The contract involves investigation, evaluation, and seismic safety improvement design for the main and auxiliary earth embankment dams, which have been identified as being ‘seismically and hydrologically deficient’ against current standards. A significant seepage hazard presents further increased risk at the site.
URS undertook previous safety evaluations of the dams on behalf of the Corps. In a statement, it said that the new engagement includes investigation and engineering analyses plus development of the required retrofit designs to meet seismic and hydrological requirements.
Remedial construction work at the dams is scheduled to start in 2011, and the contract also includes provision of services during those works. The construction phase is due to be completed by 2015.
The Lake Isabella dams are sited o the Kern river, in Kern County, California, and serve flood control, water storage and hydropower needs.
