Hudson Bergen Light Rail Extension, Phase MOS-3 (Design – Build)

This was a Design Build project in which we were responsible for the design and construction of a 4,500 foot long extension of the current Hudson Bergen Light Rail System. This extension consists of a single track expansion of the existing rail line from 22nd Street to 8th Street in Bayonne, NJ.

The track work included 2,500 feet of ground mounted ballasted track, with the remaining 2,000 feet being direct fixation track mounted on a viaduct spanning over the streets of Bayonne. The ballasted track section required a 1,400 foot long pile and concrete lagging retaining wall to support the elevated track running directly behind private properties. The construction of this wall was completed in an extremely tight space between existing houses to the west, and an existing Conrail Yard to the east.

The new viaduct structure consists of steel girders running the length of the track, supported by single column piers on 6’ diameter drilled shafts. There is a turnout on the bridge as the track spilts into two tracks as it approaches the new station and platform. At the platform location the piers require multiple columns and shafts to support the two tracks, and center mounted platform.

This contract also included the design & construction of the new signature 8th St Station building and platform at the corner of West 8th St and Ave C.

The station building was designed to replicate an old station at the same location which was demolished nearly 50 years ago. This required extensive coordination with the state historical society, City of Bayonne and local residents.

This project also required extensive coordination with many design parties, the Owner, the current systems operator, and the FTA. Systems integration with regards to catenary power, signals, communication, and operations was a major aspect of the project. This project was completed on time and within budget.