson Line Signal System Improvements - $18.6m - Funds the work to complete the upgrading of the signal system on the remaining 48 miles of between Poughkeepsie and Rensselaer not previously funded. The current pole-mounted signal lines would be replaced with buried cables, greatly improving the reliability of the system, particularly in bad weather.
• Rensselaer Station 4th Track And Platforms - $35.4m - Would fund the construction of the long-sought fourth boarding track at the Rensselaer Station (the ninth busiest in the Amtrak system); extend the length of the two current platforms from 500 feet to 1,000 feet; re-configure the track lay-out and signal systems allowing for higher train speeds when approaching and leaving the station.
• New Schenectady Station - $4.1m - Would provide the last necessary funding to allow this project to construct a new Schenectady Station at the current Erie Blvd. site to proceed.
• New Rochester Station - $1.4m - Would complete the necessary preliminary engineering and enviromental review for the proposed new Rochester Intermodal Station, to be located at the current site.
• New Niagara Falls Maintenance Base - $1.75m - Would complete the necessary preliminary engineering and enviromental work for a new in-door maintenance base in Niagara Falls, NY. Currently all lay-over servicing and repairs are done outdoors, even in the coldest winter weather. The facility would be designed to handle future higher-speed train equipment also.
More details on these projects will be posted as they become available.
April 4, 2011


We’re delighted to announce that today we have received full planning permission to construct a multi-use covered shelter within Easebourne Park!
The concept of a shelter came from the Parish wide survey that we carried out in January this year. It will sit just inside the Park at the bottom of the natural slopes that lead down from the car park and will be partly constructed with wood donated from the Cowdray Estate and with a living green roof in order to blend in with it’s surroundings. The shelter is being entirely funded by grants from The National Lottery, Chichester District Council and The Grange, for which we are immensely grateful.
We are now able to progress the design with local structural engineers and fine-tune the features with a view to beginning construction during the second half of March 2020. More details about the design, timings and other proposed additions to the Park will be announced in January.


Geo Thermal and storms.
With Hurricane Sandy a recent memory, Texas in the midst of recovery, and powerful storms bearing down in the tropics, architects, engineers and professionals of all kinds are taking notice that geothermal systems are the most resilient and stormproof air-conditioning and heating systems available. New York Times wrote in the aftermath of Sandy, “Geothermal Systems Arise as a Stormproof Resource”.
Many don’t realize that with a geothermal system, the cooling tower, boiler, and associated fuel tank are eliminated, leaving little outside the building’s envelope to be damaged. The equipment can be installed in elevated locations in the building, keeping the equipment above flood-zones. The storm resilience is one of many attributes enjoyed by buildings equipped with geothermal systems. Some of the others include: https://www.renewableenergyworld.com/articles/2017/09/design-professionals-spec-geothermal-for-storm-resilience.html
— RenewableEnergyWorld (@REWorld) September 7, 2017


I. Background of the Project
Traffic flow collection sub-system of intelligent transportation management system construction project of Zhengzhou City is a major part of urban ITS of Zhengzhou City. On the one hand, the information collection depth and width can be expanded through adding various road data detection equipment, one the other hand, accuracy of the road traffic data can be greatly improved by integrating data of the old and new collection equipment so as to provide decision data for more effective traffic management, command & dispatch and transportation planning.
II. Description of the Project
Guided by the actual demand of urban traffic in Zhengzhou City and focusing on data collection, processing and releasing of various road data detection equipment, we placed emphasis on real-time collection of geomagnetism, microwave and video, accuracy of monitoring and identification, integration of dynamic road conditions and GIS data, traffic prediction, dynamic information releasing & application and other core technologies and enhance effective integration and comprehensive utilization of real-time dynamic information resources to meet the public demand for travelling information services. At the same time, through integration & processing and analysis & judgment of the data, we strive to facilitate sustainable development of transportation and improve application level of urban ITS technology to provide new services for transportation management and public travelling.
III. Objectives of the Project
Establish dynamic traffic flow collection sub-system to receive data from various road data detection equipment in real time. Integrate with the existing flow collection system in Zhengzhou to provide uniform and standard real-time traffic parameter data for the center data processing platform for in-depth mining (data analysis and pre-processing, fusion, short-term prediction, judgment of congestion status and generation of guidance information).
IV. Core Functional Modules


TR Concrete is the industry leader in commercial concrete and masonry services throughout the central Minnesota and Twin Cities area. We bring a team of talented, dedicated, and highly skilled professionals to each and every project, ensuring the job gets done right.
Our experienced commercial project managers will guide the entire project with reliability and expertise from estimates and schedules through budgets, & project completion.
We specialize in commercial and industrial masonry & concrete services. From foundations to vertical concrete structures, we bring an expertise that provides the highest level of quality and finish to every project.
I enjoy working at TR Concrete because of the great working environment, great people, benefits, and the type of projects I get to work on.
- John, Concrete Finisher/Carpenter
Grow your career with TR Concrete


