310000 Earthwork.pdf

310000-1 Project No. SA-SS-2026-001

SECTION 310000 - EARTHWORK

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS

A. Drawings and general provisions of the Contract, including General and Supplementary Conditions and Division 01 Specification Sections, apply to this Section.

1.2 SUMMARY

A. Section Includes:

1. Disconnecting, capping, sealing, and/or removing existing utilities.

2. Site Clearing:

a. Protecting existing vegetation to remain.

b. Removing existing vegetation.

c. Clearing and grubbing.

d. Stripping and stockpiling topsoil and rock.

e. Removing above- and below-grade improvements.

f. Disconnecting, capping or sealing, and removing or abandoning site utilities in place.

3. Excavation:

a. Excavating for buildings and structures.

b. Excavating trenches for utilities and pits for buried utility structures.

4. Fill and Backfill:

a. Backfilling for building and site structures to subgrade elevations.

b. Backfilling for trenches.

c. Fill under slabs-on-grade.

d. Fill under pavements.

e. Fill for over-excavation.

f. Subsurface drainage backfill for walls and trenches.

5. Preparation of subgrades.

6. Compaction.

7. Riprap placement.

8. Rough and final grading.

B. Related Requirements:

1. Section 310001 – Earthwork Materials.

2. Section 312500 – Erosion and Sedimentation Controls.

3. Section 315000 – Excavation Support Protection.

4. Section 329200 – Turf and Grasses.

5. Section 329300 – Plants.

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1.3 REFERENCE STANDARDS

A. ASTM International:

1. ASTM C88 - Standard Test Method for Soundness of Aggregates by Use of Sodium Sulfate or Magnesium Sulfate

2. ASTM C136 - Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates.

3. ASTM D698 - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil

Using Standard Effort (12,400 ft-lbf/ft3).

4. ASTM D1557 - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of

Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3).

5. ASTM D2419 – Standard Test Method for Sand Equivalent Value of Soils and Fine

Aggregate.

6. ASTM D2434 - Standard Test Method for Permeability of Granular Soils (Constant

Head).

7. ASTM D2487 – Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes

(Unified Soil Classification System).

8. ASTM D2974 – Standard Test Methods for Determining the Water (moisture) Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and Other Organic Soils.

9. ASTM D4318 - Standard Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity

Index of Soils.

10. ASTM D4373 - Standard Test Method for Rapid Determination of Carbonate Content of

Soils

11. ASTM D4873 – Standard Guide for Identification, Storage, and Handling of

Geosynthetic Rolls and Samples.

12. ASTM D6938 - Standard Test Methods for In-Place Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-Aggregate by Nuclear Methods (Shallow Depth).

B. Related Requirements:

1. Local utility standards when working in close proximity to utility lines.

2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Comply with the applicable requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations Title 29 – Labor, Part 1926 Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA).

C. New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT)

1. NYS DOT 620 - Bank and Channel Protection

2. NYS DOT 703 - Aggregates

3. NYS DOT 733 - Earthwork Materials

1.4 DEFINITIONS

A. Surface Soil: Soil that is present at the top layer of the existing soil profile.

B. Subsurface: Soil beneath the level of subgrade; soil beneath the topsoil layers of a naturally occurring soil profile.

C. Topsoil: Top layer of the soil profile consisting of existing native surface topsoil or existing in-place surface soil; the zone where plant roots grow. Its appearance is generally friable, pervious, 310000-3 Project No. SA-SS-2026-001 and black or a darker shade of brown, gray, or red than underlying subsurface; reasonably free of subsurface soils, clay lumps, gravel, weeds, roots, toxic materials, or other non-soil materials.

D. Borrow Soil: Approved soil imported from off-site for use as fill or backfill.

E. Backfill: Soil material or controlled low-strength material used to fill an excavation.

1. Initial Backfill: Backfill placed beside and over pipe in a trench, including haunches to support sides of pipe.

2. Final Backfill: Backfill placed over initial backfill to fill a trench.

F. Fill: Soil materials used to raise existing grades.

G. Suitable Material (Fill and Backfill for Landscaped Areas): Material generally consisting of mineral soil (inorganic), blasted or broken rock and similar materials of natural or man-made origin, including mixtures thereof. Maximum particle size will not exceed 2/3 of the specified layer thickness prior to compaction. Topsoil and organic silt may be used as suitable material in landscaped areas provided it is placed as the surface soil.

H. Unsuitable Material: Material containing cinders, industrial waste, sludge, building/construction rubble, land fill, muck, and peat.

I. Subgrade: Uppermost surface of an excavation or the top surface of a fill or backfill immediately below subbase, drainage material, or topsoil materials.

