By Lynda Myer
In order to advancing the implementation of the project to replace the 150-year-old tunnel, Amtrak intends to commission the solicitation for the delivery partner in January 2023.
The responsibility of taking the significant risk-sharing is due to be by the private partner under the delivery partner model.
With the name of Southern Approach, the first phase of program’s construction manager at risk (CMAR) will be support by delivery partner.
This approach is already in the request for proposal (RFP) stage of procurement.
Including the new ADA-compliant West Baltimore MARC Station, the Southern Approach CMAR solicitation is also going to cover all major digging process for the approach to the south portal for the new tunnel and bridge construction, as well as some utility and roadway work.
In the plan of replacing the existing B&P Tunnel with the new Frederick Douglass Tunnel, the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) will cooperate with the B&P program.
Following its completion, the new tunnel system is estimated to increase travel times for about nine million passengers each year on the Northeast Corridor.
It will be used by Amtrak Acela, Northeast Regional, and long-distance trains, as well as the MARC Penn Line.
According to Amtrak program development and project services vice-president Tony Ryan: “Amtrak received strong industry response to the Delivery Partner RFI, demonstrating a significant appetite for a private partner with ‘skin in the game’ to ensure a successful project delivery. Timely advancement of this program is critical as we work to modernize and transform the Northeast Corridor, reducing delays and adding capacity for the future.”
