From Ashes to Concrete: Berths 177-178 Wharf Restoration

Abstract: In the early hours of September 22, 2014, a fire broke out at the Berths 177-178 wharf, located at the Port of Los Angeles (Port) and operated by Pasha Stevedoring & Terminals, L.P. (Pasha). The fire resulted in damage to the steel warehouse and removal of 940 linear feet of timber wharf deck and framing, rendering the wharf unusable for cargo operations or berthing. Construction of the original timber wharf was in the 1920s and 1930s with modifications throughout the years. When the fire occurred, the wharf was a hybrid of timber and concrete piles with a timber deck. The initial insurance settlement for the claim was not sufficient to rebuild the wharf. The Port engaged the help of a third-party contractor to assist in preparing a mock bid to negotiate with the insurance company to receive a fair and equitable settlement for the fire damage to the wharf.
In 2017, design began on the replacement wharf. Scope and cost determined the type of wharf to replace the fire-damaged wharf. Port Engineering considered replacement in kind with timber, however, it was determined to be too expensive to maintain and would not comply with seismic code. Initial design plans for the wharf were to construct a concrete apron wharf of the original load capacity of 600 pounds per square feet (psf), replace the timber piles with concrete piles, and protect in place the existing concrete piles. After consideration it was determined a new, seismically retrofitted, full width, upgraded 1,000-psf concrete wharf with 24-inch prestressed octagonal concrete piles would best serve the Port and tenant. By evaluating types of vessels that berthed at Pasha pre-fire, the Port decided to replace 380 linear feet length. The remaining 560 linear feet of wharf are to be clean of remaining debris, demolished, and fenced off for safety reasons. The design of the upgraded wharf included preparing mooring and berthing analyses, utilizing hydro jetting for pile installation, and a technical memorandum to the Regional Water Quality Control Board to demonstrate the benefits to the ecosystem of the removal of the creosote-treated debris.
Construction of the new wharf began in November 2023 and has already encountered several challenges including unforeseen and differing site conditions despite efforts made during design to avoid these conflicts. Prior to the start of construction, the conduction of an underwater wharf inspection identified the location of underwater debris and assisted in the estimate of debris for removal and disposal. This assessment also included a survey of the location of existing piles to avoid conflicts with the location of the new piles. However, despite extensive pre-construction investigations and inspections, the discovery of unknown substructures, structures, and sections of pavement have caused conflicts.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the challenges overcome during planning and design as well as challenges encountered in construction to restore the Berths 177-178 Wharf.

How does this project / topic contribute to the advancement of the industry and profession?: This topic contributes to the engineering profession by discussing the technical and non-technical challenges to project delivery from planning through construction. The paper will expand on coordination between engineering, environmental, risk management, consultants, and permitting agencies to design a project that suits the evolving needs of the owner, tenant, and other stakeholders. The project is unique in its inception because unlike other projects that are required for maintenance or upgrade, this project stemmed from an emergency.

Does the project / topic implement new and innovative techniques, materials, technologies, and delivery methods?: Although not new or innovative, this project utilizes hydro jetting for the installation of prestressed concrete piles. This method of installation is not typical at the Port, usually due to contaminated soil. For this project, it was proposed and approved by the permitting. This type of installation is necessary for the installation of piles in this area because the existing armor stone, rat proofing, and other obstructions will be difficult to drive piles. The paper will discuss lessons learned from driving and inspecting the installation of the indicator piles utilizing hydro jetting.

What was the most challenging aspect of your project / topic and how did you handle it to ensure success?: The most challenging aspect of this project was facilitating the needs of the Port with the needs of the tenant while taking into consideration budget, schedule, permits, and emotions. The project’s necessity originated from a fire and as expected, the interruption to operations and required substitute premises for the tenant. While considering the design for the restoration of the wharf, explaining to the tenant how the new wharf would improve their operations and provide an upgraded wharf with increased loading capacity was successful.

Who is the target audience for this paper?: Engineers, construction managers, and individuals involved in decision-making would be the target audience for this paper. The paper will discuss the research, analysis, and investigations involved in presenting problems and various solutions to different audiences including engineers, managers, tenants, insurance companies, and risk managers.