HomeMy WebLinkAboutAttachment B_Geotechnical Report
Geologically Hazardous Areas Report
Maplewood Driving Range Restoration
4050 SE Maple Valley Road
Renton, WA 98058
Baumwelt, PLLC
919 MLK Way
Tacoma, WA 98405
Attn:
Derrick Eberle, PLA, ASLA
Prepared For:
July 31, 2024
Project No. 24-2203
Baumwelt, PLCC
919 MLK Way
Tacoma, WA 98405
Attn: Derrick Eberle, PLA, ASLA
Regarding: Geologically Hazardous Areas Report
Maplewood Driving Range Restoration
4050 SE Maple Valley Road
Renton, WA 98058
Dear Mr. Eberle,
As requested, GeoTest Services, Inc. [GeoTest] is pleased to submit the following report summarizing
the results of our Geologically Hazardous Areas evaluation for the proposed driving range restoration
work that is proposed at the above-referenced property in Renton, Washington (see Vicinity Map, Figure
1). This report has been prepared in general accordance with the terms and conditions established in
our services agreement dated July 5th, 2024, and authorized by yourself.
GeoTest appreciates the opportunity to provide geotechnical services on this project and look forward
to assisting you during the construction phase. Should you have any further questions regarding the
information contained within the report, or if we may be of service in other regards, please contact the
undersigned.
Respectfully,
GeoTest Services, Inc.
Jeff Vanfossen Harrison Simons, L.E.G.
Geotechnical Technician Geotechnical Project Manager
Enclosed: Geologically Hazardous Areas Report
7.31.2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF SERVICES .....................................................................................................1
PROJECT DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................................................1
SITE CONDITIONS ...............................................................................................................................1
Surface Conditions ................................................................................................................................... 2
General Geologic Conditions .................................................................................................................... 3
Web Soil Survey........................................................................................................................................ 5
Aerial Photo Review ................................................................................................................................. 5
Bare Earth Imagery Review ...................................................................................................................... 8
GEOLOGICALLY HAZARDOUS AREAS ...................................................................................................9
Steep Slope Types .................................................................................................................................... 9
Landslide Hazards ................................................................................................................................... 10
Erosion Hazards ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Seismic Hazards ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Coal Mine Hazards, ................................................................................................................................ 11
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 12
Geologically Hazardous Areas Mitigation .............................................................................................. 12
USE OF THIS REPORT ........................................................................................................................ 13
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 14
GeoTest Services, Inc.
Maplewood Driving Range Restoration, Renton, WA
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July 31, 2024
Project No. 24-2203
PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF SERVICES
The purpose of this evaluation is to establish general site conditions from which conclusions and
recommendations pertaining to project design can be formulated. Our scope of services includes
the following tasks:
• Perform a visual reconnaissance of the proposed development site and immediate vicinity
to observe existing site topographic and surficial geologic conditions.
• Provide a summary of site conditions observed at the site during our visit, and a summary
of the regional surface conditions based on available documentation.
• Provide an assessment of the geologically hazardous areas in accordance with Renton
Municipal Code section 4-3-050A through 4-3-050N that are present and provide
mitigative measures, as applicable, for the hazards on the subject property.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
GeoTest understands that the existing driving range at the Maplewood Golf Course will undergo
restoration to repair areas that have undergone minor settlement. Site improvements are
specifically expected to consist of the placement of new crushed rock base material and the
placement of new synthetic turf surfacing. Improvement is also expected to include some limited
fence restoration work on fences which encompass the driving range facility. However, it is our
understanding that fence posts and foundations associated with the planned fence
improvements are existing structures and will not be impacted by the planned site
improvements. Ground surface improvements to the existing, roughly 132,000 square foot
facility is expected to require about 283 cubic yards of crushed surfacing material to fill in and
repair areas which have demonstrated settlement. It is expected that existing stormwater
management structures, consisting of a series of catch basins, will be preserved and
implemented into the improved site conditions. Existing fill material removal is not expected as
part of the planned improvements.
SITE CONDITIONS
This section includes a description of the general site conditions observed at the project site and
during the review of the available documentation relevant to the subject property.
Interpretations of site conditions are based on the results and review of available information,
site reconnaissance, and previous experience in the project vicinity.
