03 September 2024
Geotechnical Investigations at Port Gros-Caillou
Infraneo conducts geotechnical investigations for the preparation of the 2024 Olympics
The preparation of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games represented a colossal challenge, requiring high-level coordination and expertise across many fields. Among the many aspects of this preparation, the safety and stability of the infrastructures played a crucial role. In this context, our team was commissioned to carry out a series of geotechnical investigations on the Gros-Caillou docks in Paris, a strategic site for the opening ceremony of the Games.
A major project: collaboration with C&E Ingénierie and Paname 24
At the request of C&E Ingénierie, an engineering and architecture firm, and on behalf of Paname 24, a company born from the partnership of five of the largest French event production agencies (Auditoire, Havas Events, Ubi Bene, Obo, and Double 2), we had the opportunity to participate in this large-scale project.
Our mission was to carry out an in-depth geotechnical investigation campaign on the Gros-Caillou docks.
Primary objective: verify the presence and analyze the characteristics of the anchors of the existing sheet piles beneath the retaining walls.
These elements are essential to ensure the stability of the docks, particularly for the installation of the official stands that hosted thousands of spectators during the opening of the Games.
Advanced geotechnical investigation methods
To successfully complete this mission, Infraneo deployed several geotechnical and geophysical investigation techniques. The teams from Etréchy carried out geotechnical borings at four points along the docks.
At the same time, geophysical tests—MSP and magnetometry—were conducted to gain a detailed understanding of the subsoil. These techniques allowed Infraneo to precisely map the characteristics of the sheet pile anchors beneath the retaining walls, a key element in assessing the load-bearing capacity of the docks.
Concrete results and relevant recommendations
The results of the geotechnical investigations revealed critical aspects requiring further verification. Following the tests, Infraneo recommended additional borings, which proved essential to clear the final doubts and ensure the safety of the infrastructures.
Objective: confirm the load-bearing capacity of the docks, thereby validating their ability to support temporary structures such as the official stands installed for the event.
A collaboration praised by the client
Our responsiveness and professionalism throughout this mission were widely praised by our client. In an interview with Le Moniteur, Mr. Weill, head of C&E Ingénierie, expressed his satisfaction with our involvement, highlighting the quality of Infraneo’s technical advice and expertise. This testimonial is a valuable recognition for our team, who did everything possible to meet the demands of this large-scale project.
A historic project and a source of pride for Infraneo
The preparation of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was a collective adventure, with each stakeholder contributing to the effort. Infraneo is proud to have contributed to this historic event, ensuring that every technical detail was managed to deliver a show that met spectators’ expectations.
The geotechnical investigations carried out on the Gros-Caillou docks illustrate the importance of advanced expertise and effective collaboration in ensuring the success of major projects.
In the context of the Olympic Games, our commitment to providing reliable and innovative solutions remained stronger than ever. We look forward to continuing to play a key role in the preparation of this global event and to once again demonstrate the excellence of our know-how.
