2024 is off to a successful start! Three Keller projects received ACEC of Idaho Engineering Excellence Awards. These awards are given to firms that demonstrate an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. It is an honor when the hard work of so many team members receives such high accolades. Find out more about Keller’s ACEC 2024 award-winning projects below.
Lewiston Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements
1st in Water and Stormwater
Originally constructed in 1958, the City of Lewiston’s wastewater treatment plant has undergone periodic upgrades to improve treatment levels, expand capacity, and achieve permit requirements to comply with the Clean Water Act. Despite these efforts, a major overhaul of the entire plant was needed. Using innovative design approaches while facing COVID-19 challenges, nearly every portion of the City’s wastewater treatment plant was upgraded with cost-effective, operator-friendly improvements that allow the City to be better equipped to meet state and federal requirements, improve resiliency, and save sewer utility users money in annual operating costs.
Whistle Pig Tank
1st in Water Resources
To support the growing demands of the South Ada County service area, a new water storage tank was needed that would provide emergency and fire protection as well as operational and peaking storage. Working with Veolia Water Idaho, Keller designed the 2.65-million-gallon prestressed concrete Whistle Pig Tank, a fully buried tank that was constructed within a steep hillside to minimize visibility and impact on the existing Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey site. In addition to the tank, the project included a pressure-reducing station, control building, overflow pond, and site improvements.
Orchard Combat Training Center Railroad Tracks Addition
2nd in Transportation
The Orchard Combat Training Center Railroad Tracks Addition Project, completed by Keller, has transformed military logistics in Idaho. This $30M initiative was completed within budget and on schedule. It doubled rail capacity at the training center, which was crucial for the Idaho National Guard and Army Reserve. Featuring 11 unloading spurs, redundant rail access, and 21 acres of concrete pavement, the project ensures efficient transport of combat vehicles and equipment. Its innovative design and construction overcame COVID-19 challenges, showcasing technical excellence and commitment to preparing troops for combat. This accomplishment marks a significant leap in military training infrastructure.
