USS Midway Museum - Pier Pipe Replacement Project
A.O. Reed is proud to work with the USS Midway Museum in updating the pier’s domestic and firewater systems. This is a critical infrastructure upgrade that ensures the long-term reliability and safety of both the pier and the USS Midway Museum and prepares for the future Navy Pier Freedom Park services. A.O. Reed was brought on to install new piping along both the north and south sides of the pier.
Located underneath the pier, A.O. Reed replaced the existing pipe with schedule 80 PVC. The scope of work involves the replacement of roughly 2500’ of 8” domestic water pipe under the pier. To ensure uninterrupted service, A.O. Reed established temporary water feeds to the Midway Museum’s fire sprinkler system, pier hydrants, and domestic water system. The scope also included new feeds to the fire sprinkler backflow, domestic water backflows, an existing fire hydrant, plus a new hydrant, and 2-inch future connections for the restrooms and concession building.
The majority of this work takes place beneath the pier, where access is limited, and conditions are unique. A.O. Reed implemented inventive installation methods by repurposing floating dock segments as work platforms and floating pipe sections into position. Using a reach forklift, the pipe was lowered from the pier onto the docks, floated into place with a rope system, and set using chain falls. These adaptive methods reflect the ingenuity and resourcefulness required for successful marine construction. The ability to float pipe into place and then suspend it beneath the pier without disrupting the museum’s operations demonstrates the technical expertise and adaptability that A.O. Reed brings to challenging environments.
The replacement of the water main is scheduled for completion in September 2026. For A.O. Reed, this project is more than an infrastructure upgrade. It has provided the opportunity to combine technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving on another great project with the USS Midway Museum. Our team has taken pride in overcoming challenges and contributing to a project that will benefit both the Midway Museum and the broader community for generations to come.
USS Midway Museum
The Midway Museum is a place where American patriotism is high, and a reflection of our history is remembered. A.O. Reed has a long history of working on the Midway Museum. We have participated in building many jobs on the Midway, ranging from a restroom renovation to building a new central plant.
