Robson and Cambie Heritage Facade Micropiles
The intersection of Robson Street and Cambie Street in Vancouver required micropile installation and concrete foundations to support a robust steel support system retaining the building’s historical facade. The heritage facade was preserved while the existing building was demolished and replaced with a mixed use highrise. TerraCana installed 126 micropiles to 14.3 metres, navigating congested utilities and operating within 20 feet of working room along the lane.
The Challenge
Access to the site was complex, operating on both heavily utilized Robson Street and Cambie Street. Along the lane side of the building, there was only 20 feet of working room for all materials and equipment. The project site was heavily congested with underground and overhead utilities, all while working as close as possible to a historical facade that could not risk being damaged.
The piles and foundations themselves had to be designed and installed in a way that allowed them to be removed once construction was complete.
The Solution
The project began with an extensive utility locating program to locate each individual micropile and foundation. From there, groups of micropiles were installed and tested, followed by the installation of concrete pile caps and anchor bolts. The site was then turned over to KWH Constructors, who built the facade support superstructure. Norland completed the demolition and excavation.
The Outcome
See it in Action
Technical Specifications
Key Outcomes
Project Partners
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