Client Profile  - VDOT Thompson & Litton 

Location  - The Big Walker Mountain Tunnel is a vehicular tunnel located in the Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia.  

Industry - Infrastructure (Federal)

Inputs - Site and work details 

Deliverables - Laser-scanned data, as-built BIM model, and permit expedition  

Business needs

The contractor needed as-built BIM for Big Walker Mountain Tunnel, including approaches, roadways, and utilities renovation. The tunnel, carrying Interstate 77, is 20 miles south of the East River Mountain Tunnel, its longer counterpart.

Problems

Scanning and as-built modeling a tunnel are not like any other project typology. Therefore, this project has its own unique set of challenges never faced by Tejjy.

To link highways, the Big Walker Mountain Tunnel project required integration of topographical data and simulation of long approach routes.

Due to the tunnel’s proximity to the Appalachian Trail, environmental regulations were aimed at protecting the neighboring ecosystems. 

Adherence to Virginia-specific construction rules and the local ecological effect were major considerations during the approval process.

Solutions Taken by Tejjy

Tejjy’s workforce utilized its laser scanning and as-built modeling expertise for solving all the above-listed project challenges.

Comprehensive 3D laser scanning and data integration

Tejjy created thorough as-built BIM models throughout renovations by precisely capturing the intricacies of the Big Walker Mountain Tunnel using Leica’s RTC 360. 

Advanced Topographical and Utility Simulation

Tejjy integrated the BIM-GIS workflow into the project, working to simulate long approach routes and optimize roadway connections for accounting for elevation changes and varying gradients.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

For Virginia-specific federal environmental norms, Tejjy gave eco-sensitive planning close to the Appalachian Trail priority by effective utilization of 7D BIM.

Coordinating multidisciplinary activities with stakeholders

Tejjy made use of BIM coordination to expedite the following - 

• Portal building 

• Generator facility 

• Substation upgrades 

• Exities utilities  

• And smaller site elements like Camera poles and guardrails 

Our team of BIM modeling experts worked on to guarantee adherence to safety and utility requirements.

Accuracy of BIM Models and Utility Renovation Scheduling

To integrate new systems into tunnels, avoid service interruptions, and provide a strong basis for future renovations, the BIM models precisely represented utility layouts.

Business Impact

The location of this tunnel project was strategic for Virginia’s transportation and logistics department, and that is why Tejjy made a significant contribution to this project. 

Simplified renovation and authorization procedure

Tejjy's meticulously accurate as-built BIM models reduced design and construction mistakes, resulting in speedier permit clearances.

Improved Project Efficiency and Accuracy

Renovation planning became much more efficient, and rework was reduced with scan to BIM processes, and hence a money and time saver.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design Implementation

Tejjy showed a dedication to sustainability by using eco-sensitive designs and following environmental standards, which improved the project's approval by regulatory bodies.

Improved Stakeholder Collaboration

BIM technology enabled interdisciplinary collaboration among stakeholders, demonstrating proficiency in managing significant government infrastructure projects.