When the Wall Comes Tumbling Down-Video

Video Transcription

Video Summary

A 35-foot cast-in-place concrete retaining wall behind a big-box store collapsed in 2016, disrupting utilities and forcing the store to close. The wall had been monitored since 2010, and a leaking fire line had been repaired shortly before the failure. Emergency work stabilized the exposed slope with soil nails and shotcrete, allowing the store to reopen within about three weeks. Further inspections revealed cracking and movement in adjoining wall sections, prompting tieback anchors and additional supports. The failed section was eventually replaced with a mechanically stabilized earth wall, and the storm drain was repaired and lined.<br /><br />The investigation identified likely hydrostatic pressure buildup as a major cause: wall weep holes had been blocked with foam, while leaking utilities and stormwater may have added water behind the wall. Suspect reinforcement detailing and inadequate connections were also noted. The project required extensive monitoring, phased repairs, and coordination with ongoing forensic and legal investigations.

Keywords

retaining wall collapse

hydrostatic pressure

cast-in-place concrete wall

soil nails and shotcrete

tieback anchors

mechanically stabilized earth wall