Tunnel Technical Report
Tunnel Technical Report
Chelsea Somerville
Cambridge
Boston
Brookline
Executive Summary
This document provides a summary of the tunnel alternatives developed as part of the combined Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report (RDEIR) and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) process for the Urban Ring Phase 2. The physical context and key constraints that influence the planning of a tunnel alignment within the project corridor are presented, including: geology; water courses; utilities; historic structures; and land use. A range of alignment alternatives have been developed including short tunnel and long tunnel options. The tunnel alignments have been further refined and developed on the basis of preliminary ridership and cost-benefit analyses, and in coordination with public consultation. The full range of alignment alternatives presented in this document are considered to be feasible from an engineering perspective, although costs, benefits, and impacts vary widely among the alternatives. The principal tunnel elements comprise the portals, the running tunnels, and the stations. Typical cross sections have been developed based on the criteria presented in this document. The cross sections take into account potential Urban Ring Phase 3 rail transit requirements. It was shown that the current Phase 2 BRT requirements were the controlling factor in determining the cross section, and therefore there is no cost premium associated with the basic Phase 2 tunnel cross section. Further refinement to the BRT vehicle envelope in subsequent engineering studies may afford a reduction in the tunnel cross sectional area, and therefore cost. There are a number of different tunneling techniques that can be used to construct the running tunnels. The primary ones to be considered are: cut and cover tunnel; sequential excavation method (SEM) mined tunnel; and tunnel boring machine (TBM) bored tunnel. Each of these techniques offers the possibility to construct a single tunnel carrying two lanes or two tunnels each carrying one lane. While each of these techniques has been considered, either exclusively or in combinations, in the development of the tunneled alignment alternatives, the initial assumption is that the running tunnels would be constructed using a TBM in a single bore configuration. It is considered that, at this stage in the planning process, this has not precluded the development of a viable alignment option, and that alternative construction methods and configurations (e.g. twin bored tunnels, cut and cover tunnels, or SEM mined tunnels) would be reassessed during subsequent engineering studies and as more information on geology, hydrogeology, settlement and building response, electromagnetic field impacts, and noise and vibration becomes available. Similar to the running tunnels, there are a variety of construction techniques that can be used to build the underground stations. The use of an over-size TBM is not considered practicable at this stage, principally due to physical constraints of major segments of the corridor. SEM mined platform tunnels have been considered where required by site constraints, but for overall planning purposes, the conceptual design of a typical underground station is a cut and cover construction. Compatibility of the alternative alignment options with Phase 3 rail alignments has been presented and all alignments will allow at least some portion of the Phase 2 BRT tunnel to be converted to Phase 3 rail use. The alignment alternative development stages are presented and discussed, culminating in the recommendation of a Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA) for the busway tunnel. Recommendations for further work relating to the busway tunnel are also presented. S-1
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List of Contents
Abbreviations Glossary Chapters and Appendices 1 Introduction 1.1 1.2 2 Project Background Need for Urban Ring Phase 2 Tunnel Analysis
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1-1 1-1 1-2 2-1 2-1 2-3 2-4 2-4 2-4 2-5 2-7 2-8 2-8 2-9 2-10 2-10 2-11 2-12 3-1 3-1 3-1 3-5 3-6 3-7 3-11 3-12 3-14 3-14 3-16 3-18 3-20 i
Physical Context and Constraints 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Location Geology Charles River Muddy River Stony Brook Culvert Utilities Historic Structures Land Use 2.8.1 Parcel 18 West Property 2.8.2 Air Rights Parcel 7 Development 2.8.3 Longwood Medical and Academic Area 2.8.4 Boston University 2.8.5 Childrens Hospital Boston 2.8.6 Green Line D Branch and CSX Right-of-way Proposals
Tunnel Specifications and Characteristics 3.1 Tunnel Design Criteria 3.1.1 Spatial Requirements 3.1.2 Alignment 3.1.3 Underground Stations 3.1.4 Tunnel Systems and Operation 3.1.5 Fire Life Safety 3.1.6 Security Construction Methodology 3.2.1 Cut and Cover Tunnel 3.2.2 SEM Mined Tunnel 3.2.3 TBM Bored Tunnel 3.2.4 Initial Recommendations
3.2
3.3
Typical Tunnel Cross Sections 3.3.1 Tunnel Portals 3.3.2 Running Tunnels 3.3.3 Underground Stations
3-23 3-23 3-25 3-31 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-8 4-8 4-10 4-11 4-13 4-15 4-15 4-16 4-16 4-17 4-17 4-18 4-19 4-23 4-23 4-24 4-25 4-27 5-1 6-1 A-1 B-1 B-2 B-3 B-4 C-1 D-1 D-2 D-3
Alternatives Considered 4.1 Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Development Stage 1 4.1.1 Alternative 3 4.1.2 Alternative 3A 4.1.3 Alternative 3B 4.1.4 Alternative 3C 4.1.5 Alternative 4 4.1.6 Alternative 4A Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Development Stage 2 4.2.1 Alternative 3A-1 4.2.2 Alternative 3A-2 4.2.3 Alternative 3A-3 Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Development Stage 3 4.3.1 Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn 4.3.2 Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn 4.3.3 Alternative H2(T) Sub-options Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Summary 4.4.1 Noise and Vibration 4.4.2 Electromagnetic Fields 4.4.3 Phase 3 Compatibility 4.4.4 Preliminary Capital Cost Estimate of Options
4.2
4.3
4.4
5 6
Current Locally Preferred Alternative for Busway Tunnel Conclusions and Recommendations for Further Work Typical Station Layout Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Alternatives Development Stage 1 Alternatives Development Stage 2 Alternatives Development Stage 3 Alternative H2(T) Sub-options Memorandum Current LPA Busway Tunnel Preliminary Plan and Profile Drawings Estimate of Truck and Rail Car Numbers During Construction
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Figures and Tables Figure 2.1: Study Corridor ......................................................................................................................... 2-2 Figure 2.2: Stony Brook Culvert ................................................................................................................ 2-5 Figure 2.3: MWRA Pumping Station Shaft ............................................................................................... 2-6 Figure 2.4: 440 Park Drive ......................................................................................................................... 2-7 Figure 2.5: Northeastern University Parcel 18 West Development ........................................................... 2-8 Figure 2.6: Air Rights Parcel 7 Development ............................................................................................ 2-9 Figure 2.7: Childrens Hospital Boston 819 Beacon Street Development ............................................... 2-11 Figure 2.8: Green Line Storage Track Adjacent to Fenway Station (looking northeast) ......................... 2-12 Figure 2.9: Mixed Use Path Proposals ..................................................................................................... 2-13 Figure 3.1: BRT Clearance Envelope (Two-way busway tunnel).............................................................. 3-2 Figure 3.2: BRT Clearance Envelope (One-way busway tunnel) .............................................................. 3-3 Figure 3.3: Phase 3 Clearance Envelope (rail) ........................................................................................... 3-4 Figure 3.4: Typical Slurry Wall Equipment for Cut and Cover Construction.......................................... 3-15 Figure 3.5: SEM Mined Tunnels Using Multiple Drifts .......................................................................... 3-16 Figure 3.6: SMART Project Tunnel Boring Machine (43-4 diameter) ................................................. 3-19 Figure 3.7: Typical Cross Section Tunnel Portal Approach Ramp ....................................................... 3-24 Figure 3.8: Typical Cross Section Cut and Cover Section .................................................................... 3-24 Figure 3.9: Typical Cross Section Twin Bored Tunnels ....................................................................... 3-25 Figure 3.10: Typical Cross Section Single Bored Tunnel ..................................................................... 3-28 Figure 3.11: Examples of Constrained Tunneling Worksites................................................................... 3-30 Figure 4.12: Leon Street Portal Worksites ................................................................................................. 4-4 Figure 4.13: Longwood Avenue (Avenue Louis Pasteur) Station Worksites ............................................ 4-5 Figure 4.14: Abandoned Rail Freight Spur / Landmark Center Portal..................................................... 4-10 Figure 4.15: Underground Stations on the Green Line ............................................................................ 4-21 Figure 4.16: Longwood Avenue Alignment............................................................................................. 4-22 Figure 5.1: LPA Busway Tunnel................................................................................................................ 5-2 Table 3.1: Summary of Alignment Criteria................................................................................................ 3-5 Table 3.2: Platform Lengths ....................................................................................................................... 3-6 Table 4.3: Phase 3 Compatibility Matrix ................................................................................................. 4-26 Table 4.4: Preliminary Estimate of Capital Cost for Tunnel Alternatives ............................................... 4-27 Table 5.1: Summary of LPA Tunnel Lengths ............................................................................................ 5-1
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Abbreviations
BRT BU CAC CNG DEIS ECD EMF EMI GJRR LMA MBTA MIS MTA MWRA NAVD NFPA NGVD RDEIR ROW SEM TBM Bus Rapid Transit Boston University Citizens Advisory Committee Compressed Natural Gas Draft Environmental Impact Statement Emission Controlled Diesel Electromagnetic Field Electromagnetic Interference Grand Junction Railroad Longwood Medical and Academic Area Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Major Investment Study Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Massachusetts Water Resources Authority North American Vertical Datum National Fire Protection Association National Geodetic Vertical Datum Revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement right-of-way Sequential Excavation Method Tunnel Boring Machine
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Glossary
Busway dedicated right-of-way provided for exclusive use of the Bus Rapid Transit service. Cut and cover tunnel a method of tunnel construction involving the installation of earth support systems (e.g. slurry walls) followed by the main excavation, placing of the base slab, roof slab and subsequent backfilling to the final ground level. Sequential Excavation Method a method of tunnel construction that involves the use of standard construction equipment for excavation. The tunnel is usually lined in two steps: An initial lining of sprayed concrete provides immediate support and a subsequent secondary or permanent lining is then placed using either sprayed concrete or cast insitu concrete. A waterproof membrane is usually installed between the primary and secondary linings. Slurry wall a form of earth support system whereby a continuous trench is excavated in the ground to the required depth, using slurry to provide temporary support during excavation of the trench. Reinforcement (which may be reinforcing cages or steel H sections) is lowered into the trench and concrete is subsequently placed by tremie pipe, displacing the slurry from the trench. Tunnel Boring Machine a method of tunnel construction that involves the procurement of a custommade piece of construction equipment. The TBM is equipped with a cutterhead that is used to mine the ground. The excavation is continuously supported by installing precast concrete segments within the TBM and grouting them in place as the machine advances. Tunnel eye the interface point of cut and cover tunnel and the bored or mined tunnel. Tunnel portal the interface point of the open cut and the cut and cover tunnel. Tunnel portal approach ramp open retained cut that takes the alignment from ground level down to the tunnel portal. Tunnel portal structure all structural elements associated with the transition from a grade level alignment to a bored or mined tunnel alignment.
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Introduction
This document provides a summary of the tunnel alternatives developed as part of the combined Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report (RDEIR) and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) process for the Urban Ring Phase 2. The document presents the key design criteria used in developing the tunnel alternatives, provide a brief narrative of the alternatives developed, and outlines some of the main issues in relation to constructability, operation, and potential conversion to Phase 3 (rail). It is intended that the text from this report will be used in preparing the RDEIR/DEIS, and therefore the project introduction will be kept very brief in this report, as it is anticipated to be covered by others in the environmental document. 1.1 Project Background
The idea of transportation improvements in the Urban Ring Corridor has been the subject of considerable public debate and analysis dating back to the era when a system of circumferential highways were proposed and later abandoned. The 1970s marked a period of fundamental change in state policy away from highways and in favor of transit based solutions to mobility problems. Starting with the Circumferential Transit Feasibility Study in 1989, potential ridership in the Corridor began to be quantified and the cost and feasibility of various alternatives was examined in greater detail. The Urban Ring Major Investment Study (MIS) completed in 2001 presented the approach of three additive phases to transit improvements in the Corridor: Phase 1 Phase 2 New and improved cross-town bus routes on existing streets; Addition of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes with new and improved inter-modal connections; and Addition of rail rapid transit.
Phase 3
The MIS evaluated various tunneled alternatives for Phase 3 rail transit. As part of the Phase 2 RDEIR/DEIS process the possibility of providing a portion of the Phase 3 tunnel alignment earlier in the project, during Phase 2, is to be investigated. Under this scenario, the tunnel alignment would be used by the BRT service during Phase 2, and subsequently converted to rail usage in Phase 3. This report presents the tunnel alignment alternatives developed for operation with BRT in Phase 2, and also addresses issues related to the potential conversion of the tunnel from Phase 2 BRT to Phase 3 rail transit.
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1.2
The Urban Ring Phase 2 is the subject of the current planning and environmental review process. The proposed Urban Ring Phase 2 project would be bus rapid transit (BRT), a form of transit that uses rubbertired bus vehicles with a comprehensive system of improvements that are designed to enable service quality that is more like that of rapid transit. These improvements include provision of dedicated right-ofway (i.e. special bus roadways referred to as busways, or bus lanes on general traffic roadways); widelyspaced stops with substantial transit stations that have a distinct transit identity; high-capacity vehicles with low floors and low emissions; high-frequency service; and advanced communications and traffic control technologies. The provision of dedicated right-of-way (ROW), in the form of busways and bus lanes, is central to effective and efficient operation of the Urban Ring Phase 2. Wherever possible, surface busways or bus lanes have been proposed for the Urban Ring Phase 2 BRT service. In areas where busways or bus lanes are not feasible, the Urban Ring Phase 2 BRT service may need to operate in mixed traffic. There are, however, some areas in the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor where significant segments of dedicated ROW are not available and heavy traffic congestion limits the speeds that are possible for BRT vehicles operating in mixed traffic. In order to address these challenges, the Urban Ring Phase 2 project team investigated the potential travel time improvements, ridership benefits, construction impacts, and cost implications of tunnels in certain segments of the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor. This technical memorandum summarizes the analysis of potential tunnel alternatives and options for the Urban Ring Phase 2, including the issues and constraints, design criteria and specifications, potential tunnel alignments, and key findings of the analysis. The tunnel analysis encompasses a range of different tunnel lengths and connections, but all of the tunnel alternatives include a segment beneath the Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA). The LMA has a very high density of travel demand, making it an important hub for Urban Ring Phase 2 service, but also very high levels of traffic congestion and limited opportunities for dedicated ROW at the surface.
