A contractor discovers that the soil bearing capacity at a job site is 2,000 psf, but the foundation design requires 3,000 psf. What is the most appropriate solution?

Option A: Proceed with construction and monitor for settlement

This is extremely dangerous and violates engineering principles. Proceeding with construction when soil capacity is 33% below requirements would likely result in excessive settlement, structural damage, or foundation failure. Monitoring settlement after the fact doesn't prevent the underlying problem.

Option B: Increase the foundation width to reduce bearing pressure

While increasing foundation width reduces bearing pressure, the capacity deficit is too large (50% increase needed). The required width increase would be impractical and may not fit within property boundaries or building constraints. This approach also doesn't account for potential settlement issues.

Option D: Reduce the building load by changing materials

Reducing building loads by changing materials addresses the symptom but not the fundamental soil capacity issue. The load reduction required would likely compromise the building's intended use and may still not be sufficient to bridge the 1,000 psf capacity gap safely.