The slag-dump operating process has seen little change in the last 100 years. Molten slag is still poured from a train into a sloped pit, until deposits grow too large and must be cut back, approximately every three years. In this case, however, the design diverged from tradition, giving Acres the opportunity to significantly increase the site's operating efficiency. The new facility will cut future costs for track relocation and alternate site development, in addition to reducing environmental concerns and human exposure to molten metal.

In the initial Investigation Phase, Acres assessed the structural soundness of the dump's bedrock enclosure. The first challenge lay in removing and working around petrified slag in order to complete the necessary

Geotechnical Design involved a complex pattern of ground control measures to ensure the rock's stability and safety over time. For this reason, post-tensioned, grouted Williams bolts are being installed from the face. As well, since thermal conditions cause bolt relaxation, a 'lock in' load was calculated for the exposed head assemblies, while a three-foot rock layer attenuates heat penetration.

This new dumping process will reduce track maintenance costs, eliminate wind delays and enable continuous dumping from either of the two orthogonal faces. The project was completed in January 2004.