- Premier office space available, from 250 to over 20,000 sq ft
- Retail space available on 1st floor, from 1000 to 8000 sq ft
- Utilities included
- Raised access floor systems for voice and data cabling
- Tenants select office layout and flooring
- Enhanced Enterprise Zone
- Off hour security card access
- 1st floor restaurant
- Over 300 parking spaces
- Fitness center for tenants
- Flex space available (shared conference room, reception area, and break room)
Formerly known as the Bagcraft Building and the Inter State Grocer Building, the Gryphon Building will feature 123,000 sq ft of class “A” office and retail space in the heart of downtown Joplin offering modern business amenities with historic class. Completed originally in 1915, the rehabilitation will be completed in Spring 2010. The building will be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified as a green building and is already placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
By 1913, the Inter-State Grocer Company had outgrown its complex on South Virginia Street and began plans for the construction of a much larger, more efficient edifice. The company officers chose a site just across the railroad tracks to the south where the former S.C. Henderson Wholesale Grocer Company had occupied a late nineteenth century building on South Main Street since circa 1902.
The company contracted with prolific Kansas City architect, John McKecknie, for the design of a new, fireproof warehouse, processing, and distribution facility. McKecknie, had used reinforced concrete as early as 1903, and his reinforced concrete design for the Inter-State Grocer Company would be described as the “the most ideal in the middle west for wholesale business purposes.”
The contracting firm of Bane & Hoffman completed the Inter-State Grocer Company Building in 1915. The building’s location, directly adjacent to railroad tracks and South Main Street, allowed for easy freighting access and efficient transport of goods by both rail and truck. A rail spur lead directly along the building’s north elevation, allowing direct, level access from rail freight car into the building, eliminating the need for trucking between the rail line and the warehouse. Truck loading docks on the east (rear) and south elevations facilitated the circulation and distribution of goods to local retailers, for the Inter-State Grocer Company maintained a fleet of delivery trucks, which, by 1940, numbered at least seven. A five-bay, one-story brick garage building was constructed at the east end of the lot for truck storage and maintenance.
The five-story building with its sophisticated facade design became an immediate landmark, taller than any other building in the immediate vicinity. The building cost more than $225,000 and encompassed 130,000 square feet of interior space well-lit by more than 140 large multi-light steel sash windows. Sixty-four interior concrete columns resting on a limestone base set as much as 25 feet below grade support the building. These columns, which feature modestly decorative capitals throughout the building, are thirty inches in diameter on the basement level and taper to eighteen inches in diameter on the fifth floor. The building incorporated the latest in fireproof design, from the reinforced concrete construction, to fire doors, to the installation of a “modern automatic sprinkling device” with sprinkler heads for every eighty square feet of floor space. In addition, in case of fire and subsequent failure of the city water pressure, the roof supported a reserve water tank holding 25,000 gallons of water. Including areas specifically designed for food processing and storage, the building incorporated the most up-to-date design features for mechanical efficiency, labor saving, and sanitation needs. The centrally located elevator that could move 4,000 pounds of goods at 150 feet per minute and a spiral chute for descending goods as large as a barrel of sugar were major time-saving features. Pneumatic message and package tubes, speaking tubes, and a full telephone exchange facilitated communication between floors, within departments, and with the outside world. For employee comfort, restrooms for both men (second floor) and women (third floor, “equipped with necessities for feminine patrons”) were present. To accommodate visitors, the ample first-floor lobby featured water fountains and “a lounging place, a library table with newspapers and magazines, and several comfortable chairs”. The adjacent offices extended across the full width of the front of the building, with purchasing and sales departments to the north of the lobby and the auditing and billing departments to the south of the lobby.
Coffee was one of the company’s best selling products and the building design accommodated an enlarged coffee department with two large Monitor gas roasters on the fifth floor with a daily capacity of 15,000 pounds. The roasted coffee descended to the fourth floor for cleaning, purifying, and steel cutting, from where it descended again to the third floor for packing and weighing and packaging by female employees.
