There were several key challenges to this project, for all parties involved. Some of which included the property size and age, available island resources, and outside environmental factors, such as back-to-back damaging hurricanes. 

The property consisted of multiple facilities and structures, many of which were more than 40 years old. It was difficult to obtain realistic pricing due to the lack of available and proper resources. Frenchman’s Reef lost power and water as a result of the hurricanes, thus requiring new physical plants that included power plant, wastewater treatment plant, and reverse osmosis water plant to mitigate the new seawater intake. 

It was determined that all elevations and major exterior wall systems sustained hurricane damage. Storm shutters failed to withstand the wind force and rain accruals. There was extensive water intrusion and further damages to the property, including intrusion to the underground infrastructure and utilities. 

KMI brought aboard an experienced hurricane damage assessment firm to conduct a complete forensic engineering and architectural assessment. We also brought in subject matter experts to address power, wastewater, and reverse osmosis facility needs. The assessments took place within two weeks of the initial hurricane. Finally, we coordinated the implementation of an industrial hygienist and stabilization contractor to get the property stabilized prior to commencing rebuilding.  

KMI conducted a deep dive into the island’s market conditions to determine proper cost estimates and availability of necessary resources. We provided extremely detailed cost estimates and schedules, as well as worked closely with forensic engineers for scope and pricing to rebuild Frenchman’s Reef. This information was used in the insurance claim. KMI’s extensive and thorough cost estimating, site assessment, and insurance consulting support aided in the reclaiming of roughly $250 million in damage claims from the insurer. Additionally, we were able to work with stabilization parameters to implement recommendations for property rebuilding/stabilization in a timely manner.