Projects

DMAF Cook St. Sewer Upgrades

Civil Construction

Copcan Civil was tasked with the DMAF Cook St. Sewer Upgrades project in Victoria, BC, aiming to replace over 200 m of sanitary sewer pipe along a high-traffic corridor. This complex project involved deep trench work, the installation of large diameter manholes, and extensive surface restoration. Despite facing significant challenges, including unstable ground conditions and spatial constraints, the project was completed successfully, ensuring both quality and safety.

Key Project Information

  • Project Type:
  • Budget:
    $$1.8M
  • Timeline:
    Completed July 2024
  • Client:
    City of Victoria
  • Location:
    Victoria, BC

Scope of Work:

DMAF (Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund) Cook St. Sewer Upgrades aimed to replace over 200 m of sanitary sewer pipe 3 to 6 m deep on a high-traffic corridor in Victoria BC. The PVC pipe varied from 200 mm to 600 mm in diameter, with connections to existing PVC, CIPP, and VITC pipes. Additionally, 3 new large diameter (1350 mm) manholes were installed, and surface restoration included concrete works, paving, landscaping and reinstating traffic detector loops.

Challenges & Solutions:

The primary technical challenge faced during construction was due to unstable ground conditions. Multiple trench collapses occurred, causing safety and constructability concerns. Another major challenge faced during construction was working in such a deep trench on a busy city road. The extreme spatial constraints and presence of several existing utilities (both underground and overhead) provided a challenge for our crews to maintain productivity. To work through these factors, management re-assessed project targets and scheduling daily. Additionally, productivity was slowed to ensure the safety of the crew and to manage unexpected conditions.

Overall Impact:

Construction onsite began on February 12, 2024, and finished on June 11, 2024. Although construction took longer than expected due to the poor ground conditions and unforeseeable trench collapses, the sewer was installed as planned to everyone’s satisfaction. For a complex project such as this, the main goal is to ensure quality control targets are met and that everyone gets home safely every day. Both these targets were achieved.