J. Subbase Course: Aggregate layer placed between the subgrade and asphaltic or concrete pavement section or concrete structure.

K. Bedding Course (Cushion Material): Aggregate layer placed over the excavated subgrade in a trench before laying pipe.

L. Drainage Material: Aggregate layer with minimal material passing the #200 sieve to promote downward water flow and minimizes upward capillary flow of pore water.

M. Classified Earth Excavation: Removal of all surface and subsurface material not classified as rock, to the lines and dimensions indicated.

N. Rock: Limestone, sandstone, shale, granite and similar material in solid beds or masses in its original or stratified position which can be removed only by blasting operations, drilling, wedging, or use of pneumatic tools, and boulders with a volume greater than 1.0 cu yd.

Concrete building foundations and concrete slabs, not indicated, with a volume greater than 1.0 cu yd shall be classified as rock.

1. Limestone, sandstone, shale, granite, and similar material in a broken or weathered condition which can be removed with an excavator or backhoe equipped with a bucket with ripping teeth or any other style bucket shall be classified as earth excavation.

2. Masonry building foundations, whether indicated or not, shall be classified as earth excavation.

O. Unclassified Earth Excavation: Removal of all surface and subsurface material, of any description, necessary to perform the work of this contract. This will include:

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1. All soil deposits of any description both above and below groundwater levels. These may be naturally deposited or placed by previous construction operations.

2. Ledge rock of all quality. (Limestone, Sandstone, Shale, Granite and similar materials in solid beds or masses in its original or stratified position which can only be removed by drilling, wedging, use of pneumatic tools or heavy ripping equipment). Blasting operations will not be permitted to loosen any ledge rock necessary to be removed in this contract.

3. Boulders of any size.

4. Any materials of man-made origin.

P. Authorized Additional Excavation: Excavation below subgrade elevations or beyond indicated lines and dimensions as directed by Director’s Representative. Authorized additional excavation and replacement material will be paid for according to Contract provisions for changes in the Work.

Q. Bulk Excavation: Excavation more than 10 feet in width and more than 30 feet in length.

R. Unauthorized Excavation: Excavation below subgrade elevations or beyond indicated lines and dimensions without direction by Director’s Representative. Unauthorized excavation, as well as remedial work directed by Director’s Representative, shall be without additional compensation.

S. Structures: Buildings, footings, foundations, retaining walls, slabs, tanks, curbs, mechanical and electrical appurtenances, or other man-made stationary features constructed above or below the ground surface.

T. Utilities: On-site underground pipes, conduits, ducts, and cables as well as underground services within buildings.

U. Plant-Protection Zone: Area surrounding individual trees, groups of trees, shrubs, or other vegetation to be protected during construction.

V. Vegetation: Trees, shrubs, groundcovers, grass, and other plants.

W. Landscaped Areas: Areas not covered by structures, walks, roads, paving, or parking.

X. Grading Limit Line (Shown on Drawings): Limits of grading, excavations and filling required for the Work. Unless specifically noted otherwise, the Grading Limit Line and Contract Limit Line shall be considered the same.

1.5 MATERIAL OWNERSHIP

A. Except for materials indicated to be stockpiled or otherwise remain State’s property, cleared materials shall become Contractor’s property and shall be removed from Project site.

1.6 SUBMITTALS

A. Submittals for this Section are subject to the re-evaluation fee identified in Article 4 of the General Conditions.

B. Manufacturer’s installation instructions shall be provided along with product data.

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C. Submittals shall be provided in the order in which they are specified and tabbed (for combined submittals).

D. Existing Conditions: Submit documentation before earthwork activities begin of existing trees and plantings, adjoining construction, and site improvements that establishes preconstruction conditions that might be misconstrued as damage caused by the Work of this Section.

1. Use sufficiently detailed photographs or video recordings.

2. Include plans and notations to indicate specific wounds and damage conditions of each tree or other plant designated to remain.

E. Qualification Data: For qualified testing agency.

1.7 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Geotechnical Testing Agency Qualifications: Qualified according to ASTM E329 and ASTM D3740 for testing indicated.

1.8 FIELD CONDITIONS

A. Traffic: Minimize interference with adjoining roads, streets, walks, and other adjacent occupied or used facilities during earth-moving operations.

1. Do not close or obstruct streets, walks, or other adjacent occupied or used facilities without permission from Director’s Representative and authorities having jurisdiction.

2. Provide alternate routes around closed or obstructed traffic ways if required by Director’s Representative or authorities having jurisdiction.

