Wharf Strengthening and Rehabilitation, Makkovik, NL
Location: Makkovik, Labrador
Client: Newfoundland Department of Transportation & Infrastructure
Timeframe: 2019-2021
Key Personnel: Doug Power, Stephen Warford, Todd Menzies, Greg MacDonald
Project Description
In 2019, Harbourside Engineering completed a third-party review for Newfoundland Department of Transportation & Infrastructure for a new fender system for the existing ferry terminal wharf in Makkovik, Newfoundland. The design was completed by another consultant, and tendered. During construction, localized settlement in the wharf deck was observed under construction loading. A dive inspection revealed that buckling had occurred in several of the structure’s piles. As a result, Harbourside Engineering was asked to review the wharf for the anticipated construction loading of the proposed fender system. In addition, Harbourside was asked to complete a structural evaluation for mooring and berthing loads expected from the new ferry vessel.
Based on the review, Harbourside Engineering recommended modifications to the tendered fender system design, mainly due to sea-ice loading on the proposed bracing system. Harbourside also recommended additional strengthening measures, including driving additional piles where existing piles had buckled, and driving battered piles and tying them into the wharf deck. This would provide increased resistance to mooring and berthing loads. Finally, Harbourside Engineering was engaged to complete a detailed design and develop a drawing package to supplement that which had already been tendered and awarded for the new fender system and provide additional details for the wharf strengthening works.
Technical Issues & Constraints
One of the challenges associated with this project was the estimation of mooring line loads. The end of the new ferry extended beyond the end of the existing wharf by half its length (50m) when berthed. This created rather unusual mooring conditions. Because of this, the vessel operator was consulted to ensure an accurate mooring line arrangement was considered in the new design. Analysis for the unique condition was conducted using OPTIMOOR Mooring Analysis software to estimate the line loads.
Another unique challenge with this project was Newfoundland Department of Transportation & Infrastructure had already awarded the contract for the new fender system, and all materials and equipment associated with construction were onsite. To avoid delaying the project, the assessment and design of modifications had to be expedited. Unfortunately, a site visit to better understand the existing conditions was not possible. Harbourside Engineering had to rely on dive videos, inspections, and photographs provided by the contractor to determine what modifications were feasible and what additional strengthening was required.
Given the isolated location of the site on the north coast of Labrador, there were challenges associated with mobilizing equipment and materials. In the development of its modifications to the tendered fender system design and wharf strengthening measures, Harbourside Engineering utilized the onsite materials, working cooperatively with both NLDTI and the contractor to minimize additional costs. Harbourside continued this cooperation through construction, as previously unknown issues were identified and had to be addressed.
Social Impact
Located in northern Labrador, Makkovik is reliant on its harbour. There is an annual trout festival, and a historic cultural connection to fishing that extends beyond just economic stability. The wharf strengthening ensures that Makkovik can continue to thrive and fish in safety for many years.
