A method of forming an upwardly facing surface around a conduit that is embedded in ground material and defines a passageway. The conduit has an open upper end, through which access can be gained to the passageway, and an outer perimeter. The method includes the steps of: obtaining a riser assembly; placing the riser assembly in operative relationship with the open upper end of the conduit wherein the riser assembly is supported at least partially by the ground material around the outer perimeter of the conduit and defines an entry opening to the passageway; and with the riser assembly in the operative relationship with the open upper end of the conduit, forming at least one material around the conduit to a desired vertical thickness on which the upwardly facing surface is defined.