Projects

HANSEN DAM SWIM LAKE

HANSEN DAM SWIM LAKE

Los Angeles, CA

This fast-track, critical need contract called for redesign, repair and reconstruction of broken pipes in the water filtration system of the Hansen Dam Swim Lake in Lake View Terrace, California. The manmade lake is one of the few recreational areas available to residents of the northeast San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County.

This difficult project required that Stronghold negotiate, design, demo, reconstruct and fill a 1.5 acre swimming pool in under 90 days to meet the deadline of July 4, 2002. The lake is approximately 460’x150′ and can accommodate up to 2,800 people. Scope of work included damage assessment; hydrostatic testing of existing piping; complete demolition of existing concrete bottom and sidewalks along with all associated piping; complete design process for reconstruction; replacement of pipes and construction of a new watertight concrete bottom; 2,060 cubic yards of concrete; piping/mechanical system consisting of 7,000 linear feet of PVC piping fusion welded using PVC solvents; and installation of a Perforated Sub-Drain System embedded in 4,500 tons of drain rock as a preventive measure against future damage or cracking of the lake.

Safety and security barriers were established to prevent the entrance of unauthorized personnel. An accelerated work schedule consisting of 14-hour days, 7 days a week, and increasing to up to 20 hours per day nearing conclusion resulted in the project’s completion ahead of schedule. A tailored quality control plan with three phases of control methodology helped ensure performance of quality work that met contract plans, regulations and specifications. In addition, mechanical and electrical system testing and performance verification assured quality results.

WHAT THEY SAY

“This was without a doubt a very difficult project from start to finish from the perspective of requiring design, forensic studies, and a very challenging design and construction schedule to meet our customer’s expectations and in a very politically sensitive environment. Stronghold Engineering stepped up to the plate, accepted the challenge, and provided the attention and resources required to design and construct the needed repairs and have the swim lake available to the public for the Fourth of July holiday.”

Richard G. Thompson, Colonel, Corps of Engineers, District Engineer