Kentucky geotechnical / Before the investigation
Prepare a Kentucky geotechnical investigation brief
A geotechnical request is easier to scope when it explains the decision you're trying to make. Whether you're planning a building, grading a site, or evaluating a retaining wall, begin with the proposed change and the information you already have.
Civil Solutions Associates, Inc. · Project planning
01 / Planning the work
Describe the proposed project, not just the parcel
Send a site location and a concept plan showing the work area. Explain the intended use, approximate building arrangement, proposed grade changes, and any slopes or retaining features involved. Include available structural information from the design team and identify the parts of the layout that are still moving.
A useful brief names the next decision: comparing sites, developing foundation recommendations, evaluating a slope, or advancing an earth retention design. CSA's documented capabilities include subsurface investigations, foundation recommendations, slope analysis, stabilization design, and construction-phase support.
02 / Planning the work
Use mapped geology to organize questions
The Kentucky Geological Survey's map service combines mapped geology with related records. Its information tool links mapped units to descriptions and published sources. Save the relevant map view and source reference so the engineering team can see what prompted your question.
A map view doesn't establish the ground conditions beneath a proposed footing or decide the investigation program. Present it as background alongside the concept plan. The qualified geotechnical team determines how published information, existing records, and site investigation should inform this project.
03 / Planning the work
Label what is known and what needs checking
Include prior geotechnical reports, available boring records, surveys, and information about previous construction or grading. Keep dates, locations, and original reports with the files. Tell the team whether those records cover the proposed work area or a different part of the property.
Photographs can help explain a concern, but describe where and when they were taken. List access arrangements, operating areas, and any known restrictions that could affect an investigation visit. Let CSA review the information before assuming an earlier report can support a changed design.
04 / Planning the work
Define the handoff to the design team
Identify who'll use the recommendations and when they're needed. An architect developing a concept and an engineer finalizing foundations may need different levels of information. Ask what the proposed deliverable will address, which inputs are still required, and how later design changes should be reviewed.
Have the team explain investigation assumptions, access needs, and construction-support options in the proposal. That gives you a clearer basis for comparing scope and fee than a price attached only to the property address.
References for your project
Use the project’s adopted documents and the responsible agency’s requirements when defining the scope.
Put the information to work
Talk through your project with Scott.
Scott Mann · Director of Business Development