Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 27, 2010

Centex seeks permits to re-build wall at the Rivermist subdivision

            Last week, the Development Services Department, Centex, and the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association, along with their respective professional engineers, met to jointly review the engineer drawings to re-build the retaining wall.  At the meeting, both the Development Services Department and the homeowners association requested additional information from Centex. The Development Services Department will issue a permit to re-build the wall once it and its independent structural engineer are satisfied that the wall will be built to ICC International Building Code standards and after the homeowners association, as the owner of the property, gives the department permission to allow Centex to re-build the wall. 

            “I am pleased the parties have taken a close review of the plans to re-build the wall and I look forward to Centex satisfying all of the City and homeowners association requirements to obtain a permit,” said Councilman W. Reed Williams.                     

             The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist
subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp

Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 20, 2010

City meeting with Centex to review engineer drawings
 

              The Development Services Department, Centex, and the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association, along with their respective professional engineers are meeting on Friday, May 21, to jointly review the engineer drawings to re-build the retaining wall.

             “I am pleased to see all the parties and their professional engineers are meeting to review the final solution to correct the problems for the Rivermist residents,” said Councilman W. Reed Williams.

             The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist

subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 13, 2010

Sewer line fixed, drawings under review
            A Development Services Department inspector observed today that the sewer work is complete. The sewer line was previously damaged as a result of the slope failure.  In addition, Centex is removing the unstable portion of the damaged wall, as allowed by the permit to stabilize the slope.

            After the Development Services Department and its independent structural engineer complete its review of Centex’ engineering drawings to re-build the wall, the department will communicate with the geotechnical engineer for the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association regarding its review. 

            Councilman W. Reed Williams said, “I am happy to see the repair work to the sewer is complete and all parties are working together with a common goal of re-building the wall to protect the residents of the Rivermist community.”           

            The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist
subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 11, 2010

City reviewing engineering drawings

            The City’s Development Services Department and its independent structural engineer are reviewing Centex’ engineer drawings to re-build the wall at the Rivermist subdivision. In addition, an independent geotechnical engineer, employed by the Rivermist Homeowners Association, is conducting an analysis of the soils and the plans to re-build the wall.  A representative for the Homeowners Association stated that the review of the plans will be completed this week and it will provide Centex with its feedback next week.

            The City will issue a permit to rebuild the wall for the permanent solution to the slope failure once its review is complete and the City is assured that the wall will be built in accordance with the City’s building codes.

            A Development Services inspector observed today that the sewer repair work continues at Rivermist.            

            The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist
subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Sewer repair work continues

Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 6, 2010

Rivermist Past Activity Report - May 4, 2010

Centex stabilization work complete
 

          Centex completed the installation of 131 slope reinforcement pins on Friday, April 30, 2010. A Development Services Department inspector observed that Centex is continuing to repair the sanitary sewer line that was damaged during the slope failure. According to Centex, an additional 20 to 30 feet of the damaged wall will need to be removed to provide a safe slope for the utility crews to work. Additional excavation work will be performed as needed to repair the sewer line once the additional section of the damaged wall is removed. The following photo of trenching to replace the sewer line was taken by a Development Services Department inspector today.
 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 29, 2010

Centex informs City that plans will not be available tomorrow
 

          Centex informed the City today that they will not be submitting engineer plans for the permanent solution to rebuild the retaining wall tomorrow as originally planned. They stated the reason for not submitting the plans was that they were in the process of conducting a peer review and do not anticipate plans being available until May 7.  

          According to Centex they are on track to meet the April 30 target date to complete the stabilization work.

          Councilman Reed Williams who continues to closely monitor the activities at the subdivision said, “I am disappointed that the plans will not be submitted tomorrow as originally stated; however, I am pleased to see that the stabilization work is near completion and that no one was injured as a result of the slope failure.  I look forward to monitoring the next phase of building the new wall.”  http://www.rivermistinfo.com/solution1.asp.

             The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist

subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp. The Development Services

Department inspector took the following photograph today of one of the inclinometers that is

being used for testing soil movement.
 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 27, 2010

Centex stabilization work continues
 

          In order to validate that the stabilization pins are performing as expected, Centex has installed new inclinometers in various locations within the impacted area. The Rivermist Bexar County Homeowners Association is waiting for Centex to complete its drill work in order to use the drilling rigs to bore two additional large holes that measure 40 to 50 feet deep to allow a geotechnical engineer to be lowered into the hole to test the soil.  Both Centex and the homeowners association are working together to ensure the best solution for the residents of the Rivermist community. 

