CC SR 20240507 O - Ratify Payments for Feb 2024 Emergency Storm Response
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 05/07/2024
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Consent Calendar
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration and possible action to ratify payments for emergency services related to
severe rainstorms in February 2024.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Ratify payments for an emergency sinkhole response at Hawthorne Boulevard and
Palos Verdes Drive West during the period between February 8, 2024 and
February 13, 2024 to Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. in the amount of $4,376 and to
Clarke Contracting Corp. in the amount of $34,867.45;
(2) Ratify payments for an emergency sinkhole response at Rue La Fleur and Rue De
La Pierre during the period between February 21, 2024 and March 22, 2024 to
Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. in the amount of $8,970 and to Clarke Contracting Corp.
in the amount of $93,187.26;
(3) Ratify payments for an emergency sinkhole response at Hawthorne Boulevard
near Verde Ridge Road during the period between March 6, 2024 and March 20,
2024 to Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. in the amount of $7,937 and to Clarke
Contracting Corp. in the amount of $93,835.54; and,
(4) Ratify payment for emergency response services at Basswood Avenue, Palos
Verdes Drive South, and Via Colinita during the period between February 8, 2024
and February 23, 2024 to Ninyo & Moore Geotechnical & Environmental Sciences
Consultants in the amount of $4,190.
FISCAL IMPACT: The recommended City Council Action will result in ratification of
expenditures in the amount of $247,363. The work is funded through
the Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget under Stormwater Asset
Management Program in Capital Infrastructure Program Fund. In
response to the federal disaster declaration by President Biden for
the winter storms between January 31 and February 9, 2024, Staff
will be seeking reimbursement for its incurred costs. If approved,
reimbursements costs will help offset costs borne by the City.
Amount Budgeted: $500,000
Additional Appropriation: None
Account Number(s): From: 330-400-8701-8005
(CIP-Stormwater Asset Mgmt.)
To: 330-400-8701-8001 ($25,473)
(CIP-Stormwater Asset Mgmt. – Prof/Tech)
To: 330-400-8701-8802 ($221,890)
(CIP-Stormwater Asset Mgmt. – Other)VR
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ORIGINATED BY: Brandon Mesker, Associate Engineer
REVIEWED BY: Ramzi Awwad, Director of Public Works
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Invoice from Sunbeam Consulting for repairs at Hawthorne Boulevard and Palos
Verdes Drive West (page A-1)
B. Invoice from Clark Contracting for repairs at Hawthorne Boulevard and Palos
Verdes Drive West (page B-1)
C. Invoice from Sunbeam Consulting for repairs at Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre
(page C-1)
D. Invoice from Clark Contracting for repairs at Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre
(page D-1)
E. Invoice from Sunbeam Consulting for repairs on Hawthorne Boulevard near Verde
Ridge (page E-1)
F. Invoice from Clark Contracting for repairs on Hawthorne Boulevard near Verde
Ridge (page F-1)
G. Invoice from Ninyo & Moore Geotechnical & Environmental Sciences Consultants
for site visits at Basswood Avenue, Palos Verdes Drive South, and Via Colinita
(page G-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
During the heavy rainstorms between February and March 2024, several incidents arose
which required emergency response from the Public Works Department (PW) to protect
life and property. These responses required the use of contractors and consultants for
which there was insufficient time to procure by typical means as this would have resulted
in an immediate threat to life and property. Each incident, and the associated response(s),
is discussed below.
Sinkhole at Hawthrone Boulevard and Palos Verdes Drive West
In early February, PW investigated reports of a sinkhole developing on Hawthorne
Boulevard near the intersection with Palos Verdes Drive West. Upon investigation, PW
confirmed the presence of a sinkhole and determined it was the result of a failed
underground storm sewer pipe. It was surmised that the failed storm sewer pipe allowed
water to erode the surrounding pipe foundation, which led to the formation of the sinkhole.
Spalling was observed preceding the sinkhole, and it was determined that the local
roadway foundation under the spalling may be compromised as well. Exhibit 1 illustrates
the sinkhole conditions.
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Exhibit 1- Hawthorne Blvd at Palos Verdes Dr W Sinkhole
To accomplish the necessary repair, PW engaged Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. (Sunbeam)
to provide construction management services and Clarke Contracting Corp. (Clarke) to
provide construction services. Repairs began on February 8, 2024, and involved the
excavation and replacement of a 40-foot section of pipe. Upon completion of the repairs,
the local foundation and asphalt were repaired, and all relevant traffic markings were
replaced. This repair was completed on February 13, 2024.
For this project, the cost of Sunbeam’s services was $4,376 and the cost of Clarke’s
services was $34,867.45 (Attachments A and B). City Staff reviewed the cost for
Sunbeam and found it to be reflective of the hours required to perform the work. Sunbeam
reviewed the costs for Clarke and found them to be fair and reasonable .
