Tabitha J.’s Post

New line between #Handsacre and #ManchesterAirport proposed to replace #HS2 Phase 2 A new rail link between Handsacre and Manchester Airport has been identified by the #GreaterManchester and #WestMidlands mayors as their preferred option to replace High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase 2. The fate of Phase 2 of the UK’s flagship infrastructure project was made official on 4 October when prime minister Rishi Sunak confirmed that he was ordering the cancellation of “the rest of the HS2 project”. This meant that preparatory work for the high-speed line north of Birmingham – both to Manchester and the East Midlands – was to be halted immediately. Off the back of this cancellation, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and West Midlands mayor Andy Street decided to formulate a private group to draw up a plan for an alternative scheme to better connect the North with the Midlands. The group has now selected a preferred option of a new route that would run approximately 113km between HS2 at Handsacre and Northern Powerhouse Rail at High Legh. Although using the same route, it is anticipated the line would follow different specifications to HS2, delivering a more affordable solution that still delivers benefit, through new engineering solutions and changes to design speed. This however is subject to further work ahead of this summer’s final conclusions, which will also set out options for an integrated solution at Crewe. Three options were put forward after work was commissioned by the two mayors to a private sector group led by Arup with input from six other firms – Arcadis, Addleshaw Goddard, EY, Dragados SA, Mace and Skanska. These options were: Undertake significant engineering upgrades to the West Coast Main Line Build bypasses at the pinch points on the West Coast Main Line Build a new railway line between Handsacre and Manchester Airport The group has now concluded option three is the preferred option to improve connections between the Midlands and the North of the UK and reduce congestion on the West Coast Main Line. Doing nothing was dismissed by both mayors at the beginning of the work due to the pressure on the already congested routes in and out of the two regions, the West Coast Mainline and the M6. These two routes will continue to face significant passenger and freight capacity challenges through the 2030s and beyond, according to the mayors. The group has been further exploring the different roles the private sector could play in the delivery and financing of the three different connectivity options, with the aim of helping to identify a new way of delivering infrastructure projects in the UK – striking the right balance between the public and private sector. It is also studying how new infrastructure could be delivered in a different way, where costs are covered through a combination of government funding and private finance, with repayment through access or user charges on the new line.

Subsidence prompts design review for Sydney tunnels The tunnel design on #Sydney’s M6 Stage 1 is being reviewed after two subsidence incidents this year. The M6 Stage 1 comprises 4km of twin tunnels The incidents occurred on March 1 and 9, about 150m apart. On the first occasion, a sinkhole caused a partial building collapse in an industrial estate. On March 9, workers were about 12m below the surface, excavating the face of the south-bound tunnel, when a hole developed. The workers were evacuated and none was injured. In a statement to T&TI, a #Transport for NSW spokesperson said the cost and timeline of the M6 Stage 1 were now under review. “Transport for NSW and its delivery partner CGU are currently reviewing the design of the tunnel in areas affected by subsidence and a revised construction programme, both of which will impact the cost of the project. Transport for NSW and the contractor continue to investigate the cause of the subsidence, which affected a 244m section of tunnel,” the spokesperson said. SafeWork NSW prohibition notices are still in place, and tunnelling can recommence in the areas affected by subsidence only when SafeWork gives approval. The spokesperson said tunnelling was continuing from the Arncliffe site, with 90% of tunnelling excavation completed across the project. “Tunnelling fit-out construction is also progressing, including laying road pavements and electrical and mechanical works. Surface road works are also continuing on President Avenue, as well as work on the 5km of active transport connections in and around Bicentennial Park,” the spokesperson said. “We will keep the community informed once the project’s revised construction timeline is known.” The M6 Stage 1 is a major road project to provide 4km of twin tunnels connecting the M8 motorway at Arncliffe to President Avenue in Kogarah. It will allow motorists to bypass up to 23 sets of traffic lights on the Princes Highway, and link with Sydney’s wider motorway network. Construction started in January 2022 and was scheduled to open to traffic at the end of 2025. https://lnkd.in/euCgJcDP

