SRA approves changes to keep Union Station project on track

March 24, 2016 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Redevelopment Authority (SRA) approved two changes to the Union Station project that will keep the progress rolling forward.

The SRA met on March 21 to approve an allocation of $151,000 from the contingency fund to construct a “shoofly” track – or temporary track –  as part of the job to waterproof the tracks over the station.  An additional $15,500 was also approved to purchase asphalt plates to lay in place to ensure the success of the waterproofing effort.

When the tunnel from the terminal building to Lyman Street was reopened as part of the restoration, it was evident water was leaking from the tracks used by both Amtrak and CSX.

Christopher Moskal, the executive director of the SRA, explained to Reminder Publications the project is still on schedule to reopen later this year.

The waterproofing of the Amtrak tracks has started, he said, and added work is progressing on the parking garage. The precast structure has been built, but Moskal said the grouting, electrical and plumbing work is continuing.

The multiple stairwells in the tunnel area to the tracks above have been “entombed,” Moskal said, in order to preserve them for potential use in the future.

He also said the project is “well into” its leasing phase. Agreements with the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, Peter Pan Buslines, Greyhound and DATTCO are now in negotiations.

A request for proposals for vendors has been sent out, Moskal added. The timeline is to sign leases for businesses in July so the businesses can begin their own construction of spaces in September.

All of the leases must be approved by the SRA, he said.

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