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2
2.1
The Urban Ring Phase 2 RDEIR/DEIS Study Corridor is shown in Figure 2.1. The MIS identified two Phase 3 tunnel alignments that connect the Orange Line at Assembly Square with the former Orange Line terminus at Dudley Square. At a general level, points north and south of the Charles River and west into Allston formed the broad limits of the tunnel alternatives considered, all of which included a tunnel and one or more underground stations in the Fenway/Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA). The general extent of the corridor for which tunnel alternatives have been assessed as part of the Urban Ring Phase 2 RDEIR/DEIS process, is shown in Figure 2.1.
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2.2
Geology
At present there is a lack of site-specific geological or geotechnical information along the potential Urban Ring tunnel alignments. Presented below is a general summary of the regional geology interpreted from secondary sources. Geotechnical investigations should be performed during subsequent planning phases of the project to better determine the geotechnical characteristics along the proposed tunnel alignments. In general, the area through which the Urban Ring tunnels would be constructed is the site of an ancient estuary. As a result, the area is typically characterized by marine and glacial deposits and extensive layers of organic silts and clays. Upland areas are generally overlain by glacial till (a typically hard and compact mixture of clay, silt, sand, pebbles, cobbles and boulders); and lowland areas typically have stratified deposits near the surface, which may include both sands and gravels, and fine-grained silts and clays. In the lowest lying areas, near the Charles River and the Muddy River, an extensive, fine-grained deposit known as the Boston blue clay was deposited under shallow marine conditions. This is overlain by recent estuarine deposits, which in turn are overlain by artificial fill in some areas. At the northern end of the tunnel alignments in the vicinity of Boston University (BU) Bridge and Commonwealth Avenue, the soil conditions are variable, but typically include fills, organic silts, sand/gravels and clay. Along the shores of the Charles River and along Commonwealth Avenue, depths of up to 15 feet of miscellaneous fill was found to overlie pockets of organic silts. The organic silts are typically thicker towards the river. Beneath the organics is a deep deposit of granular soil, a stratum that ranges from fine to coarse sands with occasional pockets of clay within the stratum. The top of the Boston Blue Clay formation in this area was found to be greater than 100 feet below ground surface. At the west end of Ruggles Street, the upper soils include about 10 feet of fill underlain by up to 20 feet of organic silts underlain by a thin layer of sand and then Boston Blue Clay. However, as the profile moves easterly, the organics taper out and the fill is underlain by sand and sand with gravels which in turn is underlain by clay. The clay deposit is quite thick in the Ruggles Street area, extending to depths in excess of 150 feet. The bedrock of the lower Charles River watershed comprises a sequence of sedimentary and volcanic rocks that were deposited about 600 million years ago. The rock layers vary from relatively soft siltstones and slates (known as Cambridge Argillite), to harder conglomerates consisting of pebbles and cobbles in a sand matrix (for example the Roxbury Conglomerate). Uplands in Newton, Brookline, and the southern portion of Boston are underlain by the hard conglomerate and volcanic rocks; lowlands in Cambridge and the northern portion of Boston are underlain by the argillite. The bedrock elevations in the project area vary and are expected to have a high point in the vicinity of Harvard Medical School on Longwood Avenue at around 70 to 95-ft below ground level.
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2.3
Charles River
Water depths in the Lower Charles River range from 6-ft to 12-ft in the basin upstream of the Boston University Bridge and 9-ft to 36-ft in the lower basin 1 . 2.4 Muddy River
Preliminary information received from the United States Army Corps of Engineers for the Muddy River Flood Damage Reduction and Environmental Restoration Project (Phase I) indicates that the Muddy River will be day-lighted through the Sears Rotary area to an invert elevation of approximately -4.0-ft to -5.0-ft based on North American Vertical Datum 1988 (NAVD 88). NAVD 88 is 0.65-ft below National Geodetic Vertical Datum 1929 (NGVD 29). As part of the Muddy River project two new pile-supported bridge structures will be built, one under the Riverway (at the western end of the Sears Rotary) and one under Brookline Avenue (at the eastern end of the Sears Rotary). The current design for the Muddy River restoration project will eliminate the jughandle turn east of Brookline Avenue, so this road will not require a bridge structure. The toe elevations of the drilled shaft foundations for the new bridge structures range from -38.5 to -57.5-ft, NAVD 88. Any Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel alternatives passing beneath these planned bridge structures would need to either provide sufficient ground cover beneath the drilled shaft foundations, or underpin and support the bridge structures during construction of the Urban Ring tunnels. 2.5 Stony Brook Culvert
The Stony Brook tributary of the Lower Charles River was culverted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The culvert runs north-south along Parker Street and crosses perpendicular to Ruggles Street, as shown in Figure 2.2. The combined width of the twin culvert structure is approximately 32-ft and the crown of the culvert is located immediately below street level. Where the culvert crosses Ruggles Street it does not appear to be supported on piled foundations and the bottom of the construction is approximately 17-ft below ground level. As a result of these conditions, an Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel that follows the alignment of Ruggles Street would need to pass beneath the Stony Brook Culvert. This would require either an increase in the tunnel depth at this point to provide sufficient ground cover below the culvert, or underpinning and support of the Stony Brook Culvert during construction.
According to the draft publication for the USEPA A Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Model for the Lower Charles River Basin, Massachusetts, dated November 2005.
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Source: MASCO
2.6
Utilities
Utility diversions are costly and disruptive in their own right and therefore any alternative should seek to minimize the impact on existing utilities where possible. At this stage in the project there is little information on existing utilities along the Urban Ring corridor. As more utility information has become available during the development of the alignment alternatives it has been included in the consideration of alignment alternatives. The Stony Brook Culvert, as discussed above, is located beneath Parker Street. Located to the east of Huntington Avenue and in the grounds of the Wentworth Institute of Technology, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) operates a pumping station (see Figure 2.3) that connects four major sewer lines: South Charles Relief Sewer (108 internal diameter) that crosses under Huntington Avenue; Boston Main Drainage Relief Sewer (78 internal diameter) that runs under Ruggles and Huntington Avenue;
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Charles River Valley Sewer (78 84) that crosses under Huntington Avenue from Vancouver Street; and Mission Hill Relief Sewer (78 84) under Vancouver Street.
Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel construction would seek to avoid or minimize impacts to utilities wherever practicable, particularly to strategic infrastructure such as the MWRA pump station and these four sewer lines. The type and extent of mitigation required for utilities will depend on the utility and the owner or agency requirements, the age of the structure, the sensitivity to ground movements, the risks associated with potential damage, the method of construction proposed for the Urban Ring, the proximity of the proposed Urban Ring infrastructure to the utility, and safety and security considerations with respect to existing and proposed infrastructure.
MWRA Shaft
Huntington Avenue
Ruggles Street
Source: MASCO
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2.7
Historic Structures
Listed structures have been investigated during later stages of option development. One particular structure of note is the building at 440 Park Drive, currently used by the Boston Youth Fund, owing to the possible location of a tunnel portal in this area. The building at 440 Park Drive is identified as the Riverway Administration Building (BOS.7536) in the MACRIS database. The building was designed by Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge and construct circa 1898. The building is within the Back Bay Fens section of Olmstead Park System (BOSIO) and Emerald Necklace Parks (BOSJE) National Register Historic Districts (listed December 8, 1971) and furthermore is listed as a local landmark (December 18, 1989). On June 5, 1998 a preservation restriction was enacted for the Emerald Necklace Parks. The building facilities also include a yard and a refueling station, as shown in Figure 2.4.
Emerald Necklace
Park Drive
Refueling Station
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2.8
Land Use
There are a number of ongoing and incipient development projects on or near the proposed Urban Ring Phase 2 project alignment. The Urban Ring Phase 2 project team have coordinated with appropriate institutions and developers to ensure consistency between the land use proposals and the Urban Ring Phase 2 recommendations. Some key land parcels along the Urban Ring corridor that are either under development, have development proposals, or have some other significant are highlighted below. 2.8.1 Parcel 18 West Property
Northeastern University is currently developing the Parcel 18 West property into the Parcel 18 West Development, an approximately 1,200-bed, 22-story student residence building and a six-story mixed-use building. Parcel 18 West was previously occupied with a 162-space surface parking lot, and is located at the intersection of Tremont Street and Ruggles Street (see Figure 2.5).
Source: Institutional Master Plan Notification Form, Northeastern University, July 10, 2006
2.8.2
Meredith Managements proposed development is sited on the Massachusetts Turnpike Authoritys Parcel 7 land and air rights, bounded by Beacon and Maitland Streets to the west, and Brookline Avenue to the east. The Parcel is within a block of Fenway Park, the Lansdowne Entertainment District and Kenmore Square. The Beacon Street level plan for the development of Air Rights Parcel 7 is shown in Figure 2.6.
Beacon Street
Brookline Ave
Source: Project Notification Form, Massachusetts Turnpike Parcel 7 Air Rights, Kenmore/Fenway Area, January 16, 2008
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2.8.3
The Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA) is an important regional employment center along the Urban Ring corridor with various medical, academic and research institutions, comprising many distinct facilities. Most of these institutions have active, pending, or proposed construction projects that will affect both travel demand and physical constraints for Urban Ring Phase 2 surface and tunnel options. Each of these institutions has a master plan describing its future development proposals. The Urban Ring Phase 2 project team has reviewed these master plans and met with LMA institutions to better understand future demands and constraints. The tunnel alternatives reflect the project teams best understanding of development proposals in the LMA. 2.8.4 Boston University
Boston University has developed a long-term vision for the land around the south end of Boston University Bridge. This vision includes MTA air rights parcels, reconfiguration of Mountfort Street, and a potential new transportation hub. BUs 2007 Strategic Plan 1 discusses some of these proposals: Our current master planning, which looks out over the next quarter-century, calls for the creation of a major regional transportation hub roughly at our end of the BU Bridge, including the rationalization of the various roads, light rails, and railroads that traverse this very busy intersection. It also calls for a reinforcement of the short axis of our campus, with the thoughtful use of air rights over the Mass Pike giving us more room for concentrated growth andjust as importantphysical cohesion.
Choosing to be Great, A Vision of Boston University Past, Present, and Future The Universitys 2007 Strategic Plan, Draft, dated October 19th 2007. Source: http://www.bu.edu/strategicreport/
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2.8.5
Childrens Hospital Boston are planning to develop the parcel at 819 Beacon Street to include a residential building fronting onto Beacon Street with a multi-story parking garage to the rear. The project is located on the south side of Beacon Street between Munson Street and Maitland Street and will be located adjacent to the proposed Parcel 7 Air Rights development. The lobby level plan for the development is shown in Figure 2.7.
Source: Childrens Hospital Boston, 819 Beacon Street Project (Lobby Level), Elkus Manfredi Architects, August 3, 2006
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2.8.6
During the development of the RDEIR/DEIS alignment alternatives the MBTA constructed a storage track for the Green Line D Branch to the east of Fenway station and beneath Park Drive within the CSX rightof-way, as shown in Figure 2.8.
Fenway Station Park Drive Storage track
CSX Right-of-way
Figure 2.8: Green Line Storage Track Adjacent to Fenway Station (looking northeast) There are proposals for a pedestrian and bicycle path utilizing the abandoned rail freight spur adjacent to the Green Line D Branch between Park Drive and Miner Street, sharing the strip of land that now contains the Green Line storage track. Draft proposals to accommodate both the storage track and the multi-use path are shown in Figure 2.9.
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To provide a framework for development of alignments and conceptual designs for the Urban Ring Phase 2 busway tunnel, it was necessary for the project team to set certain technical parameters and assumptions. These include a wide range of design criteria, including appropriate tunnel dimensions and other specifications. The project team also reviewed the available tunnel construction methods and evaluated them relative to the projects needs and constraints. In the course of developing technical parameters and tunnel alignment options for Urban Ring Phase 2, the project team has also given significant consideration to the potential for converting the tunnel for use in Urban Ring Phase 3, which would use either light rail or heavy rail as the mode of transport. In analyzing the various Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel options, the project team has taken care to ensure that the Urban Ring Phase 2 proposals accomplish the following, where possible: Do not preclude the development of Urban Ring Phase 3 in any form that may reasonably be expected (e.g. light rail or heavy rail, in a range of potential alignments); and Where possible, include some minor alterations to Urban Ring Phase 2 that would facilitate the transition to Urban Ring Phase 3. Tunnel Design Criteria
3.1
This section provides a summary of the design criteria used in the development of tunnel alternatives for Urban Ring Phase 2. These design criteria will help to inform choices and assumptions about tunnel geometry, design, alignment, and construction assumptions for the tunnel alternatives. The tunnel design criteria include the following: 3.1.1 Spatial Requirements; Alignment; Underground Stations; Fire Life Safety; and Tunnel Systems and Operation. Spatial Requirements
The vehicular clearance envelope required for a two lane bi-directional busway tunnel is shown in Figure 3.1. Within covered tunnel sections there is likely to be a central dividing wall required for ventilation purposes. A central median may also be required to ensure that a head-on collision between two buses traveling in opposite directions is avoided. If a central dividing wall is provided then each lane is treated as a separate single lane busway tunnel and the clearances shown in Figure 3.2 are adopted. The section shown in Figure 3.1 is used primarily in open cut approach ramps. 3-1
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The preferred lane width is 12.0-ft and the minimum vertical clearance is 14.5-ft minimum to any structure. The clear vertical distance to any tunnel services or signage suspended above the roadway is taken to be 15.0-ft, allowing an additional 0.5-ft vertical clearance. In addition to these dimensions walkways would be provided on each side of the roadway.
14'-6"
7'-6"
Figure 3.1: BRT Clearance Envelope (Two-way busway tunnel) The requirements for a single lane uni-directional busway tunnel are shown in Figure 3.2. A walkway would be provided on one side of the roadway.