Sinkhole at Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre
In late February, PW investigated reports of a sinkhole developing near the intersection
of Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre. Upon investigation, PW confirmed the presence
of a sinkhole and determined it was the result of a failed underground storm sewer pipe.
It was surmised that the failed storm sewer pipe allowed water to erode the surrounding
pipe and sidewalk foundation, which led to the formation of the sinkhole. Exhibit 2 on the
next page illustrates the sinkhole conditions.
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Exhibit 2- Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre Sinkhole
To accomplish the necessary repair, PW engaged Sunbeam to provide construction
management services and Clarke to provide construction services. Work began on
February 21, 2024, and involved the excavation and replacement of the first 20 feet of the
stormwater pipe. Upon completion of the replacement, the local pipe foundation and
sidewalk were repaired, and all removed items were reinstated or replaced in kind.
Upon completion of the repairs described above, Sunbeam performed a visual inspection
on the full length of the pipe to determine the pipe’s overall integrity. During the inspection,
a void that was 6 feet deep was discovered near the end of the pipe (which is
approximately 230 feet away from the original sinkhole). This void needed to also be
immediately repaired to avoid the imminent formation of another sinkhole. Exhibit 3 on
the following page illustrates the void conditions.
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Exhibit 3- Rue La Fleur and Rue De La Pierre Void
This void was repaired by removing an existing horizontal section and elbow of the pipe,
backfilling the void, and replacing the horizontal section of the pipe elbow. This portion of
the repair was completed on March 22, 2024.
For this project, the cost of Sunbeam’s services was $8,970 and the cost of Clarke’s
services was $93,187.26 (Attachments C and D). City Staff reviewed the cost for
Sunbeam and found it to be reflective of the hours required to perform the work. Sunbeam
reviewed the costs for Clarke and found them to be fair and reasonable .
Sinkhole on Hawthorne Boulevard near Verde Ridge Road
In early March, PW investigated reports of a sinkhole developing along Hawthorne
Boulevard near Verde Ridge Road. Upon investigation, PW confirmed the presence of a
sinkhole and determined it was the result of a failed underground storm sewer pipe. It
was surmised that the failed storm sewer pipe allowed water to erode the surrounding
pipe foundation, which led to the formation of the sinkhole. Exhibit 4 on the following page
illustrates the sinkhole conditions.
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Exhibit 4- Hawthorne Blvd Near Verde Ridge Rd Sinkhole
To accomplish the necessary repair, PW engaged with Sunbeam to provide construction
management services and Clarke to provide construction services. Repairs began on
March 6, 2024, and involved the excavation and replacement of the first 20 feet of pipe.
For the remaining 65 feet of pipe, a smaller diameter pipe was inserted into the existing
larger diameter pipe and grouted in place. Upon completion of all repairs, the local
foundation and asphalt were repaired, and all relevant traffic markings were repla ced.
The repair was completed on March 20, 2024
For this project, the cost of Sunbeam’s services was $7,937 and the cost of Clarke’s
services was $93,835.54 (Attachments E and F). City Staff reviewed the cost for
Sunbeam and found it to be reflective of the hours required to perform the work. Sunbeam
reviewed the costs for Clarke and found them to be fair and reasonable.
Various Sites
The heavy rains of February 2024 caused several areas to experience high levels of
erosion. PW engineers performed initial inspections and, in some cases, determined that
an additional inspection performed by a specialized consultant was needed to assure the
safety of lives and/or property. The specialized consultant was a certified engineering
geologist from Ninyo & Moore Geotechnical & Environmental Sciences Consultants
(Ninyo & Moore). The site visits conducted by the engineering geologist are described on
the next page along with Exhibit 5 which illustrates the damages.
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26221 Basswood Avenue
On February 7, 2024, residents notified PW of heavy erosion and water pouring from the
hillside of Montemalaga Canyon. PW engineers promptly investigated the concerns and
determined that there was a scarp, which is a steep slope separating two areas of different
heights (often caused by erosion). The scarp posed no risk to the structural integrity of
the hillside, but presented a concern because of the volume of water pouring from the
hillside. Therefore, an engineering geologist was engaged to further assess conditions.
The engineering geologist determined that the location and size of the scarp was not an
immediate risk to life or property. Therefore, addressing this location will be incorporated
into and prioritized as part of the stormwater asset management system . Exhibit 5
illustrates the erosion conditions.
Site II: 6205 Via Colinita
In early February 2024, residents notified PW of heavy erosion along the edge of the
roadway near 6205 Via Colinita. PW engineers investigated the erosion and determined
the existing curb and gutter system was not designed to handle the large volume and high
velocity of storm waters experienced in February 2024, which led to water flowing over
the curb and gutter system into the canyon below. The impact from high velocity
stormwater led to a slope failure on the hillside. With its proximity to the roadway, PW
engineers believed it was necessary to have additional input from a certified engineering
geologist. An engineering geologist performed a visual inspection of the erosion and
agreed with the initial assessment. Therefore, addressing this location will be
incorporated into and prioritized as part of the stormwater asset management system.
