Stormwater management and noise-reducing sound walls were key components of the $1.67 billion project.

double-track light rail, the reconstruction of eight interchanges and multiple bridges, improved drainage, and more. Light rail transit was endorsed as part of the project because of its low impact on residents and natural resources, and low capital costs.

A multi-modal solution

Unlike most transportation projects,

T-REX combined both the highway and transit components into one. The team could then leverage efficiencies and work together on elements like walls, drainage, lighting and electrical systems. “Integration of transit and highway elements really didn’t lend itself to separate procurements,” said Jim Klemz, vice president for Parsons Transportation Group and design manager and Parsons project manager for T-REX. “It was much more efficient for one team to design and build both elements together because they were so closely entwined.”

The strong partnership between

CDOT and RTD ensured the project ran smoothly. “They weren’t worried about the highway or about the rail. They were

worried about the project,” said Tom Howell, area manager for Kiewit and deputy project manager for the Southeast Corridor Constructors joint venture.

Clean environment

The team integrated many efforts to diminish environmental impacts, such as water quality, air quality and noise and light abatement. A major drainage overhaul addressed stormwater and flooding problems that had contributed to highway flooding.

In one section, a new 13-foot-wide tunnel replaced a 42-inch sewer pipe and now carries stormwater away from the corridor.

The new drainage system is designed to handle rain from a 100-year flood, and facilities were designed to remove pollutants and enhance stormwater quality. Drainage retention ponds were designed to meter the flows downstream, allowing time for water to settle out some of the impurities before discharging.

Standard dust control and air quality measures also were implemented, including suppressing dust through watering, replanting

exposed areas and monitoring air quality.

Livability

One reason light rail transit was used for T-REX was because of the minimal impact it has on existing residences, businesses and natural resources like wetlands and parks. Recycled steel from the demolition of the Mile High Stadium in Denver was used for the tracks.

The team looked at ways to lessen

vibration, including using shredded tires as sub-ballast material instead of a more rigid conventional ballast mat. Lights were carefully designed

to minimize spillover to residential areas. Extensive sound walls were

used throughout to combat noise pollution.

The team worked closely with the

community to provide design details, including architecture, aesthetics and landscaping. It also worked with municipalities to develop features that meshed well with the architecture and aesthetics of the neighborhoods. “It looked like it was part of

their community and not just an afterthought,” Howell said. g&c

Green & Clean | 11 Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36