Burgess & Niple (B&N) completed five design contracts for the West Columbus Local Protection Project (LPP). The West Columbus LPP was designed and constructed, over a ten-year period, to provide a seven-mile-long barrier around the historic Franklinton area just west of Downtown Columbus.

Aesthetic concerns shaped the design process. Portions of the concrete I-wall feature a textured surface and extensive landscape plantings that enhance the project’s appearance. Storm drainage behind the floodwall was rerouted and improved, and a bike trail provides recreational access to the downtown area along the Scioto River.

B&N also was responsible for preparing contract amendments, reviewing shop drawings, preparing contract modifications, site visits, and “as-built” drawings.

Key elements include:

• 12,500 ft. of concrete floodwall up to 13 feet high
• 5,200 ft. of earthen levee up to 12 feet high
• 6,500 ft. of high ground
• 3 stoplog gate closures with storage buildings
• 6 sandbag closures
• 5,100 ft. of 120-inch sanitary sewer
• 355 ft. of 14-foot-diameter tunnel

B&N received the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Ohio Grand Award for services on the West Columbus Local Protection Project, as well as the Commander’s Award for Public Service from the U.S. Department of the Army.