CS4B - Concurrent Session 04B: Muskingum River Dam Replacement: Construction Manager at Risk Approach at McConnelsville

Abstract Description: The McConnelsville Dam replacement project, led by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Engineering, addresses critical dam infrastructure needs. The dam is located on the Muskingum River, a tributary of the Ohio River and part of the largest watershed in Ohio. The river has played a significant role in Ohio's history and economic development, as it was an important commercial route in the 19th century. Today, the Muskingum River Parkway is state park comprised of ten locks and dams, allowing boats to safely travel on the Muskingum River from Zanesville south to the Ohio River at Marietta. The river system was originally part of the Ohio Canal system, considered an engineering marvel of its time and one of the only remaining hand operated lock systems in the nation. The existing Class II dam at McConnelsville had exceeded its design life and was in poor condition, necessitating a comprehensive replacement.

ODNR selected Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) as the delivery method for the project. The CMR method fostered a collaborative environment where the project team could work together to achieve the project goals. Working with the Engineer of Record, Michael Baker International, The Ruhlin Company, serving as the CMR, was involved from the early design phase through to the completion of construction.. The success of the McConnelsville Dam replacement project underscores the effectiveness of the CMR approach in managing complex construction projects and delivering exceptional results.

The technical paper will focus on the following:

1. Project

Overview: Describe the McConnelsville Dam replacement project, including its scope and objectives.
2. CMR Role: Explain the role of the Construction Manager at Risk in this project, highlighting how this approach benefited the project in terms of risk management, cost control, and schedule adherence.
3. Challenges and Solutions: Discuss any unique challenges faced during the project and how the CMR approach helped address these issues.
4. Outcomes and Benefits: We will highlight the achieved outcomes of using the CMR method for this project, such as improved constructability, efficiency, reduced risks, and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders.
5. Ohio Resources: Provide a background on resources for administering Ohio based CMR projects, including the standard documents and forms provided by the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC).

The lessons learned and best practices from this project can be applied to similar projects, contributing to the advancement of dam infrastructure management and construction.