More than 5,000 people attended the February 19, 1915 grand opening, which included two receptions - afternoon and evening - that each featured decorations, refreshments, musical entertainment, and employee escorts. Attendees toured each floor and each department with sales force representatives hailing from Neosho, Nevada, Fayetteville, Springfield, Joplin, Pierce City, and Webb City, Missouri; Siloam Springs and Eureka Springs, Arkansas; Tulsa and Vinita, Oklahoma; and Galena, Kansas. Departments included the following:
- Basement: cold storage, paper stock, syrups, and preserves
- First floor: shipping, administrative offices
- Second floor: general merchandise, preserving supplies, baking powders, dry goods, Jell-O, Kremel
- Third floor: candy processing plant
- Fourth floor: prepared foods, cereals, canned fruits and vegetables
- Fifth Floor: coffee roasting and processing, vinegar storage vats
The company continued to be a major employer in Joplin throughout the 1920s and 1930s. At the time, the Inter-State Grocer Company officers included W.A. Corl, president; C.M Elam, vice president; and A.V. McCorckle, secretary. Under their management, the company became affiliated with IGA (Independent Grocers Alliance) and a certified distributor of IGA-brand goods.
Apparently the company downsized after World War II, for in 1948, the KFSB radio station, advertised as “Joplin’s only 5000-watt station,” occupied available space within the building. From 1948 until 1956, the KFSB studio and offices were on the first and second floors in the northwest portion of the building and they broadcast from the roof of the building, still the highest in the vicinity.
In 1968, the Inter-State Grocery Company and IGA constructed a new warehouse in the Joplin South Industrial Park and vacated the building at 1027-1030 South Main Street. The following year, Joplin Building Material Company, a supplier of concrete, brick, sand, stone, masonry, and other building supplies, moved into the building and used it as a warehouse. Future Foam Inc. and Vickers Factory warehouse also occupied space in the building at this time.
In 1972, all tenants vacated the building when the Bagcraft Corporation, a Chicago-based firm, purchased the building and installed their Midwest Division bag and paper products manufacturing operations. The company operated at this location until 1994 when they vacated the building and moved the operation 20 miles west to Baxter Springs, Kansas. The building has been vacant since.
Summary of Architectural Significance
The Inter-State Grocer Company Building reflects the progressive technologies of steel and concrete construction that emerged in the first decade of the twentieth century. The use of state-of-the-art construction technology and patterned brickwork and contrasting terra cotta treatments reflect a transitional period in the design and construction of commercial buildings that occurred in the United States beginning in 1890s and continuing into the first decades of the twentieth century. The building is among a select number of buildings in Joplin erected in the early twentieth century that utilized new technological advancements in reinforced concrete technology and it is significant for its engineering and structural design. Furthermore, the design and construction of the Inter-State Grocer Company Building illustrate the layout and spatial arrangement that successfully integrated diverse functional spaces. Its fenestration patterns, massing, scale, and fireproof materials clearly distinguish it as a distinct early twentieth century Factory and Warehouse Building property sub-type documented in the MPDF “Historic Resources of Joplin, Missouri.” Because of its retention of historic architectural integrity, the Inter-State Grocer Company Building meets the registration requirements of the MPDF and successfully communicates the architectural and commercial features that allowed the building to continue in its original function for much of the twentieth century. As such, the building reflects its associations with commercial architectural development in Joplin, reflecting common features of a particular class of the Factory and Warehouse Building property sub-type.
This page contains excerpts and historic photos from our National Register Nomination drafted by Sally Schwenk Associates, Inc.
Download floor plan documents
Note: Floors 2 through 5 have the same basic layout
- 1st floor PDF 148 KB
- 2nd - 4th floor PDF 148 KB
- 5th floor PDF 112 KB
- Entry plaza design concept PDF 234 KB
- Carriage house 3D PDF 304 KB
- Carriage house diagram PDF 76 KB
First floor layout
The Gryphon Building in the News
- Follow the Gryphon Building Restoration Project - Facebook Group
- Kickoff for The Gryphon gets underway - Joplin Independent April 4, 2009
- Downtown Building Getting Facelift - KOAM TV Video April 3, 2009
- Downtown Construction Gets Underway - Joplin Globe April 3, 2009
- Landmark Buildings Being Renovated - Request Tax Abatements - KOAM TV January 2, 2009
- State receives 11 bids for Joplin office space - Joplin Globe December 10, 2008
- Developers Win Historic Designation - Joplin Globe October 30, 2008
- Tax Credits Key - Joplin Globe July 22, 2008
- Building’s history dates to mining days - Joplin Globe January 2, 2008


