ICE® at the Heart of Charleston’s Flood Solution
January 5, 2026
Downtown Charleston has always been defined by its history and its challenges with water. This is especially true at the intersection of Huger Street and King Street. Flooding has long been a disruptive force in the area, with rain events often leaving two to three feet of standing water in the corridor. To address this chronic issue, the city recently launched the Huger Street Pump Station Project; an ambitious stormwater drainage improvement effort with a price tag in the tens of millions. Now in its final phase, the station is expected to be completed by 2026 after an 18‑month build, and once operational, it will have the capacity to move an astonishing 70,000 gallons of water per minute, safeguarding homes, businesses, and traffic flow in one of Charleston's busiest areas.
To bring this vision to life, SJ Hamill Construction was selected as the prime contractor. Known for their expertise in heavy civil construction and ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects across the Southeast, SJ Hamill has built a reputation for precision and reliability. Collaborating closely with Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson engineers, the Charleston Housing Authority, and the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority, SJ Hamill's team is ensuring the new pump station blends seamlessly into Charleston's existing drainage network. With decades of experience and a proven track record in projects that demand both technical skill and community sensitivity, SJ Hamill is uniquely suited to lead this transformative effort.
One of the most critical steps in the build was the construction of a cofferdam, a temporary watertight enclosure that allowed crews to work below the waterline in dry conditions. By holding back groundwater and stormwater intrusion, the cofferdam created a safe, stable environment for excavation and foundation work. Inside this protected zone, International Construction Equipment (ICE®) played a vital role. The ICE® 33 Vibratory Hammer was chosen to drive the deep foundation piles and sheet piles that stabilize the pump station and form the retaining walls for stormwater storage. Outfitted with Hydrauli‑Flex™ hoses, the ICE® 33 delivered reliable hydraulic power while maintaining durability under demanding conditions. Vibratory hammers are especially valuable in urban environments like Charleston, where speed and reduced noise are essential to minimize disruption, and paired with the cofferdam, they ensured the structure could be built securely from the ground up.
As the Huger Street Pump Station rises, gratitude flows from both the city and International Construction Equipment. For Charleston residents, the project promises relief from years of flooding frustrations and renewed confidence in their infrastructure. For ICE®, it is a privilege to support SJ Hamill Construction with equipment that helps turn engineering plans into lasting resilience. Together, this skilled contractor and supplier are laying the foundation for more than flood protection; they're giving Charleston's residents the confidence that their city can thrive, rain or shine. Excellent work, to all involved!
Learn more about the ICE® 33
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Media Contact-
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA
Vice President
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc
The Hose Company
Office - 704-821-8200
Email - marketing@iceusa.com / info@hydraulichose.com


