3. Specifications.pdf

Table of Contents Preface

152 - Construction Survey and Staking

152.04 General

152.05 Survey and Staking Requirements

Table 152-1 Construction Survey and Staking Tolerances

153 - Contractor Quality Control

153.02 Qualifications

153.03 Quality Control Plan

156 - Public Traffic

Section 156. – PUBLIC TRAFFIC

157 - Soil Erosion and Sediment Control

157.04 General

204 - Excavation and Embankment

Section 204. — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT

213 - Subgrade Stabilization

213.05 General

301 - Untreated Aggregate Courses

301.03 General

301.05 Compacting

703 - Aggregate

703.05 Subbase, Base, Surface Course, and Screened Aggregate

705 - Rock

705.02 Riprap. Table 705-1

Preface Preface_wo_06_25_2023

Delete all but the first paragraph and add the following:

The Forest Service, US Department of Agriculture has adopted FP-14 for construction of National Forest System Roads.

152 - Construction Survey and Staking 152.00_National_12_12_2016

Add the following to Subsection 152.04(c):

152.04 General.

(c) Material.

Use required stake dimensions and materials. Pre-paint the top 2 inches of all stakes and lath, or mark them with plastic flagging. Use designated colors for paint or flagging. Mark all stakes with a stake pencil that leaves a legible imprint, or with waterproof ink.

Do not use aerosol spray paints.

Use moisture-resistant paper for survey notes. Keep notes in books with covers that will protect the contents and retain the pages in numerical sequence.

Make the following changes to Subsection 152.05:

152.05 Survey and Staking Requirements.

Delete Subsection 152.05(d)(2) and replace with the following:

(d) Slope and reference stakes.

(2) Conventional survey methods. When required, locate slope stakes on designated portions of the road. Locate the slope stake catch points and use them to establish clearing limits and slope stake references.

Mark slope stakes with the station, the amount of cut or fill, the horizontal distance to centerline, and the slope ratios.

Place slope reference stakes at least 10 feet outside the clearing limit and mark with the offset distance to the slope stake. Place sight stakes when required.

Prior to clearing and grubbing operations, move the slope stake outside the clearing limit to the slope reference stake. After clearing and grubbing and before excavation, reset the slope stakes in their original position.

Use the designated method to establish the slope stake catchpoint.

Method I—Computed Method. Use the template information shown in the plans or other Government-provided data to calculate the actual location of the catchpoint. The slope stake “catchpoint distance” provided may be used as a trial location to initiate slope staking. Recatch slope stakes on any section that does not match the staking report within the tolerances established in Table 152-2.

Method II—Catchpoint Measurement Method. Determine the location of slope stake catchpoints by measuring the catchpoint distances shown in the plans or other Government-provided data.

Add the following to Subsection 152.05(e):

(e) Clearing and grubbing limits.

Mark the clearing limits with flagging or tags on trees to be left standing, or on lath. Make markings intervisible, and no more than 90 feet apart.

After establishing clearing limits, move the location line stake outside the clearing limits for station identification purposes, and mark it with horizontal distance to location line.

Replace Table 152-1 with the following:

Table 152-1 Construction Survey and Staking Tolerances Table 152-1

Construction Survey and Staking Tolerances (1)

Staking Phase Horizontal Vertical

Control points set from existing Government control points- Tolerance Class A

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

±0.01 feet × N

(±3 millimeters × N )(2)

Mapping, topography, and cross-section Points- Tolerance Class A

±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

Centerline points (3) including (PC), (PT), (POT),(POC), and references- Tolerance Class A

±0.06 feet (±20 millimeters)

±0.06 feet (±20 millimeters)

Slope-stake and slope-stake references- Tolerance Class A (4)

±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.16 feet ±50 millimeters)

Culverts, ditches, and minor drainage structures stakes- Tolerance Class A

±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.06 feet (±20 millimeters)

Retaining walls stakes ±0.06 feet (±20 millimeters)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Curb and gutter stakes ±0.06 feet (±20 millimeters)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Bridge substructures stakes ±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)(5)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Bridge superstructures stakes ±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)(5)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Clearing and grubbing limit stakes- Tolerance Class A

±1.00 feet (±300 millimeters)

Roadway subgrade finish stakes- Tolerance Class A (6)

±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Roadway finish grade stakes (6) ±0.16 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.03 feet (±10 millimeters)

Table 152-1 Construction Survey and Staking Tolerances (continued) (1)

Staking Phase Horizontal Vertical

Control points set from existing Government control points –Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.16 feet (±20 millimeters)

±0.16 feet ×

(±20 millimeters × )(2)

Mapping, topography, and cross-section points–Tolerance Class B (7)

±1.00 feet (±300 millimeters)

±0.50 feet (±150 millimeters)

Centerline points including (PC), (PT), (POT),(POC), and references–Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.16 feet (±20 millimeters)

±0.16 feet (±20 millimeters)

Slope-stake and slope-stake references– Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.50 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.16 feet ±50 millimeters)

Culverts, ditches, and minor drainage structures stakes–Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.50 feet (±150 millimeters)

±0.16 feet (±20 millimeters)

Clearing and grubbing limit stakes–Tolerance Class B (7)

±2.00 feet (±600 millimeters)

Roadway subgrade finish stakes–Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.50 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.16 feet (±10 millimeters)

Roadway finish grade stakes–Tolerance Class B (7)

±0.50 feet (±50 millimeters)

±0.16 feet (±10 millimeters)

(1) At statistical 95 percent confidence level. Tolerances are relative to existing Government control points.

