Dive Brief:
- The New Jersey Department of Property Management and Construction has awarded E.E. Cruz, a heavy civil construction contractor jointly owned by contractors Flatiron and Turner Construction, a $251 million contract as part of the Hudson River Resiliency Project.
- The project, overseen by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, aims to enhance flood protection in Hoboken, New Jersey, and surrounding communities, with a focus on storms, sea level rise and climate change, said Joe Sheehan, E.E. Cruz president.
- Construction will involve the installation of 9,600 linear feet of reinforced concrete floodwalls, 28 floodgates and landscaping modifications at Harborside Park along the Hudson River, according to the release.
Dive Insight:
The project is a crucial step toward safeguarding communities from the increasing threats posed by climate change, according to the release.
For example, Superstorm Sandy’s aftermath prompted the need for resiliency measures along the Hudson waterfront and the Meadowlands area, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy. That aligns with the growing resilience trend in infrastructure projects, as construction executives and owners increasingly emphasize the importance of flood mitigation.
Upon completion, the project will enhance community resiliency, alleviate public health risks and significantly reduce FEMA flood insurance rates by removing 80% of the city from flood zones. The project will also improve public access to the waterfront.
“We are excited for this opportunity to help protect Hoboken and parts of the surrounding communities in Weehawken and Jersey City and local residents,” said Sheehan. “This major flood protection project will address storm surges, rising sea level and the increasing effects of climate change as we work with clients, stakeholders and partners to enhance this vibrant community.”
The Hudson River project marks E.E. Cruz’s second major water resiliency project, according to the release. The contractor already worked on the $631 million North and West Battery Park City Resiliency project, alongside its joint venture partner Turner, earlier this year.
In addition to resiliency projects, E.E. Cruz is also delivering other high-profile projects through the New York metropolitan area. Those projects include the MTA Forsyth Street Emergency Ventilation Plant and the $138 million Bronx River Parkway Bridge Replacement.