          The builder is removing trees in the green belt at the Rivermist subdivision in accordance with its Tree Preservation Plan. Centex plans to install 12 additional slope stabilizing pins in this area.

          The Development Services Department expects to receive the plans for the permanent solution to rebuild the wall by April 30, 2010.  A simulation of the proposed pier-panel wall can be found at http://www.rivermistinfo.com/solution1.asp.

             The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist

subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp. The Development Services

Department inspector took the following photograph today of one of the inclinometers that is

being used for testing soil movement.
 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 22, 2010

Centex stabilization work continues

             The reinforcement pin placement at the Rivermist subdivision continues at a slow but steady pace. A Development Services Department inspector observed 104 pins in the ground. According to Centex, the stabilization work will be complete by April 30 if there are no more weather delays.

           The Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association continues to take soil samples and is exchanging the geotechnical information with Centex. Today, the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association stated that they have no intention of moving forward with litigation as their sole goal is to assure the community that the new wall is built correctly. 

           Councilman Reed Williams, who has been closely monitoring the activities at the subdivision said, “All parties involved have the common goal of building a stronger wall that will protect the residents of the Rivermist community.”

           The Development Services Department approved the tree preservation plan and issued a tree permit. The department will be conducting a pre-construction meeting with the builder to review procedures for protection and management of all significant, heritage and mitigation trees. 

           The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 20, 2010

Centex stabilization work slow after rain delay and
additional soil samples

            This week, Development Services Department inspectors noted that the slope stabilization work at the Rivermist subdivision resumed at a slow pace after a two-day rain delay. Centex reported that if there are no more weather delays, the stabilization work will be complete by April 30.
            This new deadline is not only due to the recent rain, but also due to soil testing being done on behalf of the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association.  The Association’s geotechnical consulting firm is taking soil samples from the holes Centex is drilling to install the slope stabilization pins. This new work involves inserting a casting with doors down the pin holes and lowering a person in the hole to open the small doors to extract soil samples.

            Centex also reported that it will be installing more pins than previously reported in order to complete the stabilization work. 

            Additionally, the builder stated that it will be submitting its plans for the permanent solution to rebuild the wall by April 30, and that the new deadline to complete the stabilization work will not have an impact on the construction of the permanent stabilization work for the wall failure, which is expected to take four to six months. 

             The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp. The following are pictures the Development Services Department inspector took yesterday:

Geotechnical consulting firm taking soil samples from holes drilled to install the slope re-enforcement pins.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 15, 2010

Centex halts stabilization work today, due to weather

Centex needs to install 20 remaining pins to complete the stabilization work by April 17; however, according to the builder, the rain has made it unsafe to operate the machinery today.  According to Centex, although work had been progressing well, the stabilization work will be completed next week, due to the weather.
          Councilman W. Reed Williams, said, “We will continue to closely monitor the stabilization process through these weather conditions and make sure that Centex meets its obligations.”         

          The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the

Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 13, 2010

Centex pin installation progressing as scheduled

Development Services Department inspectors observed today that construction at the Rivermist subdivision is still progressing as scheduled.  The inspector found 87 pins installed, which brings pin installation to 74 percent complete. 

Centex met with SAWS on Monday, April 12, and set a follow-up meeting for Thursday, April 15, to discuss the sewer repair work. The repair work will eliminate the need for a SAWS vacuum truck to visit Treewell Glen Street multiple times a day.

The builder submitted its revised tree preservation plan showing the area where trees will be removed.  Development Services Department tree inspectors will perform an inspection of the area. The department expects to issue a tree permit this week.  Centex’ tree preservation plan states that the builder will replant trees after the retaining wall has been rebuilt.

            The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

The following photo was taken today by a Development Department inspector:

Centex Slope Reinforcement Pin Plan –Completed pins noted on plan

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 8, 2010

Centex construction on wall failure progressing as scheduled

  Development Services inspectors observed today that construction at the Rivermist subdivision is still progressing at a rapid pace.  Centex removed a portion of the damaged wall and the contractor is boring holes to install slope reinforcement pins at that location. The inspector found that 66 pins have been installed, bringing the pin installation to 56 percent complete.  According to Centex, their goal is to install eight pins a day in order to complete the stabilization work by April 16.  