(2) N is the number of instrument setups.

(3) Centerline points: PC - point of curve, PT - point of tangent, POT - point on tangent, POC - point on curve.

(4) Take the cross-sections normal to the centerline ±1 degree.

(5) Bridge control is established as a local network and the tolerances are relative to that network.

(6) Includes paved ditches.

(7) Tolerance Class B for Very Low Volume Roads with an aggregate or native finished surface.

N

153 - Contractor Quality Control 153.02_National_11_1_2016

Delete Subsection 153.02 and replace with the following:

153.02 Qualifications.

Submit the following for approval with the quality control plan:

(a) Quality control manager (QCM). Furnish a QCM who has at least 2 years’ experience in construction, inspector, quality control and material testing on construction projects of similar type and scope.

(b) Testers. Provide testers with at least one year experience in the type of sampling and testing required, and with one of the following for the type of sampling and testing performed:

(1) NICET Level II certification in highway material or equivalent state or industry certification;

(2) Certification by a regional certification program (such as Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC), Northeast Transportation Technician Certification Program (NETTCP), Southeast Task Force for Technician Training and Qualification (STFTTQ), or Multi Regional Training and Certification (M-TRAC)); or

(3) At least one year employment by an AASHTO accredited laboratory performing equivalent sampling and testing.

153.03_National_11_1_2016

Add the following paragraph to the end of Subsection 153.03(b):

153.03 Quality Control Plan.

(b) Quality Control Procedures.

Submit written proposals for approval of alternate AASHTO or State approved test methods. Alternate methods may be allowed based on documented equivalence to the specified method.

156 - Public Traffic 156.00_National_2_5_2019

Delete Section 156 in its entirety and replace with the following:

Section 156. – PUBLIC TRAFFIC Description

156.01 This work consists of controlling and protecting public traffic adjacent to and within the project.

Material

156.02 Conform to the MUTCD and the following Sections and Subsections:

Permanent Traffic Control 633

Traffic Signing and Marking Material 718

Concrete Barriers and Precast Guardwalls 618

Temporary plastic fence 710.11

Construction Requirements

156.03 General. Accommodate traffic according to MUTCD, approved traffic control plan and this section.

Perform work in a manner that ensures safety and convenience of the public. Unless otherwise provided for in Table 156-1, keep existing roads open to all traffic during road improvement work, and maintain them in a condition that will adequately accommodate traffic. Delays may not exceed <number> minutes at any one time followed by an open period of no less than <number> minutes. Accommodate public traffic on roads adjacent to and within the project until the project is accepted according to Subsection 106.07(b).

Submit traffic control plan at least 30 days prior to intended use. Perform no work that interferes or conflicts with traffic or existing access to the roadway surface until a traffic control plan has been approved.

Post construction signs and traffic control devices in conformance with MUTCD and Forest Service EM 7100-15.

All required signs will be in place and approved prior to beginning work on project.

If the Contractor agrees in writing to allow public traffic to use a new road being constructed prior to completion, it will be considered an existing road for traffic control purposes.

156.04 Temporary Traffic Control. Install and maintain temporary traffic control devices adjacent to and within the project as required by the approved traffic control plan and the MUTCD. Install and maintain traffic control devices as follows:

(a) Furnish and install traffic control devices before the start of construction operations.

(b) All detours outside of clearing limits will be approved in writing by the Contracting Officer as part of the traffic control plan.

(c) Install only those traffic control devices needed for each stage or phase.

(d) Relocate temporary traffic control devices as necessary.

(e) Remove devices that no longer apply to the existing conditions.

(f) Immediately replace any device that is lost, stolen, destroyed, or inoperative.

(g) Keep temporary traffic control devices clean.

(h) Remove all temporary traffic control devices upon contract completion or when approved.

(i) When required, use flaggers certified by the American Traffic Safety Services Association, the National Safety Council, the International Municipal Signal Association, a state agency, or other acceptable organization. Perform the work described under MUTCD Part 6. Use type III, VII, VIII, or IX retroreflective sheeting on flagger paddles. Do not use flags. Flaggers must wear high visibility safety apparel as required by MUTCD 6E.02.

156.05 Temporary Closures. Road segments may be closed as shown in Table 156-1. The maximum consecutive days of closure shall be followed by a minimum number of consecutive days open to traffic as shown. Maintain traffic control devices during closure period(s). Appropriate barricades and signs will be erected and maintained as shown in the traffic control plan or as otherwise designated.

Prior to closing roads during construction, give written notice to the Contracting Officer at least 10 days in advance.

