A remarkable transformation is underway in the heart of Traverse City, Michigan, along the Boardman/Ottaway River. The Union Street FishPass project, a $20 million ecological and infrastructure initiative, is reshaping the riverfront and restoring vital aquatic connectivity between the river and Lake Michigan. This ambitious effort, scheduled for completion in 2027, marks the final chapter in a 20-year restoration journey. At its core, FishPass will replace the aging Union Street Dam with a state-of-the-art fish-sorting channel, one that allows native species to migrate upstream while blocking invasive ones like the destructive sea lamprey. 

The project's significance extends beyond environmental restoration. It will also create a vibrant public space featuring an amphitheater and educational facilities, turning a once-industrial corridor into a community centerpiece. But before that vision can be realized, a massive cofferdam must be constructed to isolate the work zone from the river's flow. That's where Hardman Construction comes in. 

Hardman Construction was chosen to lead this critical phase, and for good reason. With decades of experience in deep foundation and marine work across Michigan, Hardman has earned a reputation for precision, resilience, and innovation. Their team is currently installing steel sheet piling; each sheet stretching between 50 and 60 feet long, with nearly 900 feet already in place. Once complete, the cofferdam will span over 1,000 feet, forming the backbone of the dry work zone needed for FishPass construction. The dense sand and gravel subsurface conditions have posed challenges, but Hardman's crew has handled them with ease, demonstrating why they were the right choice for the job. 

To meet the demands of the terrain and the exceptional length of the steel sheets, Hardman Construction turned to a trusted lineup of ICE® vibratory hammers and power units, equipment they know intimately and rely on for precision and performance. Their own ICE® 44B and ICE® 33 hammers were joined on-site by a rented ICE® 28 and powerful ICE® 375 & ICE® 450 Power Units, forming a versatile and robust setup capable of driving the 50- to 60-foot steel sheets into the dense sand and gravel with remarkable efficiency. 

Each hammer was selected not only for its driving force, but for its compatibility with the site's unique challenges. The ICE® 44B, known for its high amplitude and ability to tackle deeper resistance, was ideal for the most demanding sections of the cofferdam. The ICE® 33 offered a balance of speed and control, while the ICE® 28 provided flexibility in tighter or more variable zones. Paired with the ICE® 375 & ICE® 450 Power Units, the systems delivered consistent hydraulic output across all operations. 

Supporting this setup, are the Hydrauli-Flex™ hoses that played a key role in maintaining reliable, high-pressure flow throughout the vibratory hammer system. Their durability and flexibility helped ensure smooth operation in a dynamic and demanding environment. With this equipment suite in place, Hardman's crew has been able to overcome subsurface resistance and maintain steady progress, proving once again that the right tools in the right hands make all the difference. 

As the steel sheets go in and the river begins to take on its new shape, the gratitude from the Traverse City community is unmistakable. This project isn't just about concrete and machinery; it's about restoring a living system, protecting native species, and creating a space where people and nature can thrive together. International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) extends its heartfelt thanks to Hardman Construction for their expertise, dedication, and craftsmanship. Their work is helping to turn a bold ecological vision into a flowing reality, one sheet at a time. 

Learn more about the full line of ICE® Vibratory Hammers for rent or sale or reach out to your local ICE® Sales Representative 

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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