Major infrastructure upgrade aims to strengthen flood protection and dam safety in Washington State.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Seattle District, has awarded a $691 million construction contract to a joint venture formed by FlatironDragados and Aecon Group for major upgrades to the Howard Hanson Dam in the United States.
The project represents a significant investment in flood risk management and infrastructure resilience in Washington, where the dam plays a critical role in protecting downstream communities and infrastructure.
Key Flood Protection Infrastructure
Located on the Green River in western Washington, the Howard Hanson Dam is an essential component of the region’s flood control system. It helps regulate river flow and reduce flood risks for several cities in the Green River Valley.
The new contract will focus on modernizing and strengthening the dam’s infrastructure, ensuring it continues to provide reliable flood protection and water management for decades to come.
The work will include improvements designed to increase the dam’s structural safety and operational performance, particularly during extreme weather events and heavy rainfall.
Major Joint Venture Project
The contract was awarded to the FlatironDragados–Aecon joint venture, combining the expertise of two major infrastructure companies.
- FlatironDragados, a leading North American construction firm specializing in large-scale civil infrastructure projects
- Aecon Group, a Canadian construction and engineering company with extensive experience in heavy civil and dam construction
Together, the companies will deliver the complex engineering and construction work required for the dam upgrades.
Long-Term Regional Impact
The Howard Hanson Dam plays a vital role in protecting communities in the Green River basin, including areas near Seattle and Tacoma.
Upgrading the facility will help ensure that the dam continues to manage floodwaters effectively, safeguarding homes, transportation networks and economic activity across the region.
The project is part of broader efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to modernize aging infrastructure and strengthen the United States’ flood control systems.