Table 156-1 Temporary Road Closures

Road Number From Terminus To Terminus

Maximum Consecutive Days of Closure

Minimum Consecutive Days Open

<number> <MP or description>

<MP or description> <number> <number>

156.06 Acceptance. Public traffic work will be evaluated under Subsection 106.02.

Measurement and Payment

156.07 Do not measure Public Traffic for payment. Payment for contract work is provided indirectly. See Subsection 109.05.

157 - Soil Erosion and Sediment Control 157.04_National_11_1_2016

Delete Subsection 157.04 and replace with the following:

157.04 General.

Thirty (30) days prior to the start of construction, submit a written plan according to subsection 104.03 with all necessary permits that provides permanent and temporary erosion control measures to minimize erosion and sedimentation during and after construction. Do not begin work until the necessary controls for that particular phase of work have been implemented. Do not modify the type, size, or location of any control without approval.

When erosion control measures are not functioning as intended, take corrective action to eliminate or minimize pollutants in storm water discharges from the project.

204 - Excavation and Embankment 204.00_National_11_4_2016

Delete Section 204 in its entirety and replace with the following.

Section 204. — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Description

204.01 This work consists of excavating material and constructing embankments. This work also includes furnishing, hauling, stockpiling, placing, disposing, sloping, shaping, compacting, and finishing earthen and rocky material.

204.02 Definitions.

(a) Excavation. Excavation consists of the following:

(1) Roadway excavation. Material excavated from within the right-of-way or easement areas, except subexcavation covered in Subsection 204.02(a)(2) and structure excavation covered in Sections 208 and

209. Roadway excavation includes all material encountered regardless of its nature or characteristics.

(2) Subexcavation. Material excavated from below subgrade elevation in cut sections or from below the original ground-line in embankment sections. Subexcavation excludes the work required by Subsection

204.05 or 204.06.

(3) Borrow excavation. Material used for embankment construction that is obtained from outside the roadway prism. Borrow excavation includes unclassified borrow, and topping.

(b) Embankment construction. Embankment construction consists of placing and compacting roadway or borrow excavation. This work includes:

(1) Preparing foundation for embankment;

(2) Constructing roadway embankments;

(3) Benching for side-hill embankments;

(4) Constructing dikes, ramps, mounds, and berms; and

(5) Backfilling subexcavated areas, holes, pits, and other depressions.

(c) Conserved topsoil. Excavated material conserved from the roadway excavation and embankment foundation areas that is suitable for growth of grass, cover crops, or native vegetation.

(d) Waste. Excess and unsuitable roadway excavation and subexcavation that cannot be used.

Material

204.03 Conform to the following Subsections:

Topping 704.05

Unclassified borrow 704.06

Water 725.01(c)

Construction Requirements

204.04 Preparation for Roadway Excavation and Embankment Construction. Clear the area of vegetation and obstructions according to Sections 201 and 203.

Road pioneering, slash disposal, and grubbing of stumps may proceed concurrently with excavation and embankment. Maintain drainage during pioneering operations.

204.05 Conserved Topsoil. When designated, conserve topsoil from roadway excavation and embankment foundation areas. Stockpile conserved topsoil in low windrows immediately beyond the rounding limits of cut and embankment slopes or in other approved locations. Separate conserved topsoil from other excavated material.

When designated, place conserved topsoil on completed slopes according to Section 624.

204.06 Roadway Excavation. Excavate as follows:

(a) Rock cuts. Blast rock according to Section 205. Excavate rock cuts to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below subgrade within the roadbed limits. Backfill to subgrade with topping or other suitable material. Compact the material according to Subsection 204.11.

(b) Earth cuts. Scarify earth cuts to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below subgrade within the roadbed limits.

Compact the scarified material according to Subsection 204.11.

(c) Pioneer Roads. Conduct excavation and placement operations so material to be treated under Section 201 will not be incorporated into the roadway unless specified in the slash treatment method. Maintain drainage during pioneering operations.

Remove snow and ice in advance of the work and deposit beyond the roadway limits in a manner that will not waste material or generate sediment. Do not incorporate snow and ice into embankments. Place snow or ice in a manner to prevent resource damage.

(d) Drainage Feature. Drainage feature includes construction of all ditches, minor channel changes, drainage dips, catch basins, surface water deflectors, and other minor drainage structures. Compact the material according to Subsection 204.11. Excavate on a uniform grade between control points.

Do not disturb material and vegetation outside the construction limits. Retrieve material deposited outside the construction limits. Dispose of unsuitable or excess excavation material according to Subsection 204.14. Replace shortage of suitable material caused by premature disposal of roadway excavation.

Shape to drain and compact the work area to a uniform cross-section at the end of each day's operations.

204.07 Subexcavation. Excavate material to the required limits. Dispose of unsuitable material according to Subsection 204.14. Take cross-sections according to Section 152. Backfill subexcavated area with suitable material in horizontal layers not exceeding 12 inches (300 millimeters) in compacted thickness and compact according to Subsection 204.11. Prevent unsuitable material from mixing with suitable backfill material.

204.08 Borrow Excavation. Use suitable roadway excavation in embankment construction. Do not use borrow excavation when it results in excess roadway excavation. Deduct excess borrow excavation from the total borrow excavation quantity.