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Surface Conditions
A Geotechnical Technician visited the project area on July 12th, 2024, to observe existing surficial
geologic and surface conditions on and adjacent to the subject area. The driving range is located
at the Maplewood Golf Course within the city limits of Renton, Washington. The subject area is
bound to the south by Maple Valley Highway, and well vegetated gold course property to its east
and west. The Cedar River travels through the golf course to the southeast of the driving range
and relatively tall slopes exist immediately to the north.
Image 1. The existing driving range at Maplewood Golf Course during our site visit. Image taken using a Mavic 2 Pro drone
facing south on July 12th, 2024.
The existing surface of the driving range contains degraded turf and surficial gravelly fill materials.
Several catch basins were observed across the existing driving range surface. Additionally, the
driving range is encompassed by chain link fencing with wood board fasteners and tall protective
netting with posts. The site supports a two-story structure along the southeastern extent of the
driving range and contains hitting stalls on both stories. Other public, one to two story structures
bound the driving range along its northwestern margin while an asphalt paved access and parking
area extends along the western margin of the driving range.
Overall, the driving range contains relatively low angle topography across much of its extent and
exhibits about 10 to 15 feet of vertical relief over its roughly 630-foot length. However,
immediately to the north / northeast of the range, intermittently steep slopes extend up from
about 95 feet above sea level (ASL) in elevation to over 320 feet ASL over a distance of roughly
640 feet, resulting in about 225 feet of vertical relief. At the time of our site visit, the slopes to
the north / northeast of the driving range were densely vegetated with various large deciduous
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and coniferous trees as well as thick, low-lying vegetation that largely restricted our access.
Where observed, larger trees appeared to demonstrate vertically oriented tree trunk geometry.
GeoTest did not observe consistently downslope, or upslope leaning vegetation, exposed soils or
other obvious signs of recent or insipient slope instability from our observation points along the
toe of these slopes. Other than within the Cedar River and the various ponds the exist across the
course, no surface water or seepage was observed on-site at the time of our site visit.
General Geologic Conditions
GeoTest obtained pertinent geologic information for the project site from the Geologic map of
the Renton quadrangle, King County, Washington (Mullineaux, D.R., 1965). According to this
publication, surficial geologic deposits along the base of the valley (and majority of the subject
area), adjacent to the Cedar River, are mapped as Alluvium (Unit Qac). Furthermore, where
stream channels outlet from steep channelized topography (such as the northern corner of the
subject area), numerous Alluvial Fans exist, and existing soils are mapped as Alluvium (Unit Qas).
The slopes immediately north/northeast of the project site are mapped as a sequence of deposits
of mass wasting processes (unit Qmc), Undifferentiated deposits (map unit Qu), Ground moraine
deposits (map unit Qgt), and Recessional stratified drift (map unit Qpa). These units are
described in detail below.
Image 2. The existing driving range mapped as predominantly Alluvium (map unit Qas and Qac) with a small portion of Mass
Wasting Deposits (map unit Qmc) within the referenced geologic map, Geologic map of the Renton quadrangle, King County,
Washington (Mullineaux, D.R., 1965). Approximate footprint of the driving range illustrated with a red box.
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Alluvium (Unit Qac) – Sand and gravel deposited by the Cedar River and associated thin beds of
silt, clay, and peat mostly at edges of fan shaped fill in Duwamish Valley. The maximum thickness
of this unit in the Duwamish Valley can be more than 100 feet.
Alluvium (Unit Qas) – Mostly sand with some silt and gravel deposited by small streams; generally
thin. This unit is mapped where other published geologic resources map Alluvial Fan deposits and
exist where confined channels extending from the adjacent upland topography become
unconfined along valley margins.
Deposits of mass wasting processes (Unit Qmc) – Colluvium, consists of internally deformed
deposits of mass flowage, small block landslide, and alluvium of small intermittent streams.
Present on nearly all steep slopes; mapped only where relatively thick and continuous. Maximum
known thickness is about 40 feet. Mapped deposits generally form wet, unstable ground.
Undifferentiated deposits (Unit Qu) – Includes three or more till sheets, glaciofluvial sand and
gravel, glaciolacustrine clay and sand, and non glacial sand, glay, and thin peat, exposed mostly
along Cedar River and Duwamish Valleys.
Ground Moraine Deposits (Unit Qgt) – Mostly thin ablation till over lodgement till, deposited by
Puget glacial lobe. Lodgement till generally compact coherent, unsorted mixture of sand, silt, clay
and gravel; commonly termed hardpan. Ablation till is similar but much less compact and
coherent. Unit is highly variable in thickness between about 2 and 30 feet thick.
