Walla Walla District Dworshak Unit 4

Quick Summary

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Walla Walla District has issued a Special Notice announcing an Industry Day for the planned expansion of the Dworshak Dam Powerhouse in Ahsahka, ID. This initiative involves installing a fourth generating unit (Main Unit 4) and extending the powerhouse structure. The purpose is to gather industry feedback and share preliminary acquisition strategies for this significant hydroelectric project. One-on-one sessions are scheduled for May 4-5, 2026, with registration and Project Labor Agreement (PLA) feedback due by April 28, 2026.

Purpose & Project Overview

The Walla Walla District, in collaboration with the Hydroelectric Design Center, is developing multiple acquisitions to expand the Dworshak Dam Powerhouse's generation capability. The project entails the installation of a 300MW Main Unit 4 and associated powerhouse extension. On-site construction is estimated to commence in June 2028.

Industry Engagement & One-on-One Sessions

Virtual one-on-one sessions will be held on May 4-5, 2026, with May 11, 2026, reserved for overflow. These sessions aim to inform industry about government requirements and acquisition strategy, and to solicit feedback. Each company will receive a one-hour slot, limited to three representatives. Marketing/capability briefings are not permitted.

To participate, companies must register by April 28, 2026, by emailing jani.c.long@usace.army.mil and Leanne.r.walling@usace.army.mil. The email should include company name, attendee names, contact numbers, and email addresses, with the subject line "Company Name – Industry Day Attendees." Advance questions can also be submitted by the same deadline.

Scope of Future Work (Firm Fixed-Price Procurement)

The Government anticipates a single, firm fixed-price procurement covering:

• Powerhouse Building Extension and Site Development: Design and construction of substructure and building envelope.
• Turbine-Generator: Design, supply, installation, and commissioning of a ~300MW hydroelectric generator.
• Balance of Plant: Design and construction of auxiliary mechanical and electrical systems.

Key Challenges & Considerations

The project presents several challenges, including extending the existing powerhouse configuration while maintaining ongoing operations, limited on-site space for contractor operations, potential transportation limitations for large equipment, and the need for critical environmental controls due to work in/near water. Coordination with other on-site contractors will also be required.

Information Sought from Industry

The Government is seeking industry input on various aspects, including recommendations for successful Design-Build contract execution, risk mitigation strategies, cost minimization for tiered markups, long-lead items, optimal proposal duration, interest in stipends, and the utility of providing a Revit model. Specific questions are also posed regarding design processes, powerhouse extension, turbine-generator specifics, and balance of plant considerations.

Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Feedback

Industry is requested to provide written feedback on the potential use of a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) by April 28, 2026, to leanne.r.walling@usace.army.mil. This includes questions on local PLA knowledge, skilled labor shortages, time-sensitive issues, and the potential cost impacts of a PLA.

Attachments

Attachment A.pdf provides critical spatial and dimensional data, likely a technical drawing, relevant for planning and cost estimation.

Timeline & Contacts

• Registration & PLA Feedback Due: April 28, 2026
• One-on-One Sessions: May 4-5, 2026 (overflow May 11, 2026)
• Estimated On-site Construction Start: June 2028
• 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)