According to the builder, they will meet with SAWS next week to coordinate the repairs to the damaged sewer line. The repair work will eliminate the need for a SAWS vacuum truck to visit Treewell Glen Street multiple times a day.

Centex also states that it will work with the City to obtain approval on its revised tree preservation plan.  According to the builder, if any trees are removed, the trees will be mitigated with new plantings within the community. 

“I am happy to see this project is moving forward without any delays and that Centex has been able to secure the slope while complying with the terms of the City’s tree ordinance,” Councilman W. Reed Williams said.  

The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 6, 2010

Centex construction on wall failure progressing as scheduled

   Inspectors with the City’s Development Services Department today observed that construction at the Rivermist subdivision is continuing to progress quickly as a result of employing a second drilling rig, which is more powerful and makes it easier to bore the holes. The pin work is now 43 percent complete with 50 slope reinforcement pins in place. The builder says the stabilization work will be complete by April 16.

            According to Centex, the builder will begin work on removing large portions of the failed wall tomorrow morning. Removal will coincide with the pier placement as construction moves from a north to south direction. During this time, the builder will also repair damage to the sewer line. The sewer is currently pumped out of a manhole on Treewell Glen Street. The repair work will eliminate the need for a SAWS vacuum truck to visit Treewell Glen multiple times a day.

After meeting with Centex, Development Services Inspectors said that eight Live Oak trees and other smaller trees need to be removed to install reinforcement pins. The eight Live Oak trees are protected under the City’s Tree Mitigation Plan; however, the smaller trees are not. The Development Services Department will meet with Centex to discuss the Tree Mitigation Plan to ensure compliance with the tree ordinance. Trees will not be removed until the City has approved Centex’ Tree Mitigation Plan. According to the builder, if the trees are removed, the trees will be mitigated with new plantings within the community.

The Development Services Department is reviewing documentation and permit applications submitted by builders for residential retaining walls and will be making a
determination as to whether the documentation indicates that the residential retaining walls were built in accordance with a professional engineer’s design documents. In addition, the department will be identifying additional residential retaining walls built within the last three years in which a retaining wall permit application was not submitted.    

The Development Services Department will continue to post updates to the Rivermist subdivision website at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.   The following photo was taken by Centex:

 Centex will start removing the failed wall at this point.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - April 1, 2010

Centex construction on wall failure progressing

Development Services inspectors observed today that construction at the Rivermist subdivision is progressing quickly. The contractor brought in a second drilling rig, which is more powerful and makes it easier to bore the holes. With 23 slope reinforcement pins in place, the installation of the pin work is now 20 percent complete.  

The City is closely monitoring the progress Centex is making. “I am pleased that Centex brought in the second drilling rig and is keeping this project on track for the residents of Rivermist,” Councilman W. Reed Williams said.

The Development Services Department received 224 permit applications from builders for existing residential retaining walls. Residential builders who submitted documentation to the department include: Armadillo Homes, Diamante Custom Homes, DR Horton, Highland Homes, KB Homes, McMillan Homes, Pulte/Centex Homes, Ryland Homes and Woodside Homes.

            “I am pleased with the response that we received from the home builders. I believe this will go a long way to restoring the community’s confidence in the safety of the walls,” said Roderick Sanchez, the director of Development Services.

            At the request of the Rivermist subdivision residents, the Development Services Department posted both the original plat and the current topographical maps to the Rivermist website at http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/rivermist_topo.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 30, 2010

Centex construction on wall failure continues
            Development Services Department inspectors today observed that construction at the Rivermist subdivision on the wall failure is progressing at a slow but steady pace.  The inspectors observed that 10 slope reinforcement pins have been installed and, according to Centex, it is on schedule to complete the project by the deadline of April 17.

            The Slope Reinforcement Pin Plan calls for the installation of 117 pins to prevent any type of horizontal soil movement. The City has approved the design concept for the permanent solution and Centex has stated that it will provide the City with formal engineer documents for rebuilding the entire wall by April 30.  In addition, the Bexar County Rivermist Homeowners Association, which is the subdivision’s homeowners association, has hired an independent consultant to test the soils.

            In addition, the Development Services Department is requiring all builders to obtain permits by tomorrow, March 31, 2010 for all residential retaining walls built in San Antonio over the past three years. After March 31^st, the department will work with the builders to close their permits upon receipt of the necessary documentation. 

           The City will continue to post updates on the website at http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

The following photos were taken by Development Services Department inspectors today.

