204 - Removing Miscellaneous Structures and Materials
GENERAL
Definitions of Terms
Abandon: Abandon refers to leaving an existing facility in place and making it unusable. This often involves breaking it down to a safe depth below the final road surface, placing flowable fill grout or low-density cellular concrete, and bulkheading existing pipes.
Culvert: A culvert is a structure with a clear span less than 20 feet used to channel water under a road, railway, or embankment.
Curb and Gutter: Curb and gutter is the channel along the edge of a roadway used to direct storm water from the roadway to the collection system.
Guardrail: Guardrail is a roadside or median barrier comprised of steel beam elements that is intended to capture and redirect errant vehicles from striking fixed objects and/or entering areas of concern.
Pavement: Pavement is the hard surface a roadway is made of.
Sewer: A sewer is a pipe or conduit used to carry storm water and/or wastewater from roadways, homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.
Structure: Structure is a broad term used to describe storm sewer facilities, culvert headwalls, large culverts, bridges, and retaining walls
General Overview
Removing miscellaneous structures and materials can involve complete removal or abandonment. Typically, existing infrastructure is removed then either new infrastructure is built in the same location or the area is abandoned and backfilled. In some cases, existing functional infrastructure might be extended to fit the new design.
MATERIALS
All materials must meet acceptance requirements in the Materials Source Guide and be listed on the Contractor-provided Material Source Lists in the project files.
Description of Materials
Sound Earth
Sound earth typically refers to soil that is stable and is placed outside the influence of the subgrade surface. Sound earth is free from excessive moisture, organic matter, and other contaminants that could compromise its stability or load-bearing capacity. Refer to Section 205 of the Standard Specifications for Construction for material requirements.
Granular Material (Class III)
Granular backfill, often comprised of sand, is used to fill the space after existing features are removed. Refer to Section 902 of the Standard Specifications for Construction for material requirements.
Pictures of Materials
EQUIPMENT
The following equipment can be used:
- Cold milling machine
- Excavator
- Excavator with plate compactor attachment (Ho-Pac)
- Excavator with breaker attachment
- Hydraulic shear
- Guillotine breaker
- Front end loader
- Dump truck
- Bulldozer
- Crane
- Cutoff saw
- Jack hammer
- Plate or jumping jack compactor
Pictures of Equipment
PRECONSRTUCTION
- Review the plans to verify the location of the work.
- Verify items called out be removed, and whether they will be completely or partially removed.
- Often, only portions of bridges or larger culverts are removed.
- Verify items called out be removed, and whether they will be completely or partially removed.
- Verify MISS DIG has flagged existing private or MDOT utilities.
- Verify a surveyor has provided stakes for the work.
- Review all pertinent environmental restrictions. This will be included within the project plans, special provisions, and/or permits.
- These could pertain to endangered or migratory animal species, or to prevent spread of disease between plants and hazardous materials such as asbestos.
- Review the plans and the Special Provision for Maintenance of Traffic. There may be restrictions or staging requirements. Installation restrictions are typically associated with staging requirements on a project and access to side streets and driveways.
- Review the plans and proposal for the following special provisions:
- Vibratory exclusion areas.
- Vibration monitoring.
- Demolition plan requirements.
- Asbestos removal.
- Verify all materials are approved for use and meet specifications, and verify stockpiled materials are protected from weather and sunlight as required by the specifications and manufacturer recommendations.
- Obtain photographs of material tickets, storage method, and location.
- Hold an onsite meeting with the Contractor to discuss:
- The construction methods that will be used to complete the work.
- Methods or operations that will be used if existing facilities must be maintained during the work.
- Required traffic control measures, proximity of traffic to the work area, and maintaining driveways during construction.
- Identification of right-of-way and/or grading easements required to complete the work.
- Review of existing features, such as sprinklers, signing, or landscaping in the vicinity of the work, and what methods will be used to protect them.
- Coordination and permit requirements for work on or near a railroad.