Roof leakage is a common and costly problem for homeowners. In this article, we will explore the most common causes of roof leakage, so that you can be better prepared to deal with this issue if it arises.
1. Improper Roofing Installation – One of the most common causes of roof leaks is improper installation. If the roof isn’t installed correctly, it can lead to water seeping in and causing damage to the home.
2. Damaged Roofing Material – Another common cause of roof leaks is damage to the roofing material. If the shingles or tiles are broken or missing, it can allow water to seep in and cause damage.
3. Clogged Gutters – Clogged gutters can also lead to roof leaks, as they can cause water to back up and overflow onto the roof.
4. Defective Roofing Material – Roofing material that is defective or that has been installed incorrectly is also a common cause of roof leaks.
5. Poor Roof Maintenance – Roofs that aren’t properly maintained can also be more susceptible to leaks. If leaves or other debris are allowed to accumulate on the roof, it can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, which can lead to water leakage.
6. Roof Age – Older roofs are more likely to experience roof leaks, as they may have started to wear down and deteriorate over time.
7. improperly Installed Chimney flashing – A improperly installed chimney flashing is another common cause of roof leaks. This occurs when the flashing around the chimney is not properly sealed, which can allow water to leak into the home.
8. Ice Dams – Ice dams are another common cause of roof leaks, as they can cause water to back up and seep into the home through the eaves and gables.
9. Hail Damage – Hail damage can also lead to roof leaks, as it can damage the shingles or tiles and allow water to seep in.
10. Wind Damage – Strong winds can also cause damage to the roof and lead to leaks. Winds can cause shingles or tiles to be blown off, which can leave gaps that allow water to seep in.
How to Prevent Roof Leaks
One of the best ways to prevent roof leaks is to regularly check your roof for damage and repair any problems you find. You should also keep trees and other plants trimmed back from your home, as their branches can damage your roof. Roofing tar or sealant can also help to prevent leaks, so be sure to apply it to your roof every few years. If a leak does occur, be sure to address it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Roof leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, from damage to the roofing material itself to improper installation or maintenance. In this article, we have explored 10 of the most common causes of roof leaks. By being aware of these potential problems, you can take steps to prevent them and protect your home from water damage.
If you’re not sure whether you manage your roof leaks, it’s always best to consult with a professional roofing contractor. They will be able to assess the damage and give you their expert opinion on the best course of action. At A-Team Roofing & Solar, we are here to help you with your roof. Contact us today! We pride ourselves on our quality workmanship and customer service.


