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Transportation

PANYNJ JFK Installation of Flood Gates at 17 Outfalls

Queens, New York

Project Overview

MFS Engineers & Surveyors provided geotechnical and structural engineering services in support of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Installation of Flood Gates at 17 Outfalls project located in the borough of Queens, New York. The scope of the work is to complete code compliant repairs to the storm damaged outfalls by installing backflow prevention devices at 17 designated outfalls, thereby improving flood resiliency to tidal flood events and preventing saltwater backflow into JFK and damage to critical infrastructure during severe storm events.

Queens, New York

Project Details

MFS’s geotechnical team began by reviewing existing subsurface data from historical borings and identifying gaps in information across the 17 outfall locations. They developed a comprehensive geotechnical investigation plan that outlined the methods, scope, and rationale for additional subsurface investigations, including proposed locations for CPT and SPT borings, anticipated laboratory testing, and adherence to relevant codes. Once the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) performed field investigations, MFS reviewed the resulting geotechnical data and prepared a detailed engineering report. This report included an evaluation of soil conditions, allowable pile capacities, lateral soil parameters, frost depth considerations, and seismic and liquefaction assessments to inform structural design.

MFS’s geotechnical team also developed the deep foundation design and construction documents for the proposed floodgate installations. The design was based on the use of 30-ton timber piles (12-inch butt by 8-inch tip) driven into medium dense sands below organic and peat layers. Using design loads provided by the project team’s civil engineer, MFS calculated the lateral, uplift, and compressive capacities for up to two pile types or lengths per location. MFS prepared construction drawings, including typical pile sections, details, and notes, along with supporting calculations. Design submissions were provided at the 50%, 85%, and 100% stages.

MFS’s structural team prepared the Support of Excavation (SOE) design and construction documents for the floodgate installations at the 17 outfall locations. The SOE system was designed to retain up to 15 feet of earth or water pressure and remain watertight with internal bracing to support construction activities. Design calculations were based on geotechnical data and submitted to PANYNJ for review.

Stats

  • Owner:
    PANYNJ

Services Provided

  • MFS provides professional geotechnical engineering services including geotechnical investigation and subsurface exploration, soil engineering services, and permeability testing.
  • MFS provides professional structural engineering services, working closely with private and public clients and contractors to engineer cost-efficient and sound structural systems, providing design services, building assessments, and structural inspections.