Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake Test Track

Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake – Test Track

Project Description

Location: China Lake, CA
Value: $13.4 Million
Completed: 2007

Project Overview

NAWS China Lake is home to the Navy’s airborne weapons testing and training range. CSI was selected to build two vehicle tracks some 40 miles from the base infrastructure. One was to be 10,000 linear feet, the other 6,500, and the project included a storm diverter and drainage system. The design/build contract required construction to begin within one week of signing. Complicating the project were its remote, boulder-strewn location on the side of a mountain; trying to match topographic surveys and final design to the Navy’s original intent; and the mandate that all work be complete in 120 days.

The original design called for asphalt surfacing mainly because of the difficulty importing and staging materials. CSI had a better idea and using a mobilized crusher, reduced the surrounding rock into aggregate for the bases and rip rap for the storm diverters.

Bringing water to the site from 80 miles away, CSI moved 400,000 cubic yards of earth and rock, and poured 120,000 square yards of PCC, all within the short 120-day window in the midst of winter. Instead of 3” asphalt paving, NAWS China Lake received 6” of concrete at the same price. Additionally, extra crushed rock was used to improve the 6 miles of access roads. The only material imported, besides water, was washed concrete sand.

Quick Facts

  • 16,500 linear feet paved.
  • 120,000 square yards of concrete poured.
  • 400,000 cubic yards of earth and rock moved.
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake Test Track
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake Test Track