Contractor is boring a hole for the pin

Finished pin before backfilling it with dirt

Slope Reinforcement Pin Plan – Finished Pins Noted on Plan

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 25, 2010

Centex construction on wall failure progressing at slower pace

            Development Services Department inspectors observed that construction at the Rivermist subdivision on the wall failure is progressing at a slower pace due to weather conditions, and rock layers encountered.

            Upon request of the Rivermist subdivision residents, security has been modified to allow residents more convenient access to their homes.  The City has opened streets and posted signs indicating “No thru traffic,” and “Open to local residents.” 

            The City wants to remind the Rivermist residents that, for their safety, they should not enter the work site areas. 

            Councilman W. Reed Williams is assisting residents in coordinating one-on-one meetings with a Centex representative. “I am pleased that Centex agreed to meet with affected residents this week. I know that they have many questions and it is important that the builder respond,” he added.

The City will continue to post updates on the website at on http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 23, 2010

The following is a Press Release that the City issued today with respect to its meeting with the residents of the Rivermist subdivision.

City meets with Rivermist subdivision residents
Centex declined to participate in meeting

            Centex declined the City’s invitation to speak with the residents of the Rivermist subdivision at a meeting scheduled today at 2:00 p.m. at the Municipal Plaza Building.  The City notified the residents that it would proceed and meet with them as scheduled for the purpose of discussing the temporary stabilization of the slope and the design concept for the construction of the new retaining wall.

            Councilman W. Reed Williams obtained an agreement with Centex to meet with individual residents on Friday, March 26. Residents interested in a one-on-one meeting with a Centex representative should call Ruben Lizalde with Councilman William’s office at (210) 207-2888.

            Today the City reviewed with the residents that it issued Centex a permit to install 117 slope reinforcement pins that will prevent any type of horizontal soil movement.  Centex has stated that it will complete the stabilization work by April 17.

            The City also shared with the residents the design concept for rebuilding the entire wall. The design concept includes steel reinforced concrete piers and steel reinforced concrete wall panels that will measure approximately 1,700 linear feet in length.

            Together the City and the residents reviewed Centex’ design concept renditions

and the City answered specific questions regarding the design documents. The City will continue to encourage Centex to work with the Rivermist Homeowner Association who owns the wall prior to seeking a permit. 

            At the residents’ request, the City stated that it would share soil reports from recent drillings, maps and other documents relating to the original land layout before the Rivermist subdivision was established once they are made available to the City.

Photos of today’s meeting are posted at http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist_Photos.asp.
The City will continue to post updates on the website.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 19, 2010

Centex design concept for permanent solution to wall failure available
 

         Several of the concept design renditions provided by Centex to the City yesterday for a permanent solution to the wall failure at the Rivermist subdivision are available at http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/centexconceptdesignexhibits.asp.

The builder has not finished formally engineering its design concept and it is subject to adjustments. Centex will provide the City with formal engineering plans for the construction of a new retaining wall by April 30.

"I am pleased to see Centex moving forward with a conceptual plan for the construction of an entirely new wall," Councilman W. Reed Williams said.

The City has invited Centex to meet with residents of the Rivermist subdivision on Tuesday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Municipal Plaza B Room, located on 114 W. Commerce Street. Centex will answer questions regarding the conceptual design for the construction of a new retaining wall.

The City will continue to post updates to http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 18, 2010

Centex provides City with design concept for permanent solution
to wall failure
 

     As requested by the City, today Centex provided a design concept for the permanent solution to the wall failure at Rivermist, which includes a complete wall reconstruction.

     Development Services staff reviewed the Centex design concept and provided the builder with feedback. The design concept for the permanent solution includes steel reinforced concrete piers and steel reinforced concrete wall panels. According to Centex, the new wall will measure approximately 1,700 linear feet in length.

     Centex has indicated that they will provide the City with formal engineering plans for the construction of a new retaining wall by April 30.  Centex also stated that after the City issues a permit, it anticipates the construction of the new wall will take four to six months.

     Centex began working on the construction of the slope stabilization pins on March 17 and City inspectors     are overseeing the construction on a daily basis. Centex has stated that the work will be complete by April 17. In addition, special inspections are being performed by the builder’s geotechnical engineer on a daily basis.  The City will continue to post updates to http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/RiverMist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 16, 2010

·     On March 15, Centex submitted its drawings and obtained its permit to stabilize the slope that failed and resulted in the retaining wall collapse.  The following is the press release regarding the City’s approval and issuance of a permit that will allow Centex to stabilize the area where the wall failure occurred.

