Geotechnical Sampling Plays Bit Part in Resiliency Project
Suspended a few feet above the Hudson River and anchored in place by steel shafts (called spuds) driven into the river bed, the Northstar Voyager has begun conducting geotechnical drilling for the North/West Battery Park City Resiliency Project (NWBPCR). Described variously as an offshore supply vessel, a lift boat, and a spud barge, the presence of the Northstar Voyager is an unusual reminder of the vital maritime industry that surrounds Lower Manhattan.
As the design of the NWBPCR flood barrier foundation proceeds, samples of riverbed soil will be tested offsite to determine the bearing capacity of the soil. When sections of drilling are complete, the spuds will be lifted, the barge pushed north, and the spuds planted again to anchor the vessel in place for more boring work.