East Side Access

Photo of caverns after excavation

2D drawings and data integrated into BIM.

Tracking model for Queens Plaza

Section of Cavern

Section showing the depth of the concourse and caverns

Ceiling of model showing existing conditions (orange) with the new design in white.

Budget: ~$10 Billion

Location: Manhattan and Queens, N.Y.

Completion: 2022

Type: Heavy Civil, Infrastructure, Railroad station, Underground Construction

Client: MTA Capital Construction

Contract Type: Joint venture with Jacobs and LiRo Group

VDC Focus: 4-D scheduling; logistics and constructibility coordination

East Side Access is a new train station connected to Grand Central Station. It is a public-works mega-project commissioned by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City. When complete, Long Island Rail Road trains will directly connect to the east side subways and Metro North. The project includes the construction of new tunnels under Manhattan, a new eight-block-long concourse and eight train platforms beneath Grand Central Station at a depth of approximately 150 feet, the refurbishment of existing train tunnels under the East River and an above ground train yard and interlocking in Queens. The new terminal is projected to be complete by 2022. The project is distinctive, as it is one of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects currently under construction in the United States. The VDC team client, MTA Capital Construction Division (MTACC), acts as an owner for the project.