- Communication required if impacting residents or businesses during installation.
- Residents and businesses should be contacted if there will be disruptions to services. Coordination by the Contractor with impacted users may be required if disruption is necessary.
- Review of local ordinances.
- Disposal of excavated material and material stockpile locations. The Contractor should provide authorization letters to the Engineer noting material stockpile and disposal locations.
- Soil erosion and sedimentation control measures that will be utilized to minimize soil erosion and subsequent sedimentation.
- Environmental restrictions associated with the project site.
- Methods for securing the site during work operations and at the end of each workday
CONSTRUCTION
Construction involves selective removal or abandonment of pavement, curb and gutter, sidewalk, masonry and concrete structures, structures and retaining walls, culvert structures, guardrail, fence, concrete barriers, utility poles, and railway tracks as shown on the plans. Salvaged materials will be removed and stored as specified in the contract documents. All other materials removed are to be disposed of according to Subsection 205.03.P of the Standard Specifications for Construction. Excavated sites will be backfilled with appropriate material and compacted to ensure stability. Care should be taken to not damage existing structures to remain in place. Any damage caused by removal operations must be repaired at no cost to the contract.
If the Contractor elects to salvage materials for reuse on the project, all materials must be stockpiled in an approved area for sampling and testing. The material can only be incorporated into the project once testing results are received and approved by the Engineer.
Pavement, Curb and Gutter, and Sidewalk Removal
All pavement, curb and gutter, downspout header, sidewalk, and similar structures must be removed to an existing or sawed joint. If the removal is taking place over utilities or critical areas, sawed joints must be completed prior to removal. All sawed joints must be made full depth unless otherwise approved by the Engineer.
HMA Pavement Removal
Before removing hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavement over concrete, the Contractor and Engineer should thoroughly assess the pavement's condition to determine the extent of damage and underlying issues. Once prepared, the Contractor will use specialized milling machines to grind away the asphalt layer while carefully controlling the depth to avoid harming the concrete base. The Contractor must implement dust control measures to maintain a safe working environment. Disposal of removed asphalt material must follow environmental regulations, with recycling options considered where possible.
The removal of an HMA surface 12 inches thick or less overlying a material to remain in place will be measured and paid for as HMA Surface, Remove. See Subsection 501.04.H of the Standard Specifications for Construction. The underlying material will be paid for separately.
The removal of HMA surface greater than 12 inches thick overlying a material to remain in place will be measured and paid for as Pavement, Remove. The underlying material will be paid for separately.
Concrete and Masonry Pavement and Concrete Driveway Removal
Before commencing removal, the Contractor and Engineer should thoroughly assess the pavement's condition needs to identify adjacent structures and utilities to prevent damage. The removal process typically involves breaking the material into manageable pieces using specialized equipment such as jack hammers or saws. Debris management is crucial, with removed pieces carefully collected and transported for disposal or recycling.
Concrete driveway removal follows a similar process, requiring coordination with property owners to minimize disruption and maintain vehicular access.
If concrete or masonry pavements are encountered under the pavement being removed, they will be measured separately and paid for as Pavement, Remove.
Curb and Gutter Removal
In densely urbanized regions, utilities are often situated behind the curb or just beneath it. Prior to any sawing operation or removal, it is imperative the Contractor has all utilities clearly identified. This will help to facilitate the removal process and avoid damaging existing facilities.
Additionally, existing pavement, sidewalk, or other features may need to be preserved as part of the project.
During the removal process, the Contractor must exercise caution to prevent damage to infrastructure slated to remain in place.
Sidewalk Removal
Sidewalk removal typically involves intricate work close to surrounding infrastructure. The Contractor must identify the proximity of adjacent buildings, light poles, and other facilities adjacent to the sidewalk area slated for removal and exercise extreme care to prevent damage to these facilities. Additionally, the Contractor must have any underground utilities or services located and marked to avoid accidental disturbances.
