The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has chosen the AECOM-B&V Lakes and Rivers joint venture (JV) to renovate and modernise the water infrastructure in the country.

The contract will focus on delivering architectural and engineering services for projects in 17 states throughout the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division and across other locations.

The AECOM-B&V Lakes and Rivers JV is a partnership between infrastructure consultant AECOM and construction company Black & Veatch (BV).

This five-year, multiple-award contract is being funded by the US government's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

AECOM US West CEO Matt Crane said: “As the USACE seeks to reduce disaster risks and energise local economies, we’re proud to bring comprehensive expertise in sustainability and resiliency that meets its programme’s complex technical needs.

“Our team is excited by the opportunity to design innovative solutions that improve critical infrastructure and strengthen resilience for generations to come.”

Under this contract, projects will involve the redevelopment and modernisation of dams, levees, flood barriers, bridges, pump stations, motorways, canals, and other key infrastructure.

In addition, master planning, feasibility studies, site assessments, permits, environmental compliance, and concepts for design-bid-build and design-build developments are included in the scope of the contract.

Recovered and recycled materials, alternative energy sources, and waste reduction strategies are expected to be implemented in the projects to increase their respective susainablity credentials.

BV Special Projects Corp president and Federal Agencies segment leader Rick Kaiser said: “The joint venture will deliver sustainable, critical infrastructure that plays a crucial role in protecting the environment and improving lives in surrounding communities.”