Bruner Run Culvert Relining

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is relining the barrel of the Bruner Run Culvert at Ohiopyle State Park. The culvert is approximately 163 feet long from the upstream entrance to the downstream discharge. Inspection reports characterized the structure’s condition as severe, with cracks, honeycombing, random isolated concrete de-laminations, and water seepage along the top of the barrel, as well as spalling and abrasions along the flowline of both walls.

Rhea provided surveying, environmental, engineering, and permitting support for the project, including site survey of the culvert and surrounding features, wetland delineation and reporting, and the submission of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Individual Permit.

Rhea prepared a survey of the culvert and surrounding areas, including wing walls and portions of the stream. Field survey data collected was used to establish project control and create mapping of the site with two-foot contours. The mapping was used to prepare the Hydrology and Hydraulics (H&H) analysis and design, with stream cross sections at the culvert structure and 500 feet upstream and downstream, as well as general site grading and design.

Rhea also performed a wetland investigation prior to project design in order to identify wetland resources within the project boundary to determine potential impacts resulting from construction activities. Rhea worked closely with the Fayette County Conservation District (FCCD) and the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to complete the proper environmental permitting procedures due to the project being within an Exceptional Value (EV) watershed.

The NPDES Individual Permit application included the design of Antidegradation Best Available Combination of Technologies (ABACT) erosion controls and stormwater management structures. Due to a slight increase in impervious area at the site, Rhea designed vegetated channels and an infiltration berm to manage the increase in stormwater runoff. Rhea prepared an Erosion and Sediment Control (E&S) Plan and Post Construction Stormwater Management (PCSM) Plan for review and approval by FCCD and PADEP.

Additionally, Rhea prepared an Environmental Assessment, PA Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) submission, and Mitigation Plan as part of the separate Joint Permit application for a Chapter 105 Water Obstruction and Encroachment Permit and US Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permit.

Services: Environmental Services

Industries: Public + Institutional