Grierson Hill LRT Slope:
Tough Cell® Geocell
Slope Stabilization
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Paradox expertly stablilized and restored an iconic slope in Edmonton, delivering exceptional results within a tight timeframe. The project included using the geocell cellular confinement system to hold the soil in place to be reseeded and flourish in the long term.
CORE CONCERNS:
Slope Stability, Slope Protection, Durability
APPLICATION:
Slope Reconstruction
CONDITIONS:
Steep Slope
LOCATION:
Edmonton, Alberta | Sept 2017
PROJECT OVERVIEW
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Paradox was commissioned to provide a slope stabilization solution that could support vegetative regrowth. Part of Edmonton’s LRT track is situated below Grierson Hill, a cherished historic landmark. As the bustling city underwent the expansion of the LRT, the construction disrupted the stability and aesthetic allure of the slope. Undeterred by the steep challenge, Paradox and engineering partner Stratum Logics Civil Engineering Consultants quickly formalized a strategic approach. Through thoughtful engineering the slope’s resilience was successfully restored, and the hill’s natural beauty was rejuvenated.
THE MISSION
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To reinforce, stabilize and protect the
slope while achieving topsoil stability
and confinement for vegetative growth.
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED
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The project was given a remarkably brief period of 1-2 months before winter set in and further compromised the integrity of slope. The Paradox and Stratum teams had only 2 days to consult with the client, complete an on-site evaluation, and propose a comprehensive solution.
THE PROBLEM
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The slope was unable to support soil load and revegetation as the initial project designer underestimated the challenging process of revegetation post-construction. As a result, the once-green slope that existed became an eyesore to the community.
Despite numerous attempts to replace topsoil, that would allow for revegetation, the contractor was unsuccessful due to the formidable incline reaching a daunting angle of 83º in some areas. As a result, there was a need to find a long-term solution to support vegetative growth.
Determined to find a solution, the contractor approached Paradox for help tackling the restoration battle. After the site assessment, the team engineered and designed a permanent solution using Tough Cell® Geocells. This confinement technology would add stability and provide the tensile strength required to support the soil’s weight and vegetation rooting without deformity.
PROJECT AT A GLANCE
Condition of the slope preinstallation
Installation of the Tough Cell® layer
Infilling of Tough Cell® with top soil
Tough Cell® job complete
Regrowth the following spring
Full vegetation in the summer
PROJECT SPECS
TOTAL AREA
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1400 sqm
Slope-Side
INCLINE
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55º to 83º
Steep Slope
PRODUCT
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330-150-P-C
Tough Cell®
Cellular Confinement
INFILL
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>200 mm
Top Soil Thickness
THE SOLUTION
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Paradox implemented a unique Tough Cell® solution capable of steep-slope soil stabilization. Anchored to the slope, the honeycomb structure was stretched, filled, and seeded. The solution allowed root systems to propagate victoriously. Tough Cell® provided a stable, rigid solution that supported the revegetation of the hill.
THE BENEFITS
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SAVINGS: The client saved on future soil replacement and maintenance costs due to the erosion-control properties of the solution.
DURABILITY: The client gained a durable and permanent solution by relying on Tough Cell® to give the soil a stable structure that supported root growth.
LONGEVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY:
The biggest win for the client was the regrowth that was realized during the following spring without having to battle erosion.