Building the Foundation: Earthwork and Civil Construction for the Peterson Commercial Building

The Peterson Commercial Building, located in the Village of Somerset, St. Croix County, Wisconsin, is a prime example of thoughtful planning and execution in civil construction. Designed by Auth Consulting & Associates and constructed by Wittstock Builders, LLC, this project showcases a comprehensive approach to site development, utility integration, and environmental stewardship.

Site Preparation and Earthwork

Before any vertical construction begins, the groundwork must be laid—literally. The Peterson Building site required extensive earthwork, including:

Topsoil Salvage and Replacement: All disturbed areas were carefully stripped of topsoil, which was then salvaged for reuse during final grading and landscaping.
Removal of Unsuitable Materials: Organic, frozen, or otherwise unsuitable materials were removed to ensure a stable base for fill and construction.
Engineered Fill and Compaction: Fill materials were mechanically compacted per geotechnical recommendations to support paved surfaces, building pads, and utility trenches.
Grading and Elevation Control: Finished grades were established to ensure proper drainage and ADA accessibility, with spot elevations and contour lines guiding the shaping of the site.

Utility Infrastructure

The utility plan for the Peterson Building was designed to meet both current needs and future flexibility:

Sanitary Sewer: A 6" PVC Schedule 40 lateral was installed at a minimum slope of 1.0%, complete with tracer wire and signal boxes for future location and maintenance.
Water Service: A 6" ductile iron pipe (DIP) lateral connected to the existing 12" water main via a wet tap. The system includes insulation at storm sewer crossings and maintains an 8-foot cover for frost protection.
Storm Sewer: A combination of HDPE, PVC, and RCP piping was used, with sediment control features like cleanouts, manholes, and inlets designed to manage runoff efficiently.

Erosion and Sediment Control

Environmental protection was a key priority throughout construction:

Silt Fencing and Sediment Logs: Installed around the perimeter and at inlets to prevent sediment migration.
Construction Vehicle Tracking Pads: Placed at site entrances to reduce off-site sediment tracking.
Seeding and Mulching: Disturbed areas were seeded and mulched after grading, with erosion mats used when required.
Monitoring and Maintenance: Weekly inspections and post-rainfall checks ensured erosion control measures remained effective.

Accessibility and Site Features

The site was designed with accessibility and usability in mind:

ADA-Compliant Parking and Routes: Two ADA stalls with van-accessible aisles, compliant slopes, and signage.
Concrete Sidewalks and Ramps: Designed with maximum slopes of 1:12 and cross slopes of 1:48, ensuring safe pedestrian access.
Drive-Thru and Dumpster Areas: Integrated into the site layout with appropriate grading and pavement sections.

Collaboration and Compliance

Coordination with local utilities, Village staff, Wittstock Builders, and regulatory agencies was essential. All work within the public right-of-way required permits and traffic control plans, and utility connections were verified against state-approved plumbing plans.

Wrapping Things Up

The Peterson Commercial Building project is a great example of how solid planning and smart earthwork can really set the stage for a successful build. From carefully placed utilities to erosion control that keeps everything in check, every part of the site was designed with durability, accessibility, and environmental care in mind. It’s a thoughtful approach that’s built to last—and built with purpose.