Exhibit 5 illustrates the erosion conditions.
Site III: Palos Verdes Drive South – Adjacent to Pelican Cove Park
In early February 2024, heavy rains caused a slope failure on the hillside of the Alta
Vicente Reserve. This resulted in earthen debris flowing into the westbound and
eastbound direction of Palos Verdes Drive South. PW engineers investigated the cause
of the slope failure and determined heavy storm waters had eroded the hillside. Since the
erosion caused the partial closure of Palos Verdes Drive South, PW engineers believed
it was necessary to have additional input from a certified engineering geologist. An
engineering geologist performed a visual inspection of the erosion and agreed with the
initial assessment that the oversaturated hillside led to a shallow slope failure. Therefore,
addressing this location will be incorporated into and prioritized as part of the stormwater
asset management system. Exhibit 5 illustrates the erosion conditions.
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Exhibit 5- Erosion Conditions at Various Locations
The cost of Ninyo & Moore’s services for these locations was $4,190 (Attachment G). City
Staff reviewed the cost for Ninyo & Moore’s services found it to be reflective of the hours
required to perform the work.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
On April 15, 2024, FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made
available to the state of California, including Los Angeles County, to supplement recovery
efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storms from January 31 to Februar y 9,
2024. This declaration makes federal funding available on a cost -sharing basis to local
government agencies, including the City, for emergency work and the repair or
replacement of facilities damaged by the storms. Staff will request reimbursement fo r the
costs presented in this report considering they were part of the City’s response efforts to
the January 31 to February 9, 2024 severe winter storms , as well as repair costs
associated with the February 2024 storms. Any reimbursement that is approved will be
deposited in the Capital Infrastructure Program Fund.
CONCLUSION:
Due the emergency nature of sinkholes and slope failures resulting from the February
2024 storms, Staff engage consultants and contractors to perform professional services
and repairs that were immediately necessary to prevent the loss of life and/or property.
Staff recommends the City Council ratify payments to Sunbeam, Clarke, and Ninyo &
Moore for emergency services provided in response to the February 2024 storm.
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ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1. Do not approve the payment(s) to Sunbeam Consulting, Clarke Contracting, and
Ninyo & Moore, which may result in the parties pursuing legal action because the
services were provided in good faith as an emergency response to prevent the
loss of life and/or property.
2. Take other action, as deemed appropriate.
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Sunbeam Consulting
1817 Josie Avenue
Long Beach, California 90815
Project Management • Construction Management • Inspection Services • Civil Engineering Design
Tel: 310.525.0684
February 09, 2024
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Department of Public Works
30940 Hawthorne Blvd
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA90275
Attention: Ramzi Awwad
Proposal for Hawthorne – PV Drive West Storm Drain Repair Project:
Construction Management and Inspection Services
Dear Mr. Awwad:
Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to offer our Professional Services to the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to provide Construction Management and Inspection services for the removal and
replacement of the badly corroded 40-foot section of the existing corrugated metal storm drain
extending from the catch basin on the south east corner of Hawthorne Blvd., into PV Drive West,
heading towards the south west corner of Via Vicente and Hawthorne Blvd.
We appreciate the issues associated with working on an emergency stormwater repair project in the
intersection of two major roads. The inspection of the work includes the implementation of traffic
controls, constantly reviewing safety protocols and the inspection of all aspects of the work associated
with the removal and replacement of the storm drain. The Sunbeam team has construction managed
and inspected numerous storm-drain projects for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and has the right skills
and experience working in the City to successfully provide the required services. We propose to use Alan
Braatvedt to provide the Construction Management Services and both Angel Castro and Joe Van der
Linden to provide the Inspection services, on different days. We appreciate the consideration and
opportunity of providing these services to City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
Thank you for this opportunity to offer our services to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Should you have
questions, please contact me at (310)525-0684.
Sincerely,
Alan Braatvedt
President
Sunbeam Consulting
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Hawthorne – PV Drive West Storm Drain Repair Project
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PROJECT UNDERSTANDING / SCOPE OF SERVICES
A sinkhole has developed adjacent to the catch basin on the south east corner of Hawthorne Blvd. at PV
Drive West, with evidence of significant storm drain related pavement deterioration from that point,
extending into PV Drive West, towards the south west corner of Via Vicente and Hawthorne Blvd. for
about 40-feet.
On 2/8/24, Rancho Palos Verdes Public Works contacted Alan Braatvedt, of Sunbeam and requested
that Sunbeam immediately inspect the site and implement an emergency repair to address potential
further collapse of the storm drain under PV Drive West. Sunbeam implemented the following work,
much of which is has been completed due to the emergency nature of the work.
The scope of work included:
• Locating a contractor, with the right experience and who was able to address the emergency
immediately. The contractor who was able to fulfil the requirements is Clarke Contracting
• Alan and Joe Van der Linden met with Brian Clarke in the field on Thursday 2/8 evening and
thoroughly investigated the storm drain and associated roadway damage and planned the
extent of the repair and methods to address the work with the least impact to traffic and
pedestrians.
