MBTA Rehabilitation of the East Cambridge Viaduct
Constructability Assessments
CPM Scheduling
Cost Estimating
Construction Oversight
Cambridge
Boston
MA
Map
Project Overview
The East Cambridge Viaduct, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, spans the MBTA Green Line from Science Park Station to Charlestown Avenue in Boston and Cambridge, MA. Constructed in 1910, it features 12 spans over notable locations including Nashua Street and the Charles River.
Recent upgrades involved replacing tracks, repairing the bridge superstructure, and rehabilitating concrete elements. Unique methods were used due to restrictions on using Charles River Dam Road, with most construction activities conducted from barges. Materials were transported via water from Everett, MA, ensuring minimal disruption and preserving the historic structure.
CHALLENGES
COMPRESSED TIMELINE
Coordination with adjacent MBTA GLX contract required in order to utilize five months of GLX’s Green Line service outage.
CONSTRUCTION ACCESS
Majority of work performed from Charles River Basin via the Colonel Richard Gridley Locks, which had significant access limitations.
STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT
Multiple stakeholder involvement from U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, MassDOT, MA DEP, MA DCR, City of Boston, City of Cambridge, and the MA Historical Society.
Our solution
SMK was initially brought on as a Construction Strategist to provide critical support during the design phase of the East Cambridge Viaduct rehabilitation. We conducted thorough Constructability Reviews, analyzing the contract time determination schedule, construction cost estimate, and 60% and 100% design plans and specifications. Our reviews focused on identifying potential challenges related to the unique logistical constraints of the project, including the reliance on barge-based construction operations and the preservation requirements of the historic structure.
We proactively identified potential issues related to the sequencing of work, material delivery, and the integration of modern design standards within the existing historic fabric, leading to the development of alternative solutions that optimized constructability and minimized risks. At the MBTA's request, SMK extended its role into the construction phase as Agency Construction Management consultants. We provided expert guidance and oversight, ensuring project alignment with contractual requirements and best practices.
Our team analyzed contractor submitted construction schedules, change orders, work plan submittals, RFIs, and NCRs. SMK's on-site presence during construction enabled us to identify and resolve constructability issues in real-time, minimizing delays and cost overruns. Working closely with project stakeholders, we addressed unforeseen challenges, notably extensive structural concrete degradation and logistical complications associated with barge operations.
Early Detection and Resolution of Construction Challenges
SMK's thorough analysis during the design phase identified and addressed potential construction challenges early, minimizing risks related to schedule, cost, and the project's unique logistical constraints.
Expert Construction Management and Oversight
SMK's field presence and expert guidance during construction ensured strict contract compliance, and resolved constructability issues in real-time.
Construction Schedule and Change Order Management
Alongside the MBTA, SMK provided focused oversight of contractor schedule submissions and change order requests, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations and preventing unwarranted cost increases during construction.
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