Last May, Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) launched one of its largest freeway improvement projects of the year along 9 mi. (14.5 km) of Loop 202 in Phoenix and Tempe.

The $188 million design-build joint venture with Kiewit-Sundt will widen east and west bound lanes and bridges, reconstruct ramps, modify retaining and noise walls and improve drainage systems.

To satisfy the project’s subsurface utility engineering requirements, Specialized Services Company (SSC) was contracted in early February to vacuum excavate numerous utility conflicts along the construction route, including locating a water main beneath water level on the north side of Tempe Town Lake.

In addition to potholing during pre-construction, SSC has since been asked to utilize the vacuum excavator to perform a number of other not-so-common functions on this project, including the removal of slurry from bridge columns and assisting with pier installations.

“This is a great example of the flexibility of vacuum technology,” said Arvid Veidmark, III, executive vice president of Specialized Services Co. “Most contractors consider the vacuum excavator for potholing only. Its uses are really unlimited.”

In appreciation for their diligence and exceptional work ethics, Kiewit-Sundt named SSC’s vacuum crew “Sub-Contractor of the Month” in July. SSC is currently still under contract and will work with the project team until completion sometime in late 2010.

For more information, call 602/997-6164.

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