In 2011, Hurricane Irene devastated central and southern Vermont, washing out bridges, destroying miles of roads and railroad tracks, and cutting off communities from emergency services. VHB immediately mobilized more than 50 engineers, surveyors, hydrologists, geomorphologists, and environmental scientists from offices along the east coast to aid in the design and reconstruction of 55 sites across the region. VHB's rapid response and comprehensive services proved critical to Vermont's recovery. The team worked 12,500 hours in the first 43 days to assess traffic detours and safety conditions while designing solutions to restore railroad bridges, track, and corridors damaged by flooding. VHB set up temporary offices at the Chester Depot to assist the Vermont Rail System in restoring damaged bridges and railroad track. A second office was established in Bethel where the White River and its tributaries flooded and destroyed several miles of Route 107. The team's work enabled the placement of 250,000 tons of rock, replacement of 38 culverts and 7,500 feet of guardrail, and completion of 20,000 machine hours in just 16 weeks—reconnecting communities and restoring vital transportation infrastructure when Vermont needed it most.
