Metra Flyover Bridge

• Location Illinois
• Timeline2012-2015
• Construction
  MethodsDrilled shafts Earth retention systems Steel sheeting Grouted tie-backs Soldier piles

Scope

Michels Corporation completed a deep foundations package for a rail bridge to carry the Rock Island Metra tracks over tracks used by Amtrak and freight trains, eliminating at grade crossings. Michels installed 220 rock-socketed drilled shafts with full-length permanent casing. The shaft diameter ranged from 3 to 5 feet with an average depth of 60 to 65 feet below grade and 1- to 3-foot rock sockets. For the second phase, Michels installed 70 rock socketed drilled shafts with full length permanent casing. Michels installed a variety of earth retention depending on site logistics and soil conditions. Michels designed the systems from 10- to 30-foot cuts with live railroad loading to traffic loading. Michels installed 1,100 feet of permanent steel sheeting with steel sheet pile lengths up to 50 feet long to support the new rail tracks on existing grade and 150 permanent grout anchors/tiebacks.