Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

This historic structure, whose west wall is constructed on top of the river wall in downtown Grand Rapids, had undergone significant vertical movement, cracking, and spalling at its foundations. In addition, there was severe deterioration of the concrete floor and wall on the interior of the basement. Where others had recommended complete replacement of the wall at an estimated cost of $2.5 million, JDH Engineering teamed with Materials Testing Consultants to investigate the problems more closely, determine its causes, and develop ways to significantly add strength to the wall in situ. The association saved approximately $1.75 million by restoring the wall based on our recommendations, rather than replacing it.