Facilities

G10 Site Preparation

• Site Surveying
  • All new project site plans shall be developed from a new topographical map developed specifically for that project; not from "as-built" information or previous project grading plans. Accurate information is essential and "special" conditions such as asbestos, lead paint, underground tank leaks, etc. shall be addressed.
  • Survey must be performed by a land surveyor with a current professional registration in the State of Alabama.
  • Surveyor is to allow University Project Lead to review and comment on survey before final plots.
  • Auburn University maps are based on the State Plane Coordinate system of Alabama East Zone NAD 83 (1992) and NAVD 88.  Surveys and design drawings must reference this coordinate system.
    • If design firm needs to create its drawings of measurement other than decimal units (such as architectural), a base point of 0,0 shall be used when rescaling the drawing.  The rescaling occurs due to a change in units of measurement and is a scale factor of 12.  Any scaling, rotation or change in units shall be noted in writing, on the CAD drawing, outside the plotting limits.
  • An Auburn University Facilities Management checklist enumerating detailed and site specific requirements will be included in the request for proposal to perform the topographic survey.  A general checklist is included in Appendix I of this document; however, consult the University Project Lead for any project specific requirements.
  • Current utilities maps may be viewed in the Facilities Management Utilities & Energy.  However, those maps are schematic only and are not intended to relieve the surveyor of any field verification responsibility.  Verification of utilities locations shall be made through ‘Alabama 1 Call’ (800) 292-5825.
  • For new facilities, evaluate the need for an archeological survey to comply with the Alabama Historical Commission policy, revised 2002.
  • When surveying tree locations, the surveyor shall take three ground shots at the base of the tree trunk and three ground shots at the drip line of the tree.
• Subsurface Exploration
  • Auburn University will contract directly with geotechnical consultants to perform subsurface investigations unless otherwise directed by the University Project Lead.  The consultant retained for such services must be a professional engineer with current registration in the State of Alabama.
  • The Designer shall coordinate with University Project Lead to develop the necessary testing locations, frequencies, depths, etc. that will be included in the request for proposal of such services.
  • The contract documents shall show all boring locations, cross sections and soil reports. Also show all existing conduits, drains, utility lines, sewers, tunnels, cables, trees, paving, walks, foundations, and other objects or obstructions, whether in use or abandoned.  Clearly indicate the project boundary.
• Site Clearing
  • Prior to any site clearing operations the contractor shall demonstrate to the Facilities Management project manager that the ADEM “Notice of Registration”, ADEM form 4198 has been completed if required.
  • All objectionable growth shall be stripped. Debris resulting from stripping and clearing operations shall be promptly removed from University property.
  • Removal of trees and shrubs shall include the removal of stumps and roots to the extent that no root greater than 3 inches in diameter remains within 5 feet of neither any underground structure or utility line, nor under footings or paved areas. Grubbing in open areas shall include removal of stumps and 3 inch or greater roots to 2 feet below finish grade elevations.
  • Excavations shall not be permitted which undermine the integrity of adjacent structures, paving or utilities.
• Backfill
  • Backfill material shall be free of debris.
  • Excess material or topsoil not required, or not permitted, as fill shall be moved to another site on University property for reuse, if directed by the University, or removed from University property at the contractor's expense.
  • Specify that soils be compacted to the following minimum densities determined unless special conditions override (Percentages listed are percentage of Standard Proctor):
    • Road beds and Parking areas: 95% up to 12" below subgrade, 100% for upper 12" below subgrade. Compaction is required for the entire subgrade area for the full width and depth of slope of embankments supporting berms and pavement.
    • Under non-structural slabs on grade with normal loading inside the structure: 95%.
    • Under foundations, isolated pads, and footings: 100%.
    • Foundation backfill under planting beds and lawn:  The upper 2 feet of soil below finish grade - 90% maximum with remainder of backfill being 95% if depth is less than 10 feet and 100% if depth exceeds 10 feet.
    • Foundation backfill under pavements: 100%.
    • Under paved pedestrian walks and courts: 95%.