City will monitor new Centex stabilization plan at Rivermist
 

After several requests from the City, Centex finally presented drawings prepared by their professional engineer to Development Services on Monday, March 15 in order to stabilize the slope that failed and resulted in the retaining wall collapse.  Development Services staff reviewed the drawings in consultation with the City’s independent structural engineer; a permit to stabilize the area of the wall failure was issued by the City.

Additionally, at the request of Councilman W. Reed Williams, Centex has agreed to stop construction on three lots adjacent to the wall failure until it can complete the stabilization of the slope. "It is important that Centex take the necessary steps and responsibility to stabilize and make corrective measures to the slope failure to assure the safety of residents in Rivermist," Councilman Williams said.

The stabilization plan calls for the use of approximately 100 reinforcing pins, which are 30 feet long and between two to three feet in diameter. Each of these pins has a nine inch steel tube embedded with 4,000 psi concrete. Two-thirds of the pin will be installed below the failure plane with one-third above the plane.

            According to Centex, it will begin the stabilization work on Wednesday, March 17, and will take approximately 30 days to complete. The engineer who designed the plan for Centex has called for special inspections that will require the builder’s work to be monitored by an on-site inspector throughout the construction process.  In addition,   Development Services will inspect the work on a daily basis and monitor the construction progress to ensure that work is completed in a timely manner.

The stabilization of the slope is a temporary solution.  The City has informed Centex that only a complete wall reconstruction will be accepted as the permanent solution.  By Friday, March 19, Centex has stated that it will provide the City with a design concept for the permanent solution to the wall failure.  Development Services will review the Centex design concept and provide the builder with feedback.  Centex will then provide the City with formal engineering designs for the reconstruction of a new retaining wall, which is expected to be completed by Friday, April 30.

Centex also stated that it anticipates the construction of the permanent stabilization work for the wall failure will take four to six months. This construction of the new retaining wall will require monitoring by an on-site special inspector and Development Services will inspect the construction daily.  The City will continue to post weekly updates at  http://www.sanantonio.gov/dsd/rivermist.asp.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 11, 2010

• Centex developed an engineered solution to stabilize the soils at Rivermist and the department expects to receive its plans by next week. Upon receipt of the plans, the department will expedite its review.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - March 4, 2010

·         Development Services continues to closely monitor the retaining walls in Rivermist to ensure no other homes are impacted by retaining walls located in the subdivision. At the time, the suspension of the certificates of occupancy for the 27 homes remains the only action the City needs to take to protect the residents who are occupying their homes in Rivermist.

·         Development Services received several requests to identify the soil for homes in the Rivermist Community. The department does not require a builder to submit soil information. Instead, at the time a builder submits its application for a residential building permit, the Code allows the builder the option to hire a licensed professional engineer to design the foundation system for your home in accordance with the Residential Building Code. By placing an engineer seal on the construction documents and later on the foundation letter that was used to clear the foundation inspection, the engineer is indicating that the foundation system meets the minimum requirement of the Residential Building Code and that their obligation as an engineer under the Texas Engineering Practice Act with respect to its requirements to protect the public health, safety, and welfare in the practice of engineer have been satisfied.

·         If you would like to know the name of the engineer who performed this work for your home you can email your request to DevelopmentServicesCustomerService@sanantonio.gov or call us at 210.207.1111, ext. 0.  In addition, you can go on-line to find this information at www.sanantonio.gov/dsd.  Here are screenshots to help you locate the information:   At www.sanantonio.gov/dsd, look for “Online Services” drop down list and select “Permit-Inspection-Review Search”

Under “Permit, Inspection & Review Search,” select “Address”

Insert the address for your home and select “List Plan Review/Permits/Inspection for an Address”

Locate the permit for the “RESIDENTIAL BLDG APPLICATION” and select “Inspections”

Scroll down the page until you see “BUILDING FOUNDATION INSPECT.” The “Insp Comments” should indicate the name of the engineer. Please contact us if you were unable to locate this information.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 25, 2010

·        Development Services has received several requests from homeowners asking the City to assist them in their contract disputes with Centex/Pulte related to construction defects. Please be aware that the City cannot represent you or provide legal advice. If you need assistance finding an attorney, the San Antonio Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service to help you select a lawyer who best suits your needs. The lawyer referral hotline number is (210) 227-1853.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 18, 2010

·        Development Services’ Call Center received some inquiries as to the role of the department in protecting the Rivermist Community.  Please be assured that the department continues to monitor the situation at Rivermist and is prepared to take any additional actions to protect the residents.  At this time, 27 homes have been determined to be unsafe.  At the request of Centex/Pulte, the department recently inspected the 27 homes and determined electrical power could be restored in order to prevent build up of mold.  However, these residents are still not allowed to occupy their homes.