Obtain borrow source approval according to Subsection 105.02. Develop and restore borrow sources according to Subsections 105.03 and 105.06. Do not excavate beyond the established limits. When applicable, shape the borrow source to permit accurate measurements when excavation is complete.

204.09 Preparing Foundation for Embankment Construction. Prepare foundation for embankment construction as follows:

(a) Embankment over natural ground. Remove topsoil and break up the ground surface to a minimum depth of 6 inches (150 millimeters) by plowing or scarifying. Compact the ground surface according to Subsection 204.11.

(b) Embankments over an existing asphalt, concrete, or gravel road surface. Scarify gravel roads to a minimum depth of 6 inches (150 millimeters). Scarify or pulverize asphalt and concrete roads to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below the pavement. Reduce particles to a maximum size of 6 inches (150 millimeters) and produce a uniform material. Compact the surface according to Subsection 204.11.

(c) Embankment across ground not capable of supporting equipment. Dump successive loads of embankment material in a uniformly distributed layer to construct the lower portion of the embankment. Limit the layer thickness to the minimum depth necessary to support the equipment.

(d) Embankment on an existing slope steeper than 1V:3H. Cut horizontal steps in the existing slope to a sufficient width to accommodate placement and compaction operations and equipment. Step the slope as the embankment is placed and compacted in layers. Begin each step at the intersection of the original ground and the vertical cut of the previous step.

204.10 Embankment Construction. Incorporate only suitable roadway excavation material into the embankment.

When the supply of suitable roadway excavation is exhausted, furnish unclassified borrow to complete the embankment. Obtain written approval before beginning construction of embankments over 6 feet (2 meters) high at subgrade centerline. Construct embankments as follows:

(a) General. At the end of each day's operations, shape to drain and compact the embankment surface to a uniform cross-section. Eliminate ruts and low spots that could hold water.

During all stages of construction, route and distribute hauling and leveling equipment over the width and length of each layer of material.

Compact embankment side slopes with a tamping foot roller, by walking with a dozer, or by over-building the fill and then removing excess material to the final slope line. For slopes 1V:1¾H or steeper, compact the slopes as embankment construction progresses.

(b) Embankment within the roadway prism. Place embankment material in horizontal layers not exceeding 12 inches (300 millimeters) in compacted thickness. Incorporate oversize boulders or rock fragments into the 12-inch (300-millimeter) layers by reducing them in size or placing them individually as required below. Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11 before placing the next layer.

Material composed predominately of boulders or rock fragments too large for 12-inch (300-millimeter) layers may be placed in layers up to 24 inches (600 millimeters) thick. Incorporate oversize boulders or rock fragments into the 24-inch (600-millimeter) layer by reducing them in size or placing individual rock fragments and boulders greater than 24 inches (600 millimeters) in diameter as follows:

(1) Reduce rock to less than 48 inches (1200 millimeters) in the largest dimension;

(2) Distribute rock within the embankment to prevent nesting;

(3) Place layers of embankment material around each rock to a depth not greater than that permitted above. Fill voids between rocks; and

(4) Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11(a) before placing the next layer.

(c) Embankment outside of roadway prism. When placing embankment outside the staked roadway prism, place material in horizontal layers not exceeding 24 inches (600 millimeters) in compacted thickness. Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11.

204.11 Compaction. Compact the embankment using one of the following methods as specified.

(a) Placement Method 1. Use AASHTO T 27 to determine the quantity of material retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Compact as follows:

(1) More than 80 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Adjust the moisture content to a level suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical.

Use compression-type rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet (1 meter) per second. Compact each layer of material full width with one of the following and until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation:

(a) Four roller passes of a vibratory roller having a minimum dynamic force of 40,000 pounds (180 kilonewtons) impact per vibration and a minimum frequency of 1000 vibrations per minute;

(b) Eight roller passes of a 20-ton (20-metric ton) compression-type roller; or

(c) Eight roller passes of a vibratory roller having a minimum dynamic force of 30,000 pounds (130 kilonewtons) impact per vibration and a minimum frequency of 1000 vibrations per minute.

Increase the compactive effort for layers deeper than 12 inches (300 millimeters) as follows:

• For each additional 6 inches (150 millimeters) or fraction thereof, increase the number of roller passes in Subsection 204.11(a)(1)(a), by four passes; or

• For each additional 6 inches (150 millimeters) or fraction thereof, increase the number of roller passes in Subsection 204.11(a)(1)(b) and (c), by eight passes.

(2) 50 to 80 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Classify the material according to AASHTO M 145. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-1 through A-5 to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-6 and A-7 to within 2 percent of the optimum moisture content. Use AASHTO T 99 to determine the optimum moisture content of the portion of the material passing a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Multiply this number by the percentage of material passing a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve, and add 2 percent to determine the optimum moisture content of the material.

Use nonvibratory rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet(1 meter) per second. Compact each layer of material full width according to Subsection 204.11(a)(1).

(3) Less than 50 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Classify the material according to AASHTO M 145. For material classified A-1 or A-2-4, determine the maximum density according to AASHTO T 99, Method C.

Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-1 through A-5 to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-6 and A-7 to within 2 percent of the optimum moisture content.