B. Improvements on Adjoining Property: Authority for performing earth moving indicated on property adjoining State's property will be obtained by Director’s Representative before award of Contract.

1. Do not proceed with work on adjoining property until directed by Director’s Representative.

C. Salvageable Improvements: Carefully remove items indicated to be salvaged and store where indicated.

D. Utility Locator Service: Locate underground utilities, in accordance with Section 023313 – Underground Utility Locator Service, before beginning site clearing or earth-moving operations.

E. Do not commence operations until temporary site fencing and erosion and sedimentation control measures are in place.

F. Do not commence earthwork operations until plant-protection measures specified herein are in place.

G. The following practices are prohibited within protection zones:

1. Storage of construction materials, debris, or excavated material.

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2. Parking vehicles or equipment.

3. Foot traffic.

4. Erection of sheds or structures.

5. Impoundment of water.

6. Excavation or other digging unless otherwise indicated.

7. Attachment of signs to or wrapping materials around trees or plants unless otherwise indicated.

H. Do not direct vehicle or equipment exhaust towards protection zones.

I. Prohibit heat sources, flames, ignition sources, and smoking within or near protection zones.

J. Soil Stripping, Handling, and Stockpiling: Perform only when the soil is dry or slightly moist.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.1 MATERIALS

A. See Section 310001 - Earthwork Materials.

B. Protection-Zone Fencing:

1. Plastic Protection-Zone Fencing: Plastic construction fencing constructed of high-density extruded and stretched polyethylene fabric with 2-inch maximum opening in pattern and weighing a minimum of 0.4 lb/ft.; remaining flexible from minus 60 to plus 200 deg F;

inert to most chemicals and acids; minimum tensile yield strength of 2000 psi and ultimate tensile strength of 2680 psi; secured with plastic bands or galvanized-steel or stainless-steel wire ties; and supported by tubular or T-shape galvanized-steel posts spaced not more than 96 inches apart.

a. Height: 48 inches.

b. Color: High-visibility orange, nonfading.

2. Chain-Link Protection-Zone Fencing: As specified in Section 015000 - Construction Facilities and Temporary Controls.

C. Protection-Zone Gates: Double swing access gates matching material and appearance of fencing, to allow for maintenance activities within protection zones; leaf width 60 inches.

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 PREPARATION

A. Protect and maintain benchmarks and survey control points from disturbance during construction.

B. Verify that trees, shrubs, and other vegetation to remain or to be relocated have been flagged and that protection zones have been identified and enclosed as required.

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C. Protect existing site features, to remain, from damage during construction. Protect structures, utilities, sidewalks, pavements, and other facilities from damage caused by settlement, lateral movement, undermining, washout, and other hazards created by earthwork operations.

1. Restore damaged improvements to their original condition, as acceptable to the Director’s Representative.

D. Protect and maintain erosion and sedimentation controls during earth-moving operations.

E. Protect subgrades and foundation soils from freezing temperatures and frost. Remove temporary protection before placing subsequent materials.

3.2 TEMPORARY EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL

A. Provide and maintain temporary erosion and sedimentation control measures to prevent soil erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff or airborne dust to adjacent properties and walkways, in accordance with Section 312500 Erosion & Sedimentation Controls, the Contract Drawings, and requirements of authorities having jurisdiction. If the erosion and sedimentation controls specified by the authorities having jurisdiction are more stringent than those specified in the Contract Documents, contact the Director’s Representative.

1. Verify that flows of water redirected from construction areas or generated by construction activity do not enter or cross protection zones.

2. Inspect, maintain, and repair erosion and sedimentation control measures during construction until permanent vegetation has been established.

3. Remove erosion and sedimentation controls, and restore and stabilize areas disturbed during removal.

3.3 PLANT PROTECTION

A. Locate and clearly identify trees, shrubs, and other vegetation to remain and be protected. Flag each tree trunk at 54 inches above the ground.

B. Protect tree root systems from damage caused by runoff or spillage of noxious materials while mixing, placing, or storing construction materials. Protect root systems from ponding, eroding, or excessive wetting caused by dewatering operations.

C. Protection-Zone Fencing: Install protection-zone fencing along edges of protection zones before materials or equipment are brought on the site and construction operations begin in a manner that will prevent people from easily entering protected areas except by entrance gates. Construct fencing so as not to obstruct safe passage or visibility at vehicle intersections where fencing is located adjacent to pedestrian walkways or in close proximity to street intersections, drives, or other vehicular circulation. Install access gates where indicated.

D. Maintain protection zones free of weeds and trash.

E. Maintain protection-zone fencing and signage in good condition as acceptable to Director’s Representative and remove when construction operations are complete and equipment has been removed from the site.