• Work began on Friday 2/9, with setting up traffic controls and closing down the left turn lane of
the westbound PV Drive West and protecting the work area on Hawthorne Blvd.
• Work commenced with the saw cutting of the asphalt, excavating and hauling off the dirt and
asphalt and the removal the badly corroded 40-foot section of pipeline.
• The bedding under the pipe was graded and thoroughly compacted in preparation for laying the
replacement pipe.
• Two new 20-foot sections of corrugated HDPE pipe were installed, with collars to connect to the
existing pipe and connect the two new pipes, and the catch basin wall reconstructed around the
new pipe that extended into the catch-basin wall.
• The pipeline was backfilled to provide haunching around the bottom of the pipe and then the
rest of the pipe was filled with slurry to completely encase the pipe and extend under the
undermined curb and gutter and adjacent side walk.
• The work area was plated and the work area made safe.
• The decision was made to work late on Friday to make the area safe and to provide as much
cure time as possible for the slurry, thereby allowing for the hot-mix asphalt repair to be made
on Monday. Work was completed by 10:00 p.m.
• The remaining field work is to provide an 8” thick asphalt repair, which is a little thicker than the
existing adjacent asphalt thickness. This asphalt repair is scheduled for Monday 2/12, as soon as
the asphalt plant can provide the required material.
• Restripe the cross-walk and install road markings
• Sunbeam will provide wrap-up services, which will include the evaluation of costs for the
contract work, providing a report and Notic of Completion for the project.
The scope of work does not provide services for the lining of the storm water pipeline across the full
width of PV West. The balance of the pipe has maintained its structural integrity, but there is significant
corrosion at the flow line, so our recommendation is that serious consideration should be given to lining
that pipe and the leg that continues east on PV Drive West, possibly in conjunction with other storm
drain lining projects.
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Hawthorne – PV Drive West Storm Drain Repair Project
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FEE PROPOSAL
We have based our proposal on work completed and an assumed schedule of remaining tasks.
Hawthorne - PV Drive West Storm Drain Repair Project
Item Hrs Rate Amount
Construction Inspection Services – Joe 6 $129.00 $774
Construction Inspection Services – Joe x 1.5 1 $193.50 $194
Construction Inspection Services – Angel 6 $129.00 $774
Construction Inspection Services – Angel x 1.5 4 $193.50 $774
Construction Inspection Services – Angel x 2 2 $258.00 $516
Construction Management - Alan 8 $168.00 $1,344
TOTAL $4,376
This rate is inclusive of mileage, equipment, and other incidental expenses related to the tasks.
This project will require conformance to California Prevailing Wage payment and benefit requirements.
Sunbeam Consulting is registered with the Department of Industrial Relations to provide the required
services.
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Sunbeam Consulting
1817 Josie Avenue
Long Beach, California 90815
Project Management • Construction Management • Inspection Services • Civil Engineering Design
Tel: 310.525.0684
March 6, 2024
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Department of Public Works
30940 Hawthorne Blvd
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA90275
Attention: Brandon Mesker
Proposal for Rue La Fleur Storm Drain Repair Project:
Construction Management and Inspection Services
Dear Brandon:
Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to offer our Professional Services to the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to provide Construction Management and Inspection services for the removal and
replacement of the badly corroded 20-foot section of the existing 30” diameter corrugated metal storm
drain extending into the easement between the two properties. This proposal also includes a second
phase of the work, for the replacement of the collapsed horizontal section of the 18” pipe, at the end of
the pip, adjacent to the open drain.
We appreciate the issues associated with working on an emergency stormwater repair project between
two homes and in close proximity to a school. The inspection of the work includes the implementation
of traffic controls, reviewing safety protocols and the inspection of all aspects of the work associated
with the removal and replacement of the storm drain. Sunbeam also conducted an investigation of the
18” diameter from the outfall at the concrete swale at the bottom of the steep slope and provided a
report to the city.
The Sunbeam team has construction managed and inspected numerous storm-drain projects for the City
of Rancho Palos Verdes and has the right skills and experience working in the City to successfully provide
the required services. We propose to use Alan Braatvedt to provide the Construction Management
Services and Joe Van der Linden to provide the Inspection services. We appreciate the consideration
and opportunity of providing these services to City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
Thank you for this opportunity to offer our services to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Should you have
questions, please contact me at (310)525-0684.
Sincerely,
Alan Braatvedt
President
Sunbeam Consulting
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Rue La Fleur Storm Drain Repair Project
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PROJECT UNDERSTANDING / SCOPE OF SERVICES
A sinkhole has developed adjacent to the catch basin at the intersection of Rue La Fleur, Rue Del La
Pierre and Rue Langlois. The 30” diameter corrugated metal pipe extends away from the catch basin in
an easement, between two homes for a distance of about 150’, before a dramatic grade change, at
which point, the pipe diameter is reduced to an 18” pipe.