For those residents who are able to occupy their homes, the department understands your concerns about cracks in your walls, standing water in your yard, or other deterioration to your home.  These maintenance concerns do not threaten the safety of your home and, therefore, do not fall under the jurisdiction of Development Services.  The department suggests you contact Centex/Pulte or your insurance carrier to discuss what options are available to you.

·        Development Services is aware Centex/Pulte is building other homes on the east side of Treewell Glenn in the Hills of Rivermist Subdivision.  The department evaluated these lots and determined the houses under construction are being built on the original grade (not compacted fill material).  The department’s independent structural engineer agrees with this finding.  Therefore, a determination was made to allow Centex/Pulte to continue to construct the houses.

·         Development Services wants to restore the community’s confidence that existing retaining walls built in San Antonio are safe.  To that end, the department is requiring residential builders to obtain permits for all retaining walls built in San Antonio over the past three years by March 31, 2010.  The following is a link to the Retaining Wall Permit Application:

      Building Permit for Existing Retaining Walls – Submittal Form. 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 12, 2010

·        Development Services along with its independent structural engineer determined the suspension of the certificates of occupancy for 27 homes is all that is required at this time to protect the residents of the Rivermist Community.  As such, effective Monday, February 15^th*, the City’s role in monitoring the situation will continue as follows:

 §         Development Services’ inspectors will inspect the retaining wall at Rivermist twice a day.

§         Development Services’ call center will be open Monday – Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to address your concerns or you can email staff at:
DevelopmentServicesCustomerService@sanantonio.gov.
Frequently asked questions and answers will be posted to the Rivermist website. 

§         Development Services will continue to update the Rivermist website every Thursday or as needed to communicate significant events affecting the Rivermist Community.

 §         COSA’s Emergency Notification System will be used to communicate emergency information relating to
         the Rivermist Community.  If you have not already signed up for this valuable service, please take a few  
         moments to register at:   www.sanantonio.gov/saNS/index.html

 §         The Fire Department will perform daily safety assessments of the area and will provide more frequent
          assessments if needed due to the weather or other circumstances.  In addition, the Police Department
          will transition from 24/7 on-site security to periodic and frequent patrols of the area.  Centex/Pulte will
          continue to provide security for the area.

·        Development Services will work in partnership with the residential builders in San Antonio to issue permits and to obtain documentation that attest to the safety of the existing retaining walls located in the City of San Antonio.   

·        Development Services will develop information bulletins and new applications to reinforce the procedures for permitting retaining walls related to new construction.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 11, 2010

Today’s Activity Report provides a summary of the actions the City of San Antonio took with respect to the retaining wall failure at The Hills of Rivermist: 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 10, 2010

Development Services, the Greater San Antonio Builders Association, and approximately fifty of its members met today to discuss the need for the public to feel assured retaining walls in San Antonio have been built correctly.  At the meeting, Development Services discussed:
 

• The City’s building code requirements to obtain permits for retaining walls. 
• Builders need to (1) identify all retaining walls over four feet and built during the past three years, (2) provide documentation the walls were designed by an engineer and built correctly, and (3) obtain permits for the walls by March 31^st. 
• Development Services will use the information to develop a tracking system for retaining walls.

At the meeting, the builders initially expressed that they did not believe all retaining walls require permits.  In addition, since some of the walls were constructed several years ago, they were concerned about the challenges of finding documentation to satisfy the City’s permitting requirements.  Finally, they expressed a need to amend the Unified Development Code to clarify permits are required during the site development stage of construction.   