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1. Do not remove protection-zone fencing, even temporarily, to allow deliveries or equipment access through the protection zone.

2. Temporary access is permitted subject to preapproval in writing by arborist if a root buffer effective against soil compaction is constructed as directed by arborist. Maintain root buffer so long as access is permitted.

F. Repair or replace trees, shrubs, and other vegetation indicated to remain or be relocated that are damaged by construction operations.

1. Small Trees: Provide new trees of same size and species as those being replaced for each tree that measures 6 inches or smaller in caliper size.

2. Large Trees: Provide two new tree(s) of 3 inch caliper size for each tree being replaced that measures more than 6 inches in caliper size.

a. Species: to match existing, unless otherwise directed by Director’s Representative.

3. Plant and maintain new trees as specified in Section 329300 - Plants.

3.4 EXISTING UTILITIES

A. Locate, identify, disconnect, and seal or cap utilities indicated to be removed or abandoned in place.

1. Arrange with utility companies to shut off indicated utilities as necessary

B. Interrupting Existing Utilities: Do not interrupt utilities serving occupied facilities unless permitted under the following conditions and then only after arranging to provide temporary utility services according to requirements indicated:

1. Notify Director’s Representative not less than seven days in advance of proposed utility interruptions.

2. Do not proceed with utility interruptions without the Director’s Representative’s written permission.

C. Excavate for and remove underground utilities indicated to be removed.

3.5 CLEARING AND GRUBBING

A. Remove obstructions, trees, shrubs, and other vegetation to permit installation of new construction.

1. Do not remove trees, shrubs, and other vegetation indicated to remain.

2. Excavate and remove stumps and roots, obstructions, and other debris to depths required to accommodate proposed work.

3. Use only hand methods or air spade for grubbing within protection zones.

4. Chip removed tree branches and dispose of off-site.

B. Fill depressions caused by clearing and grubbing operations with suitable material unless further excavation or earthwork is indicated.

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1. Place fill material in horizontal layers not exceeding a loose depth of 8 inches and compact each layer to specified density.

3.6 TOPSOIL STRIPPING

A. Remove sod and grass before stripping topsoil.

B. Strip topsoil to depth of 4 inches in a manner to prevent intermingling with underlying soil or other waste materials.

1. Remove subsurface soil and non-soil materials from topsoil, including clay lumps, gravel, and other objects larger than 2 inches in diameter; trash, debris, weeds, roots, and other waste materials.

C. Stockpile topsoil away from edge of excavations without intermixing with subsurface soil or other materials. Grade and shape stockpiles to drain surface water. Cover to prevent windblown dust and erosion by water.

1. Limit height of topsoil stockpiles to 120 inches.

2. Do not stockpile topsoil within protection zones.

3. Stockpile surplus topsoil to allow for respreading deeper topsoil.

4. Dispose of surplus topsoil. Surplus topsoil is that which exceeds quantity indicated to be stockpiled or reused.

3.7 STORAGE OF SOIL MATERIALS

A. Stockpile borrow soil materials and excavated suitable materials away from the edge of excavations and without intermixing. Place, grade, and shape stockpiles to drain surface water.

Cover to prevent windblown dust and erosion by water.

1. Limit height of soil stockpiles to 180 inches.

2. Do not stockpile soil material within protection zones.

3. Dispose of surplus soils. Surplus soil is that which exceeds quantity indicated to be stockpiled or reused.

3.8 STOCKPILING ROCK

A. Remove from construction area, any naturally formed boulders that measure more than 1 foot across in least dimension. Do not include excavated or crushed rock.

B. Stockpile rock where indicated on Drawings without intermixing with other materials. Cover to prevent windblown debris from accumulating among rocks.

1. Limit height of rock stockpiles to 180 inches.

2. Do not stockpile rock within protection zones.

3. Stockpile surplus rock to allow for later use.

4. Dispose of surplus rock. Surplus rock is that which exceeds quantity indicated to be stockpiled or reused.

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3.9 DEWATERING

A. Provide dewatering system of sufficient scope, size, and capacity to control hydrostatic pressures and to lower, control, remove, and dispose of ground water and permit excavation and construction to proceed on dry, stable subgrades. Refer to Section 312319 – Dewatering.

B. Prevent surface water and ground water from entering excavations, from ponding on prepared subgrades, and from flooding Project site and surrounding area.

C. Protect subgrades from rain or water accumulation that can cause softening, undermining/undercutting, washout, damage, and other soil changes that would be detrimental to the stability of subgrades.

