A large number of homes (reportedly upwards of 1,200) in the town of Amherst are experiencing lateral pressure (bowing, cracking) and settlement that results in foundation cracking and secondary damages. There are multiple causative factors that include soil conditions, local hydrology, and residential design and construction practices. The town, on February 4, 2003, requested the Corps to consider conducting a Section 22 study to determine the causes and potential solutions to the problem. An agreement to conduct an investigation of the problem was executed between the Buffalo District and the town of Amherst on May 2, 2003. The study and public presentations are completed, and reviewer revisions will be incorporated into the final draft report through 15 June 2005. The final report is posted at the Town of Amherst's website. Copies of the report can be obtained through the Amherst Building Department.
PROJECT SCHEDULE
• December 2004 - Fieldwork completed
• January -February 2005 – Compile preliminary draft report
• March 2005 - Submit preliminary draft for internal/external review
• April 25, 2005 – Study results presented at Town Board meeting
• Early May 2005 - Results presented to neighborhood groups at local information meetings (stay tuned for dates and times).
• October 31, 2005 - Release of Final Report
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The Amherst Soils and Foundation Stability study is complete. The Corps of Engineers:
• Performed an exhaustive literature review,
• Input geologic data from more than 400 boring logs,
• Analyzed the Town’s foundation repair permit and complaints database,
• Used the Town’s GIS to examine geographic patterns of soils and foundation-related problems,
• Inspected more than 40 homes,
• Conducted a phone survey with 70 homeowners,
• Sampled soils from approximately 30 sites across Amherst, and
• Continuously communicated our preliminary findings to numerous technical groups, the press, and Town officials.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We graciously thank those homeowners who both volunteered information and/or participated in the study. We also thank members of the Project Delivery Team that included federal, state, town, and neighbor representatives. We owe special thanks to the congressional and state representatives that have provided funding and encouragement for this study.
GRANTS
Regrettably, the Corps does not have an authority to provide funds for repairing private homes. There is a task force and nonprofit agency that is pursuing potential grant sources. We are providing technical answers to these groups but are not are not involved in their selection process.
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