KA Block Update – July 2016
Concrete footing work at the KA Block construction site in downtown Minneapolis
Progress continued on the KA Block as excavation reached a major milestone and concrete work moved into full production. Project Manager Rody Lageson, P.E., provided the following update.
How Deep Did Excavation Go?
Rody Lageson: The deepest point of excavation reached 35 feet below the surrounding street grade. It was located at a pair of footings near the office elevator core.
See the virtual jobsite visit from June 29, 2016.
How Much Soil Was Removed?
Lageson: Approximately 250,000 tons of soil were removed from the site.
Where Did the Excavated Soil Go?
Lageson: Contaminated soil removed during the initial site cleanup was used as cover at local landfills. The remaining clean sand material was suitable for structural fill and was hauled to Blaine for use in building pads.
How Did a Concrete Pour Operate?
Lageson: A concrete-pour day began with a pump setting up on the street above the excavation. The pump boom was extended to the first pour location, followed closely by concrete trucks feeding the pump two at a time.
A full concrete truck could be unloaded into the pump in about five minutes. During warm summer weather, the placing and finishing crews needed to work quickly to complete the concrete before it set.
What Lean Construction Approaches Were Used?
Lageson: Each week, the project team met to plan the following week’s work and remove constraints that could affect progress. Participants included project managers, project assistants, superintendents, subcontractor foremen and designers.
The Lean process emphasized coordination and communication to create workflow and minimize waste.
Every few months, the team also met to pull plan the next project phase. These sessions used input from the project team to develop the upcoming schedule, procurement plan and site logistics.
What Was Planned for the Next Month?
Lageson: The site was transitioning from excavation and footing work to elevated decks. Deck pours require a coordinated rhythm among crews to work quickly, safely and efficiently. The team had been planning the process for several weeks and looked forward to putting the plan into action.
When Would Structural Steel Erection Begin?
Lageson: Structural steel at the office building was planned to begin by late August or early September.
Learn more about the KA Block project, the start of headquarters and residential-tower construction, Lean Construction and front-line engagement and the new downtown Minneapolis headquarters.
CATEGORY: Construction