Amtrak has started a monumental $2.7 billion project to upgrade the aging Susquehanna River Rail Bridge, a linchpin of the Northeast Corridor, the nation’s busiest passenger rail artery. The existing bridge, constructed in 1906, has served as the longest moveable span on the corridor for over a century. Unfortunately, its age and design have imposed significant limitations on train speeds, slowing trains to 90 mph, which has adversely impacted capacity and overall reliability.

To address these constraints and usher in a new era of high-speed rail travel, Amtrak is undertaking a transformative initiative to replace the existing bridge with two state-of-the-art, fixed, two-track spans. This will eliminate the need for the bridge to open for marine traffic, a process that has historically caused delays and disruptions. With the new bridges in place, trains will be able to accelerate to speeds of up to 160 miles per hour, greatly improving travel times and the overall passenger experience.

Beyond the bridge replacement, the project includes a broader scope of upgrades. Five miles of track will undergo modernization, and advanced electrical systems and signal infrastructure will be installed. These upgrades are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trains along this critical corridor.

“Amtrak is excited to kick off early work on this important bridge upgrade, one of several major Amtrak infrastructure megaprojects now underway or set to begin by the end of 2024,” said Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner. “Amtrak is advancing a new era of passenger rail with state-of-the-art bridges, tunnels and trains on the way.”

The project is a collaborative endeavor involving Amtrak, the Federal Rail Administration, and the Maryland Department of Transportation/Maryland Transit Authority. The construction management responsibilities have been entrusted to a joint venture that includes Flatiron and Herzog. AECOM has been tasked with overseeing the final design and construction phases, while Fay Construction will handle the removal of the old bridge’s piers.

Initial phases of the project, which include utility improvements in Perryville and the removal of obsolete bridge piers from the Susquehanna River, are scheduled for completion by the end of 2024. The construction of the main bridges is anticipated to begin next year.

Funding for this engineering undertaking is secured through a combination of Amtrak resources, state allocations, and a substantial $2.08 billion federal grant awarded under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.