Use compression-type or vibratory rollers. Compact each layer of material full width to at least 95 percent of the maximum density. Determine the in-place density and moisture content according to AASHTO T 310 or other approved test procedures. When required, use AASHTO T 224 to correct for coarse particles.

(b) Placement Method 2. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate roller compaction equipment over the full width of each layer until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation or, if when a sheepsfoot roller is used, the roller “walks out” of the layer. Make at least three complete passes. Use compression-type rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet (1 meter) per second. Ensure rollers meet the following requirements:

(1) Steel wheeled rollers, other than vibratory, capable of exerting a force of not less than 250 pounds per inch (4.5 kilogram/millimeter) of width of the compression roll or rolls.

(2) Vibratory steel wheeled rollers equipped with amplitude and frequency controls with a minimum dynamic force of 30,000 pounds (130 kilonewtons) impact per vibration, specifically designed to compact the material on which it is used.

(3) Pneumatic-tired rollers with smooth tread tires of equal size that will provide a uniform compacting pressure for the full width of the roller and capable of exerting a ground pressure of at least 80 psi (550 Kilopascals).

(4) Sheepsfoot, tamping, or grid rollers capable of exerting a force of 250 pounds per inch (4.5 kilogram/millimeter) of width of roller drum.

(c) Placement Method 3. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate hauling and spreading equipment uniformly over the full width of each layer until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation. Make at least three complete passes.

(d) Placement Method 4. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate hauling and spreading equipment uniformly over the full width of each layer.

(e) Placement Method 5. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Compact the complete surface with a bucket of an excavator larger than 39,000 pounds (18 metric ton) Gross Vehicle Weight using a minimum of three blows. Overlap compaction by ½ width of bucket.

(f) Placement Method 6. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Compact using an approved mechanical tamper for a minimum of three complete passes.

When compacting with rollers or hauling and spreading equipment is not practical, use approved mechanical tampers for a minimum of three complete passes.

204.12 Drainage Features. Slope, grade, and shape all drainage features. Remove projecting roots, stumps, rock, or similar matter. Maintain all drainage features in an open condition and without sticks, and other debris.

Form furrow ditches by plowing or using other acceptable methods to produce a continuous furrow. Place excavated material on the downhill side so the bottom of the ditch is approximately 18 inches (450 millimeters) below the crest of the loose material. Clean the ditch using a hand shovel or other suitable method. Shape to provide drainage without overflow.

204.13 Sloping, Shaping, and Finishing. Complete subgrade, slopes, drainage features, culverts, riprap, and other underground minor structures before placing aggregate courses. Slope, shape, and finish to the designated tolerance class as defined in Table 204-2 as follows:

(a) Sloping. Leave earth slopes with uniform roughened surfaces, except as described in Subsection 204.13(b), with no noticeable break as viewed from the road. Except in solid rock, round tops and bottoms of slopes including the slopes of drainage ditches. Round material overlaying solid rock to the extent practical. Scale rock slopes. Slope rounding is not required on tolerance class D through M roads.

If a slide or slipout occurs on a cut or embankment slope, remove or replace the material and repair or restore damage to the work. Bench or key the slope to stabilize the slide. Reshape the cut or embankment slope to an acceptable condition.

(b) Stepped slopes. Where required, construct steps on slopes of 1⅓V:1H to 1V:2H. Construct the steps approximately 18 inches (450 millimeters) high. Blend the steps into natural ground at the end of the cut. If the slope contains non-rippable rock outcrops, blend steps into the rock. Remove loose material found in transitional area. Except for removing large rocks that may fall, scaling stepped slopes is not required.

(c) Shaping. Shape the subgrade to a smooth surface and to the cross-section required. Shape slopes to gradually transition into slope adjustments without noticeable breaks. At the ends of cuts and at intersections of cuts and embankments, adjust slopes in the horizontal and vertical planes to blend into each other or into the natural ground.

(d) Finishing. Ensure that the subgrade is visibly moist during shaping and dressing; smooth and uniform, and shaped to conform to the typical sections. Remove material larger than 6 inches (150 millimeters) from the top 6 inches (150 millimeters) of the roadbed. Remove unsuitable material from the roadbed, and replace it with suitable material. Scarify to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below the bottom of low sections, holes, cracks, or depressions and bring back to grade with suitable material.

Maintain proper ditch drainage.

204.14 Disposal of Unsuitable or Excess Material. Dispose of unsuitable or excess material at designated sites or according to Subsection 203.05(a)

When there is a pay item for waste, shape and compact the waste material in its final location. Do not mix clearing or other material not subject to payment with the waste material.

