Helical Pier Install at Busch Gardens Elephant Exhibit, Tampa FL

Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 by Abbey George

Challenge

LRE Foundation Repair, LLC (LRE) Contracted with Belt Construction and Engineering to install 14 helical tieback piers. The helical piers were designed for uplift resistance at the new Elephant exhibit, canvas shade structure. The helical piers were being installed at 2 areas and elevations. The lower area had limited access through an entrance gate and the upper area had limited access through a tunnel. Additionally, the timing of the installation had to be closely coordinated with the Elephant Handlers.

Solution

LRE along with Belt Construction, worked closely with the Elephant Handlers to coordinate work hours. LRE mobilized a small excavator to access the tight work areas. The 14 helical piers were installed in 2 days, with minimal disruption to the elephant's daily routines. LRE installed the 14 helical piers fitted with threaded rod adaptors, that allowed for an easy attachment to the shade canopy's tie-down cables. The helical piers were installed using the torque correlation method.