The slope entry will reach 651 ft underground on a 14˚ angle. Gunther-Nash will remove 25,900 cubic yards of rock using conventional excavation methods (drill and shoot). The bottom compartment will have rail access for supplies and equipment while the top compartment will have an 84-inch wide conveyor belt. Epoxy bolts, straps, mesh and shotcrete will support the roof and ribs. Gunther-Nash will place concrete floors in the rail and belt entry, along with the tunnel’s intermediate section.
Preconstruction and planning for the project has started. Construction began in October 2010. “We are pleased to have won this contract to construct this project for CONSOL Energy,” said LeRoy Stromberg Jr., COO, Alberici. “This continues our long tradition of providing excellent construction services for the mining industry.” Gunther-Nash has been active in slope mining construction since 1967.
