Army Awards $33.3M Dredging Contract to Weeks Marine, Inc. Under Full and Open Competition
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $33,294,270 ($33.3M)
Contractor: Weeks Marine, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2024-09-16
End Date: 2025-06-04
Contract Duration: 261 days
Daily Burn Rate: $127.6K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 3
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: Construction
Official Description: DREDGING
Place of Performance
Location: VENICE, PLAQUEMINES County, LOUISIANA, 70091
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $33.3 million to WEEKS MARINE, INC. for work described as: DREDGING Key points: 1. Significant investment in critical infrastructure maintenance. 2. Weeks Marine, Inc. is a major player in the marine construction sector. 3. Potential for cost overruns or schedule delays in large construction projects. 4. Construction sector is subject to economic cycles and material cost fluctuations.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $33.3 million appears reasonable for a large-scale dredging project of this duration. Benchmarking against similar Army Corps of Engineers dredging contracts would provide a more precise assessment.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a robust process for price discovery and selection of the most advantageous offer. This method generally leads to more competitive pricing.
Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition aims to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently by securing the best possible price for the required services.
Public Impact
Ensures navigability of waterways, supporting commerce and transportation. Supports jobs in the construction and maritime industries. Contributes to the maintenance and improvement of vital federal infrastructure.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for unforeseen subsurface conditions impacting cost and schedule.
- Reliance on a single contractor for a critical infrastructure service.
- Fluctuations in fuel and material costs could affect firm fixed price.
Positive Signals
- Utilizes full and open competition, promoting efficiency.
- Clear contract award with defined start and end dates.
- Firm fixed price contract provides cost certainty.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the heavy and civil engineering construction sector, specifically focusing on dredging. Spending in this sector is often driven by infrastructure needs and environmental regulations. Benchmarks vary widely based on project scope and location.
Small Business Impact
While this contract was awarded through full and open competition, there is no specific indication of small business participation or subcontracting goals. Larger infrastructure projects often involve prime contractors who may or may not utilize small businesses for specialized services.
Oversight & Accountability
The Department of the Army is responsible for overseeing this contract. Standard oversight mechanisms for federal construction contracts, including progress monitoring and quality assurance, should be in place to ensure compliance and taxpayer value.
Related Government Programs
- Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Department of the Army Programs
Risk Flags
- Potential for unforeseen subsurface conditions.
- Schedule delays due to weather or environmental factors.
- Contractor performance history not detailed.
- Reliance on a single prime contractor for a large scope.
Tags
other-heavy-and-civil-engineering-constr, department-of-defense, la, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $33.3 million to WEEKS MARINE, INC.. DREDGING
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is WEEKS MARINE, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Army).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $33.3 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2024-09-16. End: 2025-06-04.
What specific waterways or areas will be dredged under this contract, and what is the expected impact on navigation and commerce?
The contract data does not specify the exact locations for dredging. However, dredging projects typically aim to deepen or widen channels to improve navigability for commercial vessels, reduce transit times, and enhance port accessibility. The impact on commerce can be substantial, facilitating trade and economic activity by ensuring efficient movement of goods.
What are the primary risks associated with this dredging project, and what mitigation strategies are in place?
Key risks include encountering unexpected subsurface obstructions (e.g., submerged debris, hard rock), adverse weather conditions delaying work, and potential environmental impacts requiring specific handling. Mitigation strategies often involve thorough site investigations prior to bidding, flexible scheduling to account for weather, and strict adherence to environmental permits and protocols.
How does the firm fixed price structure impact the government's exposure to cost overruns compared to other contract types?
A firm fixed price (FFP) contract shifts most of the cost risk to the contractor. Unlike cost-reimbursement contracts, the government pays a set price regardless of the contractor's actual costs. This provides strong cost certainty for the government, but it can lead to higher initial bid prices as contractors factor in potential risks and contingencies.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Construction › Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction › Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
Product/Service Code: CONSTRUCT OF STRUCTURES/FACILITIES › CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: SEALED BID
Solicitation ID: W912P824B0038
Offers Received: 3
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Kiewit-Turner a Joint Venture
Address: 304 GAILLE DR, COVINGTON, LA, 70433
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $39,844,270
Exercised Options: $33,294,270
Current Obligation: $33,294,270
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 3
Total Subaward Amount: $243,183
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2024-09-16
Current End Date: 2025-06-04
Potential End Date: 2025-06-04 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-09-08
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