Earthmoving common thread in construction Monnickendam pumping station

The construction of the new pumping station at Monnickendam presents numerous logistical challenges. For example, the pumping station is being built right through a dam and also under a busy provincial road. A project in which, according to Willem Slot, director of Van Geemen, earth moving is a common thread. From the very beginning with the application of the preload and the excavation of the construction pit to the final finishing of the site with two viewpoints.

"Over three years ago, we were approached by a project manager from Friso Bouwgroep to help think through the approach to the project," says Slot. "They were looking for a partner in the neighborhood who was familiar with the local base and capable of handling such a project properly. We jointly worked on the plan and the preliminary tender with an open mind. Even after it was awarded to the combination Friso Civiel and Van Hattum en Blankevoort, we remained at the table."

Underpass

Because part of the pumping station will be built in the water, Van Geemen initially prepared the site largely from the water and applied some 10,000 m3 of sand as preload in a newly formed sheet pile pit. In addition, part of the dam was excavated, some 8,000 m3 in total. "In terms of quantities, not exactly earth-shattering," thinks project manager Hezron Weijer, "but what makes the project particularly special is that the pumping station under the provincial road is being built in an underpass, so that traffic above it can continue undisturbed." Slot adds: "That underpass was completed in just two weekend closures. Absolutely a feat of craftsmanship by all parties involved. We then started to excavate the construction pit step-by-step between all the piles, to eventually a depth of about 8 meters under the road."

While excavating the construction pit, Van Geemen came across remnants of an old sea lock nearly 600 years old. "Historically speaking, an impressive find," says Weijer. "It makes us have to work even more meticulously. All remnants are carefully excavated, removed and where possible preserved. Once at depth, we will cut and remove the pile heads and hand the baton back to the construction consortium, which can then actually start the construction of the pumping station." According to Slot, this project covers almost all aspects that Van Geemen masters as a total contractor for civil engineering. "It really is 'our thing' where we gain strength from the cooperation with the many parties involved and especially the dynamic nature of the project. And all in our backyard."