Recessional stratified drift (Unit Qpa) – Outwash along Cedar River valley; sandy pebble-and-
cobble gravel in easternmost terraces, grades to interbedded sand and gravel at Renton, and to
sand at north edge of quadrangle.
According to the Washington Department of Natural Resources Washington Geologic
Information Portal, the northern end of the driving range lies atop pro-historic landslide deposits.
These deposits extend across the slopes which bound the site to the north / northeast.
Additionally, according to the same resource, an alluvial fan landform is mapped where the
unnamed creek exits channelized topography onto the Cedar River flood plain, just northwest of
the subject area. More broadly, many large prehistoric landslides and relatively small alluvial fan
deposits are mapped along the marginal slopes of the Cedar River Valley to the east and west of
the project site. Lastly, at a distance of about 2.75 miles to the northeast, a strand of the Seattle
Fault is mapped along May Creek. The Seattle Fault zone is composed of a series of east trending
thrust faults that have recurrence intervals of about 200 to 12,000 years and are thought to be
capable of producing up to about a 7.2 magnitude earthquake (Anderson, M.L., 2024).
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Web Soil Survey
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation
Service (NRSC) Web Soil Survey website, the soils across the majority of the subject area are
classified as Puyallup fine sandy loam, while the soils in the northeastern most corner are mapped
as Mixed alluvial land. Please refer to Table 1 for a summary of the soil parameters found on the
USDA Web Soil Survey.
Erosion factors (K) indicate the susceptibility of soils to sheet and rill erosions by water. The factor
K is one of six contributors used in the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) and in the Revised
Universal Soil Loss Equations (RUSLE) that help predict the average annual rate of soil loss by
sheet and rill erosion. The estimates are based on percentages of organic matter, silt and sand,
soil structure and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat). Values of K range from 0.02 to 0.69, the
higher the value, the more susceptible the soil is to sheet and rill erosion by water. The Puyallup
fine sandy loam and mixed alluvial land soils present on the project site are considered to present
high and moderate susceptibility to erosion according to their assigned K-values. However, based
on the nature of the planned site improvements, we expect that erosion can be managed with
conventional best management practices during construction.
Aerial Photo Review
We reviewed historic and recent aerial photos of the subject property from 1936 to 2024 to
determine if there has been recent significant landslide activity within the vicinity of the project
Table 1 - USDA Web Soil Survey Soil Classifications
Map Unit Symbol Py Ma
Map Unit Name Puyallup fine sandy loam Mixed alluvial land
Approximate Site
Location Southwestern majority Northeastern corner
Soil Description Ashy fine sandy loam over very fine sandy
loam over sand Sand over fine sand over loamy fine sand
Landform Terraces, Floodplains NA
Parent Material Alluvium NA
Land Capability
Classification 3w 4w
Erosion K Factor,
Whole Soil 0.43 .20
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site (Images 3 through 5). Aerial photos were obtained from the King County Parcel Viewer
through the KCGIS Center.
Other than the incremental development of single-family residences and infrastructure as well
as the associated thinning of once existing vegetation, the subject property vicinity, and subject
slopes, appear to have existed in a similar state over the duration of the reviewed images. Slopes
within the subject property appear to have been densely vegetated over the reviewed duration
of time.
Please note that the aerial photos may not fully depict actual surface conditions due to the tree
canopy and/or other vegetation possibly obscuring the ground surface.
Image 3 - 1936 historical Image of the subject property accessed from the King County Parcel Viewer. The approximate driving
range footprint is outlined in red.
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Image 4 - 2007 historical Image of the subject property accessed from the King County Parcel Viewer. The approximate driving
range footprint is outlined in red.
Image 5 - 2021 historical Image of the subject property accessed from the King County Parcel Viewer. The approximate driving
range footprint is outlined in red.
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Bare Earth Imagery Review
GeoTest reviewed bare earth imagery of the site vicinity, subject site, and its slopes that was
acquired in 2021 and accessed from the Department of Natural Resources Washington LIDAR
Portal website.
Image 6 – Hillshade image derived from King County West 2021 DTM Hillshade LIDAR data. The approximate driving range
footprint is outlined in red.
