News Release Archive

Reclamation Awards $4.5 Million Construction Contract For Hungry Horse Dam Life Safety Improvements

Media Contact: John Redding, (208) 378-5212, jredding@pn.usbr.gov
Ralph Carter, rcarter@pn.usbr.gov

For Release: December 03, 2004

The Bureau of Reclamation awarded a $4.5 million construction contract to improve the life safety features at Hungry Horse Dam and Powerplant located on the South Fork of Flathead River, about 20 miles northeast of Kalispell, Montana, according to Reclamation Commissioner John Keys.

James Talcott Construction, Inc., of Great Falls, Montana, was awarded the contract on November 24.

"Our number one priority has always been safety for our employees and the public," Commissioner Keys said. "This fire protection renovation is long overdue and is designed to create secure places and escape routes in the event of a serious fire."

The contractor will create exit areas and safety egress locations to escape smoke and fire. The work involves installation of fire safety equipment, updated windows, new alarms and emergency response capability.

"In the unlikely event of a fire, our employees and visitors will be quickly isolated from the dangers brought on by smoke and fire," Commissioner Keys said. "This work is long overdue and we're happy that it is now under way."

Construction involves asbestos removal, construction of exterior reinforced concrete stair enclosure, and structural framing. Fire-rated doors, smoke dampers, and a fire suppression system are also part of the renovation effort.

Work will start in early December and continue through 2006.

Hungry Horse Dam and Powerplant was completed in 1953 and serves as a multipurpose facility that provides for flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreation opportunities in the Pacific Northwest.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.