1. Reroute surface water runoff away from excavated areas. Do not allow water to accumulate in excavations. Do not use excavated trenches as temporary drainage ditches.

D. Dispose of water removed by dewatering in a manner that avoids endangering public health, property, and portions of work under construction or completed. Dispose of water and sediment in a manner that avoids inconvenience to others.

3.10 SHEETING, SHORING, AND BRACING

A. Temporary Sheeting: Install temporary sheeting, shoring and bracing as required to create a safe working environment and prevent settlement or other damage to adjacent grounds and structures resulting from excavation operations. Shore and brace sheeting in a manner which will not interfere with progress of other Work or related contracts (if any) on this project. Check shoring and bracing for settlement and adjust for settlement. Promptly remove temporary sheeting, shoring, and bracing when no longer required.

3.11 EXCAVATION, GENERAL

A. Unclassified Earth Excavation: Excavate to subgrade elevations regardless of the character of surface and subsurface conditions encountered. No changes in the Contract Sum or the Contract Time will be authorized for rock excavation or removal of obstructions.

1. If excavated materials intended for fill and backfill include unsuitable materials and rock, replace with suitable materials.

B. Classified Earth Excavation: Excavate to subgrade elevations. Material to be excavated will be classified as earth and rock. Do not excavate rock until it has been classified and cross sectioned. The Contract Sum will be adjusted for rock excavation according to Contract provisions for changes in the Work. Changes in the Contract Time may be authorized for rock excavation.

1. Earth excavation includes excavating pavements and obstructions visible on surface;

underground structures, utilities, and other items indicated to be removed; and soil, boulders, and other materials not classified as rock or unauthorized excavation.

a. Intermittent drilling; blasting, if permitted; ram hammering; or ripping of material not classified as rock excavation is earth excavation.

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3.12 EXCAVATION

A. Excavation for Structures: Excavate to indicated elevations and dimensions within a tolerance of plus or minus 1 inch. If applicable, extend excavations a sufficient distance from structures for placing and removing concrete formwork, for installing services and other construction, and for inspections.

B. Excavations for Footings and Foundations:

1. Do not disturb bottom of excavation when concrete is to bear on undisturbed soil.

Excavate by hand to final foundation bearing grade just before placing concrete reinforcement. Trim bottoms to required lines and grades to leave solid base to receive other work.

2. Where concrete is to bear entirely on existing rock, remove loose soil and loose rock and place concrete to required lines and grades.

3. Where concrete is to bear partially on rock and partially on soil, immediately notify the Director’s Representative before any backfilling or concrete placement occurs; the Director’s Representative will determine the correct foundation treatment for the Work.

C. Excavation for Underground Tanks, Basins, and Mechanical or Electrical utility structures:

Excavate to elevations and dimensions indicated within a tolerance of plus or minus 1 inch. Do not disturb bottom of excavations intended as bearing surfaces.

D. Excavation for Slabs and Floors: Excavate to the following depths below bottom of concrete for addition of Subbase Course Type 2.

1. Exterior Slabs and Steps: 12 inches, unless otherwise indicated.

E. Excavations at Edges of Plant-Protection Zones:

1. Excavate by hand or with an air spade to indicated lines, cross sections, elevations, and subgrades. If excavating by hand, use narrow-tine spading forks to comb soil and expose roots. Do not break, tear, or chop exposed roots. Do not use mechanical equipment that rips, tears, or pulls roots.

2. Redirect roots in backfill areas where possible. If encountering large, main lateral roots, expose roots beyond excavation limits as required to bend and redirect them without breaking. If encountered immediately adjacent to location of new construction and redirection is not practical, cut roots approximately 3 inches back from new construction and as required for root pruning.

3. Do not allow exposed roots to dry out before placing permanent backfill. Provide temporary earth cover or pack with peat moss and wrap with burlap. Water and maintain in a moist condition. Temporarily support and protect roots from damage until they are permanently relocated and covered with soil.

F. Excavation for Walks and Pavements: Excavate surfaces under walks and pavements to indicated lines, cross sections, elevations, and subgrades.

G. Excavation for Open Ditches: Cut ditches to cross sections and grades indicated.

H. Excavation for Utility Trenches: Excavate trenches to indicated gradients, lines, depths, and elevations.

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1. Beyond building perimeter, excavate trenches to allow installation of top of pipe below frost line, unless noted otherwise in contract plans.

2. Trench Width: Excavate trenches to uniform widths to provide 12 inches of clearance on each side of pipe or conduit.

3. Trench Bottoms: Excavate trenches 6 inches deeper than bottom of pipe and conduit elevations to allow for bedding course. Hand-excavate deeper for bells and coupling joints of pipe.

