In the fall of 2022, Independence Excavating was contracted to perform the full civil scope for converting a 1,200-acre farm into a 210MW solar farm. The initial phase involved clearing the site of all vegetation, primarily through mowing and selective tree removal.

To manage erosion control, we installed over 80,000 linear feet of silt fencing and seeded the entire site. The earthwork portion of the project included the movement of 112,000 cubic yards of topsoil and bulk cut-to-fill operations. 

For site accessibility, IX collaborated with preferred vendors to design and install permanent single-span bridges on pre-cast footings, enabling safe passage across two streams. Additionally, we were responsible for grading and stoning 12 miles of access roadways.

One of the most unique challenges of this project was the client’s requirement that 80% of the workforce be domiciled in Ohio. Through close coordination with local unions and subcontractors, we exceeded this goal—achieving a 92% Ohio-based workforce—helping our client meet their commitment when other contractors fell short.

Following the completion of our base scope, we remained on-site to maintain erosion control measures and roadways, ensuring seamless operations for other trades working on the project.