Walla Walla District Dworshak Unit 4

Quick Summary

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Walla Walla District, is hosting an Industry Day for the Dworshak Unit 4 project in Ahsahka, ID. This initiative aims to expand the Dworshak Dam Powerhouse by installing a fourth generating unit (Main Unit 4) and associated structures. The event includes one-on-one sessions to gather industry feedback on requirements, acquisition strategy, and Project Labor Agreement (PLA) considerations. Registration for one-on-one sessions and submission of PLA questions are due by April 28, 2026.

Purpose of Industry Day

This Special Notice announces an Industry Day with virtual one-on-one sessions on May 4-5, 2026, and May 11, 2026. The USACE Walla Walla District and Hydroelectric Design Center will share preliminary acquisition strategy and requirements, seeking industry feedback. Each company will receive a one-hour session, limited to three attendees, focusing on specific feedback rather than marketing briefings.

Anticipated Scope of Work

The Government intends a single, firm fixed-price Design-Build procurement for:

• Powerhouse Building Extension and Site Development: Design and construction of site preparation, powerhouse substructure, and functional building envelope.
• Turbine-Generator: Design, supply, installation, and commissioning of a hydroelectric generator (approx. 300MW).
• Balance of Plant: Design and construction of auxiliary mechanical and electrical systems. On-site construction is estimated to begin in June 2028.

Key Challenges & Considerations

The project involves extending an existing powerhouse while it remains operational, requiring minimal disruption. Site constraints include limited space for operations, a single access road, and the need for remote staging. Work will occur near or in water, necessitating strict environmental controls. Coordination with other potential prime contractors will be required. Attachment A provides critical spatial and dimensional data, including overhead lines and sloped terrain, relevant for site planning and clearance.

Information Sought from Industry

The Government is seeking feedback on various aspects, including:

• General: Recommendations for Design-Build success, risk mitigation, cost reduction strategies, long-lead items, and contracting considerations (e.g., NAICS codes, proposal time, stipend).
• Design Process: Structure of post-award design/review, division of scope for fast-tracking.
• Powerhouse Extension & Site Work: Advantages of developing unused skeleton bays, major temporary features, 500kV line outage requirements, and material delivery methods.
• Turbine-Generator: Design package submittals, experience with Francis turbine runners and 300MW generators, cost optimization, and OEM participation encouragement.
• Balance of Plant: Experience in operating power generation facilities, installing similar equipment, managing remote workforces, and GSU transformer transportation/permitting.

Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Feedback

Industry is requested to provide written responses to specific questions regarding the potential use and impact of a PLA on this project. This includes knowledge of local PLA use, skilled labor shortages, time-sensitive issues, how a PLA would affect economy and efficiency, intent to bid with/without a PLA, and potential cost impacts. Supporting documentation and project data from the last 2-5 years are also requested.

Key Dates & Contacts

• One-on-One Session Registration & PLA Questions Due: April 28, 2026
• Virtual One-on-One Sessions: May 4-5, 2026, and May 11, 2026
• Primary Contact: LeAnne R. Walling (leanne.r.walling@usace.army.mil, 509-527-7230)
• Secondary Contact: Jani C Long (jani.c.long@usace.army.mil, 509-527-7209)