Army awards $95 million contract for waterway, lake projects in Alabama, Mississippi

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has officially awarded a major $95 million contract to an Oklahoma-based firm to manage and maintain vital waterway infrastructure across Alabama and Mississippi. R & D Maintenance Services Inc. has been tapped to oversee the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and the Okatibbee Lake projects, with their responsibilities running through May 31, 2031, according to a May 20 notice from the Pentagon.

Extensive Maintenance Scope

The scope of work for this contract is comprehensive. R & D Maintenance Services Inc. will handle necessary repairs and general upkeep for project structures, buildings, locks, dams, and associated mechanical systems. As noted in government documentation, the services provided will range from specialized trade work like carpentry, masonry, electrical, and welding to routine site management, including mowing, debris removal, and custodial services.

A Vital Connection: The Tenn-Tom

The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway—frequently referred to as the “Tenn-Tom”—is a massive 234-mile infrastructure project stretching from Yellow Creek Port near Pickwick Lake in Mississippi down to Demopolis, Alabama. This vital shipping lane serves as a key route for inland U.S. travel to the Gulf of Mexico, featuring 10 locks and dams alongside 10 lakes. Beyond its navigation and wildlife mitigation utility, the area acts as a major recreational hub, attracting roughly 3 million visitors annually.

Okatibbee Lake Operations

In addition to the Tenn-Tom, the contractor will manage Okatibbee Lake. Located seven miles northwest of Meridian, Mississippi, the facility sits on Okatibbee Creek. While Congress originally authorized the 11,000-acre project in 1962 primarily for flood control, it has since become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy hunting, camping, fishing, and boating.