Dutch Bros Erosion and Sinkhole Stabilization at New Construction Site

The Challenge

Constant Erosion and Sinkholes Threatened the Stability of the New Construction.

Dutch Bros Coffee faced significant challenges during the construction of their newest location in Knoxville, Tennessee. During construction, the site experienced constant erosion, which led to the formation of sinkholes. These conditions raised serious concerns regarding the stability of the building’s foundation and the project timeline. Dutch Bros Coffee reached out to Andrew Jones with Groundworks to seek a solution to ensure the structure’s safety and long-term stability. It was crucial to find a solution that not only stabilized the site but also allowed for the construction to continue smoothly.

Key Facts

The Solution

A Comprehensive Stabilization Plan.

To overcome the unstable ground conditions threatening Dutch Bros Coffee’s construction project, Groundworks developed a comprehensive stabilization plan.

Helical Pier Installation

The first step was the installation of 28 helical piers around the perimeter of the structure. Helical piers, a proven deep foundation solution, anchor into stable soil layers below the surface to provide long-term stability in areas with erosion and soil movement. This method was selected for its efficiency and ability to restore structural support quickly. To access the bottom of the footings, the team performed a 9-foot excavation before installing the piers. Despite the complexity of the project, the crew successfully installed all 28 piers in just two days, keeping the construction timeline on track.

Waterproofing and Grout Cut Off Wall

To further protect the site from future erosion and water infiltration, the team installed a Single Component Grout Cut Off Wall along the foundation’s perimeter. This barrier prevents water migration beneath the building, adding a critical layer of protection against recurring sinkholes or soil instability. Through this multi-pronged approach, Groundworks delivered a reliable and lasting solution, stabilizing the site while allowing construction to move forward without significant delays.

The Impact

A Solution That Ended Erosion and Sinkholes.

Through the combined efforts of pier installation and polyurethane injection, Dutch Bros Coffee received a comprehensive solution that eliminated the risks of erosion and sinkholes. The installation of 28 helical piers restored stability to the structure’s foundation, while the grout cut-off wall provided lasting protection against future water migration.

What set this project apart was the speed of execution. The foundation crew completed the installation of all helical piers in just two days, with the grout wall finalized the following week. This rapid response not only prevented costly delays but also allowed construction to move forward seamlessly. By addressing both the immediate instability and the potential for long-term soil issues, Groundworks ensured the project remained on schedule while delivering a foundation built for enduring stability.