    • Backfill around manholes and other underground structures: 95% if depth is less than 10 feet; 100% if depth is more than 10 feet.
    • Under lawn and planting areas not adjacent to structures: The upper 1 foot of soil below finish grade - 90% maximum. Remainder - 95%.
  • Extreme care shall be taken to obtain proper compaction in areas which abut walls, curbs, adjacent slabs, and other structures where use of mechanical compactors is difficult.
  • Field compaction tests and related laboratory analyses shall be performed by a qualified independent laboratory (conforming to American Society for Testing and Materials standards), under the supervision of a registered professional engineer specializing in soils engineering. Soils proposed for fill, backfill, and embankments shall be analyzed by the soils engineer to determine acceptability; no soil shall be placed until it is approved by the soils engineer. A representative of the testing laboratory shall provide continuous inspection during placement and compaction operations; tests shall be made in a quantity that will assure uniform compaction and density of each course or lift of fill.
  • The University solicits proposals for the testing laboratory shortly after the receipt of construction bids. The designer shall contact the University prior to this time regarding any specific requirements for the proposal request.
• Tree and Plant Protection
  • A tree protection plan shall be provided for each project as determined by University Project Lead and Facilities Management Landscape Services. The intended protection is to be shown on the Erosion and Sediment Control: Pre-Construction Site Plan Drawing.  It is desirable to save existing trees whenever possible. During design, the University Project Lead, with help from Facilities Management Landscape Services, shall identify specifically those trees to be saved and those which must be removed. Trees which must be damaged by construction to the point that they have little chance to survive shall be considered for removal.
  • All trees to remain are to have protective barriers set outside the drip line of the tree or using the following formula: (Zone of Tree Protection from Trunk (ft)) = (Tree diameter at breast height (in)) X 1.5, whichever is larger. 
  • Barriers shall be installed prior to any construction and shall remain until construction and site cleanup is complete. The barriers shall be of substantial material: 4 X 4 posts with 2 X 6 rails set at a minimum height of four feet. No construction material, debris or excavated material shall be stored within the barricade area.  The barriers shall be steel post at 8’-0” O.C. with wire ties in posts at 12” O.C. barrier material to be 4’ tall orange high density polyethylene safety and barrier fencing.  The top of the fencing shall be supported with chain link, galvanized tension wire.  In the alternative, chain-link fencing may be used.  Fencing shall be maintained in good condition for duration of project.
  • No construction material, debris or excavated material shall be stored within the barricaded area. No vehicles, trailers, etc. shall be parked inside the barricaded area.
  • Each barrier shall have on all sides, a mounted sign reading in English and Spanish “KEEP OUT” “NO ENTRA” (3 inch lettering) and “TREE PROTECTION” “PROTECCIÓN DE ÁRBO”  (¾ inch lettering). 
  • Protect root system from flooding, erosion and noxious materials in solution from spillage of construction materials.
  • Care must be taken in excavating foundations and installation of utility lines adjacent to trees that are to be saved.
  • Excavate within drip line of trees only where indicated on plans. If excavation will damage trees extensively, the trees shall be removed and replaced.
  • Where trenching for utilities is required within the drip line, tunnel under or around roots by hand digging. Do not cut main lateral or tap roots. Cut smaller roots which interfere with a sharp pruning tool; do not chop or break.
  • Do not allow exposed roots to dry out before backfill is placed; provide temporary earth or moist burlap cover.
  • Any tree to remain that has had excavation within the drip line shall be pruned by a professional arborist according to the National Arborist Association Standards Class IV - Cutting Back or Drop Crotch Pruning
  • Cutting back or drop crotch pruning shall consist of the reduction of tops, sides, under branches or individual limbs. This practice is to be undertaken only in cases of utility line interference, or where certain portions of the roots or root systems have been severed or severely damaged.
  • The following specifications shall apply:
    • All cuts shall be made sufficiently close to the trunk or parent limb, without cutting into the branch collar or leaving a protruding stub, so that closure can readily start under normal conditions. All cuts shall be clean. It is necessary to precut branches too heavy to handle to prevent splitting or peeling the bark. Where necessary, to prevent tree or property damage, branches shall be lowered to the ground by proper ropes or equipment.
