1. Do we need any specific training or are meetings with CP required prior to performing the soils borings? There is no training required but your geotechnical firm will need to execute a right of entry (ROE) agreement and follow the procedures outlined in the ROE (for example; minimum safety requirements, flagging, utility locates, emergency procedures, etc). They will need to coordinate a railroad flagman to ensure track protection is in place during the work. An ROE template is attached.
2. 3rd Party Geotech Approval

1. Is a list of CP approved service providers available?

CHA

Charles W. Symmes, PE*

Geotechnical Group Leader

Office: (518) 453-2824

Mobile: (518) 584-0215

Email: csymmes@chacompanies.com

Website: www.chacompanies.com

*NY, CT, GA, VT

 

GEI Consultants Inc.

Chia Tan

Tan, Chia

Senior Geotechnical Engineer, Principal

Direct: 312-898-7969

Email: ctan@geiconsultants.com

2. Can you please help us understand what the costs are for the CP Approved Service Providers? Each provider will be able to give you an estimate for their services.
3. What is the process for engaging service providers? The utility applicant (yourself or your geotech) should reach out and contract directly with the service provider.

4. The protocol document states that a contract between the applicant and the CP “approved service provider” must be in place before proceeding with the “proposal”. When exactly in this process does the approved service provider need to be contracted, and who initiates contact with the provider? The service provider should be contracted prior to the completion and submittal of your geotechnical and track monitoring report. The service provider will review and comment on if it is in alignment with the CP geotech protocol.
5. If we plan to excavate outside of the CP right of way, i.e., for the jacking and receiving pits, in support of this project, do we need permission and/or onsite inspection from CP Rail? If the excavations are outside the CP right of way and outside of the zone of potential train loading, we will not need to inspect the work. That said, your bore pits should be shown on your plans so we can confirm locations and potential impact to the tracks. Depending on the vicinity to the tracks, the service provider may have questions/comments on the excavation.