What looks like a path was actually a railway back in the day. A railway, opened in 1858, used to run between Dunstable and Welwyn Junction (now the site of Welwyn Garden City station where the branch used to join the main Great Northern Line). Like a lot of branch railways in England, this particular branch line was closed by Dr. Beeching in 1965 following his report into the future of Britain's railways in 1963. Some 5,000 miles of railway was cut to make the railways more cost-effective. You can walk along the former railway line to near Wheathampstead to the west of Welwyn Garden City.
If you are used to travelling by train through Welwyn Garden City then the sight of the lovely,now disused, Shredded Wheat factory will be reassuringly familiar.


Hoosick Valley Contractors Inc. provides quality general contracting, design/build and construction management services. HVC is also able to provide specialty services including tank removal and installation as well as asphalt paving. Capable of performing individual projects up to $10 million, Hoosick Valley Contractors has established a solid reputation for exceptional quality, commitment and expertise in the construction industry.
Hoosick Valley Contractors provides clients with facilities tailored to their specific needs. Our clients include many area school districts, municipalities, corporations and non-profit organizations.


The Eco-Block Machine
In the Context of Big World Project Mission
Big World Project is committed to getting children out of the pipeline of exploitation, abuse, and poverty. The well-documented scourge of human trafficking is without dispute; Big World Project works to get children out of the pipeline before they become victims of human trafficking. To reach this goal, we provide shelter, food, clothing, education, and structure to their life. This requires a proverbial “brick & mortar” home for the care of the children.
Big World Project has historically depended upon indigenous builders and contractors to construct the homes and other support buildings we use to accomplish our mission. Reliance upon local craftsmen for the construction of these buildings has been challenging, as this introduces a significant variable, which BWP cannot control. As is often the case with US-led efforts, the local craftsmen begin a project with an initial cost estimate that steadily increases as the building project progresses. By the end of the project, the actual cost is often twice the original estimate. Unable to complete the project any other way, the construction project either comes to a stop or is funded to completion with the inflated costs. Big World Project, like many other NGO’s, simply budgets an amount that is twice the initial estimate. However, BWP believes there is a better way; we bring the building project back under our own auspices.
Our journey began rather inauspiciously when we saw pictures of a building method used by some NGO’s in developing countries. The pictures showed buildings of all sorts of shapes and sizes being built with what appeared to be large bricks. The bricks seemed to be forming the structural components of the structure. And, they were beautiful!
We learned that the bricks are known as CEB’s (compressed earth blocks). Intrigued, our Vice-President began researching the use of these bricks. The following is a compilation of his findings sourced from the leading maker of CEB machines, Dwell Earth in partnership with Vermeer.
What is a CEB, or as we call them “Eco-Blocks”?
Compressing clay, sand, and about 8 % Portland cement in a specially designed hydraulic press machine makes Eco-Blocks. These blocks can be used in construction projects after curing for 7 days. They reach full strength and become water resistant after a 28-day cure period. The blocks are 14 inches long by 7 inches wide and are 4 inches tall.
· Create superior indoor environments. Eco-Block structures are warm, solid, and quiet. Eco-Block walls are sound proof, fire proof, bullet proof, bug proof, and mold proof. It has been described as having a warm comfortable blanket wrapped around you.
· Are Non-Toxic. Since the blocks are made from natural materials they do not out-gas any toxic chemicals like most conventional building components.
· Are environmentally friendly. Eco-Blocks take very little energy to make compared to the large amounts of energy necessary to make cement, or the firing process required to make traditional bricks, or the deforestation required to build with wood.
· Are very energy efficient. Once completed, Eco-Block structures use only about 70-80% of the energy required to heat and cool comparable concrete block or wood frame structures.
· Are made from local materials. Materials to make Eco-Block are plentiful and can often be found locally, reducing costs and environmental impact.
· Can be made on-site. Eco-Block can often be made at the construction site, which eliminates the need to transport the materials required to build the walls.
· Will last for centuries. Average life of a wood frame building is 49 years.
Through a generous grant from a sponsor, BWP has been able to acquire Vermeer’s BP714 V-Lock Block machine. The V Lock Block is uniform in all three dimensions. The blocks have a unique interlocking design, which allows them to be dry stacked or mortared, and does not require traditional labor intensive skill associated with masonry construction. The BP714 machine creates round cavities in the blocks that allow for seismic reinforcement, roof tie-downs, electrical conduit, and other utilities.
The blocks may be stacked using a thin slurry made from the same material as the blocks, instead of traditional mortar; making the wall a monolithic structure, and also reducing costs.
Walls can be built much faster than conventional masonry with unskilled labor while under the supervision of someone who is familiar with basic construction techniques. All of these features make for a much more economical wall system.
Eight Benefits – A Quick Glance
1. Allows BWP to control the costs of construction. We are no longer at the mercy of indigenous contractors.
2. The Eco Block machine will allow BWP to maintain a higher lever of quality control.
3. Rescues demand facilities. The Eco-Block machine will allow us to efficiently expand homes and facilities in proportion to the number of rescues being made as needed.
4. The Eco-Block machine will give BWP in
dependence from the vacillating dry spells of supply and demand common in developing countries.
5. Often, construction projects by NGOs is either very poor quality or far too extravagant. The Eco-Block machine will allow BWP to strike a much-needed balance in the realm of “ministry” or “NGO” construction appropriate to the context.
6. Nearly anyone can learn to construct with the Eco-block technology. The Eco-Block machine will allow BWP to get US-based churches involved by attracting competent volunteers to help us build homes in places outside the US; giving our volunteers opportunity to take ownership in the on-going work of the ministry.
7. The Eco-Block machine will allow BWP to produce what it needs for construction projects rather than simply acting as a consumer in a foreign market. This approach will give BWP more freedom to build and expand according to a planned development.
8. The Eco-Block machine will allow BWP to potentially create a business for material supply of eco-blocks and construction/contracting into the surrounding community; improving living conditions of local populations while making income for the on-going expenses of caring for the rescued children.


SENER: THE WORLDWIDE LEADER IN RAILWAY TRANSPORTATION
Over 15,000 km of high speed lines and widespread experience in end-to-end projects have won SENER the trust of the International Union of Railways (UIC) to draft its Handbooks for New High Speed Railways Developers, both for new generation lines and upgrading of the existing ones.
ALGIERS EAST-WEST HIGHWAY
SENER has been awarded the project management contract for 400 km of the East-West Highway, one of Algeria's main routes.
HYDROLOGICAL FORECAST AND WARNING SYSTEM
As part of its global hydrological consulting and engineering expertise, SENER excels in hydrological planning and warning/alert systems and flood prevention.
In urban transport, SENER is one of the top worldwide engineering firms, with extensive experience in metros and streetcars.+ Information
In conventional and high speed railway transportation, SENER offers comprehensive engineering services that cover the entire project lifecycle.+ Information
In highways, airports, ports and coasts, SENER offers comprehensive consulting and engineering services with the support of its internal team of specialists.+ Information
WATER AND ENVIRONMENT
SENER offers hydraulic consulting and engineering services that cover each phase of the integral water cycle: water resource collection, transportation.+ Information
International High Speed Line: Figueras - Perpignan (Spain - France)
Intermodal Sol Station in Madrid, Spain
SENER implemented this project taking the lead role in the disciplines of functional design, architectural and structural design of the station. [+ Information]
Metro de Barcelona, línea 9
Barcelona Metro Line 9 [+ Information]
Transmontana motorway concession (A4/IP4)
The scope of the agreement includes the drafting of detailed design and technical assistance of the complete section.[+ Information]
Terminal T-2 of Warsaw-Okecie International Airport (Poland)
Assistance and consultation during the conceptual, construction specifications and master plan projects of the 1st stage of the airport expansion project, and developed the Master Plan for the final phase of the aircraft parking apron expansio [+ Information]
Expansion project of the Port of Gijon