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14'-6"
Figure 3.2: BRT Clearance Envelope (One-way busway tunnel) In all of the alternatives examined below, walkways are provided throughout the tunnel to allow for safe access during routine maintenance operations, without the need to close the tunnel. It is recommended that a minimum walkway width of 3.0-ft be provided for maintenance purposes. If it is not practicable to provide a 3.0-ft walkway, then it is recommended that a 2.0-ft walkway is provided with refuge niches, sized at 7.5-ft high by 2.0-ft wide and 1.0-ft deep, spaced at 20.0-ft centers. The refuge niches should be protected from errant vehicles. Additional elements that need to be incorporated in the tunnel cross section but are not defined at this stage may include: signaling and signage; lighting; fire-life safety systems; and drainage. Some of these items can be incorporated within the required tunnel cross section. Other elements would require special design and construction accommodation. Phase 3 would involve conversion of the BRT tunnels for use by either light rail or heavy rail. The clearance envelopes for Phase 3 have been based on those for the MBTA Green Line and Orange Line for light rail and heavy rail, respectively. The rail clearances are shown in Figure 3.3.
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Figure 3.3: Phase 3 Clearance Envelope (rail) The development of tunnel cross sections that meet the busway spatial requirements provide sufficient space to accommodate either light rail or heavy rail transit clearance requirements, as shown in Figure 3.3. Therefore, designs that allow for the BRT clearance requirements above would also be consistent with any Urban Ring Phase 3 options. Further discussion on the typical tunnel cross sections that accommodate these spatial requirements is given in Section 3.3.
7'-6"
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3.1.2
Alignment
The design speed for BRT in tunnels is 30-mph, while the posted speed limit and assumed maximum operating speed would be 25-mph (to provide for a more conservative design for vehicle envelope). The 25-mph speed limit may be reduced at specific locations where warranted by special conditions, for example on approach to stations and at sharp turns. The horizontal and vertical alignment criteria used to set out the alternative tunnel alignments are summarized in Table 3.1. The criteria are presented with respect to Phase 2 BRT and Phase 3 light rail/heavy rail. The tunnel alignments have been developed, as far as practicable, to be in conformance with the requirements of Phase 3. However there are certain locations where compliance with Phase 3 criteria has not been achieved for reasons relating to constructability, Phase 2 operability, or for other technical reasons. Where Phase 3 compatibility has not been achieved for a specific tunnel alignment, this fact has been noted, along with remedial actions that would need to be taken to enable Phase 3 implementation.
BRT Horizontal Alignment Minimum tangent length General Beyond station platform Minimum radius General Approaching station Absolute minimum Minimum length of curve Reverse curves Minimum tangent length between curves Vertical Alignment Gradients - general Minimum grade Preferred maximum grade Absolute maximum grade Preferred minimum length Absolute minimum length Gradients - stations Preferred grade Maximum grade Vertical curve Minimum length - crest Minimum length - sag Absolute minimum length L = length of curve in feet D = algebraic difference in grade (%) V = train speed in miles per hour * Based on 30 mph design speed Light Rail Heavy Rail
250 ft 100 ft -
75 ft 250 ft 150 ft 75 ft
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It is acknowledged that allowing for future conversion to heavy rail imposes certain restrictions on horizontal radii and on gradients. For current planning purposes, a minimum horizontal radius of 700-ft has been assumed to allow for Phase 3 rail conversion. Sharper radii (less than 700-ft) can be achieved, and some options that have been developed with tighter radii are only compatible with light rail vehicles as a result. However, in general, options are being developed to be heavy rail compatible to keep open all potential Phase 3 recommendations from the Major Investment Study (MIS). 3.1.3 Underground Stations
The controlling factors for the overall length of the station construction will be the platform length required, the vertical circulation elements (passenger access and egress), and the ventilation equipment to be located at each end of the station. An underground platform length of 220-ft has been assumed for Phase 2, which is comparable to the MBTA Silver Line platform length. The platform lengths for Phase 2 and Phase 3 underground stations are shown in Table 3.2. Additional factors affecting the final station dimensions will include the requirements for plant and equipment rooms, substations, communications equipment, machine rooms, fare collection facilities, vertical circulation elements, and site constraints.
Platform Length Phase 2 BRT Phase 3 Light Rail Phase 3 Heavy Rail 220-ft 300-ft 410-ft
Table 3.2: Platform Lengths The project team has reviewed different options for accessing the underground station platforms, either from a central location along the platform (center-loaded) or from the end of the platform (end-loaded). In general, spatial constraints in relation to buildings, foundations, and other existing infrastructure would be a governing factor in the arrangement of access to the platforms. Alternatives for station construction using cut and cover tunnel methods and sequential excavation methods (mined tunnels) have been investigated. The selected method would depend on a number of factors, including: the location of the station; the site constraints; and the geology and groundwater conditions. Construction methodology is discussed in more detail later in this report. Depending on the alignment alternative developed, potential underground stations were investigated at the following locations: Ruggles Station; Huntington Ave (Green Line E Branch); Longwood Ave at Avenue Louis Pasteur/Tugo Circle or at Brookline Avenue; 3-6
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Yawkey Commuter Rail; Kenmore Square; Boston University Bridge (west, central, and east); Longwood (Green Line D Branch); Hawes Street (Green Line C Branch); Park Drive (Green Line C and D Branches); and West Station (Allston).
The following assumptions have been made in relation to platform layouts: 1. 12.0-ft nominal platform width; 2. 8.0-ft minimum platform width at objects/stairs/escalators etc.; 3. 10.0-ft vertical clearance above platform to any overhead signage, lighting etc.; 4. 0.75-ft platform height; 5. 4,000-ft minimum horizontal radius for convex platforms; and 6. 5,000-ft minimum horizontal radius for concave platforms. The major items to be considered for conversion of the stations from Phase 2 to Phase 3 will be: 3.1.4 Extension of the station and platforms; Installation of track; Installation of rail systems and signaling; Modifications to the tunnel ventilation and fire life safety systems; The elevation of the station platform; and The potential requirement for crossovers. Tunnel Systems and Operation
There will be a number of systems required within the tunnel and associated structures to enable the safe operation of BRT services. The systems are discussed below.
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(i)
Tunnel Ventilation
The general objective of a tunnel ventilation system is to ensure a safe and tenable environment under reasonably anticipated operating conditions for passengers and employees, covering normal, congested, and emergency scenarios. The tunnel ventilation system will need to address the implications of vehicle engine choice for the BRT vehicles. The four main options considered are: (a) Emission Controlled Diesel (ECD); (b) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG); (c) Dual Mode (electrified trolley bus in the tunnels); and (d) Hybrid Electric (battery powered in the tunnels). Ventilation of the tunnels may be broadly classified as natural, vehicle-induced, and mechanical. Natural ventilation relies on the pressure difference between the tunnel portals and shafts created by changes in elevation, air temperature, and wind. Vehicle-induced ventilation is due to the piston effect of vehicles moving through the tunnels. For the case of BRT tunnels and stations the specific objectives of tunnel ventilation systems are to: Dilute vehicle exhaust emissions such as CO, NOx and particulate matter to acceptable levels during all operating conditions (ECD and CNG only). Remove heat generated by the vehicles (mainly radiators, engines and air conditioning units) and other heat sources within the tunnels and stations. Provide air exchange with the atmosphere. Control and purge smoke and hot gases generated during a tunnel or station fire.
It is assumed that both dual-mode and hybrid vehicles will be 100% electrically operated within the tunnel (the diesel engines will be completely shut-off), and as such underground emissions are not applicable to these choices of vehicle. The emissions associated with CNG and ECD vehicles are not considered to be significantly different. This statement will require substantiation during design, but it is estimated that the particulate matter and CO2 released into the system will be similar for both vehicles, the NOx emissions will be less for CNG, but that the CO and toxic emissions will be significantly higher. For both these vehicle choices some ventilation is considered likely while the buses are idle in the stations. This may represent a separate discrete system, or could consist of the emergency tunnel ventilation fans operating at a lower capacity to induce draft through the facilities. Without further analysis it is not possible to determine whether the movement of the vehicles through the tunnels will be enough to generate sufficient air exchange to adequately dilute the vehicle exhaust and to provide air exchange for the passengers while the vehicles are passing through the tunnels. It is possible that ventilation will also be required during normal operation in the tunnels as well as the stations.
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Fire heat release rates are an important criterion used to design tunnel emergency ventilation systems and to test the appropriateness of the system response (ensuring safe evacuation of patrons from the facilities). It is considered a valid assumption that fire will be the governing criterion for the size of the primary ventilation infrastructure for a BRT tunnel. In this regard, and on the basis of a preliminary assessment of the vehicle engine types, all of the vehicle choices are similar and significant change in the size of the emergency ventilation plant is not anticipated based on vehicle engine choice alone. Note: The CNG vehicle has a slightly higher estimated fire size due to the larger quantity of combustible material. The difference is +15% in the fire heat release rate. It is recognized though that compressed gas represents a complexity requiring further study, due to the potential explosive nature of the gas tanks, and the unknown rate of the vehicle fire growth. Hybrid vehicles will be more efficient, and for the same range there exists the potential to reduce the onboard fuel. Considering however that the diesel itself represents only 25% of the assumed design fire size, this will not result in a large reduction in the ventilation plant requirement.
A summary of the ventilation implications (both operational and emergency) associated with BRT vehicle engine choice are given below: The size of the emergency ventilation plant will likely be similar for all four vehicle engine options. Further investigation will be necessary to more accurately estimate the peak fire heat release rate and fire growth associated with the selected vehicle. The presence of combustion engines, for ECD and CNG, introduces pollutants in the tunnels and stations. It is considered likely that mechanical ventilation will be required during normal and/or congested bus operations to provide sufficient control and removal of contaminants. This may consist of operating the emergency/primary ventilation systems at a reduced mode, or may require that discrete ventilation be available in the stations. Normal mode operation will result in higher costs due to power and maintenance. Mechanical ventilation may be required for normal/congested operation to ensure adequate removal of heat from all vehicle choices (such as engines and air conditioning) and to provide sufficient air exchange for passengers and employees. For ECD and CNG this would be combined with the pollutant control requirement. For electrically driven vehicles this may mean some operation of system fans, however the requirement will certainly be less than that for buses equipped with ICEs. The ventilation system will need to be designed for the ultimate peak fire size considering both the BRT and the Phase 3 rail vehicle technology.
Preliminary assessments of the tunnel ventilation system requirements have been performed by Earth Tech. Assuming a single bored tunnel with a central dividing wall, jet fans would not be required in the running tunnels (such a single bored tunnel is the assumed tunnel configuration, as discussed below). If twin bored tunnels were implemented, ventilation requirements may be different. The conceptual tunnel ventilation system would require fan plants to be located at each end of underground stations and at tunnel portals. For longer sections of tunnel, ventilation shafts may be required at intermediate locations. Based on the design criteria and assumptions, none of the alignment alternatives identified below would require ventilation ducting within the running tunnels.
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Initial assessment of vehicle technologies for the Urban Ring Phase 2 Project, based on the tunnel ventilation requirements and capital and operational and maintenance costs, indicate that the currently preferred technology is hybrid electric. If MBTA buses other than hybrid electric vehicles are to use the tunnel then this could impact the tunnel ventilation design. (ii) Tunnel Lighting
Road tunnel lighting designs should be prepared as required to meet the latest edition of Recommended Practice for Tunnel Lighting (RP-22). This standard identifies the minimum levels of lighting to be achieved at the tunnel entrance through zones referred to as threshold, transition and interior zones, located from the portal to the inside of the tunnel. The object of the road tunnel lighting is to enable traffic to travel safely through the tunnel. This is best achieved by providing the tunnel user with sufficient lighting to be aware of the road and to see any vehicles and obstructions ahead. Tunnel lighting is not expected to be a controlling factor in the layout of the tunnel cross section or tunnel alignments. (iii) Electrical and Safety Equipment
The various tunnel systems will require a supply of power. Depending on the power requirements and the length of the tunnel sections, there may be a need for high voltage distribution within the tunnel with sub stations to step-down to low voltage supply over each section of the tunnel. Safety equipment within the tunnel may include: (iv) Monitoring and supervision Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA); Communications; Closed Circuit Television; Traffic control; and Fire detection, fire suppression and fire fighting systems and equipment. Drainage
The drainage system would consist of longitudinal drains feeding sumps which are discharged by pumps to the stormwater drainage system via an interceptor to separate pollutants from spillages. The drainage system would be located under the roadway surface. Cross-drains and sumps would likely be located at the tunnel portals to intercept water running down the tunnel portal approach ramps. Sumps would be required at low points in the tunnel alignment. The roadway surface would be designed to accommodate the drainage system requirements and the drainage system would be specified to deal with inflow of rainfall at the portals, groundwater seepage, accidental spillage and cleaning up, routine wall washing and fire fighting.
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(v)
Operation
A tunnel control center will likely be required to ensure the safe operation of the bus tunnels. This facility could be incorporated within the station architecture or within some other part of the Urban Ring Phase 2 operational facilities. An additional consideration during the operation of the tunnels is the scenario of a disabled vehicle within the tunnel. The method of recovery of the vehicle would ideally be timely and would minimize potential disruption to BRT services within the tunnels. The current assumption is that the Urban Ring Phase 2 BRT service will adopt the use of 60-ft articulated buses. The nature of these vehicles is such that they must be towed from the front in the normal direction of travel; they cannot be pushed from behind. The method of recovering a disabled vehicle would normally require the recovery vehicle to reverse into position to tow the disable vehicle out of the tunnel. The distance over which the vehicle must reverse greatly increases the time taken to remove the disabled vehicle from the tunnel. Therefore, reducing the distance over which a recovery vehicle must reverse is one way to improve the efficiency of vehicle recovery. The ability to cross from one lane (or tunnel bore) to another either continuously or at regular intervals along the alignment can reduce the reversing distance. 3.1.5 Fire Life Safety
The fire life safety and fire protection of the tunnel require assessment of and planning for the following features: Emergency egress; Emergency ventilation; Fire protection of structures; Fire detection, fire suppression, and fire fighting equipment and systems; Communication systems; Traffic control; Drainage; and Emergency response plans.