204.15 Acceptance. See Table 204-1 for sampling, testing, and acceptance requirements.

Material for embankment and conserved topsoil will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Excavation and embankment construction will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Subexcavation will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Measurement

204.16 Measure the Section 204 pay items listed in the bid schedule according to Subsection 109.02 and the following as applicable:

(a) Roadway excavation. Measure roadway excavation in its original position as follows:

(1) Include the following volumes in roadway excavation:

(a) Roadway prism excavation;

(b) Rock material excavated and removed from below subgrade in cut sections;

(c) Unsuitable material below subgrade and unsuitable material beneath embankment areas when a pay item for subexcavation is not listed in the bid schedule;

(d) Ditches, except furrow ditches measured under a separate pay item;

(e) Conserved topsoil;

(f) Borrow material used in the work when a pay item for borrow is not listed in the bid schedule;

(g) Loose scattered rocks removed and placed as required within the roadway;

(h) Conserved material taken from pre-existing stockpiles and used in Section 204 work, except topsoil measured under 624; and

(i) Slide and slipout material not attributable to the Contractor's method of operation.

(2) Do not include the following in roadway excavation:

(a) Overburden and other spoil material from borrow sources;

(b) Overbreakage from the backslope in rock excavation;

(c) Water or other liquid material;

(d) Material used for purposes other than required;

(e) Roadbed material scarified in place and not removed;

(f) Material excavated when stepping cut slopes;

(g) Material excavated when rounding cut slopes;

(h) Preparing foundations for embankment construction;

(i) Material excavated when benching for embankments;

(j) Slide or slipout material attributable to the Contractor's method of operation;

(k) Conserved material taken from stockpiles constructed at the option of the Contractor;

(l) Material excavated outside the established slope limits; and

(m) Road pioneering for the convenience of the Contractor.

(3) When both roadway excavation and embankment construction pay items are listed in the bid schedule, measure roadway excavation only for the following:

(a) Unsuitable material below subgrade in cuts and unsuitable material beneath embankment areas when a pay item for subexcavation is not listed in the bid schedule;

(b) Slide and slipout material not attributable to the Contractor’s method of operations; and

(c) Drainage ditches, channel changes, and diversion ditches.

(b) Unclassified borrow, and topping. When measuring by the cubic yard (cubic meter) measure in its original position. If borrow excavation is measured by the cubic yard (cubic meter) in-place, take initial cross-sections of the ground surface after stripping overburden. Upon completion of excavation and after the borrow source waste material is returned to the source, retake cross-sections before replacing the overburden. Do not measure borrow excavation until suitable roadway excavation is depleted.

(c) Embankment construction. Measure embankment construction in its final position. Do not make deductions from the embankment construction quantity for the volume of minor structures.

(1) Include the following volumes in embankment construction:

(a) Roadway embankments;

(b) Material used to backfill subexcavated areas, holes, pits, and other depressions;

(c) Material used to restore obliterated roadbeds to original contours; and

(d) Material used for dikes, ramps, mounds, and berms.

(2) Do not include the following in embankment construction:

(a) Preparing foundations for embankment construction;

(b) Adjustments for subsidence or settlement of the embankment or of the foundation on which the embankment is placed; and

(c) Material used to round fill slopes.

(d) Rounding cut slopes. If a pay item for slope rounding is included in the bid schedule measure rounding cut slopes horizontally along the centerline of the roadway. If a pay item is not included for slope rounding is not included in the bid schedule payment will be considered indirect to roadway excavation.

(e) Waste. Measure waste by the cubic yard (cubic meter) in its final position. Take initial cross-sections of the ground surface after stripping over-burden. Upon completion of the waste placement, retake cross-sections before replacing overburden.

(f) Slope scaling. Measure slope scaling by the cubic yard (cubic meter) in the hauling vehicle.

(g) Subexcavation. Measure subexcavation by the cubic yard (cubic meter) in its original position.

(h) Drainage features. Measurement includes all excavation, embankment, shaping, and grading necessary for a completed drainage feature.

Payment

204.17 The accepted quantities will be paid at the contract price per unit of measurement for the Section 204 pay items listed in the bid schedule. Payment will be full compensation for the work prescribed in this Section. See Subsection 109.05.

Table 204-1 Sampling, Testing, and Acceptance Requirements

Material or Product (Subsection)

Type of Acceptance (Subsection)

Characteristic Category Test Methods Specifications

Sampling Frequency

Point of Sampling

Split Sample

Reporting Time

Source Topping (704.05)

Measured and tested for conformance (106.04 & 105)

Classification(1) – AASHTO M 145

1 per soil type and source of material

Processed material

Yes Before using in work

Unclassified borrow (704.06)

Production Topping (704.05) and (204.11(a))

Measured and tested for conformance (106.04)

Moisture-density – T 99, Method C(2)

1 per soil type, but not less than 1 per each 13,000 yd3 (10,000 m3)

Processed material

Yes Before using in work

Density – AASHTO T 310 or other approved procedures

1 per 3500 yd2 (3000 m2), but not less than 3 per layer

In-place No Before placement of next layer

Unclassified borrow (704.06) and (204.11(a))

" Moisture-density – T 99, Method C(2)

1 per soil type, but not less than 1 per each 13,000 yd3 (10,000 m3)

Processed material

Yes Before using in work

Density – AASHTO T 310 or other approved procedures

1 per 3500 yd2 (3000 m2), but not less than 3 per layer

In-place No Before placement of next layer

Production (continued)

Table 204-1 Sampling, Testing, and Acceptance Requirements

Material or Product (Subsection)

Type of Acceptance (Subsection)