By Madeline Janis
This column originally appeared in Forbes.
Last week, hundreds of communities, elected officials, labor unions, workers, and industry leaders gathered for the seventh annual Infrastructure Week to underscore the pressing need for investment in the renewal and modernization of America’s crumbling infrastructure.
Calls to build safer, cleaner, smarter, greener, bluer, and all-around better infrastructure projects rang across dozens of panels, events, and in the media. With a $2 trillion infrastructure package on the line, business leaders need to step up and fight for the common good in the form of public infrastructure spending — or suffer the consequences. And only truly inclusive investment in our infrastructure will yield the economic, social, and environmental gains that this country needs.
It’s no secret that much of the country’s infrastructure — from roads and aviation systems to waterways and ports — is currently under-maintained, too old, or simply over capacity. Our infrastructure is in such a serious state of deterioration and disinvestment that the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gave it a “D+” rating in 2017.
Businesses and their workers are feeling the impact. Chronic underinvestment in transit means that commuters waste an average of 42 hours per year and millions of dollars in fuel stuck in traffic. Extreme weather events have taken their toll on our reservoirs. Dam and levee failures have led to massive evacuations, contaminated drinking water systems, and have and put hundreds of thousands of lives at risk.
A strong public sector that has the resources to rebuild our infrastructure is a prerequisite to a healthy American business climate. As Senator Elizabeth Warren said in 2011, “There is nobody in this country who got rich on their own. Nobody. You built a factory out there — good for you. But I want to be clear. You moved your goods to market on roads the rest of us paid for. You hired workers the rest of us paid to educate.”
With the 2017 Republican tax cuts, the federal debt has skyrocketed and we now have fewer public resources to invest in infrastructure. The result is is that factories — as well as the workers and communities that benefit from them — suffer. So long as the sustained attack on government’s ability to raise the revenue necessary to maintain our roads, bridges, water systems, and mass transit continues, deteriorating infrastructure will continue to cost businesses and the overall economy. Failing to act on infrastructure now could translate into an additional 2.5 million jobs lost by 2025.
Winning increased investment in infrastructure is only half of the solution. Only by leveraging our infrastructure spending to advance inclusion and fight for the common good will businesses and communities maximize economic gains.
By tying infrastructure investments to enforceable equity, inclusion, and job quality measures, we can create and expand access to high-quality jobs for people from marginalized communities, especially those who face barriers to employment. At a time when concerns about persistent labor shortages are mounting in the manufacturing, construction industries, and other infrastructure-adjacent sectors, inclusive investments help businesses build up a skilled labor pool while boosting their bottom line.
The math isn’t hard. Communities across the country facing unprecedented crises — from the impact of climate breakdown on homes and neighborhoods to financial instability, a dearth of affordable housing, and rising transportation costs. And if there’s one thing voters and politicians on both sides of the aisle agree on, it’s that investing in infrastructure is a top priority. Nearly 80 percent of voters identified infrastructure spending as an “extremely important” priority for 2019.
Research has proven that taking a healthy, inclusive approach to infrastructure investment could support or create an additional 14.5 million job-years across the U.S. economy and add a cumulative $1.66 trillion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over 10 years. Rather than pressing for tax cuts and smaller government, businesses must step up to fight for the funding needed to solve our common infrastructure problems. That way, businesses across the country can continue to benefit from roads, bridges, mass transit, clean water, clean air, police, fire, schools, and everything else that makes a country great.


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SIGET DIZALA specializes in the design and production of custom-made elevators that fit customers’ needs. We can manufacture complete elevators according to your wishes, or we can deliver only necessary components as per request. The dedication to quality, knowledge and experience of our employees enable the realization of the most challenging and unique projects and ensure the reliability and durability of the elevators we produce.
DESIGN AND CONSULTATION
Our expert engineers inspect the building, design a technical solution, advise you and design a project according to your wishes and installation possibilities.
More than 27 years of experience in producing elevators has enabled us to manufacture complete elevators that fit customers’ needs, various components and elevator constructions.
INSTALLATION AND REPAIRS
The installation of elevators is done in accordance with the highest safety standards, and with regular maintenance we ensure the safety and impeccable function of the elevators.
The knowledge and experience of our employees enable us to produce even the most challenging and unique elevators designed to fit your needs. We specialize in making panoramic, freight elevators with high capacities, and in making elevators for existing buildings. We deliver complete elevators or components for various installers as well as for many global companies.
Following the wishes of our customers, we can manufacture complete elevators or just deliver the necessary components like cabins, cabin openings, single or double hand-operated doors, machine stands, guide rail consoles and other mechanical parts. Our products are used for the overhaul and modernization of elevators, as well as for the installation of new elevators.
As an engineer at SIGET DIZALA, I have the ability to apply theoretical solutions to practical situations. I also have freedom in construction and the opportunity for creative thinking. The access to new technologies and cooperation with experienced mentors have provided me with the opportunity to continually learn and grow. It is my pleasure to work in a company that has a familiar work environment and a stimulating atmosphere. Our team is as harmonious in the office as we are at our regular football team building with business partners.