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The key criteria at this stage are the emergency egress requirements for road tunnels1, which state that the spacing between emergency exits should not be more than 1000-ft. Where tunnels are divided by a minimum of 2-hour fire-rated construction or where the tunnels are in twin bores, cross passageways can be used instead of emergency exits. Cross passageways should have a maximum spacing of 656-ft. The impacts of these requirements on different tunnel configurations is discussed in Section 3.3.2. The emergency ventilation requirements are also an important element in the development of options and this is discussed in Section 3.1.4. Fire protection of the tunnel structures is important to minimize fire damage, thereby reducing the risk of structural failures or collapse, and minimizing the duration and cost of tunnel closures while necessary repairs are carried out after an incident. The tunnel structures and the tunnel systems should be protected against fire damage. In concrete structures, adequate concrete cover over steel reinforcement members should be provided, and polypropylene monofilament fibers or fire protection boards should be considered to minimize damage by concrete spalling. Fire resistant ducting for tunnel systems should also be evaluated. Fire detection systems and communication systems can typically be accommodated within the tunnel structures without impacting upon the required tunnel cross section. The project team has determined that there is potential for this accommodation at a conceptual design level; more specific details of these systems would be developed at a later stage in design. Safety management planning would assess a range of possible incidents in the tunnel (including breakdowns, collisions, and fires) and determine the most efficient range of recovery and rescue measures and procedures for emergency evacuation and intervention. It is likely that a control center would be required to ensure the safe operation of the tunnel and to initiate and coordinate any rescue efforts. The fire life safety provisions, tunnel systems, and operation of the tunnel asset should be considered for both BRT and rail operation during future design development once a preferred alternative has been identified. The analysis will include an evaluation of costs for providing Phase 2 compatible systems versus Phase 2 and Phase 3 compatible systems for: structural elements; loading; utility accommodation; ventilation; lighting; electrical and safety equipment; drainage; utilities; stray current protection; and roadway construction details to accommodate future installation of rail. 3.1.6 Security
The approach to security of an Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel would start early in the preliminary engineering phase and would be borne out through detailed vulnerability assessments and risk management methods. The key steps toward securing such a transportation asset would be to:
1
Identify the threats; Assess damage potential and consequences of threats; Assess a range of countermeasures; Cost estimation; and
Standard for Road Tunnels, Bridges, and Other Limited Access Highways, NFPA 502, 2004
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Implementation.
There exist a number of means and methods to deter, detect, and defend against potential threats, such that the security of this asset could be protected. The MBTA Silver Line has already shown that such measures are necessary and effective in preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering transit tunnels: In April 2007 a Jeep Cherokee broke through a gate at the entrance to the Silver Line tunnel portal in South Boston but was subsequently stopped from proceeding through the tunnel when a metal barricade was raised from the roadway 1 . Security design criteria for the Urban Ring Phase 2 busway tunnel should be developed during the preliminary engineering phase.
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3.2
Construction Methodology
There are a number of potentially feasible construction methodologies that could be used to construct the Urban Ring tunnels. The methodologies can be grouped into three main types: cut and cover tunnels (including the top-down method); sequential excavation method (SEM) mined tunnels with a sprayed concrete lining; and tunnel boring machine (TBM) bored tunnels. Each method has advantages and disadvantages and some are more suited to particular ground types and environments than others. Any tunneling method will cause ground movements and the ground movements will be affected by tunnel depth, tunnel diameter, geology, and the quality of construction. Some methods produce larger ground movements than others, but in all cases building settlement assessments should be carried out as necessary to determine the potential for unacceptable movements. The outcome of the building settlement assessments should assist in determining the need for underpinning, ground treatment or other protective measures. The cost and disruption of such measures should be balanced with the cost and disruption of alternative construction methods. 3.2.1 Cut and Cover Tunnel
The cut and cover technique has traditionally been used for transportation links in Boston dating back to the 1890s when the Green Line was constructed. Cut and cover construction will require earth support systems to be installed prior to the commencement of the main excavation. There are different methods that can be used to provide earth support, including: slurry walls; bored pile walls; and sheet pile walls. The selection of a suitable method will be made during final design, and will depend upon local conditions and the performance criteria that will be developed for each location. A typical clamshell grab for excavating slurry walls is shown in Figure 3.4. Depending on the design of the earth support system either it will require a cast-in-place concrete permanent structure or the earth support system itself will provide the permanent structure. The majority of the structures would be located in areas where the use of groundwater lowering techniques during construction should be minimized or very carefully controlled. Ground treatment is likely to be required at the base of such excavations to reduce the insitu permeability and minimize groundwater flows. The tunnel structure is subsequently backfilled to restore the ground surface. The traditional cut and cover method requires the ground to be open for the duration of construction and the main excavation takes place with full surface access. Typically, temporary propping is installed as excavation proceeds following by construction of the base slab, intermediate slabs, and finally the roof slab. The structure is subsequently backfilled to restore the ground surface. In urban environments, the use of the top-down method (i.e. installing the perimeter walls and roof prior to main excavation beneath) of cut and cover tunneling is advantageous over other cut and cover techniques in relation to minimizing impacts to the general public during construction. The top-down method requires installation of the perimeter walls and a roof deck prior to commencement of the main excavation. The roof deck allows traffic flows to be restored while construction takes place beneath.
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Cut and cover construction in close proximity to existing buildings is achievable with good control of ground movements. The main disadvantage is that the operation is potentially very disruptive, even when the top-down method is employed, as many of the operations will have to occur on the surface. Lane closures, utility diversions, temporary relocation of building access points, and diversion of traffic will be inevitable in most cases.
Clamshell
Trench Cutter/Hydromill
Figure 3.4: Typical Slurry Wall Equipment for Cut and Cover Construction The major advantages and disadvantages of the cut and cover tunnel construction method with respect to planning a tunnel within the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor are: (i) Advantages Generally less expensive than underground tunneling methods for shorter lengths and relatively shallow depths because of simpler excavation methods; Generally shorter overall construction duration for shorter lengths of tunnel; Underground obstructions can usually be handled without excessive increases in cost and schedule; Flexibility in terms of horizontal alignments if other constraints allow (e.g. building foundations) and in tunnel cross section; and Construction in close proximity to existing buildings is achievable with good control of ground movements. Disadvantages Major construction phase impacts and disruption due to open excavation, including lane closures, temporary relocation of building access points, and diversion of traffic. Impacts will be experienced along the full length of the tunnel due to open excavation; 3-15
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(ii)
3.2.2
Less economical for longer lengths of tunnel; Major right-of-way and property requirements for excavation; and Major utility diversions likely to be required. SEM Mined Tunnel
The second construction method is mining the Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnels using SEM mined tunnels. The SEM method involves excavation of the tunnel using standard construction equipment. The tunnel is usually lined in two steps: An initial lining of sprayed concrete provides immediate support and a subsequent secondary or permanent lining is then placed using either sprayed concrete or cast-in-place concrete. A waterproof membrane is usually installed between the primary and secondary linings.
The SEM relies on the insitu ground having suitable properties to remain stable following excavation and until such time as the initial support can be placed known as stand-up time. Where the stand-up time is insufficient, then additional ground pre-support methods or ground treatment methods are required to stabilize the excavation. In addition, the tunnel heading can be sub-divided into a number of smaller excavation headings to minimize the size of the exposed face, as illustrated in Figure 3.5. Timely closure of the tunnel lining ring is important in controlling ground movements and ensuring stability of the excavation. 3-16
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This option has the significant advantage that the cross section for the tunnel is not restricted to a circular shape as it is with a TBM tunnel. Use of non-circular geometry can lead to a more efficient section and therefore lower costs. Use of the SEM also allows more flexibility with the alignment. The main disadvantage of the SEM is that significant ground treatment may be required since the tunnel is not sealed off from the ground water pressure during construction as it is with a TBM driven tunnel. On the recent Silver Line Phase 2 Russia Wharf project in Boston, the SEM was successfully used in conjunction with ground freezing. However, the length of tunnels was comparatively short (approximately 400-ft) and the approach used for Russia Wharf would not be practical for extended lengths of tunnel for the Urban Ring. Other forms of ground treatment are available that could be feasible, however detailed geotechnical investigation along the alignment would need to be carried out to determine their viability. If it is not possible to perform the ground treatment from the tunnel face, then significant surface disruption may be caused by the ground treatment process. Although use of the SEM may allow optimized tunnel cross section and reduced potential for ground movements, SEM tunnels can result in greater ground movements than for a TBM driven tunnel of similar cross sectional area. The major advantages and disadvantages of the SEM mined tunnel construction method with respect to planning a tunnel within the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor are: (i) Advantages Flexibility in terms of horizontal alignments if other constraints allow (e.g. building foundations etc) and in tunnel cross section. The tunnel cross section does not need to be circular as for a TBM bored tunnel and this can lead to optimization of the tunnel cross section and reduced costs; Generally shorter overall construction duration for shorter lengths of tunnel; Underground obstructions can usually be handled without excessive increases in cost and schedule; Minimizes surface disruption as the majority of the construction work takes place below ground (with the exception of portal and station locations); Potential to limit the material handling (supply and removal) to discrete locations rather than the entire length of the tunnel if suitable shaft access sites can be found; Minimizes the need for utility diversions. Disadvantages Significant ground treatment may be required to stabilize the excavation during tunneling, as the tunnel is not sealed off from the ground water pressure as it is with a pressurized face TBM driven tunnel; Less economical for longer lengths of tunnel; and
(ii)
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Shallow vertical tunnel alignments may result in ground movements that pose potential for structural damage to nearby buildings, thereby requiring protective works (e.g. compensation grouting). TBM Bored Tunnel
3.2.3
The third construction method is TBM bored tunnels. This method entails the procurement of a custommade TBM a specialized and expensive piece of construction equipment. The TBM is then assembled within a cut and cover launch chamber at one end of the tunnel alignment from which it is launched to bore through the ground. The front of the TBM is equipped with a cutterhead on which a number of cutting tools are mounted. The cutting tools are designed to suit the geological conditions anticipated to be encountered during the tunnel drive. The cutting tools excavate the ground and the resulting excavated material is then removed from behind the cutterhead. The excavated material is transported back through the tunnel to the launch point where it can be raised to the surface and removed from the site by rail or by truck. As the tunnel is bored, reinforced precast concrete segments are installed behind the TBM to form the tunnel lining. The annular void between the outside of the segmental lining and the ground is filled with grout to ensure full contact between the ground and the lining and to minimize ground surface settlements. The likely choice of TBM for the Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnels would be a pressurized face machine owing to the anticipated geology and the urban environment. There are two general categories of pressurized face machine: an earth pressure balance machine or a slurry machine. Both types of machine have the ability to maintain a positive face pressure to ensure stability of the ground during tunneling with the primary difference being the method used to achieve this face pressure. The state of the art in TBM technology has advanced considerably over the last 10 years. Pressurized face TBMs can safely construct tunnels in soft ground conditions, while minimizing impacts on surrounding structures. Developments in cutterhead design mean that TBMs can be equipped to deal with variable ground conditions, from soft ground to hard rock. Machine diameters in the region of 50-ft have been manufactured to build urban tunnels in Spain (Madrid Calle M30) and in China (Shanghai Yangtze River tunnel). A TBM tunnel also offers good ground movement control owing to the continuous grout injection process that fills the annular void between the back of the tunnel lining and the ground during the subsequent excavation cycle. Grouting operations would occur concurrently with advance of the TBM. Ground movements can be minimized through careful control of the tunnel face pressures and grouting pressures. Some disadvantages of a TBM are the large capital cost of the machine itself, which require a minimum length of tunnel to be constructed to be cost effective, and the restriction on turning radius.
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Figure 3.6: SMART Project Tunnel Boring Machine (43-4 diameter) The major advantages and disadvantages of the TBM bored tunnel construction method with respect to planning a tunnel within the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor are: (i) (ii) Advantages Efficient for longer tunnels in terms of both cost and schedule as economies of scale are realized for the capital investment in the TBM and precast concrete lining assembly; Good control of ground movements through the use of pressurized face TBMs with gasketted precast conrete linings and continuous grouting operations; Minimizes surface disruption as the majority of the construction work takes place below ground (with the exception of portal and station locations); Limits the material handling (supply and removal) to discrete locations rather than the entire length of the tunnel; Minimizes the need for utility diversions. Disadvantages More expensive for shorter lengths of tunnel owing to the capital investment in the TBM and the precast concrete lining assembly; Dealing with underground obstructions can potentially be costly and time-consuming; 3-19
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Shallow vertical tunnel alignments may result in ground movements that pose potential for structural damage to nearby buildings, thereby requiring protective works (e.g. compensation grouting); Horizontal tunnel alignments are potentially limited by the capability of the TBM (this can be mitigated through the use of short cut and cover sections to negotiate tighter horizontal radii); Tunnel material handling (supply and removal) will be concentrated in discrete locations. Although it is a benefit to avoid disturbance along the entire alignment, as would be the case for cut and cover tunneling, focusing the work in discrete locations will intensify the impacts as these points; and Changes in tunnel diameter are not achievable without other construction methods. Initial Recommendations
3.2.4
The three tunneling methods were evaluated to determine which method or methods would be appropriate for the Urban Ring Phase 2 busway tunnel structures, given the requirements and constraints of the project and the corridor. The intent of this evaluation process was to make an initial recommendation of viable construction methods to be used for alignment alternatives analysis. The primary purpose of making this initial recommendation was to allow a more transparent comparison of the numerous alignment alternatives. This initial selection of construction methodology has not precluded the development of a viable alignment alternative. Indeed, some alternatives have required different construction methods to be employed and this is noted in the description of alternatives considered in Chapter 4. Recommendation of a tunnel construction method should not be considered to preclude other methods from being considered during subsequent stages of the planning and design process. The decision on which construction methods to be used to build the preferred busway tunnel, including portals, running tunnels, and stations, remains open. The final choice of running tunnel construction method and configuration will depend on the final busway tunnel alignment chosen; the geology and hydrogeology; the vertical alignment; the anticipated ground movements and building settlement assessments; and noise and vibration impacts on sensitive hospital and research operations. These issues will need to be addressed during subsequent engineering studies as more information becomes available. (i) Tunnel Portal Structures
The tunnel portal structures will comprise an open cut approach ramp (boat section) and a covered tunnel section. The construction will most likely require temporary earth support systems to be installed to enable the construction of a cast in-situ concrete structure that provides permanent support. The intrinsic nature of tunnel portals providing a transition from surface level into bored/mined tunnel requires the use of open cut and cut and cover tunnel techniques.
