An office complex in Plymouth, Minnesota faced a serious issue—a failing retaining wall near the parking lot and stormwater system. The replacement project needed to be completed quickly and with minimal impact on the surrounding infrastructure, including stormwater inlet pipes and outlet structures. Additionally, the parking lot had to remain largely intact during construction, and long-term durability was a top priority due to Minnesota’s harsh freeze-thaw cycles and the regular use of deicing chemicals.

To meet these challenges, the project team selected the Recon gravity wall system. Its modular design and ability to perform without geogrid reinforcement made it the best choice for minimizing excavation and disruption. Manufactured with wet-cast, air-entrained concrete, Recon blocks offer superior durability—ideal for high-traffic areas exposed to moisture, ice, and salt.

The wall’s final height reaches up to 10 feet 8 inches, and construction began with dewatering the existing retention pond. The installation timeline was tight, as delays could risk damage to adjacent structures and infrastructure. Unfortunately, the weather proved uncooperative. During construction, the site received over 9 inches of rain, requiring repeated dewatering efforts and strong project coordination to stay on schedule.

Despite the challenges, the project was completed successfully. The new retaining wall now provides reliable structural support while integrating seamlessly with the existing site features. It also adds long-term value by reducing maintenance needs and ensuring resistance to environmental stressors.

This Plymouth, MN case shows how Recon’s gravity wall system can be a game-changer for complex retrofit projects, especially in urban or commercial environments where space, weather, and infrastructure all present constraints. With durability, speed, and adaptability, Recon delivered a solution built to last.