By rosebell
Including analyse of the cost of twin-bore tunneling for BSVII, a cost report released by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) affirms a single-bore tunnel is the right approach for the BART Silicon Valley Phase II project (BSVII) and was undertaken in response to questions raised by the VTA board of directors.
According to VTA general manager/CEO Carolyn Gonot: “The report underscored that the VTA’s choice of a single bore was correct.The findings reaffirm that the single-bore approach remains the most cost-effective method to bring BART service into the heart of Silicon Valley.”
Considering the advantages of the single-bore design in minimising community disruption, reducing surface construction impacts, as well as adelivering transit more efficiently, a statement by the VTA said the board of directors and the community had consistently supported.
Due to the large cut-and-cover stations, challenging construction factors, and additional time required for design, key findings of the report highlight higher cost for the twin bore.
In order to providing accurate, data-driven information that informs decision-making and builds public trust, this report was commissioned as part of VTA’s ongoing commitment.
“Our board has raised the question of whether a design change to the twin bore would be cheaper and safer. This report is a direct response to that question. It gives a clear picture of the costs involved with a twin- bore tunnel and reinforces why the single-bore approach remains the best choice for this project,” said Tom Maguire, VTA chief megaprojects delivery officer.