I. Trenching within Protection Zones: Where utility trenches are required within protection zones, excavate under or around tree roots by hand or with air spade, or tunnel under the roots by drilling, auger boring, or pipe jacking. Do not cut main lateral tree roots or taproots; cut only smaller roots that interfere with installation of utilities. Cut roots as required for root pruning. If excavating by hand, use narrow-tine spading forks to comb soil and expose roots.

3.13 UNAUTHORIZED EXCAVATION

A. Fill unauthorized excavation under foundations, wall footings, and retaining walls with Subbase Course Type 2 without altering top elevation of footing, foundation, or wall.

1. Unauthorized excavations under structural work shall be reported to the Director’s Representative immediately before any backfilling or concrete work commences.

B. Elsewhere, backfill and compact unauthorized excavations as specified for authorized excavation of the same classification, unless otherwise directed by the Director’s Representative.

3.14 SUBGRADE INSPECTION

A. Notify Director’s Representative when excavations have reached required subgrade and are ready for inspection.

B. Proof-roll subgrade below slabs and pavements with a pneumatic-tired dump truck weighing not less than 15 tons to identify soft pockets and areas of excess yielding. Do not proof-roll wet or saturated subgrades.

1. Completely proof-roll subgrade in one direction, repeating proof-rolling in direction perpendicular to first direction. Limit vehicle speed to 3 mph.

C. If Director’s Representative determines that unsuitable material is present or that there are soft spots or areas of excessive pumping or rutting, excavate and replace with compacted backfill or fill material as directed.

1. Have cross section taken, under the supervision of an independent land surveyor, to determine volume of additional excavations.

D. Authorized additional excavation and replacement material will be paid for according to Contract provisions for changes in the Work.

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E. Reconstruct subgrades damaged by freezing temperatures, frost, rain, accumulated water, or construction activities, as directed by the Director’s Representative, without additional compensation.

3.15 BACKFILL & SOIL FILL

A. Place and compact backfill in excavations promptly, but not before completing the following:

1. Construction below finish grade including, where applicable, subdrainage, damp proofing, waterproofing, and perimeter insulation.

2. Surveying locations of underground utilities for Record Documents.

3. Testing and inspecting underground utilities.

4. Removing concrete formwork.

5. Removing trash and debris.

6. Removing temporary shoring, bracing, and sheeting.

7. Cutting off top of permanent sheeting or sheet piling.

8. Installing permanent or temporary horizontal bracing on horizontally supported walls.

9. Acceptance by the Director’s Representative of construction below finish grade.

B. Plow, scarify, bench, or break up sloped surfaces steeper than 1 vertical to 4 horizontal so fill material will bond with existing material.

C. Place fill and backfill on subgrades free of mud, frost, snow, or ice.

D. Place fill and backfill materials in layers not more than eight inches thick in loose depth, unless otherwise specified. Before compaction, moisten or aerate each layer as necessary to facilitate compaction to the specified density.

1. Place fill and backfill against foundation walls and in confined areas such as trenches not easily accessible by larger compaction equipment in maximum 6-inch-thick loose depth layers.

2. For large fill and backfill areas, the layer thickness may be modified by the Director’s Representative, at the Contractor’s written request, if in the Director’s Representative’s judgment, the equipment used is capable of compacting the fill material in a greater layer thickness. This request will include the type and specifications of compaction equipment intended for use.

3. For Open Graded Stone/Clean Stone (Item B-12, No. 1 crushed stone, No. 2 crushed stone, etc.) in excess of six inches: Material must be wrapped in separation fabric.

E. Concrete Walls

1. Do not place fill or backfill against concrete walls until the walls have attained 70 percent of their design strength. Place backfill against walls of structures containing basements or crawl spaces only after the first floor structural members are in place and any concrete components of the first floor structural system have attained 70 percent of their concrete design strength.

2. Prevent wedging action of backfill against structures backfilled on both sides, by placing backfill uniformly around structure so that the elevation on each side never differs by more than 24 inches.

F. Under Exterior Concrete Slabs and Steps:

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1. Up to Subgrade Surface Elevation: Place Selected Fill when fill or backfill is required.

2. Subbase Material: Place material as indicated on plans and over subgrade surface.

G. Under Pavements and Walks:

1. Up to Subgrade Surface Elevation: Place Selected Fill when fill or backfill is required.

2. Subbase Material: Place as indicated.

H. Landscaped Areas: Place Suitable Material when required to complete fill or backfill areas up to subgrade surface elevation. Do not use material containing particles over four inches in diameter within the top 12 inches of suitable material.

