Solution: Dry-cast round and elliptical reinforced concrete pipe and precast monolithic structures provided efficient, durable stormwater infrastructure despite excavation limitations.
Concrete Pipe and Precast Structures Chosen for Speed, Strength, and Adaptability
Stillwater Road, which passes through Mahtomedi and Willernie, Minnesota, carries nearly 10,000 vehicles daily and is central to the local business district and adjacent schools. When it came time for reconstruction, Kuechle Underground needed a stormwater solution that would support heavy traffic while accommodating site limitations and a tight schedule.
County Materials produced round and elliptical reinforced concrete pipe using its dry-cast process, which allowed for faster manufacturing than traditional wet-cast methods. The elliptical sections were especially critical since the local high water table and existing underground utilities limited excavation depths. The elliptical pipe’s shape provided the hydraulic capacity needed while accommodating a shallow trench height. Meanwhile, monolithic manhole base structures (96-inch to 120-inch) were also supplied to add strength in constrained depths.
Because the dry-cast process lets County Materials produce units more rapidly (sometimes five times faster than wet-cast alternatives), deliveries kept pace with the contractor’s schedule. This allowed road paving, curbs, and sidewalks to proceed as planned. In total, the project used:
County Materials’ ability to deliver high-quality pipe and structures on time, even under challenging site conditions, contributed to the efficient reconstruction of Stillwater Road.
Project Highlights:
This project showcases how dry-cast production and elliptical and round reinforced concrete pipe can meet tight timelines and overcome excavation limitations while delivering long-term performance.
