OBP006168

ISSUE / BRIEFING TOPIC:

 On January 31, 2007, surveyors for Tetra Tech (contractor for the 1.5 mile I-1A
fence project in Columbus, NM) discovered the alignment of the existing post and
rail permanent vehicle barrier (PVB) gradually curved to within 8 inches north of
the International Border east of the Columbus Port of Entry.

DESIRED OUTCOME:
o Short Term Objective is to halt all military fence projects and improve the
current command and control of National Guardsmen conducting
construction in the Deming Area.
o Mid Term Objective is to contract a professional survey team to confirm
the existing location of the International line as well as the existing PVB
east of the Columbus POE. Tetra Tech surveyors have completed what is
directly related to their 1.5 mile project.
o Mid Term Objective #2 is to work with Tetra Tech engineers to decide the
best approach for correcting approximately 2 tenths of a mile west from
the east end of I-1A in order to expand the existing 8 inch work zone to a
minimum 2 foot work zone between the International line and the existing
PVB.
o Long Term Objective #1 is for the National Guard to maintain a proper
level of supervision on future projects.
o Long Term Objective #2 is to complete the 1.5 mile retro fit of PPB to the
PVB (I-1A)

BACKGROUND:
 On 10/23/2006, Task Force Zia began construction of 5 miles of PVB beginning
approximately 2 miles east of the Columbus POE. The PVB installation began at
Monument 21 and continued east. Task Force Zia, as per signed SOP, agreed to
maintain a four to five foot “easement” from the International line to the PVB
(See attachment.)
 Task Force Zia continued installing PVB as required with the knowledge that
retrofit project I-1A would commence in the near future.
 Preconstruction meeting with Tetra Tech and USACE Project Managers is
tentatively set for 2nd week in February with construction beginning immediately
there after.

CHALLENGES / CONCERNS:
 Creating a minimum 2 foot work zone at the existing 8 inch work zone for 2
tenths of a mile section of the previously installed PVB.
 Adjusting plans and contracts to address the installation of 2 tenths of a mile of
“stand alone” PPB. No retrofit. (After consultation with Tetra Tech designers.)
 Minimizing impact on contract budget, timelines, and approved plans.
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OPTIONS:
 In order to obtain the minimum 2 foot work zone, removal of 2 tenths of a mile
section of PVB and replace with “stand alone” PPB.
o Pros: Will provide ample room for the installation of the new PPB.
o Cons: Will require modification to plans, budget, and installation
procedures due to this section of PPB being “stand alone” not retrofitted.

 In order to obtain the minimum 2 foot work zone, remove and replace the existing
2 tenths of a mile of PVB.
o Pros: Will provide ample room for the installation of the new PPB and
provide the original base. No plan, budget or installation modifications
required for the future PPB.
o Cons: Destabilization of local soils.

 Leave existing PVB in place.

o Pros: No adjustments to budget, plans, or timelines
o Cons: Approximate 8 inch work zone with ultimate 2 inch distance
between the International line and PPB.

RECOMMENDATION:
 Future fence projects must receive approval for the installation of certified survey
markers depicted along specific points the length of each project to provide an
inimitable marker as reference for construction activities.
 Contract surveyors tasked with scheduled site visits for validation purposes.

Attachments
-SOP for Task Force Zia describing their scope of work
-Photo’s of affected PVB.
OBP006170

(b) (7)(E)

(b) (7)(E)
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