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(ii)
Running Tunnels
The three construction methods described above were considered for the construction of the running tunnels. The evaluation of each technique and the selection of a viable method for current planning purposes is described below. Single bore or twin bore configurations can be achieved with any construction method and discussion of these configurations is presented later in this document. The cut and cover method was not recommended for use in planning the Urban Ring Phase 2 running tunnels for the following reasons: Physical constraints and heavy traffic demand make it impossible to allow extended roadway closure on the principal Huntington Avenue Longwood Avenue Brookline Avenue tunnel alignment. Even if the open excavation period were minimized through phasing and expedited roadway restoration (which would increase costs), traffic on these roadways, and access to buildings, would still be severely affected for extended periods. Cut and cover construction would have major impacts on sensitive environmental and open space resources (in particular the Emerald Necklace parkway system) on and near the proposed tunnel alignment. Outside of the more environmentally sensitive zones, environmental impacts would still be significant (e.g. noise, dust etc.). Lack of available public right-of-way corridors for key components of the corridor would require significant land takings to allow cut and cover construction, resulting in additional cost and disruption. The cut and cover method could be appropriate for discrete lengths of some tunnel options where surface impacts would be more tolerable or where site constraints, alignment geometry, project requirements or other factors favor this method of construction.
The SEM mined tunnel method was not recommended for use in planning the Urban Ring Phase 2 running tunnels for the following reasons: The potential need for a significant amount of costly and time-consuming ground treatment could reduce potential benefits of shorter construction duration and minimized surface disruption. The very limited amount of geotechnical information currently available results in the SEM mined tunnel being at greater risk of significant cost increases at this stage in the project than does a TBM bored tunnel. This was a primary reason for choosing the TBM method at this stage in the planning process. Once further geotechnical information is available and the tunnel alignment is finalized, this decision should be reviewed. The significant lengths of some tunnel alignment alternatives do not favor construction using SEM for the entire length. SEM mined tunnel could be appropriate for discrete lengths of some tunnel options where changing cross sections are required or where site constraints, alignment geometry, project requirements or other factors favor this method of construction.
The TBM bored tunnel method was recommended for use in planning the Urban Ring Phase 2 running tunnels for the following reasons:
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The TBM bored tunnel option offers the potential to minimize surface disruption and reduce environmental impacts. These are considerable benefits for any alignment alternative, but are of particular importance in the more densely developed sections of the corridor with heavy traffic demand. While this may be true also of the SEM mined tunnel, it will be heavily dependent on the extent and nature of ground treatment required. Pressurized face TBMs can safely construct tunnels in soft ground conditions, while minimizing impacts on surrounding structures. Developments in cutterhead design mean that TBMs can be equipped to deal with variable ground conditions, from soft ground to hard rock, and boulders. Machine diameters in the region of 50-ft have been manufactured to build urban tunnels in Spain (Madrid Calle M30) and in China (Shanghai Yangtze River tunnel). The majority of the tunnel alternatives are of sufficient length to enable a TBM drive to be an economically viable method. Consideration of environmentally sensitive zones (e.g. Emerald Necklace, Muddy River, and Charles River) would favor methods that do not require excavation from the surface or ground treatment methods.
Noise and vibration impacts relative to the SEM and TBM methods will required further assessment once geotechnical information is available and the extent and type of ground treatment has been better established. It is considered that the SEM will have noise and vibration impacts that would be either equal to or less than those created by TBM construction, however the major factors will be the geology and the method of removing excavated material from the tunnel (e.g. truck, rail, or conveyor). As a result of this review, it was determined that TBM construction was an environmentally acceptable solution offering the potential to minimize disruption and provide the most cost-effective approach for the planning of the Urban Ring Phase 2 running tunnels. (iii) Underground Stations
Alternatives for station construction using cut and cover, the SEM, and TBM methods were investigated. The selected method would depend on a number of factors, including the location of the station, the site constraints, and the geology and groundwater conditions. The use of an over-sized TBM which would accommodate station platforms was rejected owing to spatial constraints, right-of-way issues, impacts on portal structures and difficulties converting to Phase 3 rail use, as discussed later in this report. The SEM method is a viable solution, and can reduce surface impacts. However, the SEM method will still require two large shafts at each end of the station to accommodate ventilation equipment and vertical circulation elements. Given the lack of geotechnical information, the desire to keep the stations relatively shallow, and the relatively short length of the stations, it was considered prudent at this stage in the planning process to adopt cut and cover for the full length of the station.
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Traditional cut and cover or the top-down method, where the main excavation occurs below a temporary roof deck, are both viable methods for the station construction. The current thinking is that in the densely developed and heavily trafficked areas such as the LMA, the top-down method would help to minimize disruption to the surrounding communities. The increase in cost and construction duration associated with this method need to be balanced with the perceived minimization of disruption. 3.3 Typical Tunnel Cross Sections
The principal tunnel elements comprise the portals, the running tunnels, and the stations. Typical cross sections for the principal tunnel elements have been developed taking into account the design criteria outlined in Section 3.1. The tunnel cross sections have been developed for the Phase 2 BRT requirements and subsequently checked to confirm whether or not Phase 3 light rail and heavy rail requirements can be accommodated within the bus tunnel cross section. Excepting the rail, traction power, and other systems, the primary structural differences in cross-sectional requirements between Phase 3 light rail and Phase 3 heavy rail are the vertical clearances required (see Figure 3.3), and the walkway requirements (the light rail walkway is low-level, whereas heavy rail may require an elevated walkway). It was shown that the BRT clearance envelope requirements were the controlling factor in determining the tunnel cross sections, and that the clearances for rail can be easily accommodated by any tunnel construction method. Therefore there is no cost premium associated with protecting future conversion to rail with respect to tunnel cross section. Further refinement to the BRT vehicle envelope in subsequent engineering studies may afford a reduction in the tunnel cross section. 3.3.1 Tunnel Portals
The tunnel portals will comprise a tunnel portal approach ramp (open cut boat section) and a cut and cover tunnel section down to the tunnel eye. Typical cross sections through a tunnel portal approach ramp (with walkway niches) and a cut and cover tunnel section (without walkway niches) are presented in Figure 3.7 and Figure 3.8.
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C L LANE
14'-6"
VARIES
WALKWAY
7'-6"
ROADWAY SURFACE
4'-0"
3'-0"
C L LANE
17'-6"
14'-6"
WALKWAY
ROADWAY SURFACE
4'-0"
Figure 3.8: Typical Cross Section Cut and Cover Section At the tunnel eye, where the running tunnels are to connect into the portal, there may be a need for additional ground treatment as the ground cover is usually relatively shallow at this location.
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3.3.2
Running Tunnels
As discussed in Section 3.2, there are a number of different tunneling techniques that can be used to construct the running tunnels and of these methods, the TBM bored tunnel method was recommended for use in planning the Urban Ring Phase 2 running tunnels. TBM construction can be configured to provide either a single tunnel carrying two lanes separated by an internal dividing wall or two tunnels each carrying one lane. Cross sections for twin bored tunnels (Figure 3.9) and a single bored tunnel (Figure 3.10) were developed. (i) Twin Bored Tunnels
Some potential benefits of the twin bored tunnel solution compared with the single bored tunnel may include: Reduced ground surface settlements; Reduced cost for bored tunnels (although the savings may be offset to a degree by the stations being deeper where the twin bored tunnels are vertically separated and provisions of egress shafts or cross passages or both); Reduced volume of excavated material; Shorter portal structures as the tunnel diameter is less than for single bore and the resulting amount of ground cover above the tunnel at the tunnel eye is therefore less; and Higher utilization of the space formed within the tunnel.
C L TUNNEL C L TUNNEL 14'-0"
1" '-1 25
12'-0"
3'-0"
6'-1"
C L LANE
CROSS PASSAGE
C L LANE 1'-3"
14'-6"
WALKWAY
ROADWAY SURFACE
77'-9"
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Twin bored tunnels with connecting cross passages, as shown in Figure 3.9, require the two tunnels to be positioned at a similar elevation. The available horizontal corridor width is heavily constrained along key portions of the alignment such that twin bored tunnels would need to be vertically separated and may require vertical shafts to provide emergency escape facilities. (ii) Single Bored Tunnel
The potential benefits of a twin bore approach are outweighed by the benefits of the single bore tunnel and the challenges facing the twin bore approach in the Urban Ring Phase 2 corridor. The principal reasons for this are presented below. The public right-of-way corridors are narrow along key parts of the alignment, particularly Longwood Avenue and Brookline Avenue where the minimum width between buildings is approximately 50-ft and 60-ft, respectively. A single bored tunnel would have a smaller plan footprint width (approximately 42-ft) than twin bored tunnels positioned side by side (approximately 78-ft for twin 26-ft diameter tunnels and one diameter of ground between tunnels). Even if ground cover between the twin bored tunnels could potentially be reduced to 10-ft, the resulting plan footprint width would be approximately 62-ft; Although twin bored tunnels could be vertically separated to reduce the plan footprint (to approximately 26-ft), this would potentially limit the flexibility to use cross passages for a means of egress, and may require escape shafts to be constructed to ensure that the distance between egress points is no greater than 1000-ft (as per the requirements of NFPA 502, Standard for Road Tunnels, Bridges, and Other Limited Access Highways, 2004). Where cross passageways are provided, these should have a maximum spacing of 656-ft. Vertical separation of the twin bored tunnels would place additional constraints on the tunnel alignments to enable the transition from a horizontally separated position to a vertically separated position; Twin bored tunnels have the potential for greater construction phase impacts both spatially because they would create a wider plan footprint and escape shafts may be required, and temporally because the bores would be made either sequentially using one TBM or concurrently using two TBMs with a lag between the drives; The use of a single bored tunnel with a dividing wall potentially allows more flexibility in BRT operations in the case of a disabled bus in the tunnel. The articulated buses cannot be pushed from behind, they have to be towed from the front. In the single bored tunnel, access doors could be located within the central wall that would allow a rescue vehicle to cross from one roadway to the other to rescue a disabled vehicle. These access doors would limit the length of tunnel through which the rescue vehicle must reverse, and may reduce the time taken to clear the tunnel of the disabled vehicle and restore normal service. Provision of such access doors would require careful consideration of NFPA requirements, fire life safety issues, and protection from errant vehicles. One way of effecting the recovery is outlined below: o The closest central access doors located both in front of and behind the disabled vehicle would be opened.
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The recovery vehicle would enter the tunnel using the blocked lane, while BRT service can remain in operation in the opposite lane. When the recovery vehicle reaches the central access door behind the disabled bus, the BRT service in the opposite lane would be temporarily suspended for a short period of time to allow the recovery vehicle to pull out into the opposite lane, pass the disabled vehicle, and then return to the blocked lane in front of the disabled vehicle through the next central access door. Once the recovery vehicle has returned to the blocked lane, the BRT service in the opposite lane would resume and the recovery vehicle can tow the disabled bus out of the tunnel. Depending on the spacing of the central access doors, the length of tunnel through which the recovery vehicle would need to reverse will be relatively short, thereby reducing the length of time taken to restore normal service.
The single bored tunnel could potentially provide increased flexibility in Phase 3 with regard to providing track crossovers. A length of the central dividing wall would be removed to install the necessary switches and crossings to allow trains to cross from one track to the other, although this would need to be verified in relation to the ventilation strategy for the particular section of tunnel. This could reduce the extension of station excavations. It should be noted that vertically stacked twin bored tunnels would preclude the installation of crossovers; There is the possibility to include drainage sump structures within the main tunnel rather than creating separate enlargements, as would likely be required for a twin bored tunnel solution with low points in between stations; There is an opportunity to include revenue generating utilities within a service corridor below the road deck; and Narrower and deeper TBM launch and reception points compared with twin bored tunnels side by side.
Given the large number of tunnel options being investigated, it is most efficient and understandable to evaluate them based on a single tunnel construction method for the purposes of comparison. For the reasons described above, a single bore TBM tunnel is expected to be the most suitable and costeffective tunneling method for the Urban Ring Phase 2. At the same time, the project team has taken care that the proposals remain somewhat flexible with respect to alternative alignments, tunnel configuration, and methodologies. As a result, the alignment alternatives were primarily developed on the basis of a single bored tunnel.
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11'-2"
1'4
" 10
C L LANE
C L LANE
14'-6"
BACKFILL CONCRETE TUNNEL DRAINAGE & SYSTEMS (POTENTIAL UTILITY CORRIDOR) PRECAST CONCRETE TUNNEL LINING
Over-Sized Single Bored Tunnel. Consideration has been given to the possibility of constructing the running tunnels using an over-sized TBM (approximately 50-ft excavated diameter), such that an upper deck and a lower deck could be built within the bored tunnel. This would allow the construction of station platforms within the single bore and would provide flexibility in the location of station platforms (i.e. anywhere that the tunnel alignment meets the horizontal and vertical curvature requirements for a station). Off-line vertical circulation and ventilation shaft structures can then connect to the bored tunnel through mined tunnels. It is acknowledged that this solution has potential benefits with relation to reducing surface construction works and providing the flexibility to locate and extend, for Phase 3 station platforms. However, such a solution has not been adopted at this stage, for the following reasons: Increasing the size of the TBM will require longer and deeper portal structures. The diameter of the single bored tunnel solution has been kept to the minimum required dimension for this reason; The public right-of-way corridors are narrow along key parts of the alignment, particularly Longwood Avenue and Brookline Avenue where the minimum width between buildings is approximately 50-ft and 60-ft, respectively. The diameter of the single bored tunnel solution has been kept to the minimum required dimension for this reason but will likely require underpinning and ground treatment works. Enlarging the tunnel diameter will potentially significantly increase building foundation conflicts and underpinning and ground treatment works depending on the final alignment selected;
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Providing the grade separation required for the two-deck approach would either require further extension of the tunnel portals, or more complex construction within the bored tunnel itself. Where underground stations are located in close proximity to portals, this grade separation may not be achievable over the distance available; and Potential future conversion to Phase 3 rail would be more complicated and costly at the locations where the future Phase 3 tunnel would connect into the Phase 2 tunnel than for a smaller diameter single bored tunnel (without the two-deck approach) or for twin bored tunnels.
