Lake Superior shoreline stabilization and shoreline access improvements.

AMI provided surveying, permitting, and engineering design services for a shoreline stabilization project along Lake Superior in Grand Marais, Minnesota.

Due to near-record high water elevations, wave action, ice, and recent storm events, the shoreline along Lake Superior had been experiencing increased levels of erosion. AMI recommended installation of an armor stone system along up to 100 feet of shoreline to help protect existing structures located near the slope edge. The proposed design also included a set of rough rock steps integrated into the shoreline armoring to maintain access to the shoreline.

The project included topographic, nearshore bathymetric, and drone surveys to collect data required for engineering design and permitting. Using the survey information, AMI prepared preliminary design drawings and coordinated review with the owner before advancing the selected design for permitting and final construction documentation.

AMI also coordinated permitting efforts with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, city, and county agencies. Supporting documentation and drawings were prepared to satisfy local, state, and federal permitting requirements.

Additional services included a preconstruction meeting with the owner and contractor to review project plans, construction access, schedule considerations, and project boundaries. AMI also recommended construction-phase inspections to review critical project components, document site conditions, and provide inspection summaries and project photographs to the owner.