Atkins designs flood control solutions to protect northern Nevada from future damage

To reduce potential damage from a 100-year flood event, Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, is providing engineering and economic analysis services for the Truckee River Flood Management Project in Nevada. The company was awarded a $3.2 million design contract, which marks the first phase of the project and is considered the most critical phase. With the overall Truckee River project estimated at more than $400 million, Atkins has an initial part in the largest locally sponsored public works project to date in northern Nevada. SNC-Lavalin acquired WS Atkins plc on July 3, 2017.

“We have to proactively address the future flood impacts to our community, and we need help from seasoned experts to do it,” said Jay Aldean, Executive Director, Truckee River Flood Management Authority (TRFMA). “Atkins offers us their knowledge of modeling, flood control channel operations, geotechnical analysis and design, and a proven track record of success in Washoe County and the surrounding area.”

Historically, Truckee River flooding has caused significant damage and disruption within the Truckee Meadows. The Vista Narrows portion of the river, which cuts sharply through mountains and hills, is notorious for hindering water flow and causing backups that flood nearby communities and large industrial areas.

“Addressing the Vista Narrows portion of the Truckee River is the most critical element in lowering current flood elevations,” said Brian Janes, Project Manager in SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business, who has 20 years of experience working in Truckee Meadows. “We have worked on assignments for the Truckee River Flood Control project since its inception shortly after the area’s 1997 flood event, and our extensive area knowledge will help advance the community’s resilience in flood protection.”

Atkins’ initial design focus on river terracing, levees and floodwalls for Vista Narrows will help minimize the levee and floodwall heights needed for other portions of the project. TRFMA is hoping that successful flood control measures will result in additional water-related recreational opportunities and restore a healthier ecosystem for up to 50 miles of the river, from the Reno-Sparks area to Pyramid Lake.