    • Remove the weaker, least desirable, crossed or rubbed branches. Such removal shall not leave holes in the general outline of the tree.
    • Generally, in reducing size (cutting back) not more than one-third of the total area shall be reduced at a single operation. When cutting back, only drop crotch as much as necessary. Where practical, avoid cutting back to small suckers. All effort shall be made to cut back to a lateral, one-third the diameter of the cut being made. In reducing overall size, attention is to be given to the symmetrical appearance. Top is to be higher and sides reduced in order to maintain a tree-like form. When cutting back trees, one shall have in mind to make them shapely and typical of their species.
    • On thin bark trees, just enough limbs shall be removed to get the effect wanted without admitting too much sunlight to the trunk of the tree or the top of large branches. Care shall be taken with the following species: lindens, maples, beeches, apples, oaks, and other trees susceptible to sunscald, growing in different geographical areas. The damage may be minimized by doing work on susceptible species during the dormant season.
    • In lifting the lower bottom branches of trees for under clearance, care shall be given to symmetrical appearance, and cuts shall not be made so large that they will prevent normal sap flow.
    • Periodical drop crotching or cutting back of silver maples, poplars, and other trees with brittle and soft wood is an established practice and has proven beneficial in maintaining the safety of these trees over long periods of growth. Other trees with soft and brittle wood growing in different geographic areas may be specifically named when it is common practice to control growth by cut-back. An alternate method in some situations for maintaining the safety of these trees would be cabling and bracing.
    • Maintain existing grade outside drip line of trees, unless otherwise indicated on plan. Do not leave open excavations in the vicinity of protected trees for longer than 2 days to prevent soil moisture reduction.
  • Fertilization
    • Where tree roots within the drip line will be covered with asphalt or concrete, feeders shall be installed as recommended by the National Arborist Association Standards.
    • Install extended feeders where construction of wells or retaining walls is required within the drip line.
    • The design must provide a yard hydrant, irrigation system or other convenient water source adjacent to trees that remain.
    • The specifications shall define proper fertilization and the contractor shall fertilize affected trees during construction.
  • Repairs to Damaged Trees
    • Repairs to damaged trees shall be performed by a professional arborist.
    • Trees damaged beyond repair or that do not survive will be removed by the contractor. A replacement cost will be determined by a professional arborist and paid by the contractor. The University will reserve the option of having the contractor replace the tree with one of equal size and quality.
• Grading
  • Finish grade slopes shall be shallow enough to allow mowing (generally 1:3 or less); steeper slopes will be permitted only in areas where maintenance-free erosion control (groundcover planting, rip-rap, etc.) is planned.
  • All areas disturbed by construction operations and not covered by building, paving, etc. shall be fine graded and temporarily seeded.  Sod is to be used for permanent lawns.
• Demolition
  • Foundations of demolished structures shall be completely removed.
  • Every reasonable effort shall be made to avoid blasting if structure to be demolished is in close proximity to other structures. If blasting is utilized, control dust and excessive noise when surroundings require. Document conditions of adjacent structures when collateral damage is possible.  Seismographic monitoring may be required on adjacent buildings.  Prior approval is required for any blasting demolition.
• Site Remediation
  • Hazardous materials survey and remediation are assumed to be separate from building design unless otherwise requested by the University Project Lead and/or Risk Management and Safety.
  • Auburn University will contract directly with environmental consultants to perform the necessary assessments and remediation, if applicable.  The consultant retained for such services must be a professional engineer with current registration in the State of Alabama in addition to any certifications required by local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.
• Erosion control
  • General
    • See Appendix N for Erosion and Sediment Control Process Narrative.
    • The methods of erosion and sediment control outlined in this document are not intended to limit engineer creativity and innovation. The listed methods are intended to create a uniform set of standards for designers and contractors to use, to ensure a maximum level of erosion and sediment control is achieved. Any desire to deviate from the standards should be presented to the Auburn University Project Lead. 
