Time-settlement data of more than 60 different sections of the 31.2 km long Lianyungang-Xuzhou expressway in Lianyungang segment are analyzed. The results indicate that the time-settlement behavior could reasonably be represented by the hyperbolic relationship. According to the estimated long-term settlements

the consolidation characteristics of soft ground improved by using sand mat or dry jet mixed columns are analyzed. The relationships between average degree of consolidation and time in the filling-term and the preloading-term are studied respectively. Results indicate that the presence of dry jet mixed columns could accelerate the consolidation rates of soft ground; although soil-cement columns are considered to be impermeable. In addition

an empirical estimating formula for the magnitude and rate of consolidation settlement of Lianyungang marine clay are proposed by the method of statistics.