Based on our review, evidence of a large global landslide is present to the northeast of the project
site. Specific evidence includes a generally scalloped ridge crest, nested head scarps, side scarps
and hummocky accumulations of materials along the base of the subject slopes. Hummocky
material accumulations extend into the northeastern most portion of the subject area and
currently support several holes for the existing golf course northeast of the subject area. Similar
instances of slope instability and associated mass wasting deposits can also be seen to the east
of the site along the northern margin of the Cedar River. Basal slope erosion produced by active
river channel migration is a common trigger mechanism and/or contributing factor to global
slope instability. From a contemporary standpoint, the Cedar River is located along the southern
margin of the Cedar River Valley and was not actively eroding the slopes adjacent (to the
northeast) to the existing driving range at the time these images were taken in 2021 (or during
our site visit in 2024).
Please note that not all signs of insipient slope instability can be observed in the bare earth
imagery review due to imagery resolution and scale (refer to the Bare Earth Imagery, Figure 3).
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GEOLOGICALLY HAZARDOUS AREAS
According to the Renton Municipal Code (RMC) Chapter 11, section 4-11-070, Geologic Hazards
are defined as areas which may be prone to one or more of the following conditions: erosion,
flooding, landslides, coal mine hazards, or seismic activity. In Chapter 3 section 4-3-050
Critic(5)(A-I), RMC specifically goes on to define Steep Slope Hazards, Landslide Hazards, Erosion
Hazards, Seismic Hazards, Coal Mine Hazards, Protected Slopes and Sensitive Slopes.
Potential geologic hazards and their relevance to the project site are discussed in detail within
the following sections of this report in accordance with Renton Municipal Code Chapter 4, section
4-3-050(A-N).
Steep Slope Types
According to RMC section 4-3-050(5)(a) steep slopes fall into two categories, Sensitive Slopes and
Protected Slopes, as discussed below.
Sensitive Slopes (RMC 4-3-050(a)(i): A hillside, or portion thereof, characterized by:
• (a) an average slope of twenty five percent (25%) to less than forty percent (40%) as
identified in the City of Renton Steep Slope Atlas or in a method approved by the City; or
• (b) an average slope of forty percent (40%) or greater with a vertical rise of less than
fifteen feet (15') as identified in the City of Renton Steep Slope Atlas or in a method
approved by the City;
• (c) abutting an average slope of twenty five percent (25%) to forty percent (40%) as
identified in the City of Renton Steep Slope Atlas or in a method approved by the City.
This definition excludes engineered retaining walls.
Protected Slopes (RMC 4-3-050(a)(ii)): A hillside, or portion thereof, characterized by an average
slope of forty percent (40%) or greater grade and having a minimum vertical rise of fifteen feet
(15') as identified in the City of Renton Steep Slope Atlas or in a method approved by the City.
Based on the RMC code definitions presented above, the northernmost portion of the subject
area is considered to contain Sensitive Slopes because this portion of the site abuts slopes which
demonstrate slopes between 25 and 40 percent. Additionally, the off-site slopes to the
north/northeast are considered Protected Slopes because of their total vertical relief and
demonstrated slope inclinations (Bare Earth Imagery, Figure 3).
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Landslide Hazards
According to RMC section 4-3-050(5)(b) Landslide Hazard areas fall into four categories, as
discussed below.
• Low Landslide Hazard (LL): Areas with slopes less than fifteen percent (15%).
• Medium Landslide Hazard (LM): Areas with slopes between fifteen percent (15%) and
forty percent (40%) and underlain by soils that consist largely of sand, gravel or glacial till.
• High Landslide Hazards (LH): Areas with slopes greater than forty percent (40%), and
areas with slopes between fifteen percent (15%) and forty percent (40%) and underlain by
soils consisting largely of silt and clay.
• Very High Landslide Hazards (LV): Areas of known mapped or identified landslide deposits
Based on the information discussed in this report, and as shown in the attached Bare Earth
Imagery exhibit, Figure 3, most of the on property subject area displays inclinations of less than
15 percent, and as such, are considered to present “Low Landslide Hazard” per RMC. However,
the northern most portion of the project site and off-property steeply sloped areas to the
northeast of the subject area are considered to present “High Landslide Hazard” based on slope
inclination and “Very High Landslide Hazards” as a result of the mapped landslide deposits that
exist in these areas.
