Based in California, the new team will focus on identifying and managing projects in the western United States. According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, rehabilitating dams across the US is estimated to cost $156 billion, with 90% of these dams being non-federal. Many were constructed in the 1960s and now require significant maintenance and upgrades.
“Dam safety risk assessment is an emerging field for GHD in the Americas, and our extensive global experience positions us well to meet this growing demand,” said Sadasivan. “Adapting existing dams to mixed-use reservoirs, including adding hydropower, flood mitigation, and dam removal, presents us with new opportunities for innovative solutions that we’ve built and proven for more than 90 years when GHD was founded.”
The newly formed team will feature industry experts, including Joe Kulikowski as US West Dams and Levees Practice Lead, and Dr. Soma Balachandran as US West Geotechnical Practice Lead.
Jonathan Pressdee, US Water Market Lead, added: “Our new team’s extensive experience and proven track record in the dams sector will be instrumental in achieving our growth objectives and enhancing our water service offerings in the Americas. Building this capability now in the US underscores our commitment to providing innovative and sustainable solutions to our clients.”