The product is free of solvent and hazardous ingredients. Silox-Seal (Silane/Siloxane) forms a hydrophobic barrier beneath the surface and seals out moisture while remaining highly vapor permeable. It will chemically bond with the substrate. The visual appearance of the treated surfaces will show nominal or no change resulting from product application. The benefits include enhanced resistance to efflorescence, freeze thaw damage, cracking and spalling. Cured system is resistant to ultraviolet light and may be used as a sealer for surface coatings. Performance exceeds the requirements of NCHRP 244 and federal specification SSW 110C when applied as directed. Silox-Seal (Silane/Siloxane) is used to protect and maintain bridges, parking garages, airport pavements, industrial plants and other concrete structures
An effective alternative to conventional solvent-based silanes or siloxanes, Silox-Seal (Silane/Siloxane) penetrates and chemically bonds deep within the masonry substrate to provide long-lasting protection against water related staining or deterioration. Will not darken most color-sensitive surfaces. Will not produce a surface film or impair the natural breathing characteristics of treated surfaces.
- Penetrates deeply to produce long-lasting protection on vertical or horizontal surfaces.
- Water based formula minimizes explosion and fire hazards associated with alcohol or solvent- based water repellents on interior app.
- Easy soap-and-water cleanup from window glass, window frames and application equipment.
- Low odor reduces risk of application to occupied buildings.
- Alkaline stable - suitable for new "green" concrete.
- Ideal for field or in-plant treatment of concrete or GFRC Limitations
- Will not prevent water penetration through structural cracks, defects or open joints.
- Limited initial surface repellency.
- When applied to pH neutral surfaces, optimal performance may take up to 14 days to develop.
New and old cementatious materials and mortars. All untreated mineral and aggregate materials such as Limestone, Sandstone, Clay tile and Stucco. Silox-Seal (Silane/Siloxane) is recommended to seal chimneys, drive ways, parking decks, walkways, tuck-pointing, grout, and provide a vapor barrier in damp areas. Silox-Seal (Silane/Siloxane) is used to protect and maintain bridges, parking garages, airport pavements, industrial plants and other concrete structures. This is a penetrating, matte finish, virtually an invisible sealer.


"Free UPP Architectural BIM design and 3D CAD"
Edificius is an advanced design package to build out CAD drawings in DXF and DWG formats, 3DS and OBJ with 3D models and JPEG and BMP images for renderings. The package can be used by architects to design new buildings complete with floor plans, walls, driveways and other aspects to a full computerized model. Ideas can materialize as 2D modes, 3D models and renderings which can be sent to prospective or current clients as renderings of the model that they can view easily in any web browser or photo application. Package also can work with bills of quantities, real modeling, 2D designs, 3D solid objects and more.
Edificius Key Features:
- CAD drawing package
- Create 2D and 3D models
- Save CAD 2D drawings in DXF or DWG formats
- Save 3D drawings in OBJ and 3DS formats
- Work with bills of quantities, solid object design and 3D design choices
- Free application
- Requires Windows
Edificius is a CAD modeling package for Windows.
Requirements: Internet connection
What's new in this version: no
DeveloperACCA software S.p.A.
Updated1 Nov 2015
Downloads522 (1 last week)
Top user review


Ductile Design of Steel Structures
By:"Michel Bruneau","Chia-Ming Uang","Andrew Whittaker"
Published on 1998 by McGraw Hill Professional
Ensure ductile behavior in any steel structure Engineer earthquake resistant structures using today's most advanced ductile steel design techniques. This guide gives you the latest seismic-resistant design criteria--based on research into the recent Northridge and Kobe earthquakes. You get fingertip access to the ductile properties of steel. . .essential data on the plastic behavior of cross-sections. . .and systematic methods and applications of plastic analysis. This time-saving resource walks you through the seismic design of ductile braced frames and moment resisting frames. . .provides the special detailing requirements needed to ensure satisfactory plastic behavior. . .gives you an overview of special steel-based energy dissipation systems. . .and much more.
This Book was ranked 7 by Google Books for keyword uang.


Development of an Emergency Pipeline Repair System (EPRS) for Offshore Pipelines
Black Sea, Russia
The South Stream project was first announced in 2007, and was planned to transport natural gas from the Russian Federation through the Black Sea to Bulgaria, and on into Europe. The proposed route of the pipelines initially required a 931-kilometre offshore section, and was to be laid at depths reaching 2,200 metres. Four parallel pipelines were to be installed, each with a wall thickness of 39 millimetres. IRM Systems provide pipeline services to create an EPRS, and also to review procedures and contractor documents.
The seabed of the Black Sea is very hostile. The concentration of sulphur found here posed a threat to the pipeline’s integrity. Combined with other contextual factors, this made the project uniquely challenging. IRM Systems engaged with a number of established repair companies, looked on the market for the best available technologies, and with internal expertise from an independent stand point came up with an array of smart repair ideas tailored to this pipeline system in the event of an error.
Developing an EPRS to repair a pipeline like that is a huge challenge. The biggest challenge was the length, secondly the depth, and then the wall thickness. Luckily, we already knew how to de-water a pipeline like that, how to clean it, and how to deal with corrosion.
We were able to complete this phase of the EPRS thanks to the experience of our team.
ASK OUR SPECIALISTS
IRM Systems B.V.
Maerten Trompstraat 25
📞 +31 (0) 15 20 23 006
IRM Systems UKWA
1 Berry Street
Aberdeen AB25 1HF
📞 +44 (0) 122 484 5555