Due to the limited nature of the planned site improvements, it is GeoTest’s opinion that the
work will not increase or decrease the risks that are present as a result of the existing, Landslide
Hazards, Sensitive and Protected Slopes any more than the existing conditions do.
Erosion Hazards
According to RMC section 4-3-050(5)(c) Erosion Hazard areas fall into two categories, as
discussed below.
• Low Erosion Hazard (EL): Areas with soils characterized by the Natural Resource
Conservation Service (formerly U.S. Soil Conservation Service) as having slight or moderate
erosion potential, and a slope less than fifteen percent (15%)
• High Erosion Hazard (EH): Areas with soils characterized by the Natural Resource
Conservation Service (formerly U.S. Soil Conservation Service) as having severe or very
severe erosion potential, and a slope more than fifteen percent (15%).
As previously discussed, the mapped site soils are considered moderately to highly susceptible
to sheet and rill erosion. Furthermore, the driving range itself does not contain slope inclinations
which exceed 15 percent. As such, the project site is considered to present “Low Erosion Hazard”.
Assuming the following recommendations are implemented during construction, we anticipate
that erosion may be managed during construction.
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• All grading activities for construction will need to incorporate Best Management Practices
(BMPs) for erosion control in compliance with current City of Renton codes and standards.
• Proper drainage controls have a significant effect on erosion. All collected stormwater
should be directed to the existing, permitted stormwater collection system.
• All areas disturbed by construction practices should be vegetated or otherwise protected
to limit the potential for erosion as soon as practical during and after construction.
In addition to the preceding recommendations, typical erosion control measures during
construction will be required. These measures can include a rocked construction entrance or
downslope silt fencing, depending on the regulations of the governing jurisdiction.
Seismic Hazards
According to RMC section 4-3-050(5)(d) Seismic Hazard areas fall into two categories, as
discussed below.
• Low Seismic Hazard (SL): Areas underlain by dense soils or bedrock. These soils generally
have site classifications of A through D, as defined in the International Building Code,
2012.
• High Seismic Hazard (SH): Areas underlain by soft or loose, saturated soils. These soils
generally have site classifications E or F, as defined in the International Building Code,
2012.
The subject area is underlain by alluvial (and mass wasting) soil deposits and is located within a
flood plain setting along the Cedar River. Additionally, according to the Washington Geologic
Information Portal, the site is considered to present moderate to high liquefaction susceptibility.
As such, the project site, in our opinion is considered a High Seismic Hazard area.
However, based on the nature of the planned improvements, no specific mitigations are
recommended to address this potential hazard. Please note that this is a grading project and that
no new above ground structures are planned.
Coal Mine Hazards,
According to RMC section 4-3-050(5)(e) Coal Mine Hazard areas fall into three categories, as
discussed below.
• Low Coal Mine Hazards (CL): Areas with no known mine workings and no predicted
subsidence. While no mines are known in these areas, undocumented mining is known to
have occurred
• Medium Coal Mine Hazards (CM): Areas where mine workings are deeper than two
hundred feet (200') for steeply dipping seams, or deeper than fifteen (15) times the
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thickness of the seam or workings for gently dipping seams. These areas may be affected
by subsidence.
• High Coal Mine Hazard (CH): Areas with abandoned and improperly sealed mine openings
and areas underlain by mine workings shallower than two hundred feet (200') in depth for
steeply dipping seams, or shallower than fifteen (15) times the thickness of the seam or
workings for gently dipping seams. These areas may be affected by collapse or other
subsidence
Based on our review of the City of Renton Sensitive Areas, Coal Mine Hazard Map (January 25,
2023), the project site is not underlain by known mine workings. Thus, the project site is
considered to present Low Coal Mine Hazards per RMC. Based on the lack of known mine related
workings below the site and the nature of the planned site improvements, we do not recommend
specific mitigations be implemented into the planned project to address this potential hazard.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The subject property presents (Low, High and Very High) Landslide Hazard), Sensitive and
Protected Slopes, Low Erosion Hazard, High Seismic Hazard, and Low Coal Mine Hazard as
discussed in detail above.
