Amtrak launches major Boston rail yard and station upgrades

Amtrak has embarked on another round of modernization with investments in state-of-the-art rail yard infrastructure in Boston and accessibility upgrades to two historic stations in the state of Wisconsin.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak strengthens modernization across key U.S. corridors

The company broke ground on November 6 at the Southampton Rail Yard in Boston as it embarks on an expansion project costing $583 million that will benefit the next generation of intercity Airo train sets.

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The company has constructed a 60,000-square-foot maintenance facility that will boost the Northeast Regional corridor from Boston to Washington and Downeaster service from Boston to Brunswick in Maine.

Additionally, Amtrak has set plans to use the same location to service Acela and long-distance trains originating from Boston. Engineers are scheduled to construct inspection pits, drop tables, sanding installations, and fueling platforms; with expansion of capacity on the rail lines and renovation works on current service areas.

The project, to be completed by the year 2029, is just part of Amtrak’s extensive fleet renovation plans that include over 20 yards in the United States. The company’s investment in Boston initiatives that aim to improve rail operations’ cleanliness, speed, and efficiency, after similar projects in Philadelphia, Seattle, and Washington D.C., illustrate the company’s national commitment to cleaner and faster rail operations.

Amtrak completes Wisconsin station accessibility upgrades

Amtrak celebrated another milestone on November 7 with the completion of $11 million in improvements to the Columbus and Tomah station upgrades in Wisconsin. The two projects improve accessibility and safety for passengers traveling on the Empire Builder and Borealis routes.

The 1906 Columbus Station renovation features two 350-foot concrete platforms, walkways with slopes and railings, LED lighting, and new signage. The project was designed by HDR, and the contractor was Enfield Enterprises Inc.

In Tomah, Amtrak made an investment of $5 million to build an 330-foot heated platform, accessible paths, and upgrades to lighting and utilities. The design process was led by Michael Baker International with construction by George Allen Construction.

These enhancements are consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and reflect improved travel experiences to and through key Midwest corridors.

These projects further Amtrak’s vision to establish an accessible national rail network. Since these projects are all linked to critical corridors that connect Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Seattle, and Portland in the state of Oregon, these improvements highlight Amtrak’s emphasis on excellence and people-oriented modernization.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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