Enhancing regional rail capacity and connectivity for New York and Long Island

Jacobs supported streamlined delivery as Project Management Office (PMO) partner. With a complex web of deliverables and interconnected dependencies, a key element of our role was the integration of over 15 systems contracts, from traction power to signaling.

Our team of experts helped oversee and support numerous components of the program, including the boring of nearly eight miles of railroad tunnels in Manhattan and Queens; the laying of 50,000 feet of track; the building of a new terminal under Grand Central Terminal and the testing and commissioning of the systems that will work in unison. In addition, extensive infrastructure work included the construction of new ventilation buildings and substantial surface works, as well as the modernization of the busiest passenger train interlocking in the U.S., Harold Interlocking.

A key element of Jacobs’ role is the delivery of the CO8 traction power substation located in Queens. The prefabricated modular substation was fully built and installed offsite and delivered to the site in 22 sections to reduce disruptions for rail users, with assembly subsequently completed in just seven days.

The new tunnel and track system increases the LIRR's capacity into Manhattan and shortens the travel time for approximately 162,000 commuters travelling from Long Island and eastern Queens by approximately 40 minutes a day. It also eases congestion on the city’s trains and subways, especially around the neighboring Pennsylvania Station.

The new terminal, which has eight tracks and four passenger platforms, is able to accommodate eight trains at a time, enabling service for up to 24 trains during peak hours. Located directly below Grand Central Terminal, the new Grand Central Madison concourse provides 350,000 square feet of new space, including over 25 retail store fronts and multiple entry and exit points to Grand Central Terminal and street level.