However, the subject property supports a pre-existing, legally constructed golf course and driving
range facility as well as access roadways which serve to provide access to the existing
development. The intent of the proposed improvements is to renovate the existing driving range
through the placement of new crushed rock materials, the placement of new turf surfaces (in
areas currently occupied by turf) and some limited improvement of supporting, above grade
infrastructure (nets, lights etc.,). Provided that the limited recommendations presented in the
erosion hazard section of this report are implemented, it is GeoTest’s opinion that the proposed
improvements will not negatively impact any of the of the geologically hazardous areas that
currently exist on or adjacent to the subject property. Although these hazards do present risks to
the project site, it is GeoTest’ s opinion that the proposed construction activities will not
increase the levels of risk posed by the geologically hazardous areas above what already exist
at the project site.
Geologically Hazardous Areas Mitigation
Based on our analysis of the information discussed in this report, it is our opinion that the
proposed development conforms with RMC section 4-3-050F(a)(ii). Specifically, it is our opinion
that the proposed improvements:
• Will not increase the threat of the geological hazard to adjacent or abutting
properties beyond pre-development conditions; and.
• Will not adversely impact other critical areas; and.
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• The development can be safely accommodated on the site.
Furthermore, in accordance with RMC section 4-3-050M(3)(b), it is our opinion that the proposed
development:
• Hazard shall be reduced to a level equal to, or less than, the pre-development
hazard.
• Risk of personal injury resulting from the alteration shall be appropriately
minimized; and
• Does not propose to remove areas of existing native vegetation, and thus, no
additional planting should be required.
USE OF THIS REPORT
GeoTest Services, Inc. has prepared this report for the exclusive use of Baumwelt, PLLC, as well
as their clients and design consultants for specific application to the proposed driving range
improvements located at 4050 SE Maple Valley Road in Renton, WA. Use of this report by others
is at the user’s sole risk. This report is not applicable to other site locations. Our services are
conducted in accordance with accepted practices of the geotechnical engineering profession; no
other warranty, express or implied, is made as to the professional advice included in this report.
Our site visit is representative of the dates and the locations observed during our visit. It is not
warranted that these conditions are representative of conditions at other locations and times.
The analyses, conclusions, and recommendations contained in this report are based on a
reconnaissance-level site visit and a review of previously published USGS geological information
for the site. If variations in conditions are encountered during construction that differs from those
contained within this report, GeoTest should be allowed to review the recommendations and, if
necessary, make revisions. If there is a substantial lapse of time between submission of this
report and the start of construction, or if conditions change due to construction operations at or
adjacent to the project site, we recommend that we review this report to determine the
applicability of the conclusions and recommendations contained herein.
The earthwork contractor is responsible to perform all work in conformance with all applicable
WISHA/OSHA regulations. GeoTest Services, Inc. is not responsible for job site safety on this
project, and this responsibility is specifically disclaimed.
Attachments: Figure 1 Vicinity Map
Figure 2 Site Plan
Figure 3 Bare Earth Imagery
Attached Report Limitations and Guidelines for Use (4 Pages)
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REFERENCES
Anderson, M. L., Blakely, R. J., Wells, R. E., & Dragovich, J. D. (2024). Deep Structure of Siletzia in the Puget Lowland:
Imaging an Obducted Plateau and Accretionary Thrust Belt With Potential Fields. Retrieved 06 February 2024, from
https://doi.org/10.1029/2022TC007720
Mullineaux, D.R., 1965, Geologic map of the Renton quadrangle, King County, Washington, U.S. Geological
Survey, Geologic Quadrangle Map GQ-405, 1:24,00
Renton Municipal Code, Washington. Retrieved July, 2024, from
https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Renton/#!/Renton04/Renton0403/Renton0403050.html#4-3-050G
King County Parcel Viewer. King County, WA 2024. Accessed from
https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/services/gis/Maps/terms-of-use.aspx
United States Geological Survey. U.S Quaternary Faults Website. USGS Geologic Hazards Science Center, Golden,
Colorado. Accessed from
https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5a6038b3a1684561a9b0aadf88412fcf
USDA Web Soil Survey. (2017, August 21). Retrieved July 2024, from
https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx.
Washington State Department of Natural Resources - Online Web Services. Washington Geologic Information Portal.
Retrieved in July 2024.
Washington Lidar Portal. (n.d). Retrieved December 2023, from https://lidarportal.dnr.wa.gov.
