The Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently awarded a $10 million contract for articulated concrete mattress (ACM) casting at Richardson Landing Casting Field to Mississippi Limestone Corporation from Friars Point, Mississippi.
ACM is described as a sort of concrete carpet that is laid on the bottom of the Mississippi River to form a protective overcoat. This overcoat then provides shielding from erosion and sloughing caused by channel currents and turbulent water associated with river flood stages.
This contract is vital to the Mississippi River Channel Improvement Program as the casted concrete squares of ACM are supplied to the Corps’ Mat Sinking Unit for placement at various locations along the Mississippi River.
This part of the revetment program aims to promote a safe and reliable navigation channel. It also plays a role in flood risk management in the Mississippi River and Tributaries (MR&T) system.
This contract was awarded on time despite the ongoing logistical challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and employees having to work remotely from home.