During the removal process, the Contractor may use specialized equipment and techniques to minimize the risk of collateral damage. Precision cutting methods and careful handling of debris help ensure nearby structures and facilities remain intact.
Sidewalk removal is to be completed for sidewalks 6 inches thick or less. Sidewalks thicker than 6 inches will be covered under pavement removal in accordance with Subsection 204.04.B of the Standard Specifications for Construction.
Masonry and Concrete Structure Removal
Before removing masonry and concrete structures, the Contractor and Engineer should thoroughly assess the structure's condition, considering factors such as structural integrity, materials used, and potential hazards like asbestos or lead.
During removal, the Contractor may use techniques such as controlled demolition to mitigate the impact on neighboring structures and the environment. Specialized equipment such as excavators or cranes may be utilized to carefully dismantle the structure, piece by piece. Walls, foundations, and similar structures, excluding bridges, culverts, and retaining walls, are to be removed fully or broken down below to an acceptable level. The Contractor will remove portions of existing miscellaneous structures not interfering with new construction to at least 3 feet below the pavement surface within the limits of the roadbed, and elsewhere to an elevation of at least 1 foot below the finished grade. The Contractor must carefully manage debris during the removal process. Hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, gasoline, or diesel need to be handled with utmost care and disposed of safely. Materials can be systematically sorted and transported for disposal or recycling in accordance with environmental regulations.
Masonry structure removal is only to be considered for structures having the smallest dimension 12 inches or greater. Concrete structure removal is only considered for structures having the smallest dimension of 8 inches or greater. Bridges, culverts, and retaining walls, are paid for separately and not included in masonry or concrete structure removal. Any structure with smaller dimensions is not to be considered with structure removal, but will be included in the earth excavation item of work per Subsection 205.04 of the Standard Specifications for Construction.
Structure and Retaining Wall Removal
Structure and retaining wall removal typically begins with an assessment of the structure or retaining wall, considering factors such as materials used, structural integrity, and any potential environmental or safety hazards. Detailed discussion with the Contractor must take place to outline the methods and equipment required for removal, as well as safety protocols to be followed throughout the process.
The Contractor may use techniques such as controlled demolition to mitigate the impact on neighboring structures and the environment. Specialized equipment such as excavators or cranes may be utilized to carefully dismantle the structure, piece by piece. Structures, retaining walls, or portions of them must be removed entirely as noted on the plans. All removal operations should be conducted in a manner to avoid damage to the existing structure to remain in place. The Contractor will remove portions of existing structures not interfering with new construction to at least 3 feet below the pavement surface within the limits of the roadbed, and elsewhere to an elevation of at least 1 foot below the finished grade.
If portions of the existing structure are to be incorporated into new construction, the Contractor will saw cut a line at the transition point. It is important that they do not over cut the corners. The Contractor should use a drill or chipping tools to extend the saw cut cleanly into the corner of a structure. Existing reinforcement is to be salvaged and protected until incorporation into the new structure.
Culvert Structure Removal
Before removing culvert structures, the Contractor and Engineer may perform a comprehensive assessment, considering size, condition, material composition, and the impact of removal on hydrology and surrounding areas. Discussions should take place to help identify the plan that will outline the methods and equipment required for removal, maintaining the existing watercourse, environmental issues that need to be addressed prior to the work commencing, as well as safety protocols to be followed throughout the process.
The Contractor will remove culvert structures or parts of culvert structures as called for on the plans. If extension of the culvert is the be completed, the Contractor must take care during removal to not damage the existing culvert. If only a portion of the culvert structure is to be removed, the removal should be done in a manner to avoid weakening or damaging parts of the structure which are to remain.
The Contractor may use specialized equipment such as excavators, cranes, or hydraulic shears to carefully dismantle the culvert structure, taking into account its position within the watercourse and any associated environmental considerations. Techniques such as controlled demolition or cutting may be utilized to minimize disturbance to water flow and surrounding habitat.
