Terminal Apron at Frederick Douglass - Greater Rochester International Airport

Passero Associates partnered with a geotechnical consultant to determine the reason for an area of heaved pavement and a failing retaining wall. The investigation concluded that poor subsurface drainage, combined with frost action, was causing the pavement heaves and retaining wall failure. Portions of the existing pavement and a retaining wall on the North Ramp and on the air carrier apron between Concourses A and B displayed structural weakening and significant distress. The first phase of this project was able to eliminate the retaining wall and replace approximately 104,000 square feet of pavement. The second, third and fourth phases replaced approximately 240,000 square feet of pavement. This project also included approximately 1,250 linear feet of repairs to existing concrete pavement expansion joints. In addition, significant new underdrain installations were installed to better address trapped groundwater. The work was carried out in multiple work areas to minimize the impact on air carrier operations, keeping disruption to a manageable level.