Hendrickson Transportation awarded $12.8 million for critical flood diversion project
Fargo, North Dakota – Hendrickson Transportation, LLC, has been granted a $12.8 million contract to undertake a crucial part of the FM Flood Diversion project, valued at $3.2 billion. This project aims to bolster flood defenses for the communities of Oxbow, Hickson, and Bakke, providing them with a new layer of protection against the devastating impacts of spring floodwaters.
Amy Dessner, a civil engineer and the technical lead with the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlighted the importance of this initiative. She explained, “This ring levee will protect these three communities from the project when it’s operating. So, instead of having to relocate the residents in these communities, the ring levee serves the purpose of protecting them from the risk of flooding during an event in which the project would operate.” This statement underscores the levee’s role in safeguarding the residents without the need for relocating them, marking a strategic approach to managing flood risks.
Located in the upstream staging area of the diversion, the Oxbow-Hickson-Bakke Ring Levee represents the final phase of construction for this expansive flood diversion effort. The commencement of construction is eagerly awaited, with plans to begin as soon as the weather permits. The project’s completion is anticipated in early 2025, marking a significant milestone in the region’s flood management and protection strategy.
This initiative reflects a proactive approach to flood prevention, aiming to mitigate the effects of flooding on these communities through strategic infrastructure development. The residents of Oxbow, Hickson, and Bakke can look forward to enhanced protection and peace of mind as this critical project moves forward.
