Flatiron has significantly expanded its presence in the resiliency market in the US, with the award of two major projects in Virginia and Texas valued at approximately $350 million, complementing ongoing initiatives in New York and New Jersey.
The City of Virginia Beach engaged Flatiron under a progressive design-build methodology, initially estimated to cost between $225 million and $275 million. In Texas, Flatiron will work with the Army Corp of Engineers to deliver upgrades to three pump stations in Port Arthur.
Viriginia Beach Resiliency Project - About it
The City of Virginia Beach has chosen Flatiron, in collaboration with sub-consultant designer Arcadis, for the initial phase of the progressive design-build resiliency project.
The progressive design-build approach is a two-stage procurement process that enables early contractor involvement (ECI), allowing the contractor to collaborate with the client in refining design and specifications before submitting a final bid for project delivery. Upon completion of stage one, the parties execute a new agreement for the construction phase.
This method is particularly suited for complex projects, where the contractor’s expertise can significantly contribute to design development and de-risk project delivery.
Working closely with the City of Virginia Beach and other stakeholders, the Flatiron team will aim to address project risks and formulate a cost-effective design and construction schedule.
Suggested Reading: What is Early Contractor Involvement? (And How It Works)
Viriginia Beach Resiliency Project - Flatiron's Contract Details
Estimated to be valued between $225 million and $275 million – final figure to be obtained upon stage 1 of the progressive design-build contract – this initiative aims to enhance stormwater management, safeguard the freshwater supply, and alleviate prevalent flooding in Windsor Woods, Princess Anne Plaza, and The Lakes neighbourhoods.
The City of Virginia Beach has devised a comprehensive flood protection infrastructure program, with key components encompassing:
- water storage and drainage enhancements utilizing large pump stations,
- tide gates to reduce tidal impacts and flooding,
- and flood barriers, along with upgrades to the drainage channel.
The implementation of this program is designed to safeguard city assets and cater to the community’s needs for future generations.
Surge Protection Upgrades for the Army in Port Arthur Texas - Flatiron's contract details
The Army Corps of Engineers awarded Flatiron a $102 million contract for surge protection upgrades at three pump stations in Port Arthur, Texas. This initiative aims to enhance storm protection in a crucial energy-producing region, mitigating the impacts of storm surges and rising sea levels.
The project scope includes tasks such as:
- constructing earthen levees,
- replacing concrete flood walls,
- armouring levees,
- replacing a closure gate, and
- renewing roadways near pump stations.
Preliminary work is expected to commence in February. Flatiron has previously collaborated successfully with the Army Corps of Engineers, including safety improvements at Lake Isabella Dam in Central California.
