Articles

Main Speaker - October 2015

“Investigation and Treatment of a Swallvette* ”
aka: Sinkhole Remediation at the National Corvette Museum

Presented by:
Michael J. Marasa, PE, BDM
Senior Engineer
Hayward Baker Inc.

At 5:38 am on the morning of February 12, 2014, security cameras recorded the collapse of the display floor and development of a sizeable sinkhole inside the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY. The catastrophe required quick mobilization, coordination and identification of solutions to a complicated geologic condition. This case study will review the geologic setting, discuss the engineering judgement necessary to determine solutions while being monitored closely by peer reviewers and amidst international attention. Lessons learned during this project will be addressed and the presentation will include some discussion regarding the significance of the vehicles and their influence on the decision making process.

* Loosely derived from Merriam Webster “swallet + corvette”

Michael J Marasa, PE is a Senior Engineer with Hayward Baker, the largest geotechnical contractor in the United States. Mr. Marasa uses his 36 years of experience as a practicing geotechnical engineer to assist engineers and contractors with matching appropriate geotechnical construction techniques to specific site challenges and performance requirements. He frequently makes in-house presentations to engineering and construction firms to educate or update staffs on current ground improvement and foundation construction techniques including grouting, micropiles, earth retention, vibro techniques, and many others. He has authored papers on ground improvement and specialty foundation systems and has presented at numerous seminars and short courses.

Biography of Michael J Marasa, PE, BDM

Mr. Marasa is a graduate of the University of Louisville with advanced studies in the geosciences. He has been a practicing geotechnical engineer over 36 years and had registrations in multiple states. He joined Hayward Baker, Inc. in early 2005 as Senior Engineer and Regional Business Development Manager.

Other highlights:
Past-President ASCE Nashville Branch
Founder, Past Chairman and board member ASCE TN Section Geotechnical Group
Founder and board member Charlotte Geotechnical Group
Founder and board member Raleigh Geotechnical Group
Former Member ASCE National Committee on Construction Quality Management & Inspection
Member ASDSO, Geo-Institute, ABC, US Society on Dams, HBI Vibro Committee
Member ASFE/GBA Geotechnical Committee
Author of several technical papers