Fort Laramie Canal Tunnels 1 & 2

The Fort Laramie Canal Tunnel Reconstruction project involves the rehabilitation of Tunnels 1 and 2, including the inlet and outlet portals, which convey 1,532 cubic feet per second of irrigation water. The work must be carefully timed to avoid disrupting the irrigation season and affecting over 105,000 acres of farmland. Atkinson was selected as the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) at the 30% design stage to provide constructibility input, value engineering (VE), risk analysis, and cost management. Through VE efforts, Atkinson recommended switching from a sequential excavation method (SEM) to an open-face shielded excavation machine with pre-cast concrete tunnel liners (PCTL), which will reduce costs, improve quality, and minimize risks. The design is nearing the 60% milestone, after which Atkinson will submit a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) proposal. As CMAR, Atkinson will also have the opportunity to bid on various work packages, including tunnel construction and pre-excavation grouting. Subcontractors will be used for major tasks such as earthwork, soil nail installation, and demolition of the existing portals. The project, valued at $88 million, is expected to be completed by 2028.