During the removal process, the Contractor must carefully manage sediment and debris to prevent contamination of water bodies and protect downstream ecosystems. Sediment traps or turbidity curtains may be installed to capture and contain suspended particles, while erosion control measures will be implemented to prevent soil erosion and protect water quality.
Guardrail and Fence Removal
Guardrail removal includes the removal of all guardrail components: posts, beam elements, reflectors, blocks, hardware, anchorages, etc. Guardrail removal includes the cost of removing concrete blocks or steel sleeves.
Fence removal includes the removal of fence fabric, wire, posts, and foundations.
Concrete Barrier Removal
The Contractor must remove concrete barrier, glare screen, and footings to an existing or sawed joint. Saw cuts should be made full depth unless otherwise directed by the Engineer. Barrier footings and post footings must be removed entirely.
Utility Pole Removal
Dismantling utility poles may initially require permits be obtained from relevant authorities. The Contractor should conduct a thorough assessment of the work site to identify underground utilities, assess soil conditions, and address any environmental concerns.
Ensuring safety during utility pole removal is paramount, especially when dealing with live wires. The Contractor must coordinate with the power company to facilitate turning off the power for the safe removal of the pole.
Railroad Track Removal
Railroad track removal may initially require permits be obtained from relevant authorities. The Contractor should conduct a thorough assessment of the work site to identify underground utilities, assess soil conditions, and address any environmental concerns.
Railroad track removal involves segmenting the track, detaching rails and ties with specialized equipment, and removing the ballast layer. Depending on the material, ties may be recycled, reused, or disposed of properly. The track bed is then regraded and may be refilled with ballast based on future land use plans. Throughout the process, the Contractor must implement environmental safeguards such as dust control and spill prevention measures to minimize ecological impact.
Backfiling
All voids created from removing a material must be backfilled upon completion of the removal operation. If within the influence of the roadway, granular material Class III is to be placed. Any void outside the influence of the roadway can be filled with either granular material Class III or sound earth. All backfill material must be placed and compacted in accordance with the controlled density method outlined in Subsection 205.03.H.4.a of the Standard Specifications for Construction.
INSPECTION & TESTING
Inspection
The Inspector should utilize, at a minimum, the following tools to perform the required inspection:
- 100-foot tape measure or longer
- 25-foot tape measure
- 6-foot stick ruler
- Working plans
- Camera
The Inspector should take the following steps during construction:
- Monitor the removal operation to ensure that cross-contamination of other materials does not occur.
- If the plans call for a partial removal of a culvert or structure, photograph the existing feature prior to the start of work and during the work operation to verify no damage was done during construction.
- Obtain material tickets.
- Verify the backfill is uniformly compacted in layers to provide adequate support and stability.
- Inspect the backfill for any voids, pockets, unsuitable material, or areas of inadequate compaction that may compromise the stability of the structure.
- Complete the required daily verification of compaction efforts. Backfill should meet 95% of the maximum unit weight with a moisture content within the specified range for the material is required as established with:
- The Michigan Cone if natural or slag aggregates are used; or
- The AASHTO T-180 if crushed concrete is used as detailed in the Density Testing and Inspection Manual.
- Record the density testing results of the backfill material in accordance with the Density Testing and Inspection Manual using the field established maximum density for the material being tested. The minimum testing frequency is shown in Appendix K (backfill) of this manual. The testing frequencies listed are minimums that are satisfactory for acceptance. However, it is emphasized that project conditions normally require more frequent testing for proper density control.
- Verify all the excavation is secured in accordance with the project documents if backfilling is not completed the same day as excavation.
- Document any deviations from the original plans or specifications and ensure they are properly addressed before proceeding with further construction activities.
Testing
For evaluation of aggregate materials, use only certified aggregate sampling and testing technicians. Refer to the Procedures for Aggregate Inspection manual and project specifications for testing requirements and frequencies. The Engineer should track the approved testing of installed aggregate and coordinate with the respective testing lab to ensure the required number of aggregate tests for the project are being completed. For every new source, new day, or suspected change in material, a moisture check needs to be completed.
