Completing renovations on the Mississippi’s largest lock & dam during an immovable 90-day closure
Market
Civil & Marine
Key Services
Construction
Preconstruction
Self-Perform
Virtual Design & Construction
Delivery Method
General Contracting (GC)Self Perform %
65Work Hours
40,000The challenge
Alberici faced a multifaceted challenge in the major alterations of two overlook buildings at Melvin Price Locks & Dam. The project, set within a tight three-month winter lock closure window, involved renovating reinforced concrete buildings situated above critical lift gate machinery. The intricate design required shifting the building face back by 4.5 feet, enabling the removal and replacement of newly fabricated lift gates. The logistical challenge was compounded by the site’s location, 14.5 feet above the lock wall, demanding careful demolition and reconstruction amid severe access restrictions. The need to protect the sensitive machinery added complexity, requiring innovative solutions for structural support during demolition.
Key Facts
Keystone Award Winner, Associated General Contractors of Missouri
Planning started more than a year before construction to ensure all materials and processes were in place
SLC3 Best Practices Award Winner, Materials Management
Challenge met
Alberici addressed the complexities by designing and implementing a comprehensive solution. A temporary shoring system was devised to support the structures during demolition, optimizing the reuse of existing reinforcing steel. Working primarily from barge-based floating plants due to access restrictions, Alberici meticulously executed significant concrete demolition, removal, and relocation of columns, beams, slabs, and walls. The project seamlessly integrated removal and replacement of lift gates, a historic first for the 34-year-old lock complex. Beyond structural intricacies, Alberici delivered building fit-out, low voltage electrical and HVAC system renovations, and upgrades to the medium voltage power distribution. The result was a successful overhaul within the challenging constraints, demonstrating Alberici’s capacity for innovation in intricate and critical infrastructure projects.
Recent Projects
Seabrook Floodgate Complex
Kings Bay Dry Dock Recapitalization Project
