I cannot thank our ACI committee members enough for their service and assistance during my transition to the ACI Presidency after Dick Stehly’s sudden passing. To the following members who have ended terms on Standing Board Committees as of the ACI Spring 2011 Convention, I appreciate your efforts and dedication

One of the most important tools for a successful project is a clear, concise, accurate specification that is written so that it cannot be misunderstood. Guidance is provided for proper use of “Specifications for Structural Concrete (ACI 301-10)” and other specification reference documents. Specific recommendations include using only those reference documents that are written in mandatory language and provide specific instructions to the contractor

A concrete retaining wall stem is usually battered to reduce the concrete dead load on the footing. The placement of the vertical dowel bars and the vertical reinforcing bars is dependent on the retaining wall configuration—sloped, stepped, and/or uniform top wall thickness. When the wall batter is factored into the geometry, the reinforcing bar location is not straightforward and should be detailed appropriately on the drawings