    • All design and construction activity must be performed in compliance with the most current ALOA Erosion and Sediment Control Policy as provided by the Department of Risk Management and Safety, in addition to complying with all local, state, and federal regulatory requirements.
    • The Auburn University Design and Construction Standards are more stringent and shall to be used to supplement the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) requirements regarding construction site storm water run-off.
    • Designers and contractors should be familiar with The Alabama Handbook for Erosion and Sediment Control and Storm Water Management of Construction Sites and Urban Areas which can be obtained at no cost at (www.swcc.state.al.us). Portions of this handbook are referenced in the Auburn University Design and Construction Standard.
    • All construction sites on campus, regardless of size, will be subject to the design requirements here-in. Auburn University reserves the right to waive the requirements of this document should the University Project Lead deem it appropriate.
    • All Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and National Pollutant Discharge Eliminations Systems (NPDES) permitting and sampling documentation must be prepared by the civil engineering consultant.  The civil engineering consultant must be a registered professional engineer in the State of Alabama as well as meeting any other requirements of a certifying professional as set forth by ADEM. Additionally, the civil engineering consultant shall be familiar with Auburn University’s additional erosion and sediment control standards located here-in.
    • The Design Return Period Storm for sizing Erosion and Sediment Control Measures shall be a 25 year-24 hr storm.
    • Before initiating any earthwork not directly associated with the installation of erosion and sediment control measures as indicated on the pre-construction erosion control plan, the Contractor will be required to acquire a “Land Disturbance Authorization” form from an Auburn University representative. (see Appendix N for form) The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining a “Notice of Registration” from ADEM.  The Contractor shall provide proof of ADEM registration to the Auburn University Construction project manager prior to receiving the “Land Disturbance Authorization” permit. 
    • The Contractor shall be responsible for all monitoring, inspections, etc. to assure the Owner that the site is at all times in accordance with ADEM Rules and Regulations.  Documentation of QCI and QCP inspections shall be provided to the Owner.
    • In addition to the inspection, monitoring requirements instituted by ADEM, Auburn University is requiring that the storm water outfall from any construction site on campus have a turbidity of not more than 50 NTUs (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) for any 25 year, 24-hour event and smaller.
    • If United States Corp of Engineers approved construction is to be performed in any stream bed, the increase in turbidity from the upstream or “background” flow to the downstream flow shall be no greater than 50 NTUs.
    • Auburn University will conduct inspections monthly, after each ½” rain event, and prior to any substantial predicted storm event to ensure the contractor is properly maintaining erosion and sediment control. ADEM is to be notified if any sites are found to be non-compliant during these inspections.
    • Auburn University will sample and record turbidity throughout the life of the project to determine whether the civil engineer and contractor have properly designed and installed the Erosion and Sediment Control Measures.
    • The contractor will be responsible for any incurred regulatory fines throughout the course of construction.
    • Auburn University reserves the right to withhold retainage for all but not limited to the following: Failure to maintain erosion & sediment control measures, the inability to meet Auburn University’s turbidity sampling requirements, services rendered by Auburn University in the event that a contractor is unresponsive to directives to modify erosion and sedimentation control measures. Auburn University also requires the Designer of Record to incorporate site specific Erosion and Sedimentation Control measures as unit prices in the bid package. These unit prices will be implemented in the event the site requires additional protection or if the contractor is nonresponsive to Erosion and Sedimentation problems that occur. These unit prices can also be implemented negatively if the contractor has not met his contractual obligations. Thus allowing the owner to have the BMP’s installed by other means.
    • There shall be in ALL Construction drawing sets requiring an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, a sheet of general notes for erosion and sediment control.
    • Following each phase of the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan there shall be a sheet of project applicable details that correspond to the erosion and sediment control best management practices. These details are to be obtained from Auburn University. (see Appendix N)
    • All disturbed areas must be protected with temporary seeding within 13 days of the latest disturbance.
    • It will be imperative that sediment laden runoff not be allowed to enter any pervious pavement areas.  These areas shall be protected, at minimum, using a silt fence located up slope of diversion wales.
