Delivering MSD’s first ever Design-Build project while overcoming record flooding
Market
Civil & Marine
Water
Key Services
Construction
Self-Perform
Delivery Method
Design-Build (DB)The challenge
Upgrading key components of the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District’s aging flood control and storm sewer system presented several challenges. The facilities’ critical role in protecting the St. Louis metropolitan area from flooding and regulating the extensive storm sewer system made it crucial to maintain a strict schedule despite the complexity of the project. Additionally, the project faced the obstacle of high and sustained flooding along the Mississippi River, posing risks to construction and progress.
Key Facts
Three sites
Nine roller gates
Eight shutter gates
Challenge met
To address the challenges, Alberici collaborated with MSD and design partners to develop innovative solutions. These innovations improved schedule performance and system functionality without increasing overall costs. Despite the unprecedented levels of flooding, Alberici implemented various construction techniques to keep the project on track.
One key innovation was the use of a movable cofferdam solution with temporary overhead hoists, which allowed construction to continue during high-water events. To navigate the near-record flood stages, Alberici utilized divers to move the diversion structure sequentially between each gate and securely secure it underwater.
Through meticulous planning, innovative strategies, and a track record of success in complex water and wastewater projects, Alberici managed to maintain a safe and on-schedule execution of the upgrades to MSD’s flood control and storm sewer system. This successful collaboration enabled the district to enhance its critical infrastructure while effectively protecting the St. Louis area from potential flooding risks.
Recent Projects
Seabrook Floodgate Complex
Kings Bay Dry Dock Recapitalization Project
