Utilization of Landfills as Building Sites

Abstract

Landfill gas (LFG) control measures and operating experience are described for two landfill sites which have been developed in the City of Carson, California. Investigations began in 1975 to develop a completed 10.5-ha Class II landfill site (household and commercial wastes) as a six-screen drive-in theatre including projection and concession facilities. LFG control facilities include 30 extraction wells for on-site protection, 19 perimeter extraction wells for migration control, blower/flare facilities and a subslab membrane and automatic gas detection system for backup protection during active system downtime. Investigations for the second site began in 1977 to develop 3.8 ha of a 7.2-ha Class II landfill site as a truck sales and service centre. LFG control facilities include 14 extraction wells, blower/flare facilities and a subslab membrane. Ongoing operation and maintenance of LFG control facilities is required at both sites to permit continued site occupancy. Activities include blower/flare maintenance, well field monitoring and adjustment, site settlement inspection and repair, monitoring system calibration and maintenance, etc. Buildings at both locations are supported on foundation piles driven through the former landfilied materials.