Congratulations to the GEC team for all of their hard work on this project!
GEC was selected by ACEC-L for an Engineering Excellence Award for the design of the Palmisano Boulevard Improvements project in Chalmette, Louisiana, which improved the drainage system and provided a cost-effective design of a multi-use path without acquiring additional right-of-way. The drainage improvements provide protection under the 100-year flood guidelines for the area surrounding Palmisano Blvd., which had been impacted by drainage problems following Hurricane Katrina.
For this HMGP-funded project, GEC provided project management services associated with the design and construction of drainage repairs and improvements, including increased drainage station pumping capacity. The purpose of this project is to relieve an area approximately 100 acres in size from recurrent ponding during normal rainfall events. Improvements included upgrading the existing pump station to 30,000 GPM drainage pump station, installation of 4,400 l.f. of 1×6 box culverts, and re-shaping 1,800 l.f. of existing ditch.
GEC also designed a shared use trail along Palmisano Blvd. from St. Bernard Highway to Karen Street, which establishes a vital link between Val Reiss Park, located near the 40 Arpent Canal, and the proposed Mississippi River Trail as envisioned in the Bikeway and Pedestrian Plan adopted by St. Bernard Parish Government. The 10 ft. wide concrete multi-purpose trail (bike/pedestrian) provides beautification, accessibility, mobility, and safety, as well as improved access to area facilities for all residents. It also provides improved access to Chalmette High School and the Parish Library.
GEC’s Project Manager, Mike Hattaway, is proud of the work his team has done. “GEC is pleased to accept this award for our work on the Palmisano Boulevard project. The citizens of Chalmette can rest assured that the improvements made to the drainage system will resolve recurrent ponding issues that have plagued the city for years.”