Deep Excavation in Shale for a Hydroelectric Facility

This paper describes the important engineering features relating to the design and construction of a deep excavation for power canal, intake, and powerhouse structure of the Hudson Falls hydroelectric development on the Hudson River at Glens Falls, N.Y. The excavation is located in a medium hard shale with shallow dipping bedding, numerous intersecting joint sets, and several varieties of fractures. This paper presents the engineering evaluation of the slopes and identifies the importance of flexibility of construction contracts and division of responsibility between engineer and contractor to achieve a high level of cooperation in producing a very successful project.