SOIL MANAGEMENT STUDIES IN THE STATE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT

A questionnaire survey of state approaches to soil engineering was organized and distributed nationally in an effort to assist in obtaining the overall goals of cost reduction and improved productivity. Recognizing the advantages of applying modern geotechnical engineering principles, some departments indicated an interest in a formal review of the use of soils engineering in highway project development. The majority of transportation departments performed the geotechnical functions at least partially through the materials section. The geotechnical unit is now performing a highly specialized professional function. Recognition of the need for early involvement of geotechnical personnel in the highway development process is indicated by the fact that 30 departments are now involved in the route reconnaissance or corridor study phase as compared to only 15 in 1971. Thirty seven departments indicate that routine evaluation of structure foundation support systems involves comparison between shallow and pile foundations. Twenty nine departments provide geotechnical input in the environmental impact statements. Geotechnical expertise is unique in solving many of todays problems in highway and mass transit systems, and the role of the geotechnical engineer is changing as the transportation system changes.

• Corporate Authors:

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Goughnour, R D
• Publication Date: 1976-12

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 1-10
• Serial:
  • Highway Focus
  • Volume: 8
  • Issue Number: 4

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Corridors; Geotechnical engineering; Road construction; Route surveying; Soil conservation; Soil remediation
• Old TRIS Terms: Soil management
• Subject Areas: Environment; Geotechnology; Highways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00148210
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Mar 15 1977 12:00AM