Ground Penetrating Radar Systems was recently contracted to complete a site investigation prior to major renovation and construction at the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) truck assembly plant in Warren, MI. This plant employs over 2,500 people and FCA is investing $1.5 billion in renovations and new construction to modernize the facility. As a result of this investment 1,400 new jobs are expected to be added and the production of the Ram Heavy-Duty truck would move from Mexico to this Warren plant. Plant operations would continue during renovations/construction, so potential utility damages were cause for concern for both plant operations and the general contractors working on site.

GPRS was entrusted with not only locating and painting all the utilities found, but also accurately documenting the location of each utility. The technologies used on this project included the standard locating equipment (350 MHz antenna, EM locator, and traceable rodder), but also included a Geode (GPS collection device) to record where utilities were found.

During the investigation a large amount of utilities were located including gas, sanitary sewer, storm, electrical, communication, and several unknown utilities. Each feature, after being located by ground penetrating radar, was then given a depth and painted out in its corresponding color based on the uniform color code outlined by 811.

Upon completion of scanning the investigated area, all line locations were collected with GPS. This GPS data was then overlaid onto an aerial, satellite image of the location investigated. Each line is color coordinated based on utility type and includes the depth of the utility.

The services provided by GPRS gave the client a clear and comprehensive understanding of all underground utilities located within the work area. This information allowed the client to plan accordingly and dig with confidence.

GPRS does not provide geophysical, geological, land surveying or engineering services. If you need such services, please contact an appropriate professional.