PHASE 2 - Site Survey
In November 2006, the Continental Crossings team traveled to Yavina, Peru to meet the community and to collect the data necessary for the project completion. Information was gathered on the hydraulics, geology, and topography of the site. While on site, the team investigated the needs and expectations of the community as well as determined the required bridge loadings and traffic volumes. Measurements were also taken of bridges in the immediate vicinity of the site.
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Three Peruvian children next to the previously existing crossing. Yavina, Peru |
During the team’s on-site visit, the availability of local materials was determined and local contacts were established to ensure the construction of the bridge could be facilitated across continents. The type of wood most commonly used in Peruvian timber constructions is called Torino. The material properties of this wood were then researched and the local availability determined. Investigations were made into the availability of steel cable and what challenges would be posed by transportation. It was determined that the steel cable would have to be purchased in Lima and then transported by vehicle to the nearest point in the road. This transportation would take 2-3 days. Furthermore, the team met with the local mason of the region who would be contracted by the team to lead construction of the bridge.
Community input was an integral aspect of Continental Crossing’s preliminary efforts. During the initial trip to Yavina, the team held two main community meetings with the leaders. The people present consisted of Americo, a representative of the Peruvian nonprofit organization Ayuda en Accion, approximately 50 members of the local community including both men and women, and the Continental Crossings team. It quickly became apparent the main community concern was that a safe bridge would be constructed for children to use on their walk to and from school. The community also wanted a crossing that was structurally sound and could transport livestock, such as sheep.
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Americo translating the meeting into Quechua (the locally spoken language). |
Locals signing the community agreement. |
As mentioned previously, the establishment of in country contacts was a necessity for progress to be made on the project. B2P employs one local Peruvian Engineer, Armando Sanchez who aided in construction efforts. Armando informed Continental Crossings of the complications of working with unskilled local laborers and warned the team of conflicts that could arise. Armando also had the capacity to aid in the team’s material selection, pricing, and location. On arrival in Cucso, the team met with Ayuda en Accion. Ayuda en Accion has been working for the past 14 years in the region of Yavina and has the capacity to facilitate material transport and construction.
Click on image for a larger map including Santo Tomas and Cusco
