NJDOT’s Condition Assessment Protocol to Evaluate MSE Wall Performance

A large number of mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls exist within the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Right of Way. Like any infrastructure asset, MSE wall performance is susceptible to aging and deterioration. But unlike other infrastructure assets, MSE walls often receive little to no attention since original construction. Recognizing the importance of MSE walls, NJDOT initiated development of an asset management system for MSE retaining walls to integrate an MSE wall management system within ongoing NJDOT’s asset management system. This paper presents a condition assessment structure adopted by NJDOT to identify MSE walls that have relatively high risk associated with poor performance.