Topographical and geotechnical surveys are being carried out as part of the redevelopment of LF Wade International Airport.

With the development phase of the Bermuda Government project under way, a topographical survey is ongoing and a geotechnical study is set to start on Friday.

According to a Government spokesman, the work involves assessing the rock elevations, soil condition and strata of the airport site, using both backhoe and drill rigs.

Information gathered will be used for foundation designs for the new terminal, as well as pavement designs for the aircraft parking aprons, roadways and parking lots.

In areas outside the site of the new terminal location, a backhoe will be used to excavate test pits, while for areas both in and around the new terminal site, drill rigs will be used to drill holes deep enough to indicate rock elevations.

The spokesman said work is scheduled to take place over a five-week period for up to ten hours per day, with no work to be done at night.

He added that contractor Aecon is directing the work, which is being performed by Bermudian companies Atlantic Water Development, Onsite Engineering and Bermuda-Caribbean Engineering Consultants Ltd.