After identifying fatigue cracking during an inspection, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) engaged VHB to design the replacement of two side-by-side short-span steel superstructures on Furnace Brook Parkway in Quincy, MA. This significant revitalization work will enhance the long-term sustainability and reliability of the Red Line for future generations of riders.
Exemplifying our integrated services approach, VHB’s Structures, Environmental, Transit and Rail, and Geomatics teams came together to design, plan, and coordinate permitting for these superstructure replacements. VHB prepared the design in two weeks from concept to stamped plans—a process that normally takes years. Our design included new bearings and steel superstructure, an additional walkway, and isolated new dapped timber ties. To prepare for urgent replacement, the steel was fabricated and hot-dipped galvanized in a month.
In a collaborative effort, contractor SPS New England removed the existing bridges and installed the new steel structures during a planned nine-day track diversion of the MBTA Red Line Braintree Branch. VHB was on site with SPS and MBTA to assist with monitoring the installation and rapidly responding to contractor questions. The installation went as smoothly as possible without the need for field modifications. The team completed the replacement in the first 72 hours of the diversion with ties and track in place, well ahead of the anticipated timeframe of five to six days.
“Our team’s seamless coordination with the MBTA, knowledge of prior work in the Furnace Brook Parkway area, and collaborative, integrated services approach made this project a success,” said Senior Project Manager Stephen Jahnes.
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