Herbert Hoover Dike Culvert Project, PORT MAYACA, FL
Project Description
The Government analyzed a number of critical infrastructure facilities nationwide in the wake of the levee failures in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. The Herbert Hoover Dike around Lake Okeechobee was determined to need major upgrades to its levee and water control structures. The Culverts 11 & 16 Replacement Project was one of the contracts awarded to replace two of the 32 water control structures around the lake. All of these structures have experienced significant deterioration over their 80+ year life span and require replacement and improved functionality.
Note: Since the award of this contract, Harry Pepper has been awarded 5 additional culvert replacement projects on the lake, doubling that of our nearest competitor.
Value Delivered
- Increased flow capacity over previous structure
- Increased remote operating capability through the installation of remote telemetry equipment
- Improved erosion resistance of levee surfaces
- Improved resistance to sediment blockage of culvert
- Improved flood safety to the surrounding three-county area
Project Solutions
- Initiated a bid/build process – firm fixed price with change orders
- Performed general contractor duties
- Contractor quality control
- Heavy civil construction features included:
- Installing and replacing approximately 120,000 tons of granite rip rap imported from Georgia by rail
- Importing and exporting of approximately 500,000 cubic yards of earthwork
- Placing of approximately 15,000 cubic yards of heavily reinforced concrete.
- Installing and removing approximately 400 wall feet of 70’ sheet piling.
- Maintaining flood protection and irrigation services to the surrounding community throughout the duration of the project.