Development Services responded to the builders’ concerns by reiterating permits are required for retaining walls over four feet.  The department will work in partnership with the builders to issue permits and to obtain documentation that attest to the safety of the walls by the end of the summer.  Finally, Development Services agreed to explore an amendment to the Unified Development Code to reinforce the procedures for permitting retaining walls during all phases of construction; from land development to building development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Development Services and the builders agreed it was important to restore the community’s confidence that existing retaining walls built in San Antonio are safe.   Development Services will develop information bulletins and new applications to reinforce the procedures for permitting retaining walls related to new construction.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 9, 2010

·     Development Services does not have any additional updates for February 9, 2010. Please refer to the February 8th Activity Report for information regarding the current status of the City’s involvement to resolve the issues associated with the failure of the retaining wall at Rivermist.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 8, 2010

·     Development Services along with its independent structural engineer found the preventive measures and suspension of the certificates of occupancy for 27 homes are all the actions the City needs to take at this time to protect the residents of the Rivermist Community.    

·     Centex/Pulte is in the process of developing an engineered solution for stabilizing the slopes and for protecting the properties and residents of the Rivermist Community. As previously reported, the City will not accept the current retaining wall structure as a component of the solution. The City will keep you informed of all significant developments relating to Centex/Pulte’s proposed solution.  

·     COSA’s Emergency Notification System will be used to communicate emergency information relating to the Rivermist Community. If you have not already signed up for this valuable service, please take a few moments to register at: www.sanantonio.gov/saNS/index.html

·     Development Services’ investigation team continues to inspect retaining walls in San Antonio and to request permit information and other documentation to ensure the retaining walls were designed and inspected by a licensed professional engineer. The department is creating a GIS map that will allow you to track the investigation team’s progress.

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 5, 2010

·    Councilman Williams will host the Rivermist Homeowners Association meeting on Saturday, February 6^th at 11:00 a.m. at Brandeis High School, 13011 Kyle Seale Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78249. 

·     Development Services, the Police, and the Fire Departments will continue to monitor the retaining wall and surrounding area over the weekend. 

·    COSA’s Emergency Notification System has a “Rivermist Residents” option to allow residents to receive special notifications affecting the Rivermist Community.  If you have not already signed up for this valuable service, please take a few moments to register at www.sanantonio.gov/saNS/index.html 

·    Development Services’ call center will be staying open until 10:00 p.m. on weekdays to answer your questions.  Please feel free to call them at 210-207-1111, Option 0.  In addition, you can email your questions to: DevelopmentServicesCustomerService@sanantonio.gov

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 4, 2010

·    The City of San Antonio issued the following two memorandums relating to the failed retaining 
wall at Rivermist:

Memorandum from Roderick J. Sanchez, AICP, CBO, Director of Planning & Development Services, to Sheryl Sculley, City Manager, dated February 4, 2010

Memorandum from Sheryl Sculley, City Manager, to the Mayor and City Council dated February 4, 2010 

·    Development Services, the Police, and the Fire Departments continue to monitor the weather conditions and its impact on the retaining wall and surrounding area.  As of today, Development Services finds no additional action is required to protect the residents of Rivermist. 

·    Development Services’ call center will be staying open until 10:00 p.m. to answer your questions.  Please feel free to call them at 210-207-1111, Option 0.  In addition, you can email your questions to:   DevelopmentServicesCustomerService@sanantonio.gov
 

Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 3, 2010

·    COSA Development Services’ staff with its independent structural engineer inspected the retaining wall today in light of the heavy rains over the past few days.  Although the wall continues to crack and the slope continues to slip, these failures were expected.  Because of these anticipated failures, the City previously took preventive action and suspended the certificates of occupancy for 27 homes.  Therefore, today, no additional action is needed.  However, Development Services, the Police, and the Fire departments will continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis and will take the appropriate action as needed to protect the residents of the Rivermist community.

·    COSA Development Services call center will be staying open until 10:00 p.m. to answer your questions.  Please feel free to call them at 210-207-1111, Option 0.  In addition, you can email us your questions to:

    Rivermist Past Activity Report - February 2, 2010

·        COSA Development Services received a variety of questions from residences.  Today’s activity report addresses those questions.

§   Question:  What building code provisions require permits for retaining walls? 

Answer:  Both the 2009 International Building Code, Section 105.2 and the 2009 International Residential Code, Section 105.2 require permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.

§   Question:  How will I know that it is safe to move back into my house?

Answer:  COSA Development Services understands how important it is for you to return to the comfort of home and to resume your normal activities.  However, we are equally concerned about ensuring your home is safe for you and your family to re-occupy.  To that end, the department is focusing its efforts to find the best solution to correct the problems at Rivermist in the shortest time possible.  COSA Development Services will continue to keep you informed as to the events occurring at Rivermist and we will notify you when it is safe for you to return to your home.  COSA Development Services will make this determination after corrective action has been taken with respect to the retaining wall and after it inspects your home to determine no life-safety issues exist.