Characteristic Category Test Methods Specifications

Sampling Frequency

Point of Sampling

Split Sample

Reporting Time

Earth embankment (204.11(a))

Measured and tested for conformance (106.04)

Classification – AASHTO M 145

1 per soil type

Source of material

Yes Before using in work

Moisture-density – T 99, Method C(2)

1 per soil type, but not less than 1 per each 13,000 yd3 (10,000 m3)

Density – AASHTO T 310 or other approved procedures

1 per 3500 yd2 (3000 m2), but not less than 3 per layer

In-place No Before placement of next layer

Top of subgrade (204.11(a))

" Density – AASHTO T 310 or other approved procedures

1 per 2500 yd2 (2000 m2), but not less than 3 per layer

In-place No Before placement next layer

Finished Product Roadbed (204.13)

Measured and tested for conformance (106.04)

Final line & grade

– Field measured Determined by the CO

Determined by the CO

No Before placement of next layer

(1) Not required when using Government-provided source.

(2) Minimum 5 points per proctor.

T ab le

-2

C on st ru ct io n

T ol er an ce s

T ol er an ce C la ss

(a

M

+2 .0

(c

(c

+2

(a ) M ax im um a llo w ab le d ev ia tio n fro m c on str uc tio n sta ke s a nd d ra w in gs

(b

) M ax im um al lo w ab le d ev ia tio n fro m st ak ed sl op e m ea su re d fro m sl op e sta ke s o r h in ge p oi nt s.

(c

) U nl es s o th er w is e sh ow n th e ce nt er lin e al ig nm en t a nd su bg ra de e le va tio n, a s b ui lt, h av e no h or iz on ta l c ur ve s w ith a ra di us o f l es s t ha n fe et , a nd n o ve rti ca l c ur ve s w ith a c ur ve le ng th le ss th an fe et w he n th e al ge br ai c di ffe re nc e in th e gr ad e ch an ge is le ss th an pe rc en t, or a c ur ve le ng th o f l es s t ha n fe et w he n th e al ge br ai c di ffe re nc e of th e gr ad e ch an ge is gr ea te r t ha n or e qu al to pe rc en t.

Th e ce nt er lin e gr ad e is n ot to e xc ee d p er ce nt in fe et o f l en gt h.

L +2

+3

+5

K

J

+1

I

H

.5

G

F +1

E +1

+0

D

C

.2

B

A

.1

L oc at io n D es cr ip tio n

R oa db ed w id th (f t)

Su bg ra de e le va tio n (ft

C en te rli ne a lig nm en t ( ft)

Sl op es , e xc av at io n, a nd em ba nk m en t sl op e(b

213 - Subgrade Stabilization 213.05_National_11_2_2016

Delete the second paragraph in Subsection 213.05 and replace with the following:

213.05 General.

Prepare the subgrade according to Subsection 303.05. Scarify or pulverize the subgrade to the required depth. Adequately blend the material to produce a homogeneous mixture within 2 percent of the optimum moisture content.

301 - Untreated Aggregate Courses 301.03_National_7_17_2017

Add the following to Subsection 301.03:

301.03 General.

Written approval of the roadbed is required before placing aggregate.

For pit run or grid-rolled material, furnish material smaller than the maximum size, no gradation will be required otherwise. After processing on the road, remove all oversize material from the road and dispose as directed by the CO.

Provide additives or binder, if required, at the proportions specified.

Develop and use Government furnished sources according to Section 105.

If the aggregate is produced and stockpiled before placement, handle and stockpile according to Section 314.

301.05_National_7_17_2017

Delete Subsection 301.05 and replace with the following:

301.05 Compacting.

Compact each layer full width. Roll from the sides to the center, parallel to the centerline of the road.

Along curbs, headers, walls, and all places not accessible to the roller, compact the material with approved tampers or compactors.

Compact the aggregate using one of the following methods as specified:

(a) Compaction A. Operating spreading and hauling equipment over the full width of the travelway.

(b) Compaction B. Operate rollers and compact as specified in Subsection 204.11(a)(1).

(c) Compaction C. Moisten or dry the aggregate to a uniform moisture content between 5 and 7 percent based on total dry weight of the mixture. Operate rollers and compact as specified in Subsection 204.11(a)(1).

(d) Compaction D. Compact to a density of at least 95 percent of the maximum density, as determined by AASHTO T 99, method C or D.

(e) Compaction E. Compact to a density of at least 95 per-cent of the maximum density, as determined by AASHTO T 180, method C or D.

For all compaction methods, blade the surface of each layer during the compaction operations to remove irregularities and produce a smooth, even surface. When a density requirement is specified, determine the in place density and moisture content according to AASHTO T 310 or other approved test procedures.

703 - Aggregate 703.05_National_3_17_2021

Delete 703.05 and replace with the following:

703.05 Subbase, Base, Surface Course, and Screened Aggregate.

(a) Subbase or base aggregate. Furnish hard, durable particles or fragments of crushed stone, crushed slag, or crushed gravel conforming the following:

(1) Gradation Table 703-2

(2) Liquid limit, AASHTO T 89 25 max.

