The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is using geofoam blocks to build a freeway ramp that will connect the future West Davis Highway with southbound I-15 in Farmington.
The blocks are similar to the Styrofoam used in packaging materials and ice chests. They allow the new ramp to be built in close proximity to I-15, the Union Pacific Railroad and Utah Transit Authority tracks without causing additional shifting or settlement.
Settlement is typical during construction and can range from several inches to a few feet.
For this project, the existing rail lines and the interstate’s close proximity meant settling could negatively affect their structural integrity.
Approximately 3,000 geofoam blocks, each weighing approximately 200 pounds and measuring approximately 4 feet by 5 feet by 9 feet, will be used to build the ramp.
Once brought to the construction site, the blocks are either placed as-is or cut to fit. Then a concrete slab is poured on top to evenly distribute the load of the ramp pavement and traffic. Finally, concrete walls are installed along the sides.
“Sometimes there are unique challenges on our projects, and they require innovative solutions,” said Rex Harris, UDOT West Davis Highway project director. “Geofoam is another tool in our toolbox to efficiently build the roads, trails and bridges we all need to get where we want to go.”