Obtaining moisture readings from a nuclear density gauge is only an approximation and is often used as a guide in the field. Official determination of moisture content will be made from a field sample stored in a plastic bag with the moisture content checked for payment using the oven dry method only if it is paid for by weight.
Density for each lift needs to be achieved before subsequent layers are built up. All backfill, regardless of material used, is to be compacted to at least 95% of the maximum unit weight. Depending on the material used, maximum lift thicknesses vary. The Inspector should ensure the minimum number of required density tests are being performed per the Density Testing and Inspection Manual.
- Cohesive material: 9-inch maximum loose material thickness.
- Granular material: 15-inch maximum lift thickness.
All salvaged granular material should be tested for adherence to Class III requirements before placement.
MEASUREMENT, DOCUMENTATION AND PAYMENT
Measurement and Payment
Unless otherwise required, structures or materials are measured in their original positions.
Unit prices for pay items include the cost of breaking down, sawing, removing, and/or disposing of materials; providing, placing, and compacting backfill; and providing and placing replacement soil or base material.
Removal items are paid by each item removed, length, area, volume, or lump sum.
- By each: The total number of utility poles and culvert, other than pipe removals, will be paid by each item removed.
- By linear foot: The removal of curb and gutter, railroad track, guardrail, fence, concrete barrier, and glare screen are paid for by linear foot removed.
- By square yard: Pavement and sidewalk removal are paid for by the square yard based on field measurements.
- By cubic yard: Masonry and concrete structures and basement cleanout are paid by the cubic yard based on field measurements.
- By lump sum: Full or partial structure removal is paid for by the lump sum indicating the specific structure identification number. Limits of the removal are based on the plans.
For item specific pay item parameters, refer to Section 5.
Documentation
The Daily Work Report (DWR) should show all measurements, computations, and supporting documentation needed to verify the quantity submitted for payment. The Inspector should note in the remarks section of the report the material verification and equipment used for the delivery and placement of backfill material. Each load ticket must include the required information. Refer to Subsection 109.01.B.6 of the Standard Specifications for Construction for the information required on each ticket.
Form 1900, Aggregate Inspection Daily Report, will need to be completed for every sublot of aggregate to track gradation acceptance.
Form 0582B, Moisture & Density Determination - Nuclear Method, is used to record density testing results.
LOCAL AGENCY PROJECTS
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RAIL PROJECTS
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GENERAL
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MATERIALS
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CONSTRUCTION
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Pavements and Driveways
For removal of HMA pavements and driveways:
See subsection 501.04 of the Standard Specifications.
Structures
All structures and attached parts and connections shown on the plans to be removed will be entirely removed.
Structures requiring removal, but not shown on the plans to be removed, will be entirely removed or broken down to at least 3 feet (1 m) below final ground elevation and/or final pavement surface.
Any retained portion of an existing structure should not be damaged by construction operations.
Portions of existing structures and/or culvert structures not interfering with new construction will be removed to at least 3 feet (1 m) below the pavement surface within the limits of the roadbed, and elsewhere to an elevation of at least 12 inches (300 mm) below the finished grade.
Where existing culvert structures are to be extended or otherwise incorporated into the new work, only such portion of the existing structure will be removed as to provide a proper connection to the new work.
Salvaging, sawing when required, disposing of removed materials and backfilling with granular material are also included in this work.
Vertical Exploratory Investigation for Relocation
If proposed work must be relocated because it is discovered to be in conflict with existing features (utilities, foundations, etc.) during construction operations, the Special Provision for Vertical Exploratory Investigation for Relocation should be used.
Use of this special provision includes, but is not limited to, the following situations.
- Exposing unmarked utilities, culverts, sewers, etc.