·    COSA Development Services’ investigation team surveyed the retaining walls in Encino Ridge and found no deficiencies or cause for concern.  The team will be requesting permit information and other documentation to ensure the retaining walls were designed and inspected by a licensed professional engineer.

·     COSA Development Services’ continues to provide daily monitoring of the affected areas of Rivermist and remedial efforts being performed by Centex/Pulte.
 

• COSA Development Services’ five-member investigation team continues to look for retaining walls.  The following is a summary of their findings:

•  The following subdivisions in the immediate area surrounding the 
    Rivermist subdivision  were surveyed.  The team identified retaining
    walls but found no deficiencies or cause for concern.  The team will be
    requesting permit information and other documentation to ensure the
    retaining walls were designed and inspected by a licensed professional
    engineer. 

• The following Centex/Pulte subdivisions dating back to 2007 were 
   surveyed.  The team identified retaining walls but found no deficiencies
   or cause for concern.  The team will be requesting permit information
   and other documentation to ensure the retaining walls were designed
   and inspected by a licensed professional engineer. 

     ·  COSA Development Services investigation team will inspect all retaining 
         walls currently under construction over the next five months.  

          ·  COSA Development Services’ staff of 77 inspectors have been given the
        additional responsibility of investigating the construction of all retaining walls
        observed during the course of their normal inspections.

          ·  COSA Development Services will be scheduling a meeting with Greater San
        Antonio Builders’ Association and the top ten residential builders in San
        Antonio to discuss the requirements for retaining walls and to ensure permits
        and inspections are obtained for all retaining walls in new subdivisions.

          ·  COSA Development Services has received several calls from residents
        inquiring about the difference between decorative walls and retaining walls.
        The difference between decorative walls and retaining walls similar to the wall
        that collapsed at Rivermist is that retaining walls are structures that are 
        designed and built to resist the horizontal forces imposed by the lateral 
        displacement of soil or other materials.  In Section 105 of both the 
        International Building Code and the International Residential Code, permits are
        required for all retaining walls that are over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height when
        measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.  A building
        permit may also be required for a shorter retaining wall if it supports a 
        surcharge.  Please  note, decorative walls over 4 feet also require a permit.

    Rivermist Past Activity Report - January 29, 2010

• COSA Development Services met with Centex Homes on-site to visually inspect the retaining wall. COSA Development Services staff determined that the retaining wall was not built in accordance with the design provided by Pulte’s design engineer. For example, the building plans for the wall show limestone mortared throughout the wall. Based on field observations of the failed portion of the wall, mortar was not installed according to the building plans.
• COSA Development Services staff will meet with Centex Homes on Monday, February 1^st to develop a plan and timeline to address both a temporary and permanent solution to the problems at the Rivermist subdivision.
• COSA Development Services conducted an on-site observation of the rain precautions taken by Centex Homes to minimize soil movement and further erosion. The precautions taken by Centex Homes were determined to be adequate.
• COSA Development Services & its 3^rd Party Independent Structural Engineer will continue to monitor and study the impacted homes until they are safe to re-occupy.
• COSA Fire Department personnel are monitoring the area for additional failures.
• COSA Police Department will continue to provide site security.
• COSA Development Services staff will be on-site throughout the weekend to monitor construction.
• The COSA’s Emergency Notification Service has a "Rivermist Residents" option to allow residents to receive special notifications affecting the Rivermist Community. If you have not received an introductory message from the City’s notification system and would like to be on the list, please click on the "Emergency Notification Sign up" button on this web page. Please encourage your neighbors to also sign up for this valuable service.

 

    Rivermist Past Activity Report - January 28, 2010

·        The Rivermist Community website went live today. 

    Corrective Actions by the City

• Suspended the Certificates of Occupancy for the 27 homes nearest to the incident
• Placed SAPD officers at both Rivermist subdivisions on a 24-hour basis to provide enhanced security to damaged and vacant homes
• Placed a building inspector on-site to monitor construction activity
• Hired an independent structural engineer to evaluate and recommend which homes are safe to re-occupy
• Established a five-member investigation team to identify and research the permit history of other retaining walls within the Rivermist subdivision. The team will also perform the same research on all other Pulte/Centex subdivision within the City limits
• Extended the Planning & Development Services’ Call Center hours of operation until midnight to address residents’ concerns regarding their particular subdivision