Purple Line Extension: LA Metro’s Rail Project Insights & Challenges

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**”Metro’s Purple Line Extension, Section 1: A $1.36 billion project bringing new stations and 2.5-mile tunnels to Los Angeles. Learn more about the challenges faced!”**

Purple Line Extension: LA Metro’s Rail Project Insights & Challenges
June 7, 2017 5:06 pm
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Introduction

In February 2020, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) Board approved a contract with Skanska, Traylor Bros., and J.F. Shea Construction, Inc., as the design-build team for the first phase of the Purple Line Extension project, specifically Section 1.

Project Scope and Budget

The overall budget for Section 1 of the project was set at $1.36 billion. This section encompasses the construction of twin 2.5-mile tunnels and three new stations. These stations are located at Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax, and Wilshire/La Cienega. The project also includes the construction of a launch portal near the future station at Wilshire/La Brea and a retrieval portal at Wilshire/Western.

Contract Details and Timeline

The contract with the joint venture of Skanska, Traylor Bros., and J.F. Shea Construction, Inc. was for $1.36 billion. The design-build team was responsible for the design and construction of Section 1. The construction timeline was estimated to take approximately seven years. The Purple Line Extension project aims to extend the existing D Line subway from the current terminus at Wilshire/Western to the Westwood/VA Hospital station. Section 1 began construction in 2019, with the stations at Wilshire/La Brea and Wilshire/Fairfax projected to open in 2024, followed by Wilshire/La Cienega in 2025.

Construction Progress and Challenges

Construction of Section 1 faced various challenges, including utility relocations and dealing with ground conditions. Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) were used to excavate the tunnels. The project involved significant coordination with local communities and businesses. The project has encountered delays, leading to adjusted opening dates for the stations.

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Last October 2018, we published an article about Chicago’s 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project. Click here to read – Chicago’s 75th Street Rail: A Modernization Case Study

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Future Extension and Overall Project Goals

The Purple Line Extension project aims to improve public transportation access in the Los Angeles area, connecting downtown Los Angeles to the Westside. Subsequent sections of the extension were planned to further extend the line westward. The complete project, including all phases of the Purple Line Extension, is a significant undertaking designed to enhance the region’s transit network. The Purple Line Extension project continues to be a major infrastructure project for the city.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) initiated the Purple Line Extension project, with Section 1 awarded to a design-build team for $1.36 billion. This section includes tunnel construction and the creation of three new stations. The project has faced construction delays, yet aims to improve public transportation in Los Angeles.

Company Summary

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro): The primary public transportation agency in Los Angeles County, responsible for planning, funding, and operating a comprehensive transportation system including bus, rail, and other transit services.

Skanska: A global construction and development company involved in various infrastructure projects.

Traylor Bros.: A construction firm specializing in heavy civil construction, including tunneling and underground projects.

J.F. Shea Construction, Inc.: A construction company involved in large-scale infrastructure projects, including tunneling and transportation projects.