On 2/19/24, Rancho Palos Verdes Public Works contacted Alan Braatvedt, of Sunbeam and requested
that Sunbeam immediately inspect the site and implement an emergency repair to address the
immediate danger. Sunbeam implemented the following work, much of which is has been completed
due to the emergency nature of the work.
One the replacement of the first section of 30” pipe was underway, Sunbeam conducted a further
investigation for the remaining 120-feet of the 18” pipe. That investigation revealed that a section of
that pipeline had collapsed and a huge void under the pipe had developed as a result. Sunbeam
produced a report on the condition and presented the findings and suggested solution to the City at a
meeting with the Public Works Director and was directed to proceed with the next phase of the repair.
The scope of the first phase of the work included:
• Locating a contractor, with the right experience and who was able to address the emergency
immediately. The contractor who was able to fulfil the requirements is Clarke Contracting
• Alan negotiated with Brian Clarke and decided on a course of action, but need to wait until the
storm passed, so was not able to start work until 2/22/24.
• Work began on Thursday 2/22, with setting up traffic controls and other safety measures.
• Work commenced with exposing the existing pipe for a distance of 20’, which uncovered a large
diameter asbestos water main and a gas main line, both of which lay just a few inches above the
storm drain. This meant that there was a significant amount of hand digging required.
• Improvements, including shrubs and a small retaining wall and section of the sidewalk were
removed and the excavation shored.
• The 20-foot section of pipe was removed and the bedding was thoroughly compacted. The
remainder of the pipe was cleaned out in preparation for the CIPP lining.
• The new corrugated HDPE pipe was laid and slurry backfilled on Saturday to ensure a functional
storm drain was in place before the forecasted rain on Monday.
• The work area was plated and the work area made safe.
• Improvements were reinstated and concrete sidewalk replaced.
• Sunbeam will provide wrap-up services, which will include the evaluation of costs for the
contract work, providing a report and Notice of Completion for the project.
The scope of the second phase of the work included:
• Negotiating with the same contractor to agree on the scope and approach for the repair, the
schedule and price.
• Work will commence on Monday 3/11/24, with Clarke Contracting entering the area from
PV Drive West and accessing the site along the existing open drain and find a way to move
the equipment the 600-feet up the channel to the site of the repair.
• Clear and grub the full length of the "horizontal" section of pipe and the transition joint to
the steeper section.
• Fill the void under the pipe by pumping in a cement slurry
• Replacing the horizontal section of pipe and bend.
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Rue La Fleur Storm Drain Repair Project
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• The work is expected to take a week to complete.
FEE PROPOSAL
Sunbeam is proposing a Lump Sum fee of $9,000 based on the following cost breakdown:
Item Hrs Rate Amount
Construction Inspection Services – Joe 41 $129.00 $5,289
Construction Inspection Services – Joe x 1.5 6 $193.50 $1,161
Construction Management - Alan 15 $168.00 $2,520
TOTAL $8,970
Rue La Fleur Storm Drain Repair Project
This rate is inclusive of mileage, equipment, and other incidental expenses related to the tasks.
This project will require conformance to California Prevailing Wage payment and benefit requirements. Sunbeam Consulting is
registered with the Department of Industrial Relations to provide the required services.
We have based our proposal on work completed and an assumed schedule of remaining tasks.
C-3
Sunbeam Consulting
1817 Josie Avenue
Long Beach, California 90815
Project Management • Construction Management • Civil Engineering Design • Civil Inspection
Tel: 310.525-0684
Rue La Fluer Storm Drain Repair Project -
Clarke Contracting
Description: Clarke Contracting Billing #01 (Final) – March 2024 Billing
Purchase Order: #
Project Code:
Date Received for Review: 04/01/2024
Date Transmitted to City: 04/01/2024
______________________________________________________________________________
Attention: Brandon Mesker
This billing is for the emergency storm drain repair at Rue La Fleur, which is effectively 2 different, but
connected projects.
Project 1
After heavy rains, a sinkhole developed in sidewalk directly behind the catch basin on Rue La Fleur. The
investigation on 2/21/24 revealed that the first 155' of the pipe line that runs in an easement between
two homes, is a 30" diameter corrugated metal pipe (CMP), which was badly corroded over the first 15-
20’, which had caused a collapse of the pipe. In some instances, CMP pipes have more severe corroding
at the start of a pipeline, which are more prone to damage and sediment deposits, which retain water.
That appears to be the case in this pipeline. Beyond the first 20-feet, the pipe has lost some of its
structural integrity, so has deformed a little, but would be a good candidate for Cured in Place Pipe
(CIPP) lining in some other short-term future project.
Sunbeam Consulting contacted Clarke Contracting and together decided on a plan of action and agreed
that Clarke would do the initial repair at Rue La Fleur on a time and materials (T&M) basis, using rates
accepted by the County and accepted by the City. The City has had good experience on previous
projects, with Clarke contracting, who has proven to be very responsive and reasonable to negotiate
with.