I. Utility Trench Backfill

1. Place and compact bedding course on trench bottoms and where indicated. Shape bedding course to provide continuous support for bells, joints, and barrels of pipes and for joints, fittings, and bodies of conduits.

2. Backfill voids with suitable material while removing shoring and bracing.

3. Initial Backfill:

a. Soil Backfill: Place and compact initial backfill of Cushion Material to a minimum depth of 6 inches below the bottom, 6 inches to the sides, and to a height of 12 inches over the pipe or conduit.

1) Carefully compact initial backfill under pipe haunches and compact evenly up on both sides and along the full length of piping or conduit to avoid damage or displacement of piping or conduit.

b. Flowable Fill: Place initial backfill of flowable fill (controlled low strength material) to a height of [12 inches] over the pipe or conduit.

4. Coordinate backfilling with utilities testing.

5. Final Backfill:

a. Soil Backfill: Place and compact final backfill of Selected Fill soil to final subgrade elevation.

J. Backfilling Excavation Resulting From Removal of Unsuitable Material:

1. Up to Subgrade Surface Elevation: Place Select Granular Material when backfill is needed unless otherwise specified by the Directors Representative.

3.16 SOIL MOISTURE CONTROL

A. Where fill or backfill must be moisture conditioned before compaction, uniformly apply water to the surface and to each layer of fill or backfill to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content.

B. Prevent ponding or other free water on surface during and after compaction operations.

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C. Remove and replace, or scarify and air dry, soil that is too wet to permit compaction to specified density. Soil that has been removed because it is too wet to permit compaction may be stockpiled or spread and allowed to dry. Assist drying by discing, harrowing or pulverizing, until moisture content is reduced to a value which will permit compaction to the percentage of maximum density specified.

D. When the existing ground surface to be compacted has a density less than that specified for the particular area classification, break up and pulverize, and moisture condition to facilitate compaction to the required percentage of maximum density.

3.17 COMPACTION OF SOIL BACKFILLS AND FILLS

A. Compact soil materials to not less than the following percentages of maximum density according to ASTM D698 for the following:

1. Under structures, including area within 10-ft outside perimeter: 95 percent.

2. Under concrete slabs, steps, and pavements: 95 percent.

3. Under walkways: 95 percent.

4. Under landscaped areas, turf, or unpaved areas: 90 percent.

5. Pipe bedding: 95 percent.

3.18 GRADING

A. General: Uniformly grade areas to a smooth surface, free of irregular surface changes. Comply with compaction requirements and grade to cross sections, lines, and elevations indicated.

1. Provide a smooth transition between adjacent existing grades and new grades.

2. Cut out soft spots, fill low spots, and trim high spots to comply with required surface tolerances.

B. Rough Grading:

1. Exterior Grading: Trim and grade area within the Grading Limit Line and excavations outside the limit line, required by this Contract, to a level of 4 inches below the finish grades indicated unless otherwise specified herein or where greater depths are indicated.

Provide smooth uniform transition to adjacent areas.

a. Slope cut and fill in transition areas, outside of the grading limit line, to meet corresponding levels of existing grades at a slope of 1 vertical to 2 horizontal unless otherwise indicated.

b. Landscaped Areas: Provide uniform subgrade surface within 1 inch of required level to receive topsoil thickness specified. Compact fill as specified to within 3 inches of subgrade surface. Remove objectionable material detrimental to proper compaction or to placing full depth of topsoil. If the top 3 inches of subgrade has become compacted before placement of topsoil, harrow or otherwise loosen rough graded surface to receive topsoil to a depth of three inches immediately prior to placing topsoil.

C. Subgrade Surface for Walks and Pavement

310000-16 Project No. SA-SS-2026-001

1. Shape and grade subgrade surface as follows:

a. Walks: Shape the surface of areas under walks to required line, grade and cross section, with the finish surface not more than 1 inch above or below the required subgrade surface elevation.

b. Pavements: Shape the surface of areas under pavement to required line, grade and cross section, with the finish surface not more than 1/2 inch above or below the required subgrade surface elevation.

2. Grade Control: During construction, maintain lines and grades including crown and cross-slope of subbase course.

3. Thoroughly compact subgrade surface for walks and pavement by mechanical rolling, tamping, or with vibratory equipment as approved to the density specified.

4. Shoulders: Place shoulders along edges of filled subgrades to prevent lateral movement.

Construct shoulders of Selected Fill material, placed in such quantity to compact to thickness of each subgrade course layer. Compact and roll at least a 2-foot wide additional layer of each subgrade course.

