Bulkhead inspection supporting future waterfront improvements.

AMI provided underwater inspection and structural assessment services for the Little River Bulkhead, evaluating the condition of critical waterfront infrastructure and supporting future rehabilitation planning.

AMI completed underwater and topside inspections of the Little River Bulkhead in Red Wing, Minnesota, a pile-supported dock structure consisting of a concrete pile cap supported by steel H-piles. The assessment evaluated the condition of the approximately 300-foot-long facility and identified deterioration that could affect its long-term structural performance.

The inspection program included Level I underwater and topside evaluations to document corrosion, deterioration, structural damage, and other visible deficiencies. AMI also performed Level II/III inspections on representative exposed piles, cleaning select areas to assess corrosion severity, measuring remaining steel thickness using ultrasonic testing, and verifying pile alignment to identify potential movement or deformation. Field investigations were completed by a commercial engineering dive team and documented through video, photography, and detailed inspection records.

AMI coordinated inspection activities to minimize impacts on active barge traffic and waterfront operations. Following the field assessment, the team compiled inspection findings, engineering observations, photographs, and dive records into a comprehensive condition assessment report to support future maintenance and repair decisions.

In addition to the structural evaluation, AMI developed 30% design plans, conceptual layouts, and construction cost estimates for future redevelopment of the site. The assessment and preliminary design work provided the City of Red Wing and project stakeholders with critical information to prioritize rehabilitation efforts, evaluate structural integrity, and support long-term management of the waterfront facility.