A set of Amtrak stations in Winconsin have undergone extensive upgrade works as part of a 11 million USD scheme to improve accessibility at both Columbus and Tomah.
Amtrak Empire Builder and Borealis trains each stop twice a day at the two stations, which have now been officially inaugurated during ribbon-cutting ceremonies in both cities.
Nineteen stations have been brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act since its implementation on 30 September, with a further 50 stations targeted for upgrade works valued at a total of 310 million USD.
Columbus (6.3 million USD), which sits three blocks northeast of downtown, now touts two new 350-foot-long concrete platforms, accessible paths of travel to and from the station building, and a new designated parking area, as well as a number of sloped accessible walkways, railings, energy efficient LED light fixtures, detectable warning systems and new signage throughout.
Subcontractors on the project included Seven Hills Striping and White Cap (Madison), Brozek and O’Brion Excavating (Fall River), Empower Electric and Zenith Tech (Waukesha), Maple Leaf Inc. (Verona), and Wolf Paving Co. (Hartland).
Tomah station (5 million USD) has received similar improvements; with a new, 330-foot-long heated concrete boarding platform, accessible paths of travel to and from the station building, and a designated parking area all having been installed. The station has also received new sloped accessible walkways, railings, energy efficient LED light fixtures, detectable warning systems and signage implemented on-site, along with upgrades to the waiting room air conditioning and public utility connections.
The station’s new design was handled by Michael Baker International, with general contractor services provided by George Allen Construction. Subcontractors on the project included Fowler & Hammer (La Crosse), Badger State, Inc. and Real Land Surveying (Eau Claire), Gerke Excavating (Tomah), and Pederson Electric (Coon Valley).
Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility Dr. David Handera, said:Making stations accessible to all customers is a priority we’re actively pursuing with construction, renovation, repair and upgrade projects at stations across our National Network.
We want all of our stations to provide a welcoming environment for every passenger.
