Ground modification methods improve poor soil conditions, enable construction on marginal sites, and reduce the risk of transportation infrastructure failure. These methods help accelerate construction in challenging geotechnical environments. TRB hosted a webinar on Thursday, July 30, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern that presented a structured framework for developing performance-based guidelines for ground modification methods used in transportation infrastructure, including embankments, bridge approaches, and other structures. Presenters shared a literature review, methodology development, and proposed performance-based specifications for selected ground modification methods, as well as the steps taken to implement guidance documents in state agencies’ specifications and projects.
This webinar was based on NCHRP Project 10-121: Guidelines for the Application of Ground Modification Methods for Highway Structures.
This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program and the Standing Technical Committee on Geomaterials Behavior and Properties.
The slides are available. 
 
Webinar agenda and presenters

• Project overview, geotechnical documents, and implementation of ground modification methods – Allen Cadden, Schnabel Engineering
• Requirements, selection, design, construction submittals – Jie Han, University of Kansas
• Quality control and assurance, long-term performance criteria and verification, and measurement – Majid Khabbazian, Schnabel Engineering
• Question and answer session moderated by Kyle Rollins, Brigham Young University

The first 60 minutes of the webinar were for presentations and the final 30 minutes were reserved for audience questions.
 
Learning Objectives
At the end of this webinar, participants can:

• Identify ground modification technologies suitability
• Evaluate performance goals, applications, verification methods, quality control/assurance practices, and challenges
• Implement guidance documents on user's specific projects

 
Professional Development Hours
This webinar was delivered as a scheduled – e-learning live event and is categorized within RCEP as Technical, Health and Safety.
Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.
American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits
This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1.5 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credits. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.