NYCDEP Bureau of Water Supply

HLD’s flagship project has been the realignment and reconstruction of Route 28A near the Ashokan Reservoir. Following the events of September 11, 2001, the DEP deemed it necessary to close one of its roads for protection of the Ashokan Reservoir. As a result, there were significantly more vehicular accidents from the increased traffic on the adjacent roads under their control. The DEP hired an engineering firm to provide civil engineering design services, which was prepared. However, as contract construction began, there were some unforeseen issues mainly associated with the contractor being able to meet the obtained permit requirements. In March of 2009, HLD was retained to provide a new horizontal and vertical road alignment for approximately 2.5 miles of Route 28A and surrounding road connections to minimize wetland disturbance, avoid inasmuch as possible the impacts to bald eagle nests, and balance the earthwork volumes. The intent was to get the contractor to a point where they could re-mobilize and commence construction. HLD updated the entire plan set associated with the project, including profiles, cross-sections, grading, stormwater management (management practices, swales, culverts, etc.), erosion and sediment control, utility layout, wetland mitigation, offsite disposal area, and a recreational parking area. Using the revised plans and supplemental reports prepared (i.e. stormwater pollution prevention plan), HLD was able to obtain several permits from the US Army Corps of Engineers and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. HLD also updated the Engineer’s Estimate and specifications package. Finally, HLD provided construction observation and support services (e.g., stormwater and erosion control inspections, shop drawing review, response to contractor RFI, materials submittal review, etc.). HLD successfully worked directly with DEP personnel throughout the duration of the project. The ±$15M construction project was able to re-commence construction activities in the spring of 2010 and was brought to substantial completion in 2012.