| The Hydraulics Unit is staffed by engineers
and their support staff of technicians. This group is responsible
for the broad range of activities that relate to hydraulic and surface
drainage for all highway construction and maintenance contracts and
activities.
Multiple pipe structure allows stream to cross under
highway.
The unit's input into the department's planning process includes providing
preliminary designs for bridges, culverts, and other drainage features,
as well as information on wetlands, permit requirements and water
quality. A project engineer coordinates these activities as well as
the Division of Highways Stormwater Quality Management Program.
The unit has four design groups, each headed by a project engineer.
During the design stage, projects are assigned to a squad for the
hydrologic/hydraulic study needed to develop detailed design recommendations
for all hydraulic structures. This includes bridges, box culverts,
pipes, ditches, channels, stream relocations, and storm drainage
systems.
Construction
During construction, the unit works
with construction personnel to review and adjust proposed project
drainage, as may be required to meet changing conditions.
Maintenance
Two regional hydraulic engineers assist
division maintenance personnel with drainage-related projects. Assistance
usually involves technical recommendations and interpretation of drainage
policy and regulations. Assistance also includes review of subdivision
plans, proposed encroachments, driveway permits and other drainage
proposals that may affect roads.
The Hydraulics Unit also provides the bridge maintenance unit
with the engineering surveys and hydraulic design recommendations
for its ongoing bridge replacement program.
Specialty Tasks
The unit maintains an extensive records
library of Historical data on project locations; bridge and culvert
data-, flood studies and records; and other surface water information.
The information is made available to outside agencies and individuals.
Typical sction of highway and lateral
stream encroachment.
Other specialty tasks include assistance to the Ferry Division
in basin and channel surveys and design; review of U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers projects; preparation of exhibits and court testimony
for the N.C. Attorney General's office in drainage related litigation;
and review of drainage projects by others that may affect proposed
or existing highways. | 
NC DOT
NC DOH
NC GOV