    • Auburn University strongly encourages designers and contractors to consider the use of processed demolished building debris for appropriate erosion and sediment control measures such as check dams, construction exit pad, temporary roads, ditch lining, outlet protection, and inlet protection.
  • Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
    • The Erosion and Sediment Control Plan is a set of drawings which provides the necessary measures to reduce erosion on construction sites and minimize the impacts of sediment, turbidity and hydrologic changes off-site throughout the life of the project and beyond. It is to ensure that erosion and sediment control is appropriate for the planned use of the site.
    • The Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan shall follow the Alabama Handbook for Erosion Control, Sediment Control, and Storm Water Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas and must be reviewed and approved by Auburn University Office of Risk Management & Safety and Auburn University’s erosion control consultant.
    • Required content of the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
      • See Appendix N for standard notes.
• Site Map Drawing
  • This Sheet to resemble the drawing required by ADEM for NPDES permitting, placed on a USGS 7.5-minute Topographic Quadrangle)
  • Receiving waters labeled
  • Site discharge points indicated
  • Point of entry into receiving waters indicated
• Pre-Construction Site Plan Drawing
  • Note: This plan to show necessary erosion sediment control measures to be installed before land disturbance authorization is granted. Only grading specifically identified as intended for erosion and sediment control shall be permitted prior to land disturbance authorization.
  • Contours, existing and proposed
  • Placement of necessary erosion & sediment control BMPs
  • Tree protection
  • Discharge points
  • Expected pre & post-construction flow discharges for 25 year-24 hr event (in table format)
  • Site specific notes
  • Note referencing the full sheet of general notes
  • Erosion and sediment control details
• Construction Site Plan Drawing
  • Phasing of changes to erosion and sediment control BMPs
  • Contours, existing and proposed
  • Placement of erosion & sediment control BMPs
  • Tree protection
  • Site specific notes
  • Note referencing the full sheet of general notes
  • Erosion and sediment control details
• Post-Construction Site Plan Drawing
  • Note: This plan to show necessary Erosion Sediment Control Measures to be installed before substantial completion to be awarded.
  • Contours, existing and proposed
  • Changes to erosion and sediment control BMPs
  • Site specific notes
  • Note referencing the full sheet of general notes
  • Erosion and sediment control details
• • Erosion and sediment control BMPs, details:
    • This section outlines the design requirements and appropriate applications for Erosion and Sediment Control Practices on Campus. The acronym in parentheses, following the practice or device, corresponds to the associated detail.
    • Site Preparation
      • AutoCad details provided in Appendix N.
      • Construction Exit Pad (CEP)
        • Practice Description
        • Construction exit pads are used to prevent sediment from leaving the site by means of the wheels of construction vehicles exiting the construction site.
        • Stone shall be ALDOT No. 1 (1” to 3” inch stone)
        • Pad shall be 6 inches thick.
        • Pad shall be a minimum of 50 feet long and 20 feet wide.
        • If stone alone does not sufficiently remove sediment, vehicle tires should be washed before exiting site with sediment-laden runoff draining into an on-site sediment trap or basin.
        • Geotextile selection shall be in accordance with AASHTO M288.
        • Should the construction exit pad cease to effectively remove tire born sediment, the top 3 inches of stone shall be removed and replaced.
    • Land Grading
      • The practice of modifying existing topography for desired land uses.
      • Grading plans should be designed to protect existing vegetation where possible.
      • Grading should be scheduled to minimize the amount of time disturbed areas are left exposed to erosion elements.
      • The grade of slopes (excluding channel side slopes) on campus should, as a general practice, be no greater than 3 horizontal feet to 1 vertical foot (3:1).
      • Retaining walls should be incorporated into the design where site conditions require grades of steeper than 3:1.
      • Top soil from areas to be graded shall be removed and stockpiled for reapplication upon completion of grading operations. A stockpile location should be suggested by the engineer. Stockpiled vegetation should be protected from erosion by temporary vegetation.
      • Slope lengths on site should be minimized by the use of diversion channels. Recommendations for diversion placement are given in the table below.