Amtrak Completes Removal of Historic Piers for New Bridge Construction

Amtrak has removed ten historic bridge piers from the Susquehanna River to prepare for modern upgrades. The project marks a significant milestone for improving rail service in Maryland. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Historic Piers Removed to Make Way for New Amtrak Bridges

Contractor Fay Construction completed the pier removal in November after starting the process earlier this year. The piers, dating back to 1866, posed a boating hazard and were removed to comply with environmental review requirements.

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Amtrak worked closely with local communities to preserve historical artifacts, salvaging stones from the piers. One stone, engraved with “1877,” will commemorate the bridge’s historic significance, ensuring the past is honored as the region modernizes.

Amtrak Plans New Bridges for Faster, Expanded Rail Service

The existing Susquehanna River Bridge, constructed in 1906, supports 110 daily trains, including Amtrak, MARC commuter rail, and freight traffic. Two new two-track bridges will replace it, allowing train speeds to increase from 90 to 160 mph.

Final designs for the project are underway, with construction expected to begin in mid-2025. The project is scheduled for completion by 2036, promising enhanced capacity, safety, and efficiency for passengers and freight operators.

This upgrade is a crucial part of Amtrak’s modernization efforts on the Northeast Corridor. The improvements will address future travel demands, ensuring a reliable and efficient transportation network for decades to come.

Source: www.trains.com

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