2
In Motion
We Are Forever Changed
The first quarter of 2015 is a great
time to stop and think about the
future. Technology has changed us.
Robots, BIM, GPS, smart phones,
apps, and virtual meetings have all
reconstructed how we live and how
we do business. In the near future, life-like robots, drones
and high-performing artificial intelligence will take us
further into uncharted territory. Ironically, we are the new
pioneers.
All of these technology developments affect transit
too. Such advancements have a huge impact on transit
systems. One thing that’s certain is that the Honolulu
Rapid Transit project is moving forward with its fully
automated, driverless system. It will be the first urban,
high-capacity driverless system built in the US since the
JFK Airtrain began service in 2003. The 20-mile, 21-station
project will result in one of the largest driverless systems
in the world. With all of its benefits, I’m predicting—and
hoping—that this will set the stage for future driverless
transit systems to be implemented throughout North
America.
And what about driverless cars? Will their convenience
push people away from traditional light rail and
metropolitan transit systems? Or will driverless cars
simply be the vehicle to deliver people to local metro
systems and long-distance, high-speed rail?
We all have much to ponder; and as you move through
this new year, I hope everyone has a healthy, productive
and prosperous 2015 that is filled with the promise of
innovation and new ideas!
Jack Norton
specification documents), assisted in the selection of a contractor,
provided a full range of design review and contract compliance
services, and coordinated interfaces between the new system,
BART’s existing system and the Airport.
Lea+Elliott led the DBOM procurement process including
a joint RFQ/RFP, and provided design review and construction
oversight management for the system, while the project
was designed and constructed by a joint venture between
Flatiron Construction and Parsons Transportation Group. As
a subcontractor to Flatiron / Parsons, a Joint Venture (FPJV),
Doppelmayr Cable Car (DCC) provided the cable-propelled, dual-
lane pinched loop APM elements of the system.
Because the system was constructed in a densely populated
and commercially busy area, there were special challenges to
achieving the work. The guideway was completely installed along
the 3-mile route, including interfaces with the City of Oakland,
Port of Oakland, Caltrans and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR).
The BART to OAK system was partially funded by the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) and thus, the requirements of Buy
America applied. Under 49 CFR 661, Buy America regulations, all
system elements are manufactured in the United States and must
be constructed with at least 60% domestic content. In addition,
100% of the steel used on the project for the guideway and fixed
facilities must be fabricated in the United States. Because the
guideway superstructure was entirely steel, there was a significant
manufacturing effort occurring in the United States. Lea+Elliott
assisted the project in meeting the requirements of Buy America.
Lea+Elliott is proud to have the opportunity of working
together with BART staff to finally turn BART to OAK into a
reality. Past Lea+Elliott staff includes Bill Leder (retired), Harley
Moore (retired), and Elaine Cartwright (now with BART). Current
Lea+Elliott staff includes P
roject Manager John Kennedy, Jackie
Yang, Jason Eng, Bryce Engen
,
Sebastian Gladney, and Michele
Jacobson
(while at BART), . Lea+Elliott is continuing to support
BART with closeout and contract management items.
BART to OAK
continued from p 1
President’s Column
BART to OAK leaving the Airport station.
