16 February 2011 – Tensar International, the leader in geosynthetic soil reinforcement and stabilization, today announced it recently received full approval with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for its ARES® and Mesa® Retaining Wall Systems.
As of 31 January 2011, the 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 Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) regulations and design requirements,” said Peter Larkin, P.E., District Manager – Grade Separation Solutions, 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 are now updated to meet the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications latest design requirements.
Tensar has also received approvals in other states for their 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
- The Maryland State Highway Administration approved ARES Systems precast panel wall MSE system
The inert properties of Tensar Geogrids permit the use of a wide range of backfills, including recycled materials and those not suitable to be used with steel reinforced wall systems, allowing Contractors to save time and labor costs when installing the ARES Systems.
Mesa Systems offer superior and cost-effective solutions for structural and landscaped retaining wall needs in the commercial, industrial, residential and transportation markets.
Both ARES and Mesa Systems have been evaluated by the Highway Innovative Technology Evaluation Center (HITEC) and have been utilized on hundreds of transportation and site development projects in the United States and around the world.
About Tensar International
Headquartered in Atlanta, Tensar International is a full-service provider of specialty products and engineering services that offer innovative and cost-effective alternatives to traditional construction methods. Tensar solutions are based on advanced soil reinforcement technologies and incorporate proprietary, engineered applications for commercial, industrial, municipal, residential and transportation infrastructure site development. The company specializes in solutions for common site development challenges, including grade changes requiring retaining walls and poor soil conditions affecting the cost of roadways, parking lots and building structures. Patented, polymeric Tensar® Geogrids are the primary component of the company’s systems, offering reliable strength and durability. Contracted services include site evaluation, conceptual engineering, design, value engineering and installation advice. For more information, visit http://www.tensarcorp.com.
Contacts
Mr. Tim Oliver
Vice President for Global Marketing
Tensar International Corporation +1 770 344 2140
toliver@tensarcorp.com
Angelica Nelson
Fifth Ring Public Relations for Tensar
+1 713 457 2125
angelica@fifthring.com
