AECOM-Led JV to Enhance Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor
Amtrak has selected AECOM and STV to manage the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project on the Northeast Corridor (NEC).
Amtrak has selected AECOM and STV to manage the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project on the Northeast Corridor (NEC).
This project is a key component of the Gateway Program, aimed at addressing critical infrastructure challenges on the busiest rail corridor in the United States.
The Sawtooth Bridges, built in 1907, are a vital link in the NEC, accommodating over 400 daily trains operated by Amtrak and NJ TRANSIT. However, structural deficiencies and age have reduced train speeds to 60 mph, causing operational bottlenecks for intercity and commuter rail services.
To address these issues, the replacement project will deliver three new bridges along a 1.9-mile stretch in Kearny, New Jersey, between Newark Penn Station and Secaucus Junction.
“We’re proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Amtrak by supporting this crucial transit upgrade, which is part of an array of generational federal investments in the nation’s rail infrastructure.
“Our track record of success on numerous NEC bridge replacement projects prepares us to deliver safe, reliable and resilient rail connectivity that meets both current and future demands on the NEC.”
The AECOM-STV joint venture will oversee the design coordination, planning, and implementation of the project, working closely with other stakeholders.
The team will employ a multi-phased alternative delivery approach to facilitate efficient execution. It will leverage expertise in civil, geotechnical, structural, and environmental engineering to address the complex requirements of the site.
“We look forward to leveraging our extensive transportation resources, site knowledge, and experience with large-scale projects along the NEC to deliver innovative solutions that enhance rail reliability.”
The Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project will significantly increase capacity on the NEC, doubling passenger train capacity on a congested 10-mile section of the corridor. This improvement is expected to enhance reliability for both intercity and commuter rail services, aligning with broader goals to modernise rail infrastructure and support economic growth through improved connectivity.
The project is part of a broader federal initiative to enhance the NEC’s infrastructure. Funding from the Federal Railroad Administration supports multiple megaprojects, including station improvements, bridge replacements, and the expansion of capacity to accommodate future ridership growth.
In addition to the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project, AECOM is engaged in other NEC projects, such as the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program, the Connecticut River Bridge Replacement, and the Susquehanna River Rail Bridge Project. These initiatives collectively aim to upgrade vital components of the rail network, ensuring long-term sustainability and improved service for millions of passengers.
