As part of an $11 million emergency department renovation and expansion at the Pulaski hospital campus, DPR Construction partnered with Safe Site Utility Services, NG Companies, and The Underground Detective to provide comprehensive underground utility locating, survey-grade mapping, and hydro excavation services.
Before relocating the new storm drainage system, the project team needed accurate subsurface utility data. This information helped identify potential conflicts with existing underground infrastructure. As a result, construction could move forward safely and efficiently.
Safe Site worked closely with DPR Construction to verify the exact location of existing utilities. Additionally, the team updated utility maps and exposed critical underground crossings through non-destructive potholing.
Safe Site performed electromagnetic (EM) utility locating, 2D Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning, survey-grade utility mapping, and hydro excavation throughout the hospital’s front entrance area.
Furthermore, the investigation identified existing sewer, water, electric, communication, and storm drainage systems. The team also discovered previously undocumented underground utilities within the proposed construction corridor.
One of the primary challenges was the difference between existing site conditions and the utility information shown on the original project plans. Several utilities were found in locations different from documented records. Therefore, the team performed additional investigation and verification to deliver accurate utility data.
Additionally, the project took place at the main entrance of an active hospital. Because of constant pedestrian and vehicle traffic, the team implemented careful planning and strict safety measures. As a result, Safe Site minimized disruptions to daily hospital operations.
The compressed project schedule required close communication between utility locating technicians, the field supervisor, hydro excavation crews, surveyors, and DPR Construction representatives. Therefore, all activities were completed efficiently and on schedule.
Safe Site successfully identified all underground utilities required for the storm drain relocation. Moreover, the team discovered additional utilities that were not shown in existing records.
By completing 20 test holes within nine days, Safe Site delivered accurate utility data before excavation began. Ultimately, this helped reduce the risk of utility strikes, prevent costly delays, and give the construction team greater confidence moving forward.
From utility locating and mapping to hydro excavation, our experienced crews provide the reliable data and field expertise your project needs to move forward safely and on schedule. Contact Safe Site today to discuss your next project.
