Mill & Main, a historic mill complex built in 1847 formerly known as Clock Tower Place, is a mixed-use development located on a 50-acre site consisting of office, retail, and residential space. Nitsch provided civil engineering services during the master planning phase of the project. As the project moved forward into design, we provided civil and structural engineering services associated with site drainage, site utilities, light pole foundations, retaining walls, and accessibility ramps. As the project progressed, we provided construction administration services.
As part of the pedestrian access plan for the site, we designed a ramp structure that spans from an elevated sidewalk down to the existing grade of the site. The ramp was to be constructed near an existing stone retaining wall supporting the roadway. During construction, it was discovered that the retaining wall did not extend far enough below grade. The wall was undermined and deemed to be unstable. Nitsch recommended that the contractor immediately brace the wall and devised a new retaining wall design to enhance safety during construction as well as the future performance of the stone wall. Our solution involved positioning the new ramp structure and associated retaining wall so that it abuts the existing stone wall. This solution achieved substantial savings while providing long-term support for the existing wall. Nitsch’s quick response to this unanticipated problem resulted in continued project progression during construction within the project budget.
Key Collaborators
Owner: AS Clock Tower Owner, LLC
Architect: Margulies Perruzzi Architects
General Contractor: Columbia Construction Company
