MBTA Midland Bridge Feasibility Study
Feasibility Study
Constructability Assessments
Cost Estimating
CPM Scheduling
Boston
MA
Map
Project Overview
The Midland Bridge, a two-barrel structure supported by three single-span double intersecting Warren trusses, is located in Boston, MA. This open-deck bridge, which measures approximately 110 feet in length, is over a century old, and rests on granite abutments. It carries three MBTA light rail Red Line tracks from the mainline to the Cabot Yard Facility and runs parallel to the Red Line Test Track (RLTT) to the east, and to two MBTA Commuter Rail (Old Colony line) and Amtrak tracks to the west.
Originally, the bridge spanned a CSX spur track that connected to the MBTA Commuter Rail track on its west side. This spur provided freight services to Boston’s Seaport District until about 2018, when it was removed to make way for the new RLTT. Since the removal, CSX has maintained a temporary easement through the RLTT instead of its original access beneath the Midland Bridge. For this reason, the MBTA tasked VHB with conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the repair, removal, or conversion of the existing bridge.
CHALLENGES
MAINTENANCE OF RAIL OPERATIONS
Limiting service disruptions to Red Line, Commuter Rail, and Amtrak operations during any potential bridge repair or replacement posed a significant challenge, requiring detailed phasing and coordination.
CONSTRUCTION ACCESS CONSTRAINTS
Given the bridge's location between active rail lines, construction access constraints demanded innovative solutions to ensure feasibility and efficiency of any proposed work.
Our solution
SMK was engaged by VHB to assist with constructability, scheduling, and estimating for the feasibility study of the Midland Bridge. We evaluated multiple construction methods, considering phasing requirements, environmental restrictions, and alternative construction techniques to identify the most viable and cost-effective options. Our team included subject matter experts in both demolition and pile driving/drilling, whose unique experiences provided deeper insights into all alternatives. During the planning phase, SMK presented findings to both the designer and owner, which were incorporated into the final report.
CONCEPTUAL COST ESTIMATING & SCHEDULING
SMK provided crucial conceptual cost estimating and scheduling support to VHB's feasibility study, evaluating design alternatives and contributing to informed decision-making for the Midland Bridge project.
EVALUATION OF CONSTRUCTION PHASING
SMK conducted a thorough evaluation of construction phasing for the Midland Bridge feasibility study, analyzing various approaches to minimize operational disruptions and optimize project efficiency.
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