Use of Gabion Earth Retaining Structures for Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) Projects

ABSTRACT: Gabion walls (gabions) have a long history of high performing civil engineering structure used for various purposes. They are widely used as an economical, efficient, and durable solution for retaining earth and erosion control applications. To facilitate adequate drainage, gabion walls are also considered an alternative option to gravity and cantilever walls. To maximize their functionalities, the quality of the gabion structure, workmanship, construction inspection and administration are the crucial components. This paper provides a summary of uses of gabions for different Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) projects including laboratory testing of stones, case studies and important activities in the Construction Administration and Inspection works during the construction of gabions. It also provides an update of Construction Administration and Specifications (CAIS) Manual used in MTO for gabions.