The largest deep soil mixing flood protection project completed in the United States
Market
Civil & Marine
Key Services
Construction
Preconstruction
Self-Perform
Delivery Method
Early Contractor Involvement (ECI)The challenge
The project to reinforce a 5.3-mile levee in New Orleans to protect against 100-year floods presented several challenges. The fast-track Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) approach required timely and effective planning and coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and engineering consultants. Additionally, working within the environmentally sensitive Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge required implementing measures to ensure the protection of wildlife and the refuge’s integrity during construction.
Key Facts
5.3 miles of reinforced levee
1.8 million cubic yards of stabilized earth
$62 million in cost savings
Challenge met
Alberici closely collaborated with USACE and their engineering consultants during the design phase. Extensive constructability and value analysis, including soil validation and foundation analysis, helped devise a plan to use recycled deep soil mixing (DSM) spoils instead of off-site fill material to increase levee height. Reusing 350,000 cubic yards of DSM spoils resulted in cost savings of nearly $62 million.
To meet the aggressive schedule, Alberici continuously worked two shifts, placing up to 3,000 cubic yards of material daily. The construction required the installation of a 30-foot wide, six-mile road and a temporary floating bridge to ensure a steady flow of materials to the project site.
Throughout construction, Alberici prioritized the protection of the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. Preventive measures were implemented to ensure that wildlife and protected land were not harmed during the project.
By effectively managing the fast-track ECI process and leveraging DSM technology, Alberici successfully reinforced the levee, providing critical flood protection.
Recent Projects
Seabrook Floodgate Complex
Kings Bay Dry Dock Recapitalization Project
