DHV wins Panama Canal expansion project
• US$5.25 billion to widen and deepen the Panama Canal
AMERSFOORT, Netherlands, Aug. 27, 2008 -- The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has commissioned the consortium of DHV, the Dutch consultancy and engineering group, together with its international partners CH2M HILL and Grupo TYPSA, to execute the program management connected to the expansion of the Panama Canal.
DHV is responsible for all maritime and lock constructions within the program management connected to the canals expansion; this includes the deepening and widening of the channels, reservoirs and the new and larger locks on both sides. Preliminary designs are currently being carried out by other parties. The canal has to be modified to allow the so-called Post Panamax ships through. These mega-tankers cannot make it through the current canal because they are wider and deeper than the waterway. The construction work has to be completed in 2014 and involves and investment of US$5.25 billion.
"This is one of the most prestigious waterwork projects in the world and, just like the flood barrier in St. Petersburg, it is one of the most visible hydraulic engineering projects," says Ben Reeskamp, DHVs program manager. The Netherlands is specialized in hydraulic engineering and has a lot of experience with large-scale international projects. Like the coastal protection projects in Indonesia, this is a mega-project to which DHV will be committed in the years to come.
On 15 Aug. 2014 the Panama Canal will celebrate its centenary. The goal is to have all construction work completed by that time, so that the first Post Panamax can sail through the renewed Panama Canal.
DHV is a leading international consultancy and engineering group which provides services and sustainable solutions for building and manufacturing, transportation, airports, spatial planning and environment, and water markets.
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