Dam Repairs Run Over-Budget

Case Overview

This case takes place in Arkansas and involves a rehabilitative construction project to repair and reinforce a dam that was responsible for controlling floodwaters in the surrounding area. The structure was built several decades ago in order to provide a 100-year level of flood protection. The dam consists of the embankment structure, principal spillway, and emergency spillway, which was constructed under the authority of the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act. The state has classified the damn as a high hazard dam. The defendant in this case was hired to do a number o hydrological improvements and repairs to the structure. Per the contract, there was an estimated cost that was agreed upon. Due to unforeseen issues with the project, the defendants incurred costs exceeding the original quote. Therefore, the attorney needs to have the dam inspected in order to justify his client’s excess cost.

Questions to the Engineering expert and their responses

Have you managed a construction/rehabilitative project to ensure a retaining structures integrity?

At NTH Consultants, my main role was project management, cost estimation and alternative evaluation. I was in charge of preparation for project plans and basis of design reports, preparation of proposals, budget, contract amendments, and change orders; preparation of design drawings, construction specifications, and contract documents; project cash flow analysis and budget evaluation; identification of funding sources and management of grants and loans; coordination with permitting authorities and other project stakeholders; and responding to contractor’s request for information and a review of shop drawings. I deal with all of these issues in my current role as well and I would be happy to help with this case.

Are you available to travel to Arizona to perform an inspection?

I would be happy to help with this case.

About the expert

This highly qualified registered Professional Engineer has extensive experience in national and international infrastructure experience. He holds masters degrees in Civil Engineering and Construction Engineering. His areas of expertise include construction engineering and management, civil engineering of streets, pathways, and walkways, geotechnical engineering, quality control and material testing, structural engineering and water/wastewater engineering. He is currently Founder & Manager of the American Society of Civil Engineers, as well as Principal Engineer at a major engineering company.

E-008893

Specialties:

Engineering