The “Park Corridor Project” of Maldonado City, Uruguay – Screw Pile Foundation

Project Overview and Site Condition Analysis:
This project is located in the landscape corridor of  Park in the city of Maldonado, Uruguay. The first phase of the construction has been completed. Considering the local climate, hot-dip galvanization or three-layer polyethylene coating was adopted to ensure durability. To minimize the disturbance to the park’s ecology and achieve rapid and low-impact green construction while ensuring public safety and minimal interference, the main structure foundation design adopted spiral pile foundations. A total of 565 spiral piles were used.
Geological and Hydrological Conditions: According to the information from the Uruguayan National Geological Service and local surveys, the typical strata in the Maldonado area (especially the eastern coastal park belt) from top to bottom are:
Surface layer: Backfill soil, sandy clay.
Upper layer: Wind-blown sand layer (typical “Masposandia” landform), loose to moderately dense, with average bearing capacity.
Lower layer: There may be a calcium cemented layer (“Tosca”) or granite weathering layer.
Hydrology: The groundwater level varies with the seasons, and it may be higher during the rainy season. Drainage needs to be considered during construction.
Environmental and Social Constraints:
Ecological Sensitivity: The park is a public green space, and the existing vegetation, root systems, and soil structure must be strictly protected.
Summary: The characteristics of spiral piles, such as no excavation, zero mud discharge, and low vibration, are highly favored by local construction units.