CH2M Hill selected as Programme Manager for expansion of Panama Canal

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has awarded CH2M HILL a programme management contract for the US$5.25 billion Panama Canal Expansion programme. Sub-contractors on the team include DHV Group, Grupo TYPSA, CSA Group, and Earth Consultants International.

"We are proud to contribute our global experience to help build not only one of the world's major infrastructure projects, but to build it in such a way as to leave a lasting legacy of sustainable socioeconomic growth and environmental responsibility," said Michael Kennedy, President of CH2M HILL Transportation Group. "We are thrilled to support Panama's incredible vision for its future."

The expansion project involves building a new set of massive locks on both the Atlantic and Pacific ends of the existing canal and will include substantial excavation and dredging.

The project schedule calls for the first 'Post Panamax' vessel to transit through the expanded canal in 2014, the 100th anniversary of the completion of the original canal.

A Post Panamax vessel is the term for ships that are larger than a Panamax and do not fit in the original canal.

After expansion, the Panama Canal is expected to be able to handle vessels up to 12000 TEU in size.

"The expansion of the Panama Canal is considered one the most visible and important infrastructure projects in the world, and will affect global commerce significantly over the next century," said Garry Higdem, CH2M HILL's lead executive for the Panama Canal programme.

The Programme Management function involves assisting the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) in the management of all contracts, interfacing with design build and construction teams, as well as numerous stakeholders.

"We are honoured to team with ACP in delivering this historic project for the citizens of Panama," said Jhan Schmitz, CH2M HILL's Program Manager for the Canal Expansion. "The key to this programme's success will be the effective coordination of a world-class multi-disciplinary team."