Modjeski and Masters rehab to extend railroad swing bridge life by 10 years

Mechanicsburg, Pa. — Bridge design and engineering firm Modjeski and Masters will provide rehabilitation engineering to key portions of the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge in Albany, N.Y. This work is intended to extend the useful life of the bridge’s electrical and mechanical systems by 10 years and increase its reliability for both freight and passenger rail traffic.

Modjeski and Master’s previous work on this bridge includes structural, mechanical and electrical bridge systems inspections. It also includes an ongoing environmental assessment to determine the best alternatives for future rehabilitation or replacement.

“Amtrak needed a way to cost-effectively restore reliable operation to key operating systems, minimize maintenance and increase safety of the bridge,” said Michael F. Britt, PE, senior vice president and director of business development at Modjeski and Masters. “Our unique history working with this bridge and other railroad swing bridges allows us to help them achieve these goals while still planning for the long-term future of the structure.”

The Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge is a critical rail link crossing the Hudson River between the cities of Albany and Rensselaer. This movable swing railroad bridge was constructed nearly 115 years ago and is subject to both load and speed restrictions due to normal deterioration. Modjeski and Masters will rehab the swing span’s turning machinery, end machinery and electrical systems. Project work is expected to begin late May 2016 and be completed by March 2017.

For additional information about Modjeski and Masters’ movable bridge capabilities, visit: https://www.modjeski.com/Services/detail.aspx?service=MovableBridges.