Innovative O'Hare South Conveyance Project Receives Prestigious Engineering Award
The South Conveyance Storm Sewer Project at O'Hare International Airport has recently been awarded the prestigious Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement Award by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Illinois Section. This recognition pertains to projects costing over $100 million and highlights the exceptional innovation and skill involved in this development. Designed by HNTB, the project plays a critical role in enhancing O'Hare’s stormwater infrastructure, thereby supporting the airport's modernization and future growth plans.
The primary challenge addressed by this project was to construct an intricate tunnel system beneath active runways and taxiways without disrupting the daily operations of one of the world's busiest airports. HNTB, acting as the engineer of record, collaborated closely with the Chicago Department of Aviation to devise a solution that would integrate seamlessly with existing airport infrastructure.
Zach Baughman, Managing Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation and chief of the ORDNext program, emphasized the project's significance, stating, "The South Conveyance Storm Sewer Project is a critical investment in O'Hare's future. Completed without interrupting airport operations, it strengthens our ability to provide the safe, reliable experience passengers and airlines depend on while advancing our long-term vision for O'Hare."
The construction presented formidable challenges, particularly due to the need to safely excavate through complex subsurface conditions. A 17-foot-diameter earth pressure balance tunnel boring machine was employed to facilitate the work. During the excavation process, it was imperative to maintain airport activities above ground, necessitating advanced real-time monitoring and instrumentation to safeguard essential airfield infrastructure.
Mark Stephani, a principal engineer for geotechnical and tunneling at HNTB, remarked on the complexity of the project. He stated, "Constructing a tunnel of this scale beneath an active airfield required careful planning, close coordination, and precise control throughout excavation. The team developed an innovative solution that managed complex ground conditions, reduced risk at critical runway crossings, and delivered the stormwater capacity needed to support O'Hare's future."
The method used for this project—construction manager at risk—allowed for early contractor involvement. This collaborative approach fostered the evaluation of various construction options and improved overall constructability, ultimately leading to the successful implementation of the tunnel solution.
At the ASCE Illinois Section's Annual Awards Banquet in Chicago, the project team received high praise for their accomplishment. Not only does the recognition serve to commend the engineering feats involved, but it also highlights the commitment to maintaining operational integrity at O'Hare International Airport.
The efforts of HNTB reflect over a century of dedication to the advancement of transportation infrastructure. The company prides itself on enhancing mobility and improving community quality of life through innovative engineering solutions. Their expertise has been pivotal in addressing the most intricate technical, financial, and operational challenges while focusing on client success and community impact.
Discover more about HNTB Corporation and their extensive range of infrastructure services by visiting their website or following them on various social media platforms.
The primary challenge addressed by this project was to construct an intricate tunnel system beneath active runways and taxiways without disrupting the daily operations of one of the world's busiest airports. HNTB, acting as the engineer of record, collaborated closely with the Chicago Department of Aviation to devise a solution that would integrate seamlessly with existing airport infrastructure.
Zach Baughman, Managing Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation and chief of the ORDNext program, emphasized the project's significance, stating, "The South Conveyance Storm Sewer Project is a critical investment in O'Hare's future. Completed without interrupting airport operations, it strengthens our ability to provide the safe, reliable experience passengers and airlines depend on while advancing our long-term vision for O'Hare."
The construction presented formidable challenges, particularly due to the need to safely excavate through complex subsurface conditions. A 17-foot-diameter earth pressure balance tunnel boring machine was employed to facilitate the work. During the excavation process, it was imperative to maintain airport activities above ground, necessitating advanced real-time monitoring and instrumentation to safeguard essential airfield infrastructure.
Mark Stephani, a principal engineer for geotechnical and tunneling at HNTB, remarked on the complexity of the project. He stated, "Constructing a tunnel of this scale beneath an active airfield required careful planning, close coordination, and precise control throughout excavation. The team developed an innovative solution that managed complex ground conditions, reduced risk at critical runway crossings, and delivered the stormwater capacity needed to support O'Hare's future."
The method used for this project—construction manager at risk—allowed for early contractor involvement. This collaborative approach fostered the evaluation of various construction options and improved overall constructability, ultimately leading to the successful implementation of the tunnel solution.
At the ASCE Illinois Section's Annual Awards Banquet in Chicago, the project team received high praise for their accomplishment. Not only does the recognition serve to commend the engineering feats involved, but it also highlights the commitment to maintaining operational integrity at O'Hare International Airport.
The efforts of HNTB reflect over a century of dedication to the advancement of transportation infrastructure. The company prides itself on enhancing mobility and improving community quality of life through innovative engineering solutions. Their expertise has been pivotal in addressing the most intricate technical, financial, and operational challenges while focusing on client success and community impact.
Discover more about HNTB Corporation and their extensive range of infrastructure services by visiting their website or following them on various social media platforms.
Topics General Business）
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