Franconia-Springfield Bypass — Franconia, Virginia
Client
- Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA)
Project Value 
$405 Million
Market
Bridge, Rail, Transportation
Services
Design, Engineering, Program/Construction Management (PM/CM)
The Franconia-Springfield Bypass (Bypass) is an essential part of Virginia’s plan for improving rail service on the Richmond, VA to Washington, D.C. corridor.
We serve as Engineer of Record for this 3,400-foot-long passenger rail bridge, which carries trains over CSX freight tracks to improve schedule reliability and ensure seamless service for Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and Amtrak passenger trains.
This project is embedded within the larger Franconia-to-Lorton Third Track project. The Bypass begins south of the Franconia-Springfield VRE/WMATA station, where the new passenger main track will start on the west side of the existing two-track CSX main line. Continuing south, the new passenger main will switch to the east side of the CSX tracks, crossing over and above them via a new bridge structure (the Bypass).
Scope Of Work
We delivered preliminary engineering and now lead the final design. Initial evaluations included various structural concepts such as straddle bents, pergola, tunnel, and deck plate girder options. The chosen design uses longitudinal piers placed outside the CSX tracks, minimizing interference with freight operations and supporting staged construction.
The bridge structure includes:
- Straddle bent sections over the CSX tracks
- A transition to twocolumn piers with cap beams supporting longitudinal bridge beams
- Retained-fill approaches to bring the tracks back to grade
An extensive geotechnical investigation was critical to address challenging soil conditions. We are coordinating closely with CSX and VPRA’s team to ensure smooth integration.
Positive Impacts Of The Franconia-Springfield Bypass
- Eliminates conflicts between passenger and freight operations
- Improves ontime performance and reliability for VRE and Amtrak services
- Enhances Virginia’s passenger-rail capacity
- Supports longterm efficiency with durable design and stabilized embankments
- Utilizes the CM/GC delivery model to align design with construction optimization, cost, and schedule goals
Collaboration And Delivery
Using the CM/GC delivery method, we have actively engaged with VPRA and the contractor through biweekly task force meetings. This collaboration enables us to tailor the design to align with construction means and methods, reinforcing cost control and efficiency.