Clarke removed the first 20-feet of 30” diameter pipe and replaced it with corrugated HDPE pipe. This
was a difficult operation, working between two homes, crossing a large diameter water main under full
pressure and a live gas main, requiring extensive hand digging and shoring. The site improvements that
had to be removed and replaced for the work, included a small retaining wall, a hedge, sidewalk and
signage. The work was completed on T&M over a period of a little more than a week, which included
slurry backfill on Saturday 2/2/24. The final repair of the site improvements and replacement of the
sidewalk was completed the following week.
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Rue La Fleur Storm Drain Repair
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Project 2
The second project was discovered a few days after the start of the project, while investigating the other
end of the pipe located in a valley, where the pipe discharges into a large trapezoidal open drain at the
bottom of the slope. It was found that the 30” diameter pipe from Rue La Fleur extended at a relatively
flat slope for 155-feet, before the pipe makes a significant grade change from a slope of about 2% to a
40% slope and then the pipe diameter is reduced from a 30” to an 18”. The pipe continues for about 80’
at the steep grade and then levels out through dense undergrowth, for a further 20’, before discharging
into the open storm drain channel in the canyon. The drop from the top of the slope to the channel is
over 30-feet. The pipe had collapsed at the lower grade change and has created a large void of over 6’
deep, which turned out to be a 230 cft cavern, which could have endangered the stability of the slope of
the properties above and possibly the open channel.
The agreement with Clarke contracting was extended to include the work in the canyon, which required
them to clear and grub the full length of the lower "horizontal" section of pipe to the transition joint to
the steeper section, and dispose of vegetation. The void under the pipe was pumped full with slurry to
stabilize the area, using an air entraining additive for pumping a distance of over 60-feet from the access
point on PV Drive west. The horizontal section of pipe and transition to the steep pipe were removed
and replaced with HDPE. However after the removal it was discovered that there was a significant
section of pipe higher up on the slope that was also damaged. That section was also removed and
replaced with HDPE pipe. It was impossible to get mechanical equipment to the location, so all of the
work was done by hand. The project was finally completed on 3/22/24.
As the scope is relatively clearly defined, a fixed cost of $43,000 has been negotiated with Clarke
contracting, with will remove dealing with access and other issues that may arise. The cost is an all-
inclusive cost, assuming there is no major unforeseen issue.
With the undefined scope of work, the only logical way to contract for the repairs was on a T&M basis.
Sunbeam supervised the work daily and monitored the labor, equipment and materials to verify the
hours and quantities. These were checked with the agreed rates and agree with billing amount of
$93,187.16 that Clarke Contracting has submitted. This amount accurately reflects the value of work
completed and I recommend payment of the amount.
This is the full and final billing for this project.
I recommend payment of the invoice in the amount of $93,187.26
Regards
Alan Braatvedt – Construction Manager
Attachments: Billing
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Sunbeam Consulting
1817 Josie Avenue
Long Beach, California 90815
Project Management • Construction Management • Inspection Services • Civil Engineering Design
Tel: 310.525.0684
March 18, 2024
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Department of Public Works
30940 Hawthorne Blvd
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA90275
Attention: Juan Hernandez
Proposal for Hawthorne at Verde Ridge, Storm Drain Repair Project:
Construction Management and Inspection Services
Dear Juan:
Sunbeam Consulting, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to offer our Professional Services to the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to provide Construction Management and Inspection services for the repair of the
pipeline that crosses Hawthorne near Verde Ridge after a sinkhole appeared in the Hawthorne north-
bound lanes. We investigated the pipeline and found that the City owned 36” diameter corrugated
metal pipe (CMP) was extensively corroded, which caused the failure.
We contacted Clarke Contracting and decided on immediate action, which included the installation of
plates to protect the open through lane, while exploratory excavation was undertaken. The ultimate
decision was to replace the first 20’ of pipe with corrugated HDPE and to line the remainder of the pipe
by sliding a slightly smaller diameter pipe through the existing CMP for the full length of the road
crossing and grouting the annular space between the pipes with a cellular slurry for a permanent repair.
We appreciate the urgency of completing the work as quickly as possible to restore all traffic and bike
lanes and the issues associated with working on an emergency stormwater repair project in a busy
regional road. The inspection of the work includes the implementation of traffic controls, reviewing
safety protocols and the inspection of all aspects of the work associated with the removal and
replacement of the storm drain and the restoration of the pavement.
The Sunbeam team has construction managed and inspected numerous storm-drain projects for the City
of Rancho Palos Verdes and has the right skills and experience working in the City to successfully provide
the required services. We propose to use Alan Braatvedt to provide the Construction Management
Services and Joe Van der Linden to provide the Inspection services. We appreciate the consideration
and opportunity of providing these services to City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
Thank you for this opportunity to offer our services to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Should you have
questions, please contact me at (310)525-0684.
