Case Study: Landslide Repair for Historic Structure

Client: Confidential Landowner Location: Bainbridge Island, WA Contact for geotechnical projects: John Peterson

Project Background & Challenges

A failed slope along the Puget Sound waterfront threatened to destroy an historic cabin unless stabilization measures were taken promptly. Because of current zoning requirements, rebuilding at the site would have been difficult or impossible if the cabin were lost.

Solution

Aspect evaluated the causes of the slope failure and the risk of additional damage. We then presented a range of potential repair options, with pros and cons for each. Working closely with the property owner’s representative, we identified a fast, cost-effective solution — combining a rock-fill buttress with improvements to surface and subsurface drainage. The buttress restored support for the cabin and reduced the risk of future problems while maximum the owner’s usable space. Our design team worked with the local municipal and state agencies, maintaining construction activities within critical area setbacks and guidelines.