As Columbus continues to experience a population boom and attracts major companies like Intel, the need for a larger airport becomes increasingly evident. This expansion would not only accommodate the growing number of residents and businesses but also enhance our city's infrastructure, making it a critical hub for economic activity and connectivity. Investing in a larger airport means significant improvements to our roadways and surrounding earthwork, ensuring smoother and more efficient traffic flow for commuters and freight. Enhanced roadway signage and pavement markings will lead to safer and more navigable routes, benefiting both locals and visitors. The upgraded electrical systems will support advanced technologies and increased capacity, essential for a modern, efficient airport. Furthermore, the development will include comprehensive underground utilities, storm drainage, and sanitary sewer systems. These enhancements are vital for managing increased water runoff and ensuring the airport's operations remain smooth and environmentally responsible. Waterline connections will be upgraded to meet the demands of both the airport and surrounding communities, ensuring reliable and sufficient water supply. By focusing on these critical infrastructure elements, Columbus can support its burgeoning population and the influx of major companies. This strategic investment aligns with our city's upward trajectory, positioning us as a major hub for future growth and development. It’s about meeting current demands while laying the groundwork for a thriving, interconnected future. #ColumbusGrowth #InfrastructureInvestment #AirportExpansion #EconomicDevelopment #SmartCityPlanning #TransportationInnovation #FutureReady #ColumbusStrong

The Year of the Bridge -- 2024 Interesting read focusing on signature bridges. However, almost 90% of bridges have spans of 100 feet or less, the very type Valmont Structures helps to build. From Construction Briefing: https://lnkd.in/eDapmE99. #Bridges #Infrastructure #ValmontStructures #ConstructionBriefing

The first tunnel boring contract for NYC’s massive $16bn (£12.6bn) Hudson Tunnel project just got the green light. Schiavone Construction Co. LLC/Dragados USA, Inc./The Lane Construction Corporation JV is set to break ground on this game-changing infrastructure project that will reshape transit between New Jersey and New York. 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆’𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘁 The Palisades Tunnel project involves: • Twin Tunnels: Two tunnels, each 1.5km long with a 7.5m diameter. • Tunnel Lining: Installation of a concrete lining with waterproofing. • Hudson County Shaft: A structure to remove tunnel boring machines after completion. Work will begin soon, with completion expected by 2027. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 This project is a crucial part of the larger Hudson Tunnel initiative, a 3.8km twin-tube railway tunnel under the Hudson River. It’s designed to ease congestion and improve the resilience of the rail connection between New Jersey and New York, especially after the existing North River Tunnel was damaged during Hurricane Sandy. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) also approved the next phase of ground stabilisation on the Manhattan side. This includes injecting a mix of soil, concrete, and water into the riverbed, using sheet pile cofferdams to protect the environment. The $11bn (£8.6bn) government funding boost last month has accelerated these key developments, with the GDC promising more rapid progress on construction. Source: New Civil Engineer --------------------------------------------------------- Enjoyed this post? 🔔 Get our free newsletter for a 5-minute weekly summary of top civil engineering news. Trusted by 1,500+ leaders at companies like Arup, WSP, Balfour Beatty, and Kier. Join here: https://lnkd.in/ejF2Q9iy

Farrans makes breakthrough on tricky tunnel job as part of a new £155m water pipeline project under the Tees. In other news, affordable and rental homes demand lifts brickwork contractor, while more fire safety provisions tip a firm into a £3.9m loss. The 3.3m sq ft Humber Tech Park is set to become one of Europe's largest data centres, and VolkerFitzpatrick will start work on the Winnall roundabout near Winchester in early 2025. A £205m Trafford housing upkeep deal has been announced, and a land deal paves the way for Amro Partners' 1,000-home London scheme. Cementation Skanska upgrades site safety systems, and a house builder remains bullish about shareholder returns after asking suppliers for discounts. The government buys five acres at a former Central Retail Park, while a project to upgrade an existing market and build a new library is underway. Tideway completes a connection to the existing Lee Tunnel sewer system, and the North Hykeham Relief Road is granted planning permission. A landmark cantilevered NXQ building is planned for Manchester's Northern Quarter, and infrastructure maintenance work continues to pay off for a contractor.

RUNWAY 6-24 PROJECT UPDATE: On Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, an RFQ for the 6-24 Runway Reconstruction project was issued. The 6-24 Runway Reconstruction RFQ was posted on the Georgia Procurement website and sent out to thousands of prequalified companies. An optional pre-bid conference was held on August 8th, 2024. Several companies attended the conference and gathered detailed information regarding the project. Bids were due on August 29, 2024. We received six bids, one for asphalt and five for concrete, ranging from $22.23-$37.96 million. As the project will be funded through FAA and GDOT grants, airport sponsors are required to select the lowest bidder, if all the other requirements listed in the bid package are met. Summers Concrete Contracting, Inc. was the lowest bidder with a total project cost of $22,229,455.16. Bid information was sent to FAA and GDOT for verification, all other requirements including Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) requirements were met by the lowest bidder. The contract was approved to be awarded to Summers Concrete Contracting, Inc at the October 1st Commission Meeting. The Columbus Airport is currently waiting to receive the State grant agreement for Runway 6-24 Reconstruction Project. Once the grant agreement is executed a meeting with Summers Concrete Contracting, Inc. will be scheduled to discuss the overall project, and the contractor will begin acquiring supplies and equipment. Construction is scheduled to begin August 2025 and is estimated to last through November 2025. #FlyCSG #Update #runway #project #airport #improvement