It is considered that the use of a large diameter running tunnel that can accommodate station platforms would be more suited to the initial construction of a rail transit system rather than for a BRT system that can accommodate potential future conversion to rail. The option to provide a larger diameter single bored tunnel with two decks an upper deck for BRT, fitted out during Phase 2, and a lower deck provided during Phase 2 and fitted out for rail during Phase 3 was also assessed, but rejected for similar reasons. Therefore the tunneled alternatives have, in general, been developed on the basis of a single bored tunnel of approximately 42-ft diameter. The minimum horizontal turning radius for the TBM has been assumed to be 700-ft (the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel in Malaysia used a 43-ft diameter TBM which was designed to negotiate a 660-ft radius). Although this could potentially be reduced depending upon, among other factors, the diameter of the machine and the design of the backup gantries, it is unlikely to be reduced to the extent that the alignment options developed would change significantly i.e. a smaller diameter TBM that can accommodate single lane traffic is unlikely to be able to negotiate a 150-ft radius curve. At present, the vertical curves in the bored tunnel are compatible with heavy rail criteria and are generally in excess of 6000-ft this is considered to be well within the limits of the TBM maneuverability. (iii) Tunnel Boring Machine Launch and Reception Areas
At the launch point for the TBM, there would need to be sufficient space for the following main tunneling operations and facilities: TBM assembly; Storage of tunnel segments; Grout batching plant; Storage of TBM consumables and supplies; Logistics to enable supply of tunnel segments to the advancing tunnel face; Removal, storage and handling of excavated material (may require slurry separation plant if a slurry TBM is selected for tunnel construction); and Site offices and support facilities.
The reception point for a TBM will require a suitably sized reception shaft or chamber into which the TBM can be driven, for subsequent disassembly and removal. 3-29
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Several of the alignment alternatives that have been developed have limited space for launching and servicing a TBM to drive the running tunnels. Potential construction staging areas have been identified for the various alignment alternatives that are considered to provide the minimum required space for this function. Although the staging areas may not be ideal in terms of their size and layout, it is not uncommon in the tunneling industry to have to work from confined construction sites, as urban areas are increasingly seeking to exploit underground space while minimizing the impacts on the existing environment. Examples of constrained tunneling worksites can be seen in Figure 3.11. Project: Weintal Collector Country: Austria Use: Wastewater TBM Type: Earth Pressure Balance Geology: Clay, silts and sand Diameter: 28-3
Project: Lake Thun Flood Relief Country: Switzerland Use: Flood Relief TBM Type: Mixshield Geology: Gravel, sand and silt Diameter: 20-7
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3.3.3
Underground Stations
For current planning purposes, the conceptual design of the typical station is a cut and cover construction and requires a plan footprint of approximately 550-ft by 60-ft, with some local enlargements for vertical circulation elements. This structure includes allowance for the tunnel ventilation fans and damper layouts. However, a detailed assessment of associated mechanical and electrical equipment rooms, substations, communications, machine rooms, etc. has not been performed at this stage. This typical station has been developed based on the most constrained site locations along Longwood Avenue that would require the station platforms to be end-loaded, thereby limiting the width of the station while increasing the length. Further refinements to station design on a location by location basis would be required in subsequent engineering studies to determine whether a more economical and efficient structure could be accommodated. The typical station layout is shown in Attachment A.
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Alternatives Considered
A central consideration in planning for the proposed Urban Ring Phase 2 project is the provision of as much dedicated right-of-way (ROW), in the form of busways and bus lanes, as possible. Dedicated ROW is essential to providing high-speed and reliable service, especially in areas of heavy traffic congestion. Federal guidelines for BRT projects call for a minimum 50% of the project route to be in dedicated ROW. Maximizing the amount of dedicated ROW, and optimizing its efficiency and effectiveness, have been among the central focuses of the Urban Ring Phase 2 project team and the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). The project team has tried to identify opportunities for dedicated ROW on surface busways and bus lanes wherever possible. However, there are some locations in the corridor where high levels of traffic congestion and physical constraints on available ROW have limited the opportunities for surface busways and bus lanes. In response to these constraints, the project team has reviewed the anticipated ridership benefits, costs, and impacts of a range of tunnel alternatives. The primary objectives of the tunnel alignments are to: Reduce transit trip times; Increase quality and reliability of service; and Minimize impacts of surface transit operations in sensitive locations, especially on the pleasurevehicle-only segments of the Emerald Necklace parkways.
The tunnel alternatives that have been analyzed encompass a significant range of lengths, number of underground stations, connections, and costs. However, all of the options include tunnel segments beneath the Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA). This is because the LMA is a critical activity center with a combination of characteristics that create the greatest challenges for surface BRT connections: it has a very high density of travel demand, a limited roadway network, significant traffic congestion, and limited opportunities for roadway expansion or new roadway connections. In addition, it is bounded on the north by the Fenway, a pleasure-vehicle-only parkway that is a component of the Emerald Necklace park system. The proposed tunnel options all follow the general Urban Ring Corridor alignment, and all include a segment beneath the LMA that would enable the Urban Ring Phase 2 BRT vehicles to avoid the most congested and space-constrained segments of the corridor while still serving the transit demand of the LMA. This results in a minimum tunnel segment extending from the vicinity of Ruggles Station in the southeast to beyond the Sears Rotary in the northwest. Beyond this segment, the tunnel options encompass a range of lengths, alignments, and connections. The tunnel alignment alternatives have been developed and evaluated in three stages: Development Stage 1. This corresponds to the Build Alternatives that were developed in winter 2007 and evaluated in spring 2007. This includes a broad range of tunnel alignments, lengths, and connections.
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Development Stage 2. This corresponds to a closer analysis of several of the Build Alternatives as they pass through the LMA. This analysis included a more detailed engineering analysis of several different tunnel alignments, tunnel portal locations, and cut and cover work areas. Development Stage 3. This corresponds to the Hybrid Alternatives, the stage of the alternatives analysis process which generated a narrowed-down set of options that include the most promising segments and elements from the Build Alternatives. These include Alternative H2(T), which entails a tunnel connection from the vicinity of Ruggles Station through the LMA to the vicinity of Yawkey Station/Kenmore Station. This stage of tunnel analysis also included a more detailed engineering analysis of several different tunnel alignments, tunnel portal locations, and cut and cover work areas.
The description below summarizes the basic design and engineering features of the various tunnel options that have been analyzed. These include alignment, horizontal and vertical curvature, physical constraints, capital costs of the tunnels and underground stations, and anticipated impacts, both temporary construction phase impacts as well permanent impacts from the proposed alignment. The discussion of these alternatives includes the full range of tunnel options. As the development stages described below illustrate, further efforts have been invested in the more promising alignment alternatives. 4.1 Tunneled Alignment Alternatives Development Stage 1
The tunnel alignments that were developed in the Build Alternatives stage of the alternatives analysis included a very wide range of options. These were developed based on the project goals and technical constraints, in addition to significant consultation and input from the project CAC and other stakeholders. There were many suggestions and desired tunnel alignments articulated by various stakeholders. In order to be as responsive as possible to stakeholder aspirations and concerns, the project team added several new tunnel options to the alternatives analysis in this development stage. In the first stage, a total of six different tunnel alternatives were developed and evaluated. These options captured a broad range of tunnel approaches, encompassing various tunnel lengths, alignments, and connections. These different options can be broadly classified into two categories short tunnel options and long tunnel options. The short tunnel alternatives, which are included in the Build Alternative 3 family, begin immediately west of Ruggles Station (avoiding the cost of an underground connection with Ruggles Station), pass beneath the LMA, and extend to either Yawkey Station, the vicinity of the BU Bridge, or Allston Landing (depending on the option). However, all of the tunneled sections in the short tunnel family stay to the south of the Charles River. The reason for investigating short tunnel options is to try to maximize the benefits of a tunneled alignment by enabling the Urban Ring Phase 2 to avoid the worst of the congestion and physical constraints while minimizing the costs associated with tunnels and underground stations. The short tunnel options include Alternative 3, Alternative 3A, Alternative 3B, and Alternative 3C, described below.
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The longer tunnel alternatives, which are included in the Build Alternative 4 family, provide connection from the Melnea Cass Boulevard corridor, with an underground connection to Ruggles Station, beneath the LMA, to Allston and Cambridge, requiring bifurcations in the tunnel alignment and passing beneath the Charles River. The longer tunnel options would entail many more underground stations and greater overall complexity compared with the short tunnel options, resulting in significantly increased cost. The reason for investigating the long tunnel options is to explore whether or not the increase in benefits of longer tunnels (e.g. reduced travel times, increased ridership etc) would offset the additional cost compared with the short tunnel options. The longer tunnel options include Alternative 4 and Alternative 4A, described below and presented in Attachment B. 4.1.1 Alternative 3
Alternative 3 comprises two separate lengths of tunneled alignment: the LMA tunnel which would connect Ruggles to Yawkey, through the LMA; and the Mountfort Street tunnel which would link Mountfort Street with either the Boston University Bridge area or with Allston. LMA Tunnel The LMA tunnel would be located to the west of the existing Ruggles Station. The portal approach ramp would commence at Leon Street and descend in a westerly direction, parallel to Ruggles Street and along the existing Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) right of way, in front of the Northeastern University residence halls. The tunnel portal the transition between the open cut approach ramp and the cut and cover section would be located to the east of Field Street to enable reinstatement of Field Street. The cut and cover tunnel would extend form the tunnel portal to a point immediately west of Parker Street, from which the bored tunnel would commence. Construction of the Leon Street portal will be in a very constrained site, adjacent to Northeastern University residence halls and Ruggles Street. Preliminary worksite locations have been identified, as shown in Figure 4.12. It should be noted that not all of these sites would necessarily be required for construction of a portal in this location. The parking lot adjacent to the Sweeney Field would be required to construct the TBM reception chamber end of the portal. The Sweeney Field itself would not be used during construction. The Leon Street portal would pass beneath the Stony Brook conduits, and a construction methodology would need to be developed to ensure the continuity of this utility during construction. A section of tangent, level track would be provided along Huntington Avenue to accommodate a cut and cover station in this location, in the vicinity of the Green Line E Branch station. Immediately after the underground station the bored tunnel would make a turn to align with Longwood Avenue, passing underneath the Mass Art building on the northern corner of the intersection of Huntington and Longwood Avenues.
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The preferred location for the Huntington Avenue station is assumed to be as close as possible to the intersection between Huntington and Longwood Avenues. Therefore the station would be located at the southern end of the length of tangent track beneath Huntington Avenue, placing the southern end of the platform approximately 450-ft from the intersection. Headhouse locations would be configured to facilitate convenient connections with the Green Line E Branch station located at street level. A construction access shaft for top-down construction could be located in the Wentworth Institute of Technology parking lot off Vancouver Street, with the parking lot providing space for the construction worksite for Huntington Avenue station. Any construction works in this area will need to consider the MWRA pumping station and shaft, as shown in Section 2.6. [Note: Wentworth Institute has since indicated plans to develop the parking lot site with a new campus building.]
Parker Street Leon Street
Field Street
Ruggles Street
Potential worksites shown are preliminary indications of sites that could serve as construction staging and laydown areas . Further work will be required to define these sites during preliminary engineering studies.
Figure 4.12: Leon Street Portal Worksites The bored tunnel would generally follow the existing alignment of Longwood Avenue from Huntington Avenue until a point near Binney Street towards the west. A section of tangent, level track would be provided through Longwood Avenue in the vicinity of Avenue Louis Pasteur to accommodate an underground station. Foundation constraints limit the length of tangent track that can be provided through Longwood Avenue, and building constraints limit the location of a cut and cover station. Therefore the Longwood Station under this alternative would commence in the vicinity of Avenue Louis Pasteur and extend west beneath Longwood Avenue.
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For the Longwood station a construction access shaft would be located in Tugo Circle. The front lawn of Harvard Medical School would be required for construction worksite space, supported by additional worksite space at another location in the general area. Construction works in this area will need to account for the underground parking garage beneath the Harvard lawn.
Longwood Ave
Potential worksite locations Potential worksites shown are preliminary indications of sites that could serve as construction staging and laydown areas . Further work will be required to define these sites during preliminary engineering studies.
Figure 4.13: Longwood Avenue (Avenue Louis Pasteur) Station Worksites At Binney Street, the alignment would curve in a northerly direction to pass underneath the south-west corner of the Shapiro Center and Brookline Avenue and connect with an alignment that follows the existing path of Pilgrim Road. The turn from Longwood Avenue would likely require some underpinning and foundation modification works to the south-west corner of the Shapiro Center building. From Pilgrim Road the tunnel would pass underneath the Muddy River and follow Brookline Avenue. The bored tunnel would terminate beneath Brookline Avenue, immediately to the north of Fullerton Street, and cut and cover tunnel would extend north along Brookline Avenue from this point to the intersection with Yawkey Way. From this intersection, the cut and cover tunnel would curve west into the Air Rights Parcel 7 development site, through an approach ramp structure and up to a station that would be at approximately the same elevation as the existing Yawkey Commuter Rail station. The BRT station would be aligned with the Commuter Rail station at Yawkey. A widened section of the Beacon Street overbridge would accommodate the BRT approximately parallel with the Commuter Rail, emerging to the west of Beacon Street.
