Abstract: The design of Temporary Earth Retaining Systems (TERS) for deep excavations is heavily regulated to minimize risks during construction. The construction is then closely monitored to ensure conformance with expected behavior and the performance is deemed acceptable while measurements remain below pre-set trigger levels. While this paradigm ensures that TERS are safe and cause minimal damage, there is little motivation to reduce the spiraling costs associated with overly conservative designs. This research aims to integrate recent advances in computational analyses (massive 3D FE models) and in the design of low cost wireless sensors, in order to develop a capability for ‘real-time’ data interpretation and prediction. This methodology will use the field monitoring data to update and re-evaluate model predictions during construction and hence, offer a real-time observational framework that can reduce risk while enabling more creative and cost effective designs of TERS. The current research is funded through the Center for Environmental Sensing and Modeling and is being conducted in collaboration with the Land Transport Authority in Singapore. The current involves applications for a series of subway station projects under construction for the new Thomson Line. Next generation wireless strain gauges are being designed and tested in collaboration with colleagues at Coventry University.