WMATA selects Hensel Phelps and Stantec to build new rail facility

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has chosen the design-build team of Hensel Phelps and Stantec to design and deliver the WMATA rail heavy repair and overhaul (HRO) facility in Maryland, the US.

The total value of the project is approximately $225m.

WMATA is aiming to offer enhanced efficiency through a new process for railcar maintenance, repairs, and overall operations.

The upgraded facility will help WMATA to achieve its goals for an improved transit experience as the industry is preparing for a subsequent rebound in post-pandemic ridership.

The Hensel Phelps-Stantec team will offer design, construction, testing, and commissioning services propped by a master plan that provides for future growth.

The HRO facility will provide services to Metrorail vehicles and car track equipment maintenance with service bays for 40 rail cars, a rail car truck shop, as well as storage tracks to lodge up to 24 rail cars.

Scheduled for completion in Q4 2024, the project will also consist of a new rail link from the project site to the Metrorail Orange Line.

Green design features will be integrated into the facility by the design team to meet LEED Platinum certification.

The project will also prioritise water demand and energy use reduction, innovative stormwater management applications, optimised indoor environmental quality and significant daylighting for train repair and office operations.

Stantec buildings practice transit sector leader Ken Anderson said: “This new facility will support an enhanced model for maintenance and repairs that will contribute to WMATA’s objectives for a safer and more efficient system.

“By integrating sustainability and resiliency with advanced functionality and high-quality spatial design, WMATA is positioned to have one of the most unique transit facilities in the country.”

Under this WMATA project, Stantec’s scope of work will comprise systems integration, architecture, sustainability consulting, industrial equipment design, and rail engineering.

The Hensel Phelps-Stantec team has designed and constructed more than 500 mass transit projects for over 180 transit authorities in North America.