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The approach to Yawkey station would be constructed using top-down construction methods to minimize disruption to traffic flows. The TBM would need to be disassembled and removed from the reception chamber at Fullerton Street. The cut and cover tunnel and approach ramp through the Parcel 7 site would require close coordination with the developers of the site to ensure that an envelope is preserved through the foundations and sufficient space is maintained through the Air Rights Parcel 7 structure to enable construction and installation of the necessary structural support and operational equipment at this location. The portal structure would require the use of an 8% gradient which is not preferred, but is within the maximum allowable limits. The depth of the potential future Phase 3 station beneath the Mass Turnpike is not controlled by the maximum operational gradient of the selected Phase 3 rail service, rather it is the consideration of providing sufficient ground cover to: the Mass Turnpike; the existing station structures at Kenmore Square; and the Muddy River conduit. The maximum operational gradient of the selected Phase 3 rail service will affect the gradient and length of the tunnel portal structure in Phase 2. The combination of a steep grade with a tight turn through the portal is not preferable, however this alignment geometry is located close to a station where the BRT speeds should be low. The BRT route will be below ground in a cut and cover structure over this length, creating the opportunity to increase the line of sight by widening the cut and cover structure. The roadway will also be protected from the adverse effects of weather, helping to improve operational safety. It is considered that although this solution is not ideal from an operational perspective it is achievable and would not preclude the development of a Phase 3 alignment underneath the Mass Turnpike with a Yawkey/Kenmore station. The assumed platform elevation for this Phase 3 station is EL -81.5, as per the MIS preliminary drawings. Although much of the section of alignment between Brookline Avenue and Beacon Street would be at existing grade, the site is likely to be built up as part of the Air Rights Parcel 7 development proposals (by others) and, therefore, would be effectively underground. The Beacon Street bridge would need to be temporarily propped and re-constructed in stages to lengthen the bridge span while maintaining a reduced traffic flow during construction. Particular attention would need to be paid to the Green Line tunnel, which runs parallel to and underneath Beacon Street in this location. The widening of the cut section immediately to the west of Beacon Street would require the closure of Mountfort Street during construction. Works adjacent to the railway with regard to lengthening the span of the Beacon Street bridge and widening the cut section will need to be carefully planned and executed to ensure the safety of the operational railway. Assuming that the LMA tunnel terminates in the southeast near Leon Street and in the northwest at Brookline Avenue/Yawkey Station/Parcel 7, there is not adequate space for a TBM assembly chamber at either end of the tunnel. Therefore space for TBM assembly would need to found in an intermediate location, where a cut and cover TBM assembly chamber would be built. The TBM would be assembled and launched from this shaft to drive toward the Leon Street portal, where it would be disassembled, transported along the surface to the access shaft for re-assembly and launch, and subsequently driven to the Yawkey portal. The only feasible intermediate spot that could accommodate a cut and cover TBM assembly chamber in or near the alignment is Winsor School playing fields. This would have major impacts on Winsor School operations. 4-6
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Mountfort Street Tunnel Boston University Bridge option Build Alternative 3 entails a second tunnel segment intended to avoid the congestion in the vicinity of the Boston University Bridge. The portal structure for the tunnel would be built in Mountfort Street, and it would descend from existing grade level in a westerly direction down through an open approach ramp to a cut and cover tunnel that would extend to a portal located within the surface parking lot of the BU owned former Cadillac Building located on Commonwealth Avenue. The alignment would meet perpendicular to Commonwealth Avenue, and such that an at-grade intersection would allow the BRT to cross Commonwealth Avenue and continue over the Mass Turnpike to cross the Grand Junction Railroad (GJRR) bridge, thereby allowing surface routing across the Charles River. The Mountfort Street to Boston University Bridge tunnel would likely be constructed entirely using cut and cover tunnel owing to its short length. This will require several staged closures of roads in the area to allow the tunnel to be built. The use of top-down construction could be maximized to reduce disruption to traffic. Works in close proximity to the railway will need to be carefully planned and executed to ensure the safety of the operational railway. The car park area at the back of the Cadillac Building would be used as the main construction worksite. Mountfort Street Tunnel Allston option The portal structure in Mountfort Street would descend from existing grade level in a westerly direction down through an open approach ramp to a cut and cover tunnel, with the bored tunnel commencing to the east of St Marys Street. The bored tunnel would pass underneath the Mass Turnpike and roughly follow the alignment of Storrow Drive before crossing underneath the Mass Turnpike viaduct to connect with a portal structure in the CSX rail yard. The Mountfort Street to Allston tunnel would require closure of Mountfort Street during construction of the portal in this area, and this would also serve as the construction worksite for the portal. At the Allston portal an area of the CSX rail yard would be required for the construction worksite to build the portal and to provide space for the tunneling facilities and operations. To the east of the Allston portal, the Mass Turnpike viaduct would need to be temporarily propped and the existing piled foundations would need to be modified to accommodate passage of the TBM through this area. The following are some of the major findings of the engineering analysis and evaluation of Alternative 3: Neither tunnel terminus (Leon Street or Yawkey Station/Parcel 7) has optimal space or configuration for a TBM launch chamber. This may require an intermediate location for a TBM launch chamber, which would potentially require additional cut and cover construction, and the efficiency of the tunnel boring operations would be reduced by requiring the TBM to be assembled, launched, received, and disassembled twice instead of once. The Mountfort Street tunnel options would be expensive and disruptive, and would not provide major travel time, ridership, or abutter benefits.
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The Brookline Avenue/Yawkey Station/Parcel 7 tunnel portal would be difficult to build, would cause major construction phase traffic disruption on Brookline Avenue, and would have permanent impacts on the Parcel 7 development and the future development potential of the parking lot site on the west side of Brookline Avenue opposite Yawkey Way. The proposed connection beneath Beacon Street between Yawkey Station/Parcel 7 would have impacts on the design and construction of the Yawkey Station improvements and the Parcel 7 development. Alternative 3A
4.1.2
Alternative 3A would eliminate the Mountfort Street tunnel options in Alternative 3 and replace them with surface routing. The LMA tunnel, extending from Leon Street to Yawkey, would be the complete extent of tunneling under Alternative 3A, and would follow the same alignment as the LMA tunnel described in Alternative 3. Alternative 3A has been developed to eliminate the cost and disruption caused by constructing either of the Mountfort Street tunnel options in Alternative 3, and minimize the length of tunnel while still achieving the bulk of the tunnel benefits. The construction issues for Alternative 3A are the same as for the LMA tunnel of Alternative 3. 4.1.3 Alternative 3B
Alternative 3B is intended to address many of the challenges and issues of Alternative 3. Like Alternative 3A, Alternative 3B eliminates the Mountfort Street tunnel options and their associated cost and disruption. Additionally, Alternative 3B is intended to: Minimize the impacts upon the air rights Parcel 7 development and Brookline Avenue by relocating the position of the northern portal; and Minimize the impact to Beacon Street traffic flow by avoiding reconstruction of the Beacon Street bridge.
The Mountfort Street tunnel options of Alternative 3 are instead replaced with surface routing for these sections. The tunnel alignment from Leon Street through Longwood Avenue to Binney Street would be common with the LMA tunnel described in Alternative 3. At Binney Street the alignment would depart from the Alternative 3 route and curve to the north underneath the playing fields of the Winsor School, the Riverway and the Muddy River before rising up to a portal structure located parallel with the Green Line D Branch at Fenway Station (no station would be provided here), in the vicinity of Park Drive. The alignment would surface at Miner Street and allow surface BRT routing through the proposed Air Rights Parcel 7 development and to connect with Yawkey Commuter Rail.
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The construction issues for Alternative 3B are similar to those for the LMA tunnel of Alternative 3, with the following exceptions: The bored tunnel would pass beneath the Winsor School and the Emerald Necklace. However, the TBM would be able to remain underground for the length of its alignment, and would have no surface impacts to the Winsor School or the Emerald Necklace. The alignment would extend to a portal located in the abandoned rail freight spur adjacent to the Green Line D Branch and the Landmark Center; The abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal location affords adequate space for a TBM assembly chamber. This would eliminate the need for an intermediate cut and cover TBM assembly chamber at a location such as the Winsor School; The portal structure will require working in close proximity to the Green Line D Branch, a retaining wall for the Green Line portal and the side of the Landmark Center. Construction will need to take place beneath the Park Drive bridge, utilizing low-headroom construction equipment, and ensure that the foundations of the bridge structure are not compromised (see Figure 4.14); and Future Phase 3 construction would require establishment of a cut and cover structure to create an underground chamber to receive and disassemble the future Phase 3 TBM. This construction could be done during Phase 2, or at a later time, including during Phase 3 construction. However, it is important to ensure that there is adequate space in a suitable location. The most suitable location would be beneath the Winsor School playing fields. However, this surface impact would only be required if and when Urban Ring Phase 3 were built.
The construction of the abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal will have temporary impacts on the Landmark Center car park (and possibly access to the units on the western side of the shopping center), the Parks and Recreation buildings located adjacent to the Green Line D Branch Fenway Station, and the Childrens Hospital parcel between Munson Street and Maitland Street (currently used as a parking lot).
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Urban Ring Phase 2 Tunnel Alternatives Summary Report for RDEIR/DEIS Green Line D Branch tracks Park Drive Green Line D Branch portal
Beacon Street
Emerald Necklace
Landmark Center Sears Rotary Potential worksites shown are preliminary indications of sites that could serve as construction staging and laydown areas . Further work will be required to define these sites during preliminary engineering studies.
4.1.4
Alternative 3C
Alternative 3C takes the two-tunnel concept of Alternative 3 and effectively connects the tunnels into one slightly longer overall tunnel. The objectives of this alternative are to: Eliminate the need for additional tunnel portals by extending the length of bored tunnel; and Minimize the impacts upon the air rights Parcel 7 development by reconfiguring the proposed location of the station at Yawkey.
The tunnel alignment from Leon Street through Longwood and up Brookline Avenue to Yawkey Way would be common with the LMA tunnel described in Alternative 3. From Brookline Avenue and partially beneath the Mass Turnpike, there would be provision for a deep underground station. Towards Commonwealth Avenue the alignment would make a sharp turn to the west to align with Commonwealth Avenue and would head toward to the Boston University Bridge. There would be a split portal arrangement: one leg of the tunnel would create a portal starting beneath the BU Academy, passing beneath the BU Bridge to the roughly triangular plot of land in order to accommodate a surface route across the Grand Junction Railroad bridge; the second leg of the tunnel would continue underground out to Allston. It should be noted that such a split portal arrangement is challenging in terms of both construction and operations, given the rapidly changing grades, lane separation, and horizontal curves. 4-10
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The construction issues for Alternative 3C are similar to those for the LMA and Mountfort-Allston tunnels of Alternative 3, with the following exceptions: The interface with Parcel 7 is almost completely removed as the tunnel now passes beside the development, rather than through it. No reconstruction of Beacon Street bridge is required. A mined station tunnel underneath the Mass Turnpike would be built. This would be an expensive and more risky undertaking than the station in the Parcel 7 site. Construction of the split portal at the Boston University Bridge site would be challenging given the very small worksite, although access to the CSX rail yard beneath the Mass Turnpike would provide a laydown and support area during construction. Disruption to the BU Academy would be inevitable. The TBM would be launched and serviced from the Allston portal. An additional section of cut and cover tunnel would be built at the sharp curve in the alignment on Commonwealth Avenue to allow the TBM to negotiate the tight radius at this location. Alternative 4
4.1.5
Alternative 4, the first of the long tunnel options, comprises a bored tunnel that commences from Melnea Cass Boulevard and bifurcates to the south of Commonwealth Avenue to provide two routes, one to Allston and one to Cambridge. The tunnel portal to the east of Ruggles Station would be located to pick up the proposed center median surface BRT route along Melnea Cass Boulevard. The tunnel would then pass beneath the existing boat section of Ruggles Station in an alignment approximately parallel to and to the north of Ruggles Street. A mined station would be constructed beneath the existing Ruggles Station. The proposed station would require shafts at each end for tunnel ventilation, mechanical and electrical equipment, and passenger access and egress. The alignment then continues in bored tunnel to Huntington Avenue, where a section of tangent, level track would be provided to accommodate a cut and cover station in this location, in the vicinity of the Green Line E Branch station. Immediately to the south of the underground station the bored tunnel would make a turn to align with Longwood Avenue, passing underneath the Mass Art building on the northern corner of the intersection of Huntington and Longwood Avenues. The preferred location for the Huntington Avenue station is the same as in Alternative 3. The bored tunnel would generally follow the existing alignment of Longwood Avenue with a section of tangent, level track located at the intersection of Longwood and Brookline Avenues to accommodate an underground station. The alignment would continue in a westerly direction, passing beneath the Emerald Necklace and the Muddy River. A section of tangent, level track would be provided beneath the Muddy River to allow construction of a mined station beneath the river in the vicinity of the Green Line D Branch Longwood Station. The proposed mined station would require shafts at each end for tunnel ventilation, mechanical and electrical equipment, and passenger access and egress.
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The tunnel would follow approximately the alignment of Borland Street and cross beneath Beacon Street. A section of tangent, level track across Beacon Street would accommodate an underground station in the vicinity of the existing Green Line C Branch Hawes Street station. At the northern end of the proposed station, a bifurcation would be constructed to allow routing west to Allston and north to Cambridge. Allston Route From the bifurcation point, the tunnel would follow the alignment of Cottage Farm Road to Commonwealth Avenue. An underground station would be constructed within Commonwealth Avenue, between St Paul Street station and Boston University West station on the Green Line B Branch. The alignment would continue west beneath Commonwealth Avenue before turning north to pass beneath Alcom Street and the Commuter Rail and CSX rail yard. An underground station could be provided beneath a possible future commuter rail station in the existing storage area to the north of the rail tracks and south of the I-90 toll plaza. The tunnel would pass beneath the toll plaza to emerge from a portal that runs parallel and to the east of the houses along Windom Street to meet bus lanes along a future Stadium Way. Cambridge Route From the bifurcation point, the tunnel would follow the alignment of Essex Street. An underground station would be provided beneath Essex Street to the south of Commonwealth Avenue, before the tunnel alignment heads beneath the Charles River to Cambridge. The portal in Cambridge would be located relatively close to the river, immediately to the north of the Grand Junction Railroad west of Fort Washington Park. Key issues associated with the construction of Alternative 4 include: Construction of the Melnea Cass Boulevard portal would require temporary land take on either side of the boulevard to provide a construction worksite. Northeastern University are currently constructing a new hall of residence on the corner of Ruggles St and Tremont St. The tunnel would need to avoid the foundations of this building. Construction of the mined station beneath the existing Ruggles station boat section, with relatively shallow cover to the underside of the boat section, will require extensive ground treatment and support. The invert levels of the boat section will also require confirmation. Construction of Huntington Ave and Longwood Ave stations would be similar to Alternative 3. The construction of the Longwood Green Line D Branch station would be mined to attempt to minimize impacts on the Emerald Necklace and Muddy River. The shafts at either end and the mined tunnel would still have an impact on the Emerald Necklace and Muddy River. There is also very limited space for a construction worksite and adverse topography. Extension of the station to accommodate Phase 3 is likely to require land acquisition and possible building demolition. Construction of the station at Hawes Street will include the construction of a turnout. There will be a large temporary impact to the Amory Playground during open cut construction works as the area would be used for a worksite.
