Stabilizing commercial navigation channels, controlling river flow velocities, and preventing bank erosion along the Lower Columbia River, Big River Construction Inc. has been awarded an $18,499,000 firm-fixed-price contract. The civil works award finances comprehensive structural repairs to the Miller-Rice Pile Dike System in Cathlamet, Washington.
Contract Details: At A Glance
| Contractor: | Big River Construction Inc. |
| Award Date: | August 21, 2026 |
| Contract Value: | $18,499,000 |
| Project: | Miller-Rice Pile Dike System Repairs |
| Location: | Cathlamet, Washington (Lower Columbia River) |
| Contract Number: | W9127N-26-C-A031 |
| Awarding District: | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District |
District Context & Mission Impact
This essential river training structure repair project is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Portland District. The Portland District manages multi-purpose dams, ecosystem restoration, and deep-draft navigation maintenance along the Columbia and Willamette rivers. The Columbia River Federal Navigation Channel supports billions of dollars in commercial trade annually, serving as a primary Pacific Northwest export corridor for grain, timber, and manufactured goods. Pile dikes are permeable timber and rock training structures extending into the river current that direct water flow into the main navigation channel. Redirecting flow momentum naturally scours bed sediment, reduces maintenance dredging requirements, and protects riverbanks against severe erosion. Restoring the damaged Miller-Rice pile dike system ensures structural integrity, preserves navigation channel depth, and maintains safe commercial vessel passage through 2029.
Contractor Spotlight & Industry Context
Based in Astoria, Oregon, Big River Construction Inc. is an experienced Pacific Northwest heavy civil and marine contractor specializing in pile driving, river training structures, bridge construction, and coastal infrastructure. Bids were solicited via the internet with four competitive proposals received. Repairing pile dike structures within the heavy current and tidally influenced waters of the Lower Columbia River requires specialized barge-mounted crane equipment, timber pile driving, enrockment placement, and strict compliance with seasonal fish protection windows. Public-private partnerships in river structure maintenance remain fundamental to keeping Pacific Northwest maritime trade routes open and self-sustaining.