Date:Scale:
Figure
By:Project
MAPLEWOOD DRIVING RANGE RESTORATION
4050 SE MAPLE VALLEY ROAD
RENTON,WASHINGTON
24-2203
1
7-22-2024 JV As Shown
VICINITY MAP
PROJECT LOCATION
MMaapp RReeffeerreenncceedd ffrroomm QQGGIISS 33..3344..55--PPrriizzrreenn
Date:Scale:
Figure
By:Project
MAPLEWOOD DRIVING RANGE RESTORATION
4050 SE MAPLE VALLEY ROAD
RENTON,WASHINGTON
24-2203
2
7-22-2024 HS As Shown
Site Plans
Date:Scale:
Figure
By:ProjectDATASOURCE(S):
MAPLEWOOD DRIVING RANGE RESTORATION
4050 SE MAPLE VALLEY ROAD
RENTON,WASHINGTON
24-2203
3
7-22-2024 HS As Shown
BARE EARTH IMAGERYELEVATION,SLOPE,AND HILLSHADE:DERIVEDFROM
KINGCOUNTY WEST_2021LIDARSURVEY BY
WASHINGTONLIDARPORTALUSINGQGIS
MAPPEDLANDSLIDE ANDFAN DEPOSITS:DERIVED
FROMWASHINGTON STATELANDSLIDE INVENTORY
DATABASE2023
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1Information in this document is based upon material developed by ASFE, Professional Firms Practicing in the Geosciences(asfe.org)
REPORT LIMITATIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR ITS USE1
Subsurface issues may cause construction delays, cost overruns, claims, and disputes. While you
cannot eliminate all such risks, you can manage them. The following information is provided to
help:
Geotechnical Services are Performed for Specific Purposes, Persons, and Projects
At GeoTest our geotechnical engineers and geologists structure their services to meet specific
needs of our clients. A geotechnical engineering study conducted for a civil engineer may not
fulfill the needs of an owner, a construction contractor or even another civil engineer. Because
each geotechnical engineering study is unique, each geotechnical engineering report is unique,
prepared solely for the client. No one except you should rely on your geotechnical engineer who
prepared it. And no one – not even you – should apply the report for any purpose or project
except the one originally contemplated.
Read the Full Report
Serious problems have occurred because those relying on a geotechnical engineering report did
not read it all. Do not rely on an executive summary. Do not read selected elements only.
A Geotechnical Engineering Report is Based on a Unique Set of Project-Specific Factors
GeoTest’s geotechnical engineers consider a number of unique, project-specific factors when
establishing the scope of a study. Typical factors include: the clients goals, objectives, and risk
management preferences; the general nature of the structure involved its size, and
configuration; the location of the structure on the site; and other planned or existing site
improvements, such as access roads, parking lots, and underground utilities. Unless GeoTest,
who conducted the study specifically states otherwise, do not rely on a geotechnical engineering
report that was:
•not prepared for you,
•not prepared for your project,
•not prepared for the specific site explored, or
•completed before important project changes were made.
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1Information in this document is based upon material developed by ASFE, Professional Firms Practicing in the Geosciences(asfe.org)
Typical changes that can erode the reliability of an existing geotechnical engineering report
include those that affect:
• the function of the proposed structure, as when it’s changed, for example, from a parking
garage to an office building, or from a light industrial plant to a refrigerated warehouse,
• elevation, configuration, location, orientation, or weight of the proposed construction,
• alterations in drainage designs; or
• composition of the design team; the passage of time; man-made alterations and
construction whether on or adjacent to the site; or by natural alterations and events, such
as floods, earthquakes or groundwater fluctuations; or project ownership.
Always inform GeoTest’s geotechnical engineer of project changes – even minor ones – and
request an assessment of their impact. Geotechnical engineers cannot accept responsibility or
liability for problems that occur because their reports do not consider developments of which
they were not informed.
Subsurface Conditions Can Change
This geotechnical or geologic report is based on conditions that existed at the time the study was
performed. Do not rely on the findings and conclusions of this report, whose adequacy may have
been affected by: the passage of time; by man-made events, such as construction on or adjacent
to the site; or by natural events, such as floods, earthquakes, or groundwater fluctuations. Always
contact GeoTest before applying the report to determine if it is still relevant. A minor amount of
additional testing or analysis will help determine if the report remains applicable.
Most Geotechnical and Geologic Findings are Professional Opinions
Our site exploration identifies subsurface conditions only at those points where subsurface tests
are conducted or samples are taken. GeoTest’s engineers and geologists review field and
laboratory data and then apply their professional judgment to render an opinion about
subsurface conditions throughout the site. Actual subsurface conditions may differ – sometimes
significantly – from those indicated in your report. Retaining GeoTest who developed this report
to provide construction observation is the most effective method of managing the risks
associated with anticipated or unanticipated conditions.
