We know that it is feasible to create a hydraulic solution that has a single point failure system or in other words, has redundancies that prevent the lifting system from failing. The hydraulics solution requires more engineering studies to resolve these details, especially at the connection between the lower and upper decks as they will [...]
The current of the Fox River in this location does not move quickly, but moving debris is a significant concern. Debris containment on the outside of the pit walls is being studied. Additionally, the trusses will have to be braced in the other direction.
Hydraulic systems work in the cold without negative consequences. If we were to consider a water hydraulics system, it would require antifreeze.
Many different systems were evaluated. A barrier dam solution needs vertical elements (visual disturbance) or they could be hydraulically lifted, but it is difficult to create a water-tight seal. Also, the pressure of holding back water above three feet becomes difficult. Even if barriers are erected around the house, once the water rises above 4-5 [...]
The unified jacking system synchronizes equal pressure across the structure during the extend/retract process to prevent damage to the glass regardless of differential loads. This system would be employed for the house lifting and the hydraulic lift option. The lift cycle for the hydraulic system is designed to elevate the building less than 1” per [...]
The current rigid utility connections will be replaced with flexible connections with waterproof seals. Details will be developed in a later stage.
A whole lot of fill is needed to elevate the house over seven feet. That much fill would destroy the existing landscape. It’s also an environmental and permitting concern to add fill to the floodplain.
The house should be lifted high enough to allow for at least one foot of freeboard between the top of the water and the bottom of the structure. Based on the highest recorded past flood (1996) when water rose two feet above the 100 year-year design elevation, the minimum the house should be lifted is [...]
This current visionary endeavor to protect (flood mitigation) and preserve (restoration and conservation) is the genesis of our preservation plan. The studies completed in the last few years to inform the flood mitigation study, the current research underway with the glass, steel and travertine, and the previous reports will be compiled and made accessible. More [...]
