Ninyo & Moore delivered innovative, reliable, and cost-effective engineering solutions for the Oakvale Road Realignment Project, enabling the safe relocation of critical infrastructure to support construction of the new Lake Wohlford Dam and ensure long-term safety and resilience.

Project Highlights:

• Implement design changes to ensure an appropriate slope anchor system
• Geotechnical engineering, special inspection, and materials testing services
• 1,200 linear feet roadway realignment enabling dam construction
• 56,000 cubic feet soil and rock excavation with precision
• Geotechnical expertise ensuring hillside and slope stability
• Comprehensive laboratory testing for material performance assurance
• Special inspections safeguarding quality and structural integrity  

Project Overview

Ninyo & Moore is proud to have provided geotechnical engineering, special inspection, and construction materials testing services for the Oakvale Road Realignment Project in Escondido, California. This critical infrastructure improvement is directly tied to the construction of a new roller-compacted concrete dam downstream of the existing Lake Wohlford Dam. By successfully supporting the realignment of Oakvale Road, our team helped enable a project that safeguards water resources and ensures public safety for the surrounding community.

The roadway realignment spanned approximately 1,200 linear feet and required the excavation and export of more than 56,000 cubic feet of soil and rock at an approximate ¾:1 slope ratio. This challenging work required technical precision and a multidisciplinary approach. Ninyo & Moore’s integrated team of engineers, geologists, special inspectors, and materials testing specialists worked closely with the project team to deliver reliable solutions that advanced both safety and constructability.

Comprehensive Geotechnical Expertise

Our role began with a thorough review of the project design documents and plans, followed by active participation in preconstruction and progress meetings. As the contractor encountered subsurface materials that were not indicated in the initial design, we pivoted to perform a subsurface evaluation of the site and provide geotechnical recommendations to allow for appropriate design changes. With a revised design in place, and leveraging decades of experience in geotechnical engineering services, Ninyo & Moore then provided field observation, in-place density testing, and engineering evaluations to ensure the cuts into the hillside were structurally sound and suitable for construction. Ninyo & Moore also evaluated the drilling and installation of slope anchors, an essential component for long-term slope stability.

Through laboratory testing of soil, structural grout and concrete, aggregate, and asphalt concrete (AC) samples, our team validated material performance by evaluating gradations, Hveem stability, unit weight, oil content, and other critical properties. These services supported the structural integrity of the roadway and its associated storm drain, grading, and pavement systems.

Thorough Materials Testing and Special Inspection Services

Ninyo & Moore provided special inspection services across multiple phases of construction to ensure strict compliance with project plans, specifications, and building codes. Our certified inspectors performed detailed inspections of reinforcing steel and formwork used in structural concrete construction to verify proper size, spacing, and lapping. During concrete placements, we oversaw mix designs, age of concrete, allowable water content, ingredient proportions, and sampling of fresh material. Testing of sampled material included temperature and slump evaluations, along with casting one set of five concrete cylinders for every 500 cubic yards placed to confirm strength development and long-term durability.

Our role also encompassed periodic inspections during the placement and grouting of slope anchors, including observation and documentation of contractor-performed load testing in accordance with project specifications. In addition, Ninyo & Moore conducted special inspections of field welding activities—reviewing project plans and shop drawings, welding procedures, welder qualifications, and verifying proper fit-up, preheat, weld length, and weld quality. These comprehensive services ensured that every structural component of the project was constructed to the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance.

Delivering Value Through Collaboration

Throughout the Oakvale Road Realignment Project, Ninyo & Moore maintained open communication and close collaboration with the project stakeholders. By delivering accurate test results, timely inspections, and responsive engineering consultation, we helped the project team make informed decisions that optimized efficiency and reduced risk. Our project management services included report preparation, distribution, and final documentation that provided a complete and reliable record of construction quality.

Demonstrating Our Capabilities

The Oakvale Road Realignment Project exemplifies Ninyo & Moore’s ability to manage technically complex assignments that integrate multiple service lines, including geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, special inspection, and project management. Our contributions supported not only the successful relocation of a major roadway, but also the larger regional goal of replacing aging infrastructure with modern, resilient systems.

With almost four decades of proven experience, Ninyo & Moore continues to deliver innovative, reliable, and cost-effective engineering solutions that strengthen infrastructure, enhance safety, and support communities. The Oakvale Road Realignment Project stands as a clear example of our commitment to excellence and our ability to bring value to every stage of construction.

Project Highlights Booklet

Project Details

MICHAEL BAKER INTERNATIONAL

Escondido, California