Tensar International Receives NCDOT Approval for Retaining Wall Systems

Four other states also give approvals

Tensar International announced it recently received full approval with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for its ARES and Mesa Retaining Wall Systems.

As of Jan. 31, NCDOT requires that companies submit and receive approval to build mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls based on the Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) design methodology.

“This stamp of full approval is a reflection of Tensar’s ability to adhere to the evolving DOT and American Assn. of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) regulations and design requirements,” said Peter Larkin, P.E., district manager - grade separation solutions at Tensar. “With full approval, Tensar can bid on all MSE retaining wall projects undertaken by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.”

The Mesa systems previously had full approval with the NCDOT. Both the ARES and Mesa systems now are updated to meet the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications latest design requirements.

Tensar also has received approvals in other states for its products. Recent approvals include:

• California’s CalTrans approved Mesa Systems under new LRFD design methodology; • The Ohio DOT approved Tensar’s UX geogrid design strength for ARES walls; • The New Jersey DOT uses ARES systems for true bridge abutment; and • The Maryland State Highway Administration approved ARES Systems precast panel wall MSE system.

According to the company, the inert properties of Tensar Geogrids permit the use of a wide range of backfills, including recycled materials and those not suitable for use with steel reinforced wall systems, allowing contractors to save time and labor costs when installing the ARES Systems. Mesa Systems offer solutions for structural and landscaped retaining wall needs in the commercial, industrial, residential and transportation markets.

Both the ARES and Mesa systems have been evaluated by the Highway Innovative Technology Evaluation Center and have been utilized on hundreds of transportation and site development projects in the United States and around the world.

Source: Tensar International