DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF FABRIC-REINFORCED RETAINING WALLS BY NEW YORK STATE

The experience of New York State in the design and construction of two fabric-reinforced retaining walls is described. Crushed-stone fill is reinforced by horizontal layers of fabric placed at intervals dependent on the height of the wall, the strength of the fabric, and the internal friction angle of the fill. Design and construction procedures are detailed; the emphasis is on practical construction techniques. The design and construction are based on methods described by the U.S. Forest Service. The construction technique, although not commonplace, can be quickly mastered without special equipment or labor requirements. Instrumentation installed during construction to monitor vertical and horizontal movements indicates satisfactory performance 18 months after completion. The cost of this type of construction at this site compared favorably with alternative designs. Suggestions for cost reductions are offered for future installations, which may include embankment repair, similar to this project, or temporary works, such as construction detours. (Author)