Construction
Details
- Year Started
- 2024
- Year Completed
- In Progress
- Project Elements
-
- Commuter rail
- Rail bridge
Overview
This CMAR bridge project features the construction of two mega rail bridge structures over the Susquehanna River. The new bridges replace an aging 117-year-old double track bridge structure. The project alignment spans five miles and includes reconstructed bridge approaches with modern track, overhead catenary systems, and signals that meet 21st century safety standards. The new east and west bridge structures are each 4,440 feet long with a signature 400-foot-long tied arch channel span providing a 60 feet vertical clearance for the passage of ships. The bridges will each accommodate two new mainline tracks – the east bridge enables 160 mph train speeds and the west bridge 125 mph. The project will require approximately 123,000 feet of track and will include 29 turnouts. It also includes 165 catenary foundations. The bridge structures require around 60 million pounds of structural steel, 28 million pounds of reinforcing rebar, 105,000 cubic yards of concrete, 16,000 feet of drilled shafts and 157,000 feet of retaining walls. Phase one construction of the west bridge is scheduled for 2025, with completion and demolition of the existing bridge in 2030. Phase two for the east bridge will follow with construction beginning in 2031 with expected completion in 2036.