magazine

Four Bears Bridge is an historic project for KLJ, which served as the
prime consultant for the planning, environmental assessment, design
and construction inspection for the replacement of the Four Bears
Bridge. This structure is located in a picturesque setting spanning
4,500 feet over Lake Sakakawea on the Fort Berthold Indian
Reservation in northwestern North Dakota.
KLJ proposed an emergency plan to construct clay plugs in three of Mandan’s marina inlets to
protect 250 residences and $70 million of public infrastructure during flood events in 2011.
Above, Niles Hushka, KLJ’s CEO, oversees construction of the clay plugs.
Continued from page 123
operating in several locations throughout the
central United States. KLJ employs more
than 750 professionals in a variety of markets.
The company spans 22 office locations
throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana,
South Dakota and Wyoming. It is that
expansive reach that has allowed the company
to take on diverse and integral projects, such
as reconstructing airport runways, raising-up
flood-risked roadways to act as dams and correcting
critical land slopes that pose public
safety hazards.
These tangible operations to improve
community infrastructure are only one part
of what the company does. But giving back
and making a difference is a core component
of the KLJ mandate. In 2011, North Dakota
experienced catastrophic flooding throughout
the state. Roads, businesses and homes
were at risk for severe damage and destruction.
KLJ proposed an emergency plan to
construct clay plugs in three marina inlets in
the city of Mandan, ND to protect 250 residences
and $70-million worth of public infrastructure.
Their quick response salvaged a
substantial portion of the city, circumventing
the massive pending damage from unprecedented
floodwaters.
During this time, KLJ encouraged employees
to assist local residents throughout
the state. While helping residents in their
flood fighting efforts, employees were paid
their usual eight-hour day.
The employee-owned firm supports the
communities they serve through corporate
sponsorships, charitable giving and employee
volunteer efforts. Each year, the company’s
internal charitable contributions committee
identifies a variety of charities to support
through employee donations. The firm
matches employee donations dollar for dollar,
benefiting organizations such as Hospice,
the United Way and the American Cancer
Society. Management believes there is substantial
value in developing and reinforcing a
sense of community involvement.
“I have always believed that those with
strong technical backgrounds bring communities
unique perspective,” says Hushka.
“This really applies at the local community
level. KLJ is committed to donating
124 The Official Publication of the North Dakota Association of Oil & Gas Producing Counties