The Nigerian Government has projected that a minimum 50,000 direct jobs and over 200,000 indirect jobs would be created from the highway concession under the new Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).
The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (FMWH) said about N1.34 trillion is expected from the private investments when the full concession of the 12 roads takes off.
The Ministry, in a document released by its Director of Press and Publicity, Boade Akinola, noted that “it’s not really about revenue, it’s about the expected injection into the economy.
“The estimated private sector investment required for the development and maintenance of the 12 routes is N1.34 trillion and the impact such investment will have on the economy cannot be overstated.
“A minimum 50,000 direct jobs and over 200,000 indirect jobs are envisaged to be created spanning construction works, installations, steel fabrication, security, hospitality, vehicle repairs, waste management and administrative work as the value chain along the highway economy is activated.”
The FMWH, in its bid to halt the financial challenges, said it was proposing the engagement of concessionaires who will manage and develop the right of way and maximize its commercial potential.
“The main objective of the initiative is to attract expertise and sustainable investment/funding in the development of road infrastructure and to maximise the use of assets along the Right of Way and develop other highway infrastructure,” it stated.
According to the Ministry, the objective is to develop an eco-system along the federal highway network by bringing multi-dimensional resources of skills, manpower, finance, technology, and efficiency into the national highway governance.
Speaking on how the scheme would be executed, the Ministry explained that there are two categories under the HDMI; the Value-Added Concession initiative (VAC) where the road pavement and entire right of way is concessioned for development and management by the concessionaire; and the Unbundled Assets Approvals initiative, (UAA).
Under the UAA, it noted that approvals/permits would be issued for individual assets on the right of way on a build, operate and or maintain basis.
“Both approaches aim to provide adequate highway services through the development of revenue-generating assets along the Highway. This is key to maintaining the functionality of the highway as well as engaging and generating wealth for indigenous small and medium enterprises,” it said.
Some of the revenue generating assets and highway service, according to the ministry will include toll-plazas, refuse management, weighbridges, towing services, directional signage structures with advertising space, emergency services, street-lighting with advertising space, among others.


Table of Contents
The risk assessment we propose for the areas under investigation partly follows the Swiss Risk Assessment Model (BAFU 1998). In this section, we shortly summarise the steps we took in order to assess the hazard on site. For other sites, the steps will be slightly different, but we propose the main approach to be similar.
In our pilot project in Medellín, three scenarios are distinguished: a scenario with a return period of up to 30 years and a low intensity (smaller event, most likely to happen), a scenario with a return period of appr. 100 years and a medium intensity (medium-sized event, less likely to happen) and a scenario with a return period of 300 years or more and a high intensity (big event, very unlikely to happen). The first and second scenario are defined as high hazard, the third scenario is defined as residual hazard, since these events are very unlikely to occur. The following steps were taken to assess the probability and size of potential landslides and, therefore, the hazard in all parts of the study area.
Mapping of Past Events
To understand and define the typical events happening in Bello Oriente, past landslides still visible on the surface were mapped. Additionally, community members gave input on past events not visible anymore due to intense construction in the barrio. The resulting landslide map depicts all landslides recorded.
Definition of Scenarios
All mapped events were plotted with size against age and divided into three groups representing the three scenarios. A landslide representing the 300 year event or residual hazard was not mapped. Therefore, its dimensions can only be presumed.
30 year event:
- area of up to 4000 m²
- length of appr. 50 m
- depth of up to 10 m
100 year event:
- area of 4000 - 15000 m²
- length of appr. 150 m
- depth of 10 m
Residual Hazard (complex failure):
- area of more than 100000 m²
- length of appr. 500 m
- depth of 10 - 30 m
Modelling of Selected Events
Several of the events mapped in August 2019 (landslide map) were used for backmodelling. Different parameters influencing the behavior and shape of a landslide (depth and shape of the sliding surface, sliding angle etc.) were changed throughout the modelling process. This allowed for the determination of the most probable ranges of values of these parameters, that could have shaped the modelled landslide. The parameters and values determined by the backmodelling were then used to model possible future landslides in Bello Oriente, including the possible runout of those events.
The results from the modelling in combination with the slope angle and the geology were visualized in a hazard map. The 30 year event hazard zone and the 100 year event hazard zone are depicted in the same color (red), since both are defined as high hazard. The residual hazard is depicted in yellow.
Most steep areas above the inhabited zone down to the uppermost road of Bello Oriente are in the high hazard/high risk zone. The runout of a possible event could even reach the main road of the barrio.