The search is on as the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) released last Friday its Program Manager tender (request for proposal) for Canal expansion. The ACP is seeking a top-tier firm with a solid reputation in program management, and with experience working on various construction projects around the globe. The chosen firm will assist the ACP in the management of approximately 10 major contracts, interfacing with both design and construction teams.

The ACP Board of Directors approved the use of an integrated program management model, wherein the Authority will designate tasks between its own staff and the selected firm.

“The selection of a reputable and experienced Program Manager is an important component in the success of the waterway’s expansion,” said ACP Engineering and Programs Management Director Jorge L. Quijano. “We are looking to attract a firm with global reach and proven experience in providing proactive solutions as we move forward with the program.”

Expansion will build a new lane of traffic along the Panama Canal through the construction of a new set of locks, which will double its tonnage capacity and allow the passage of longer, wider and deeper draft vessels. The Program Manager will provide services that will include assisting the ACP in the integrated oversight and effective control of the following projects. The design and construction of the new Atlantic and Pacific Post-Panamax Locks. dredging (widening and deepening) of the Atlantic entrance channel. dredging of the Pacific entrance channel. The dry excavation of the access channel that connects the Gaillard Cut to the new Pacific Locks; dredging of the Gatun Lake channels; and, the further deepening of the Gaillard Cut, in addition to other improvements to existing Canal structures.

Information about this tender is now available through the ACP’s online bidding system (SLI), http://www.pancanal.com/esp/procsales/buy.html or via the ACP’s Web site at www.pancanal.com. Interested parties have 48 days from the tender release date for bid submissions.

About the Panama Canal Authority (ACP)

The ACP is the autonomous agency of the Government of Panama in charge of managing, operating and maintaining the Panama Canal. The operation of the ACP is based on its organic law and the regulations approved by its Board of Directors. For more information, please refer to the ACP’s Web site: www.pancanal.com.