Sincerely,
Alan Braatvedt
President
Sunbeam Consulting
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Hawthorne at Verde Ridge - Storm Drain Repair Project
2 | P a g e
PROJECT UNDERSTANDING / SCOPE OF SERVICES
A sinkhole has developed in Hawthorne Blvd. north of Verde Ridge in the middle of the north-bound
lanes. Sunbeam investigated the site and found that water from a nearby catch basin feeds into the
36” pipe through a county owned 24” pipe, from a catch basin immediately north of the pipe
crossing. Another County owned 24” pipe, originating in Seabryn Drive, feeds into the 36” CMP in
the median via a manhole at that location. A third 24” diameter pipe joins the 36” pipe from a catch
basin on the western side of Hawthorne. All of the County owned upstream and downstream pipes
are reinforced concrete pipes.
We contacted Clarke Contracting on Monday 3/11/24 and immediately got them to install a steel
plate across the only open travel lane to ensure no further collapse. It was determined that the first
20’ of pipe was in such poor condition that it should be removed and so Clarke began with the
exploratory excavation on Tuesday. The ultimate decision was to replace the first 20’ of pipe with
corrugated HDPE and to line the remainder of the pipe by sliding a slightly smaller diameter pipe
through the existing CMP for the full length of the road crossing and grouting the annular space
between the pipes with a cellular slurry for a permanent repair.
The scope of the work included:
• Locating a contractor, with the right experience and who was able to address the
emergency immediately. The contractor who was able to fulfil the requirements is Clarke
Contracting
• Alan negotiated with Brian Clarke and decided on a course of action for the next day
• Work began on Tuesday 3/12, with setting up traffic controls and other safety measures.
• Work commenced with exposing the existing pipe for a distance of 20’, which uncovered a
large diameter asbestos water main. This meant that there was a significant amount of
cautionary work and hand digging around the service.
• The 20-foot section of pipe was removed and the bedding was thoroughly compacted. The
remainder of the pipe was cleaned out in preparation for the installation of the smaller
diameter pipe.
• The new corrugated HDPE pipe was slid through the existing CMP and a new 20’ section of
pipe was installed.
• Holes were cut into the HDPE pipe at each of the locations where the 24” RCP connected
into it and the connection repaired for a clean flow of water through the pipes.
• The manhole access at each location was cot into the roof of the pipe.
• Bulkheads for the grout are currently being installed in preparation for the pressure grout,
which is scheduled for Wednesday 3/20
• The pipe will be slurry backfilled and the road pavement reinstated with hot-mix asphalt.
• The striping will be replaced where necessary.
• Sunbeam will provide wrap-up services, which will include the evaluation of costs for the
contract work, providing a report and Notice of Completion for the project.
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Hawthorne at Verde Ridge - Storm Drain Repair Project
3 | P a g e
FEE PROPOSAL
Sunbeam is proposing a Lump Sum fee of $8,000 based on the following cost breakdown:
Hawthorne at Verde Ridge
Item Hrs Rate Amount
Construction Inspection Services – Joe 44 $129.00 $5,676
Construction Inspection Services – Joe x 1.5 3 $193.50 $581
Construction Management - Alan 10 $168.00 $1,680
TOTAL $7,937
This rate is inclusive of mileage, equipment, and other incidental expenses related to the tasks.
This project will require conformance to California Prevailing Wage payment and benefit requirements. Sunbeam Consulting is
registered with the Department of Industrial Relations to provide the required services.
We have based our proposal on work completed and an assumed schedule of remaining tasks.
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Sunbeam Consulting
1817 Josie Avenue
Long Beach, California 90815
Project Management • Construction Management • Civil Engineering Design • Civil Inspection
Tel: 310.525-0684
Hawthorne Storm Drain Repair Project - North of Verde Ridge
Clarke Contracting
Description: Clarke Contracting Billing #01 Revised (Final) – March 2024 Billing
Purchase Order: #
Project Code:
Date Received for Review: 04/05/2024 04/08/24
Date Transmitted to City: 04/05/2024 04/08/24
______________________________________________________________________________
Attention: Brandon Mesker
This billing is for the emergency storm drain repair on Hawthorne, north of Verde Ridge.
A sinkhole has developed in Hawthorne Blvd. north of Verde Ridge in the middle of the north-bound
lanes, sometime on Sunday 3/10/24. On Monday, 3/11/24 the City requested Sunbeam investigate the
sinkhole, pipeline and site-specific circumstances and take the necessary actions for the immediate
repair. Alan Braatvedt and Joe Van der Linden met at the site and established that the pipe that crosses
Hawthorne is a City owned 36” diameter corrugated metal pipe (CMP), which had failed, resulting in the
sinkhole. The pipeline that feeds into the 36” CMP is a County owned 24” diameter reinforced concrete
pipe (RCP), which originates from a nearby catch basin immediately north of the Hawthorne crossing.
