Klarman Hall-Cornell University

Scope of Work

In upstate, New York, MD&B was charged with removing ledge for the Klarman Hall Project, the first new humanities building on Cornell University's main campus in 100 years. The new building is located within the wingwalls and connecting to the existing Goldwin Smith Hall Building.

Challenges

The initial challenge faced by the blast crew was maintaining the integrity of the existing building as well as controlling ledge displacement and vibration on the soldier pile walls supporting East Avenue. Wet site conditions created additional challenges for the project team.

Outcome

Taking geology into consideration, and with the support of MD&B's Technical Service Group, the project team designed blasts to contain the explosives and limit vibrations. Maine Drilling & Blasting also used perimeter control techniques and controlled drilling and blasting methods to prevent undermining the existing building.

Summary

When all was said and done, MD&B cleared over 5,000 cubic yards of rock from the site for the building's new addition.