Amtrak has selected the Clark Construction/Stacy and Witbeck Joint Venture as the first major contractor to deliver the Southern Approach package for the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program.
This programme aims to transform the Northeast Corridor (NEC) in West Baltimore by replacing the ageing B&P Tunnel.
The award follows a competitive procurement process that began in June 2022.
“This award represents the culmination of years of hard work to deliver significant long-term improvements right in the heart of a vital segment of the Northeast Corridor. Building the new Frederick Douglass Tunnel along with the other program improvements is a win-win for Baltimore that will create thousands of jobs and improve the experience for thousands of customers who rely on this critical connection every day.”
The total investment in constructing the Frederick Douglass Tunnel is estimated to be approximately 6 billion USD.
The Southern Approach Package (Package B) contract is valued at over 1 billion USD and includes:
- Building a new ADA-accessible West Baltimore MARC Station
- Constructing the southern approach from south of the West Baltimore Station area and extending north to the new Frederick Douglass Tunnel south portal
- Replacing multiple railroad undergrade bridges (N. Warwick Ave., W. Mulberry St., and W. Franklin St.)
- Replacing the Edmondson Ave. and W. Lafayette Ave. bridges
- Relocating and realigning various utilities
Additional contracts have also been awarded to K.K. Adams and Delaware Cornerstone Builders, who will complete preconstruction activities ahead of major construction.
“This important milestone moves us one step closer to bringing the long-anticipated replacement of the B&P Tunnel into fruition. We look forward to continued collaboration with Amtrak as we deliver this vital connection and enhance overall mobility for commuters in Baltimore and beyond.”