D. Finish Grading:

1. Uniformly grade rough graded areas within limits of the Grading Limit Line to finish grade elevations indicated.

2. Grade and compact to smooth finished surface within tolerances specified, and to uniform levels or slopes between points where finish elevations are indicated or between such points and existing finished grade.

3. Grade areas adjacent to building lines so as to drain away from structures and to prevent ponding.

4. Finish surfaces free from irregular surface changes, and as follows:

a. Walks: Place and compact subbase material as specified. Shape surface of areas under walks to required line, grade and cross section, with the finish surface not more than 1/4 inch above or below the required subbase elevation.

b. Pavements: Place and compact subbase material as specified. Shape surface of areas under pavement to required line, grade and cross section, with the finish surface not more than 1/4 inch above or below the required subbase elevation.

5. Spread topsoil directly upon prepared subgrade surface to a depth measuring 4 inches after natural settlement of the topsoil has occurred in areas to be seeded or to receive sod.

Perform topsoil spreading operations only during dry weather. Place to greater depth when necessary to adjust grades to required elevations.

a. Approved existing topsoil within the Grading Limit Line may be used. Provide additional topsoil from outside sources as required.

6. Finish topsoil surface free of depressions that would trap water, free of stones over 1 inch in any dimension, and free of debris or other objectionable material. Finished surfaces shall conform to the contour lines and elevations indicated on the drawings or as directed by the Director’s Representative.

310000-17 Project No. SA-SS-2026-001

3.19 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL

A. Special Inspections: Director’s Representative will engage a qualified Special Inspector to perform the following special inspections:

1. Determine prior to placement of fill that site has been prepared in compliance with requirements.

2. Determine that fill material classification and maximum lift thickness comply with requirements.

3. Determine, during placement and compaction, that in-place density of compacted fill complies with requirements.

B. Testing Agency: Director’s Representative will engage a qualified geotechnical engineering testing agency to perform tests and inspections.

C. Coordinate with and allow testing agency to inspect and test subgrades and each fill or backfill layer; provide testing agency minimum three working days advanced notice prior to all phases of filling and backfilling operations. Proceed with subsequent earthwork activities only after test results for previously completed work comply with requirements.

D. Footing Subgrade: At footing subgrades, at least one test of each soil stratum will be performed to verify design bearing capacities. Subsequent verification and approval of other footing subgrades may be based on a visual comparison of subgrade with tested subgrade when approved by Director’s Representative.

E. Testing agency will test compaction of soils in place according to ASTM D698 or ASTM D1557, as applicable. Tests will be performed at the following locations and frequencies:

1. Paved and Building Slab Areas: At subgrade and at each compacted fill and backfill layer, at least one test for every 2000 sq. ft. or less of paved area or building slab but in no case fewer than three tests.

2. Trench Backfill: At each compacted initial and final backfill layer, at least one test for every 150 feet or less of trench length but no fewer than two tests.

F. When testing agency reports that subgrades, fills, or backfills have not achieved degree of compaction specified, scarify and moisten or aerate, or remove and replace soil materials to depth required; recompact and retest until specified compaction is obtained.

3.20 PROTECTION

A. Protecting Graded Areas: Protect newly graded areas from traffic, freezing, and erosion. Keep free of trash and debris.

B. Repair and reestablish grades to specified tolerances where completed or partially completed surfaces become eroded, rutted, settled, or where they lose compaction due to subsequent construction operations or weather conditions.

1. Scarify or remove and replace soil material to depth as directed by Director’s Representative; reshape and recompact.

310000-18 Project No. SA-SS-2026-001

C. Where settling occurs before Project correction period elapses, remove finished surfacing, backfill with additional soil material, compact, and reconstruct surfacing.

1. Restore appearance, quality, and condition of finished surfacing to match adjacent work, and eliminate evidence of restoration to greatest extent possible.

3.21 DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS AND WASTE MATERIALS

A. Remove from State property and dispose of excess and unsuitable materials, including materials resulting from clearing, grubbing and removal of existing improvements; soil; trash; and debris.

B. Transport excess and unsuitable materials, including materials resulting from clearing and grubbing and removal of existing improvements, to spoil areas on State property designated by the Director’s Representative, and dispose of such materials as directed.

C. Transport excess topsoil to areas on State property designated by the Director’s Representative.

Smooth grade deposited topsoil.

D. Separate recyclable materials produced during site clearing from other nonrecyclable materials.

Store or stockpile without intermixing with other materials and transport them to recycling facilities. Do not interfere with other Project work.

END OF SECTION 310000