(Omaha, NE) Stephens & Smith Construction Company broke new ground this spring when they built a utility vault at 16th & Farnam streets in Omaha.

“It was the first cast-in-place utility vault we’ve done,” Project Manager Steve Estep said. “It was unique. We were in downtown Omaha — across from the courthouse and in a really limited space — so it posed some challenges.”

The two-stage indoor-outdoor project with Whiting-Turner Contracting Co. included a 17-by-92-foot vault to hold four generators — with much of the work being done 12 feet below sidewalk level — and a fuel containment structure inside a nearby parking garage.

The outdoor section was the most complex part of the job, and was completed first, Estep said. 

“In some ways, it was pretty similar to containment structures we’ve done in the past,” he said. “The difference in the lid was that it had removal panels, so we had to be creative to ensure they fit and could be removed when needed.”

The project started in March and was supervised by Elson Ortiz. The indoor section of the work was wrapped up in June when employees finished concrete bollards to protect the fuel containment vault.

About Stephens & Smith Construction Company

Founded in 1971, Stephens & Smith Construction Company Inc. focuses on services in residential and commercial flatwork, foundations, decorative concrete, and specialty products.  The company’s reputation and credibility speaks for itself.  With over 45 years in business, they have grown exponentially over the years, due to their unique structure and approach to the company makeup.  Their reputation has been the very foundation of their expansion, along with the valuable employees that have joined the team along the way.  More information on the company’s notable achievements, services provided, and history can be seen on their website as well.  www.stephensandsmith.com