💥 Big News in Bridge Construction! 💥 Exciting times ahead for bridge construction in the US! With billion-dollar investments flowing in, states like Florida, Iowa, and Vermont are planning significant bridge repair and replacement projects. 🌉 As the backlog of bridge repairs reaches a staggering $125 billion (American Society of Civil Engineers), the percentage of bridges needing replacement is monumental. Many of these bridges, constructed during the 1950s, are now nearing the end of their service life, presenting a vast field of future opportunities. For instance: - approximately 40% of the bridges can likely be rehabilitated - at least 35% will require a complete replacement Bridge projects will represent a large portion of all infrastructure improvements over the next decade. This surge in infrastructure projects signals immense opportunities for contractors nationwide. It's a remarkable time to be in the construction industry! #Construction #Infrastructure #BridgeConstruction

Octavius Infrastructure secures a road reconstruction and resurfacing scheme in the #Fenland district of Cambridgeshire. The project, awarded by Cambridgeshire County Council, includes enhancements at four crucial locations: Church Road, Leverington; A10 Lynn Road Littleport; B1100 Padgetts Road Christchurch; and Benrick Road, Whittlesey. This significant contract falls under the Eastern Highways Alliance (EHA) Framework and presents unique challenges due to the underlying peat in the Fenland areas. The peat's characteristics can lead to heave and settlement, impacting road conditions and safety for users. According to Octavius highways framework manager Jon Millar, this marks the fourth Fen Roads Reconstruction Package completed for Cambridgeshire CC through the EHA Framework. Previously known as Osborne Infrastructure, Octavius underwent a rebranding in April 2022 following its acquisition by private equity firm Sullivan Street Partners. Read more: [https://lnkd.in/eET2MUNq] New Civil Engineer #Construction #Infrastructure #RoadReconstruction #Cambridgeshire #Octavius #EHAFramework

Section C1a of the ECRL: Tackling the Project’s Most Challenging Terrain Section C1a of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) represents the pinnacle of engineering challenges on the project. Located in mountainous terrain with deep valleys, this segment features a complex alignment of closely connected bridges and tunnels that frequently intersect or run parallel to existing highways and roads, further complicating construction. With a relatively short section of  57 km, Section C1a is undertaken by China Communications Construction (CCCC) ECRL Section 7 (CCCC Highways Bureau No. 2). This section includes 23km of tunnels, 15 km of railway bridges over 23 structures, and 19 km of embankments across 31 segments. Additionally, a prefabrication site has been established to produce 1,524 T-girders for viaduct erection with in the section. The alignment crosses Highway 68 eleven times and passes underneath the East Coast Highway twice, requiring multiple high-pier viaducts and shallow tunnels. These high-risk activities demand meticulous planning to balance vehicle flow with on-site operations, making the project exceptionally challenging, even for seasoned contractors such as CCCC Highway No2. Continuous-beam bridge construction over highways imposes higher technical standards, with frequent road modifications and re-routes causing significant interference and elevating risk. The extensive girder prefabrication and installation, complex substructure works, and varying geological conditions in foundations and track layout make highly challenging. Key Project Highlights Include: First Steel Truss Bridge – Successfully launched and completed of 90m bridge, marking a significant milestone on the ECRL. Genting Tunnel – At 16.4km, it is the longest tunnel in Southeast Asia, constructed using both Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) and drill-and-blast methods. Facing a demanding schedule, the project must navigate numerous challenges, including fault zone passage, significant water inflows, rock bursts, varying temperatures, uphill drainage, and long-distance ventilation requirements. The tunnel also meets high environmental standards and has attracted significant public attention. Bentong No. 2 Tunnel – A 1,400-meter twin-track single-bore tunnel with a large excavation span and very shallow depth below operational motorway. Due to heavy traffic on the East Coast motorway, the team employed a specialized double-sidewall guide pit method for underpass construction, with two work faces progressing towards each other. After 765 days, the tunnel has now been completed. #ECRLProject #CivilEngineering #InfrastructureDevelopment #TunnelEngineering #BridgeConstruction #RailwayEngineering #MegaProjects #SoutheastAsiaInfrastructure #SustainableConstruction #EngineeringChallenges #TransportationInnovation #ConstructionTechnology