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1Information in this document is based upon material developed by ASFE, Professional Firms Practicing in the Geosciences(asfe.org)
A Report’s Recommendations are Not Final
Do not over-rely on the construction recommendations included in this report. Those
recommendations are not final, because geotechnical engineers or geologists develop them
principally from judgment and opinion. GeoTest’s geotechnical engineers or geologists can
finalize their recommendations only by observing actual subsurface conditions revealed during
construction. GeoTest cannot assume responsibility or liability for the report’s recommendations
if our firm does not perform the construction observation.
A Geotechnical Engineering or Geologic Report may be Subject to Misinterpretation
Misinterpretation of this report by other design team members can result in costly problems.
Lower that risk by having GeoTest confer with appropriate members of the design team after
submitting the report. Also, we suggest retaining GeoTest to review pertinent elements of the
design teams plans and specifications. Contractors can also misinterpret a geotechnical
engineering report. Reduce that risk by having GeoTest participate in pre-bid and
preconstruction conferences, and by providing construction observation.
Do not Redraw the Exploration Logs
Our geotechnical engineers and geologists prepare final boring and testing logs based upon their
interpretation of field logs and laboratory data. To prevent errors of omissions, the logs included
in this report should never be redrawn for inclusion in architectural or other design drawings.
Only photographic or electronic reproduction is acceptable; but recognizes that separating logs
from the report can elevate risk.
Give Contractors a Complete Report and Guidance
Some owners and design professionals mistakenly believe they can make contractors liable for
unanticipated subsurface conditions by limiting what they provide for bid preparation. To help
prevent costly problems, give contractors the complete geotechnical engineering report, but
preface it with a clearly written letter of transmittal. In that letter, consider advising the
contractors that the report was not prepared for purposes of bid development and that the
report’s accuracy is limited; encourage them to confer with GeoTest and/or to conduct additional
study to obtain the specific types of information they need or prefer. A pre-bid conference can
also be valuable. Be sure contractors have sufficient time to perform additional study. Only then
might you be in a position to give contractors the best information available, while requiring them
to at least share some of the financial responsibilities stemming from unanticipated conditions.
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1Information in this document is based upon material developed by ASFE, Professional Firms Practicing in the Geosciences(asfe.org)
In addition, it is recommended that a contingency for unanticipated conditions be included in
your project budget and schedule.
Read Responsibility Provisions Closely
Some clients, design professionals, and contractors do not recognize that geotechnical
engineering or geology is far less exact than other engineering disciplines. This lack of
understanding can create unrealistic expectations that can lead to disappointments, claims, and
disputes. To help reduce risk, GeoTest includes an explanatory limitations section in our reports.
Read these provisions closely. Ask questions and we encourage our clients or their
representative to contact our office if you are unclear as to how these provisions apply to your
project.
Environmental Concerns Are Not Covered in this Geotechnical or Geologic Report
The equipment, techniques, and personnel used to perform an environmental study differ
significantly from those used to perform a geotechnical or geologic study. For that reason, a
geotechnical engineering or geologic report does not usually relate any environmental findings,
conclusions, or recommendations; e.g., about the likelihood of encountering underground
storage tanks or regulated containments, etc. If you have not yet obtained your own
environmental information, ask your geotechnical consultant for risk management guidance. Do
not rely on environmental report prepared for some one else.
Obtain Professional Assistance to Deal with Biological Pollutants
Diverse strategies can be applied during building design, construction, operation, and
maintenance to prevent significant amounts biological pollutants from growing on indoor
surfaces. Biological pollutants includes but is not limited to molds, fungi, spores, bacteria and
viruses. To be effective, all such strategies should be devised for the express purpose of
prevention, integrated into a comprehensive plan, and executed with diligent oversight by a
professional biological pollutant prevention consultant. Because just a small amount of water or
moisture can lead to the development of severe biological infestations, a number of prevention
strategies focus on keeping building surfaces dry. While groundwater, water infiltration, and
similar issues may have been addressed as part of this study, the geotechnical engineer or
geologist in charge of this project is not a biological pollutant prevention consultant; none of the
services preformed in connection with this geotechnical engineering or geological study were
designed or conducted for the purpose of preventing biological infestations.