Auburn Tunnel Inspection and Condition Assessment
Client:
Placer County Water Agency
Location:
Placerville, CA
This 3-mile-long tunnel (which was built in the early 20th century) needed to be evaluated due to debris found in the pumps that aid in the transport of the agency’s raw water to the treatment and distribution system.
The project included field inspection and a level 2 condition assessment of the interior lining of the tunnel which required a structural, geotechnical, and geological assessment of the lined and unlined sections; stationing and photo documentation of any significant issues along the tunnel alignment; and preparation of a condition assessment report including applicable recommendations.
The work needed to be scheduled within a 2-month window which aligned with the tunnel’s annual winter shutdown period. A portion of the tunnel was successfully dewatered and safety measures were installed before project team members were lowered down a shaft to complete a full evaluation of its condition.