- Exploratory situations (moving planned work and a utility conflict is uncertain)
If the special provision and associated pay item, Exploratory Investigation, Vertical, are not in the contract documents, the Engineer should negotiate an extra cost for inclusion in the project. The Engineer is to direct the specific work including depths and diameters of investigation. As stated in the special provision, the pay item will compensate the Contractor to locate and expose underground infrastructure and obstructions, such as culverts, sewers and utilities.
The special provision is not to compensate the Contractor for the Contractor’s responsibilities in subsection 107.12 of the Standard Specifications for Construction. The special provision and pay item are not to be used to expose existing marked utilities as that is a requirement in subsection 107.12.
MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT
Documentation
Identifying, measuring and recording removal items on a Daily Work Report (DWR) (or on Form 1122A) are very important. If the Contractor chooses to dispose of any material off the ROW and on private property, a copy of the Contractor's written permission from the property owner is required and will be filed with the Engineer. In no case (on or off ROW) will any wetland or flood plain be filled during the disposal of materials.
Demolition Contracts
There is no reference to this work in the Standard Specifications for Construction. Requirements for demolition work are usually detailed in contracts prepared by the Real Estate Support Area.
Demolitions contracts, in and of themselves, are not subject to the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts, but such work performed as a part of a construction contract is clearly covered. PR 47's are not required on demolition contracts.
Types of Demolition Contracts
Negative bid contract - MDOT pays a Contractor for demolition work.
Positive bid contract - the Contractor pays MDOT for demolition work.
Requirements Before Demolition Work May Begin
It is preferred to complete demolition contracts before project certification due to significant cost and time savings. MDOT may advertise and award contracts for demolition before receiving possession of a parcel. However, MDOT must have possession of the parcel before any authorization for demolition work to begin may be given.
The Engineer must receive notification of possession and release recommendation from the Region Real Estate office or Lansing Real Estate Project Team before authorizing demolition work to begin on any parcel. All parcels should be cleared through the Region Real Estate office or the Lansing Real Estate Project Team office. No project certification is required before releasing a parcel for demolition work.
Wells
It is important that inspectors make certain demolition Contractors have fulfilled their responsibility of grouting and sealing wells encountered during demolition to avoid additional costs during later highway construction. Special attention should be paid to the contract specifications for sealing and grouting wells.
UST’s
Buried underground storage tanks encountered during demolition projects are to be taken care of in the same manner as those found during construction contracts, using either the Upper Peninsula or Lower Peninsula underground storage tank (UST) removal contract that has been established. Refer to Section 210, of this manual, under UST Removal Contracts, for procedures to be followed when tanks are found.
Site Clearing (Form RE-18)
Form RE-18 - Site Clearing is used to notify the Region real estate agent of a satisfactory site cleanup. See Figure 204-1.
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LOCATION
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The bidder will remove basement walls to the basement floor level, remove all masonry and other debris from the site and fill the basement to ground level with earth containing not more than 2 percent fieldstone in excess of 6 inches (150 mm) in diameter. | ||
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The bidder will remove basement walls and all masonry to ground level, remove all combustible materials and debris from site; however, bidder may deposit noncombustible masonry in the excavation to a depth which is not less than 2 feet (600 mm) below grade level, and complete filling the excavation with earth containing not more than 2 percent fieldstone in excess of 6 inches (150 mm) in diameter. | ||
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The bidder will remove basement walls to basement floor level, remove all masonry and other debris from the site and fill excavation from existing soil to a 1 on 2 back slope [1 foot (300 mm) vertical and 2 feet (600 mm) horizontal]. | ||
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Walls to be removed to ground level and debris removed from site. No further grading is necessary. See Form 665. | ||
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Well to be grouted in accordance with specifications attached to Notice to Public. | ||
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Septic tank to be pumped out and removed. | ||
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Site to be seeded and mulched in accordance with specifications attached to Notice to Public. | ||
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12 inch (300 mm) layer method. | ||
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Performance bond, site clearance deposit or sums withheld pending satisfactory cleanup of site may be returned. | ||||
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