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April 12, 2024
208 , Chicago , Construct , Construction Administration Support , Delivering Success , Projects , Transportation / Infrastructure
The Jane Byrne Interchange is a complicated, circular convergence of four different interstates located in the heart of downtown Chicago. The ground below the interchange presented geotechnical challenges every bit as complicated as the interlocking network of highways above it. Rebuilding the interchange required a geotechnical consultant with expertise in local subsurface conditions, and the ability to meet the demands of a high-profile project. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the City of Chicago trusted Wang Engineering, A Terracon Company, to meet this challenge over the span of the 10-year construction project.
The interchange had to stay operational during construction, adding logistical challenges throughout the project. The final statistics – more than 350 borings, 27,400 feet of drilling, and five permanent groundwater monitoring wells installed – only tell part of the story. Nearly every boring had to account for multiple subsurface challenges, including utilities, water tunnels, historic freight tunnels, and even a commuter train tunnel. The team was in constant communication with IDOT, the City of Chicago, and other public and private agencies to make sure none of the subsurface assets were compromised.
The other subsurface challenge was a 40-plus-foot-thick layer of soft soil known as ‘Chicago Blue Clay.’ Terracon recommended foundation and subsoil improvements to safely support the new and updated structures, including a new flyover, 51 retaining walls, 20 replacement bridges, reconstruction of sewer and water system, and reconstruction of major interstate highways and ramps pavement. As the project progressed, the City of Chicago entrusted Wang with reviewing contractor design drawings, as well as methods of monitoring and protecting existing structures and utilities.
Completed in 2022, the $804-million Jane Byrne interchange can now handle up to 400,000 vehicles per day, which helps keep Chicago traffic flowing smoothly. Our nationwide network of transportation professionals partner with state transportation departments across the country, delivering innovative solutions infrastructure projects of all sizes. Roads, bridges, interstates, and other essential infrastructure will require improvements in the coming years to keep pace with growing demands. Let’s work together and see where the road takes us.
We love building our communities and across the country - these stories represent some of our best endeavors.
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