Alvin Bush Dam Rock Wall Stabilization Project

Background
The Alvin Bush Dam Rock Wall Stabilization Project is initiated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, as part of their mission to maintain and operate critical infrastructure. The project aims to address significant erosion issues at the Alvin Bush Dam located on Kettle Creek in Clinton County, Pennsylvania.

The dam, operational since 1962, is crucial for flood control and water management within the Susquehanna River Basin. Recent policy changes regarding Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) have prompted the Baltimore District to conduct market research to evaluate the potential impact of these agreements on competition and pricing for this project.

Work Details
The main feature of work includes the installation of anchored, reinforced concrete liner walls against exposed rock faces at both the spillway and outlet channel of the dam. This will protect weak rock from weathering and stabilize localized areas.

Key tasks include:
- Rock excavation using line drilling with 3-inch diameter holes at a maximum spacing of 6 inches along the new wall alignment.
- Installation of high-strength all-thread anchor bars with double-corrosion protection to enhance stability.
- Drilling anchor holes normal to the slope/wall at a downward 4:1 batter, with a minimum diameter of 4-1/2 inches.
- Pressure testing and pre-grouting anchor holes for watertightness before installation.
- Single-stage grouting and tensioning of anchors post-installation.

Additional features include constructing a new concrete ditch along the state roadway, installing a new concrete headwall for an existing pipe, creating a permanent access road into the spillway, and building stairs and a ladder for safe access to the outlet channel.

Place of Performance
Clinton County, Pennsylvania, USA