7.6 Retaining/Sound Walls & Miscellaneous Structures
The need and location for retaining walls is a collaborative task involving roadway and structural design staff. District environmental staff should also be consulted to determine the need and location of sound walls. Close coordination is required between all parties to ensure that these types of walls are placed and designed appropriately.
7.6.1 Retaining/Sound Wall Design
Retaining and sound walls should be designed according to the guidance provided in TxDOT’s
Geotechnical Manual - LRFD
and on the TxDOT.gov Retaining Walls webpage.Considerations in the design of retaining/sound walls include:
- Obtain any additional geotechnical data necessary to finalize designs. Refer to TxDOT’sGeotechnical Manual - LRFDfor soil core boring information;
- Review all commitments made and studies performed during the preliminary engineering and public involvement phase of project development to determine if agreements were made relative to wall types, heights, locations, or aesthetic treatments;
- Coordinate the aesthetics of walls with a landscape architect and stakeholders;
- Coordinate with the drainage engineer regarding drainage needs at the top of, and possibly through and under walls;
- Coordinate wall locations with proposed utility adjustments for construction clearances;
- Establish a smooth vertical alignment along the top of retaining walls for a pleasing appearance;
- Coordinate retaining/sound wall layouts with bridge layouts to ensure compatibility of elevation, horizontal control, and proposed aesthetic treatments; and
- Coordinate with District maintenance personnel regarding maintenance requirements adjacent to walls.
Retaining walls exceeding a 25-ft height require BRG approval of the layout.
7.6.2 Retaining/Sound Wall Plan Sheets
Retaining/sound wall plan sheets include layouts and details for constructing the walls and related items such as footings, piles, drainage systems, and tiebacks. TxDOT standard sheets exist for walls, with various facings available and should be used to the maximum extent possible.
7.6.3 Miscellaneous Structures
Examples of miscellaneous structures include non-standard concrete traffic barrier (CTB) which accommodates parallel roadways with differing profiles, overhead sign bridges (OSB), high mast illumination or different applications of bridge rail.
Refer to TxDOT’s
PS&E Preparation Manual
and the PS&E QC Milestone Checklist for more information on the contents of these plan sheets.
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