(3) Plastic limit, AASHTO T 90 Nonplastic

(4) Los Angeles abrasion, AASHTO T 96 40% max.

(5) Sodium sulfate soundness loss (5 cycles), 12% max.

AASHTO T 104

(6) Durability index (coarse), AASHTO T 210 35 min.

(7) Durability index (fine), AASHTO T 210 35 min.

(8) Fractured faces, ASTM D 5821 50% min.

(9) Free from organic matter and lumps or balls of clay

Do not use material that breaks up when alternately frozen and thawed or wetted and dried.

Obtain the aggregate gradation by crushing, screening, and blending processes as necessary. Fine aggregate, material passing the No. 4 sieve, shall consist of natural or crushed sand and fine mineral particles.

(b) Surface course aggregate. Furnish hard, durable particles or fragments of crushed stone, crushed slag, or crushed gravel conforming the following:

(1) Gradation Table 703-3

(2) Liquid limit, AASHTO T 89 35 max.

(3) Plastic Index, AASHTO T 90

a) If the percent passing the No. 200 sieve is less than 12% 2 to 9

b) If the percent passing the No. 200 sieve is greater than 12% Less than 2

(4) Los Angeles abrasion, AASHTO T 96 40% max.

(5) Sodium sulfate soundness loss (5 cycles), 12% max.

AASHTO T 104

(6) Durability index (coarse), AASHTO T 210 35 min.

(7) Durability index (fine), AASHTO T 210 35 min.

(8) Fractured faces, ASTM D 5821 75% min.

(9) Free from organic matter and lumps or balls of clay

Do not furnish material that contains asbestos fibers.

Obtain the aggregate gradation by crushing, screening, and blending processes as necessary. Fine aggregate, material passing the No. 4 sieve, shall consist of natural or crushed sand and fine mineral particles.

(c) Screened aggregate – Furnish hard, durable particles or fragments of stone, slag, or gravel conforming the following:

(1) Gradation Table 703-13

(2) Plastic Index, AASHTO T 90 Less than 9

(3) Los Angeles abrasion, AASHTO T 96 55% max.

(4) Free from organic matter and lumps or balls of clay.

Obtain the aggregate gradation by crushing, screening, and blending processes as necessary.

Delete Table 703-2 and replace with the following:

le

-2 ar ge t V al ue

R an ge s f or S ub ba se a nd B as e

G ra da tio n

Pe rc en t b y M as s P as si ng D es ig na te d Si ev e

(A A

SH

T

O T an d

T

1) ra di ng

D es ig na tio n

E (B as e)

(6

(6

(4

4.

7.

(3

T he v al ue in th e pa re nt he se s i s t he a llo w ab le d ev ia tio n

) f ro m th e ta rg et v al ue s..

D (B

(6

(6

(6

(4

4.

7.

(3

C (B

(6

(6

4.

–7 .0

(3

B (S ub ba se

(8

4.

.0 (4

A (S ub ba se

(7

(6

(4

4.

8.

(3

Si ev e Si ze

2½ in ch

1½

3/

1/ o.

N o.

Delete Table 703-3 and replace with the following:

le

-3 ar ge t V al ue R an ge s f or

S ur fa ce

G ra da tio n

Pe rc en t b y M as s P as si ng D es ig na te d Si ev e

(A A

SH

T

O T an d

T

1) ra di ng

D es ig na tio n

U

(6

(7

(5

8.

.0 (4

T he v al ue in th e pa re nt he se s i s t he a llo w ab le d ev ia tio n

) f ro m th e ta rg et v al ue s.

If th e pl as tic ity in de x

(P I) is gr ea te r t ha n 0, th e

TV

ra ng e fo r t he N o.

si ev e siz e is

-1

(4

(7

(5

8.

.0 (4

S 10

(6

(7

(5

8.

.0 (4

H

(6

(6

(5

9.

.0 (4

(6

(6

(5

.0

6.

(4

F 10

-1

-8

-6

(6

-5

-3

(6

-2

(5

.0

-1 6.

(4

Si ev e Si ze

N o.

N o.

Add Table 703-13:

Table 703-13 Gradation Requirements for Screened Aggregate

Sieve Size

Percent by Mass Passing Designated Sieve (AASHTO T 27 and T 11)

Grading Designation L M N O P Q R

6 inch 100 100

4 inch 100 100

3 inch 100 100

2 inch 100

No. 4 15-45 15-45 15-45

705 - Rock 705.02_National_7_18_2017

Add the following Class to Table 705-1 in Subsection 705.02:

705.02 Riprap. Table 705-1.

Table 705-1

Gradation Requirements for Riprap(1)

Class

% of Rock Equal or Smaller by Count, DX

Range of Intermediate

Dimensions,(2) inches (millimeters)

Range of Rock Mass,(3) pounds (kilograms)

100 6 – 8 (150 –200) 17 – 41 (8 – 19) 85 5 – 6 (150 – 150) 10 – 17 (5 – 8) 50 2 – 5 (50 – 125) 0.6 – 10 (0.3 – 5) 15 0 – 2 (0 – 50) 0 – 0.6 (0 – 0.3)