Another County owned 24” RCP pipe, originating in Seabryn Drive, feeds into the 36” CMP at a manhole
in the median. A third 24” diameter RCP pipe joins the 36” pipe from a catch basin on the western side
of Hawthorne.
Sunbeam contacted Clarke Contracting on Monday 3/11/24 and immediately got them to install a steel
plate across the only open travel lane to ensure no further collapse. It was determined that the first 20’
of pipe was in such poor condition that it should be removed and so Clarke began with the exploratory
excavation on Tuesday. The ultimate decision was to replace the first 20’ of pipe with corrugated HDPE
and to line the remainder of the pipe by sliding a slightly smaller diameter pipe through the existing CMP
for the full length of the road crossing and grouting the annular space between the existing and new
pipes with a cellular slurry for a permanent repair. Work began on Tuesday 3/12, with setting up traffic
controls and other safety measures and then exposing the existing pipe for a distance of 20’, which
uncovered a large diameter asbestos water main. This meant that there a significant amount of
cautionary work and hand digging around the service was necessary. The 20-foot section of pipe was
removed and the bedding was thoroughly compacted. The remainder of the pipe was cleaned out in
preparation for the installation of the “sleeve” pipe. The new corrugated HDPE pipe was slid through the
existing CMP and a new 20’ section of pipe was installed. Holes were cut into the HDPE pipe at each of
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes Sunbeam Consulting
Hawthorne/Verde Ridge Storm Drain Repair
3 | P a g e
the locations where the 24” RCP connected into it and the connection repaired for a clean flow of water
through the pipes. The manhole access at each location was cut into the roof of the pipe. Bulkheads to
control the flow of the grout were installed in preparation for the pressure grout, which was later
pumped into place filling the gap between the existing pipe and sleeve and all other voids. The exposed
pipe was slurry backfilled and the road pavement reinstated and finally capped with hot-mix asphalt and
the striping replaced where necessary. The project was finally completed on 3/20/24.
With the undefined scope of work, the only logical way to contract for the repairs was on a T&M basis.
Sunbeam supervised the work daily and monitored the labor, equipment and materials to verify the
hours and quantities. These were checked with the agreed rates and agree with billing amount of
$91,715.24 $93,835.54 that Clarke Contracting has submitted. This amount accurately reflects the
value of work completed and I recommend payment of the amount.
This is the full and final billing for this project.
I recommend payment of the invoice in the amount of $91,715.24 $93,835.54
Regards
Alan Braatvedt – Construction Manager
Attachments: Billing - Revised
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INVOICE
Mr. Brandon Mesker
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
March 8, 2024
Project No:212586001
Invoice No:284982
Geotechnical consulting services for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes for the period through February 23, 2024.
Services in this period included field observation, photo documentation, background document, map and aerial
photograph review, and preparation of two letter reports with preliminary mitigation recommendations for the slope
failures located near 26221 Basswood Avenue, Palos Verdes Drive South adjacent to Pelican Cove Park, and 6205 Via
Colinita in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
Tax ID No. 33-0269828
Professional Services through February 23, 2024
Task 01 Field Services
Hours Rate Amount
Principal Engineer/Geologist/Scientist
Hallum, Ronald 2/9/2024 6.00 210.00 1,260.00
Totals 6.00 1,260.00
Total Labor 1,260.00
Task 02 Data Compilation & Analysis
Hours Rate Amount
Principal Engineer/Geologist/Scientist
Hallum, Ronald 2/15/2024 2.00 210.00 420.00
Hallum, Ronald 2/16/2024 1.50 210.00 315.00
Hallum, Ronald 2/22/2024 1.50 210.00 315.00
Totals 5.00 1,050.00
Total Labor 1,050.00
Task 03 Report Preparation
Hours Rate Amount
Principal Engineer/Geologist/Scientist
Hallum, Ronald 2/12/2024 3.50 210.00 735.00
Hallum, Ronald 2/13/2024 2.00 210.00 420.00
Totals 5.50 1,155.00
Total Labor 1,155.00
Task 05 Background Review
5710 Ruffin Road | San Diego, California 92123 | p.858.576.1000 | www.ninyoandmoore.comG-1
Hours Rate Amount
Principal Engineer/Geologist/Scientist
Hallum, Ronald 2/12/2024 1.50 210.00 315.00
Hallum, Ronald 2/15/2024 1.00 210.00 210.00
Totals 2.50 525.00
Total Labor 525.00
Task 11 Project Coordination
Hours Rate Amount
Senior Engineer/Geologist/Scientist
Schmidt, Jennifer 2/14/2024 1.00 200.00 200.00
Totals 1.00 200.00
Total Labor 200.00
$4,190.00TOTAL THIS INVOICE
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5710 Ruffin Road | San Diego, California 92123 | p.858.576.1000 | www.ninyoandmoore.com
Project 284982212586001RPV/GRADING REPAIR & SUBDRAIN
REPLACE
Invoice
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