NORFOLK-HAMPTON ROADS, Virginia — Port Muskogee has contracted engineering, construction and architecture firm Burns & McDonnell as design lead for the port’s waterfront and recovery resiliency project. This project will provide updated waterfront infrastructure, addressing damage previously sustained by the port during a 2019 flood.

The work comes after Port Muskogee contracted with Burns & McDonnell in February 2021 to carry out a comprehensive infrastructure assessment and resiliency study, examine flood mitigation measures and create a strategic plan to help the port prioritize improvements. In addition, Burns & McDonnell worked with Port Muskogee to identify and develop grant applications to aid in funding the upcoming critical improvements. The port was awarded a $23.9 million Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

"The McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) is a vital artery of commerce for our state, and it is imperative that we have the necessary infrastructure to support the movement of goods and products along it, ensuring Port Muskogee remains a top-tier logistics hub for decades to come,” says Kimbra Scott, port director. “We are pleased to be working with the Burns & McDonnell team to update our waterfront infrastructure, which is critical for our ability to remain competitive in attracting and retaining industry, promoting sustained industrial development, and positively impacting Muskogee and the surrounding communities. This investment not only enhances the safety and efficiency but by modernizing our port facilities, we create opportunities for new investment and jobs, which strengthens our local economy.”

Port Muskogee anticipates completion of the waterfront infrastructure updates in 2026. These include a wharf replacement, dockside rail replacement and the installation of a new heavy lift dock and warehouse.

“Our team is thrilled to have been awarded this design contract by Port Muskogee,” says Scott Chewning, transportation project manager for Burns & McDonnell. “These waterfront infrastructure updates are crucial to the sustainability and continued growth of the port and we are proud to help bring their strategic plan to fruition alongside the Port Muskogee team.”

Learn more about previous work by Burns & McDonnell with the port.

About Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of more than 13,500 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from 70 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned. Learn how we are designed to build.