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Construction of the Boston University west station would be similar to Huntington Avenue station. Construction of West Station would require some of the storage tracks in the CSX rail yard to be temporarily closed or diverted to enable construction. Part of the rail yard would be used during construction as a worksite. The Allston portal would likely be a TBM launch point and so a relatively large area would be required to provide space for the tunneling facilities and operations. The new Boston University central station would be constructed in a very constrained residential area. The worksite would likely be located in the Cadillac Building car park and in the disused gas station at Essex Street. Impacts to the residences around this station would be inevitable. Construction of the Cambridge portal would be relatively simple given the availability of land on this side of the Charles River in the area of the portal. This would be a TBM launch site for the tunnel drive to the turnout location at Hawes Street station. Alternative 4A
4.1.6
The second long tunnel option has been developed to explore the possibility of maintaining connectivity with the Green Line branches, as in Alternative 4, but with a reduced number of stations. Additionally, a longer length of tunnel in Cambridge would pass beneath the Red Line and portal onto or near Binney Street. The alignment follows the same route as for Alternative 4 from Melnea Cass Boulevard through to Longwood Avenue. However at the western end of Longwood Avenue the tunnel follows Brookline Avenue. The location of the station on Longwood Avenue would therefore need to be near Avenue Louis Pasteur, as in the Alternative 3 alignment. From Brookline Avenue the tunnel would turn beneath Park Drive and an underground station would be provided beneath Park Drive to the south of Beacon Street. This station would allow connection with the Green Line C Branch St Marys Street station and D Branch Fenway station. The tunnel would continue along Park Drive with a bifurcation at Mountfort Street to allow routing to both Allston and Cambridge. Allston Route From the bifurcation point, the tunnel would pass beneath the Mass Turnpike and follow the alignment of Commonwealth Avenue. An underground station would be provided in the vicinity of the Green Line B Branch Boston University West station. The tunnel would then follow the same alignment as the Alternative 4 alignment, with a potential station in the CSX rail yard and a portal in Allston.
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Cambridge Route From the bifurcation point, the tunnel would pass beneath the Mass Turnpike and follow the alignment of St Marys Street. An underground station would be provided in the vicinity of the Green Line B Branch Boston University Central station. The tunnel would then pass beneath the Charles River to Cambridge where it would generally follow the GJRR, with underground stations in the vicinity of Fort Washington Park in Cambridgeport and Massachusetts Avenue/MIT. The tunnel would then pass underneath the Red Line at Kendall Square and surface through a portal onto or near Binney Street. Construction of Alternative 4A would be similar to Alternative 4 with the following main differences: Construction of Park Drive station would require use of the Landmark Center parking lot as a construction worksite. The station would be located between the bridge abutment of the Park Drive bridge over the Green Line D Branch and the cut and cover box section of the Green Line C Branch this will be a challenging construction. For Phase 3 compatibility, the station would likely need to be deep enough that the extension to accommodate longer platforms would occur to the north as a mined tunnel beneath the Green Line cut and cover section. Construction of the turnout at Mountfort Street will require extensive ground treatment and will require close coordination with the Commuter Rail, with some work undertaken from within the railway property. The construction site would need to be located within the street, requiring closure of Mountfort Street or the end of Park Drive for a considerable period of time. Details of the foundations of the buildings to the north of the Mass Turnpike are not known, and the alignment has been developed to avoid the buildings on plan, where possible. This has required the use of tighter than desirable gradients from a tunneling perspective and from the perspective of conversion to heavy rail in Phase 3. The construction of the tunnel and portal by Kendall Square/Binney Street will need to be below the Red Line and avoid the building foundations in this area.
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4.2
Preliminary ridership analysis and evaluation of cost and benefit indicated that the increase in ridership for the long tunnel options (Alternative 4-series) compared with the short tunnel options (Alternative 3-series) was marginal, but came at a greatly increased cost as a result of the considerable additional length of tunnel and increased number of underground stations. This, in combination with feedback from various public meetings, suggested that further development of the Alternative 3-series alignments was warranted, particularly in the LMA. The Alternative 4-series alignments remain viable options. Sub-variants of Alternative 3A were developed and referred to as: Alternative 3A-1; Alternative 3A-2; and Alternative 3A-3, as discussed below and presented in Attachment B. 4.2.1 Alternative 3A-1
Alternative 3A-1 shares the same alignment as Alternative 3A from Leon Street/Ruggles Street, along Huntington Avenue, with an underground station on Huntington Avenue, and along Longwood Avenue until the intersection of Longwood Avenue and Binney Street. At this location, the 3A-1 alignment continues along Longwood Avenue before making a relatively tight turn (250-ft radius) at the intersection of Brookline Avenue and Longwood Avenue. A length of tangent track beneath the Winsor School playing fields allows a station to be accommodated in this location, before the alignment makes a second tight turn (250-ft radius) to connect with a Pilgrim Road alignment, and from this point follows the Alternative 3A routing along Brookline Avenue to a portal at Yawkey/Air Rights Parcel 7. The tight turns could not be constructed using a TBM and would require use of other construction methods. The tight turns in this option would limit Phase 3 flexibility. The construction issues for Alternative 3A-1 are similar to those for Alternative 3A, with the following exceptions: As in Build Alternative 3, the portal locations at Leon Street and Yawkey Station/Air Rights Parcel 7 would not have adequate space for a TBM launch chamber. This would require an intermediate TBM launch chamber, assumed to be at the Winsor School playing fields, with the associated impacts and disruption as in Alternative 3. The TBM launch point beneath the Winsor School would be incorporated within the cut and cover station at this location; Locating the Longwood Avenue station beneath the Winsor School rather than by Tugo Circle would reduce disruption to Longwood Ave and minimize building access conflicts. However, this would cause serious disruption to the Winsor School; and The two tight turns required for this alignment would need to be constructed using either SEM mined tunnels or by extending the cut and cover tunnel for the adjacent station.
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4.2.2
Alternative 3A-2
Alternative 3A-2 shares the same alignment as Alternative 3A from Leon Street/Ruggles Street, along Huntington Avenue, with an underground station on Huntington Avenue, and along Longwood Avenue until the intersection of Longwood Avenue and Avenue Louis Pasteur (Tugo Circle). An underground station would be provided at this location, before the 3A-2 alignment follows the alignment corridor identified in the MIS by making an 800-ft radius curve beneath the Childrens Hospital Garage, Childrens Research Center, 333 Longwood Ave, and the Shapiro Center. A length of tangent track and a second 800-ft radius curve connects with a Brookline Avenue alignment. The alignment continues along Brookline Avenue and surfaces at the Yawkey Station/Air Rights Parcel 7 portal, as for Alternative 3A. The construction issues for Alternative 3A-2 are similar to those for Alternative 3A, with the following exceptions: The major issue with Alternative 3A-2 is in relation to building foundations and right-of-way. Passing beneath several buildings in the LMA is going to increase the chance of a conflict with foundations (details unknown at present) and increase potential for settlement-related problems. Alternative 3A-3
4.2.3
Alternative 3A-3 shares same alignment as Alternative 3A from Leon Street/Ruggles Street, along Huntington Avenue, with an underground station on Huntington Avenue, and along Longwood Avenue until the intersection of Longwood Avenue and Binney Street. At this location, the 3A-3 alignment continues along Longwood Avenue before making a turn beneath the Emerald Necklace. A reverse curve brings the alignment into line with Brookline Avenue and surfaces at the Brookline Avenue/Air Rights Parcel 7 portal, as for Alternative 3A. Extending the alignment along Longwood Avenue allows the Longwood Avenue station to be located at the intersection of Brookline Avenue. This provides increased spacing between this station and the station at Huntington Avenue. The construction issues for Alternative 3A-3 are similar to those for Alternative 3A, with the following exceptions: The Longwood Avenue station is located at the intersection of Brookline Ave rather than by Tugo Circle. This will likely increase disruption by constructing the station across the intersection but will eliminate potential complications of interfacing with the underground parking garage beneath the Harvard lawn.
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4.3
During further discussion of the Alternative 3-series alignments, it became clear that there were several significant advantages to locating the north-westerly tunnel portal between the Green Line D branch and the Landmark Center in the abandoned rail freight spur rather than in Yawkey Station/Air Rights Parcel 7: The abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal location affords adequate space for a TBM assembly chamber. Therefore, the TBM could be assembled at the northwest end of the tunnel and driven the full length of the tunnel alignment (horizontal radius permitting). This avoids the need for an intermediate cut and cover TBM assembly chamber at a location such as the Winsor School playing fields; The extensive length of cut and cover tunnel along Brookline Avenue and the associated traffic disruption would be avoided by eliminating the Brookline Avenue portal; The impacts and uncertainties regarding the interface with the Air Rights Parcel 7 development would be avoided; and Phase 3 routing option flexibility would be maximized (since the Brookline Avenue tunnel portal section would have major negative impacts on Phase 3 tunnel interface).
The need for two underground stations at either end of Longwood Avenue, in close proximity, was also questioned. Therefore the idea of providing a single underground station more centrally located along Longwood Avenue was explored as this could potentially provide a similar level of service but with reduced cost and reduced disruption during construction. The underground station at Huntington Avenue was therefore eliminated. Finally, it was decided to further investigate the possibility of increasing the use of public right-of-way to minimize potential land takings and impacts on key institutions along the alignment. Following further analysis and consultation with stakeholders, two further alignment variants emerged, referred to as Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn and Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn, presented in Attachment B. Additional sub-options were investigated including further variants in the alignment between Longwood Avenue and the Landmark Center portal. 4.3.1 Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn
The objectives of Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn are to: Maximize the use of public right-of-way; Reduce cost and disruption by providing only one underground station, centrally located along Longwood Avenue at Tugo Circle; and Minimize the length of abandoned tunnel structures for a potential Phase 3 conversion.
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Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn is based on Alternative 3B and shares the same alignment from Leon Street/Ruggles Street, along Huntington Avenue and Longwood Avenue until the intersection of Longwood Avenue and Binney Street. At this location, the H2(T) alignment continues further along Longwood Avenue before making a tight turn (150-ft radius) from Longwood Avenue onto Brookline Avenue. The alignment continues along Brookline Avenue until a point just south of the Emerald Necklace, where a second tight turn (150-ft radius) would bring the alignment beneath the Emerald Necklace and the Muddy River to the abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal. The tight turns are approaching the absolute minimum horizontal radius for the BRT vehicles (100-ft) and may require a reduction in operating speed. A single underground station would be provided in this alternative, centrally located along Longwood Avenue at Tugo Circle. The tight turns could not be constructed using a TBM and would require use of other construction methods. The tight turns in this option would provide a connection point for a potential future Phase 3 alignment, however the choice of rail technology may be restricted depending on the final Phase 3 alignment. The benefit of minimizing the length of abandoned tunnel in Phase 3 could only be realized if Phase 3 were to be light rail. This would require abandonment of the length of tunnel from the tight turn immediately south of the Emerald Necklace to the abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal. If heavy rail services were implemented in Phase 3, then the length of abandoned tunnel would extend to the tight turn at the intersection of Brookline Avenue and Longwood Avenue. Construction of Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn would be similar to Alternative 3B with the following main differences: Two underground structures will need to be built to enable the tight turns in the alignment to be made. These would most likely need to be built using cut and cover methods to allow sufficient space for the TBM to be turned and re-launched; The underground station at Huntington Avenue would be eliminated. Construction of the running tunnels using the SEM would eliminate the need for special structures at the tight turn locations. Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn
4.3.2
The objectives of Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn are to: Minimize disruption to Brookline Avenue; Minimize surface disruption along the length of the tunnel alignment; Maximize the uninterrupted use of the TBM during the tunnel drive; and Reduce cost and disruption by providing only one underground station, centrally located along Longwood Avenue at Tugo Circle. 4-18
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Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn is based on Alternative 3B and shares the same alignment from Leon Street/Ruggles Street, along Huntington Avenue and Longwood Avenue until the intersection of Longwood Avenue and Binney Street. At this location, the H2(T) Wide Turn alignment would commence a wider horizontal curve to head beneath the Winsor School playing fields and the Emerald Necklace, before surfacing at the abandoned rail freight spur/Landmark Center portal. In this option, the TBM would pass beneath the Winsor School playing fields and the Emerald Necklace, but would create no surface disruption at these locations. A single underground station would be provided in this alternative, centrally located along Longwood Avenue at Tugo Circle. The structures required to perform the tight turns in H2(T) Tight Turn are eliminated in this alternative and therefore the potential disruption to Brookline Avenue is also eliminated. In addition, the TBM drive would be in two discrete sections rather than four sections, simplifying the TBM drive and maximizing use of the TBM. During development of this option the layout of the Leon Street portal was modified to include the protective works that would be required to the Stony Brook conduits. The portal structure was extended across Parker Street to the car park of the Sweeney Field. This results in the portal being tangent for the complete length and minimizes encroachment on Ruggles Street. The number of utility diversions required within Ruggles Street is potentially reduced by this configuration. It is proposed that this portal layout be adopted for any of the alternatives that include a portal in the vicinity of Leon Street. Construction of Alternative H2(T) