Project Description:
Mauna Kapu is a design-build project to erect a 180ft telecommunications tower at the top of Makakilo ridge. ASI will also be converting the existing CMU (Concrete Masonry Unit) building into an equipment support building for the tower. This equipment support building will contain telecommunication equipment and backup generators to keep the facility running during a blackout. This project will allow the communication between emergency services (military, fire, police, ambulance, etc.) to continue in the wake of a disaster or catastrophic emergency.

On this project we have designed, into the support for the foundation of the tower pad, a new piling system. We have contracted with a local company to drill Micropiles instead of going with the conventional pile driving system for foundation support. General renovations to the equipment building include abatement of lead paint to the interior of the building, concrete chipping and patching, saw cutting through 14" CMU walls for new A/C units and bullet-proof doors, and placing 4x8 bricks to close off existing openings that will not be used.

In all, the location, weather conditions, and overall construction of this project make it unique. On a daily basis, ASI workers battle wind, rain, and clouds. The location of this project is a gorgeous drive along the ridge line past the last houses on Makakilo ridge. Once at the top, you can see both the Waianae coastline, Diamond Head Crater, and the Mililani sky line. The remote location of this project created hurdles with regards to material and equipment delivery. Although the road to the jobsite is paved, the road is narrow and has many steep hills and tight turns. To conclude, this project has been successful through continuous communication and tight scheduling with our Field Superintendent, Field Foreman, and Subcontractors. Continued teamwork has made this project a success.