Delivering complex rail upgrades in metropolitan environments demands not only technical expertise but also creative problem-solving and a commitment to collaboration. When unexpected challenges arise on the project, leveraging the collective strengths of project partners can unlock significant value for clients.

Setting the Stage for Success

Preparing for rail upgrades in downtown San Diego, California, required a highly skilled and agile project team. On phase one of the Park Boulevard At-Grade Crossing project, Balfour Beatty’s team was tasked with laying the groundwork for a new vehicular roadway connecting Harbor Drive to Park Boulevard.

Adjacent to Petco Park and on an active rail line, the project’s location presented unique complexities such as high vehicular traffic and its positioning on a popular trash disposal site dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. Because of this, the soil quality of the site presented a major concern as the project team began the excavation process.

Navigating Regulatory Challenges

To minimize disruption to rail operations, the team has organized several Absolute Work Windows (AWW) during which they work around the clock. During these AWWs, as well as daily trenching and conduit operations, the team conducted soil testing to ensure compliance with California’s stringent hazardous materials standards.

Out of 20 samples collected, three exceeded the state’s threshold for hazardous waste—posing a significant challenge to the project. Disposal of hazardous soil in California incurs additional taxes and requires transport to specialized facilities, which would have added approximately $100,000 to the project’s cost and delayed progress.

Collaborative Problem-Solving

Rather than accept these costs as inevitable, Senior Project Manager Titus Rodriguez engaged trade partners for a second opinion. “We didn’t want to pass those costs onto our client,” Titus explains. “We determined that it was worth doing additional testing.”

Partnering with Michael Carpenter, manager of the Environmental Services Division at Griffith Company, and Todd Jacquay, Branch Manager for Advantage Environmental Consultants, the team collected additional samples and worked with experts at the Otay Landfill to perform additional lab tests.

“Through rigorous monitoring and enhanced solubility testing, we were able to accurately profile the soil as non-hazardous waste,” Todd says. “We ensured compliance with applicable regulations while meeting the needs of the various stakeholders.”

Delivering Value Through Expertise

This outcome allowed the team to dispose of the soil locally at the Otay facility, reducing transportation time and emissions and eliminating the hazardous material tax. The result: substantial cost savings for the client and more sustainable and efficient project delivery.

“This process reminded all of us to rely on the expertise of our trade partners,” Titus reflects. “We are experts in our field, but we have amazing partners who have specialty skillsets. Tapping into those can lead to positive results for our projects and our clients.”

By digging deeper and collaborating across specialties, the team delivered a solution that greatly benefited the project. Their partnership and innovation at every stage of construction gave value back to the client, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence as they improve safety and connectivity in downtown San Diego.