Commission approves change order to address unexpected weak soils on Lincoln Avenue project

Engineers told the commission on June 9 that contractors encountered unexpectedly weak soil pockets during the Lincoln and Stur phase of the Lincoln Avenue project and recommended a remediation approach that included undercutting and installing two layers of NX750 geogrid with select aggregate.

Andrew Lung of Ocean Engineering explained geotechnical testing (DCP testing) revealed low‑strength soils up to about two feet deep in some locations. After reviewing alternatives with the manufacturer and the contractor, staff recommended undercutting and installing the multiaxial geogrid system with aggregate between layers to stabilize the subgrade, provide the required roadway capacity and allow proof‑rolling prior to asphalt placement.

The contractor pricing and material comparisons were reviewed in the meeting packet. Staff asked the commission to approve change order No. 8; commissioners approved the request by voice vote. The transcript read the change‑order dollar figure as "$37,55" and reported an updated contract value change of "3.67%" based on previous changes; the transcript text is unclear on the exact numeric formatting, so the precise dollar amount should be confirmed in the official contract documents.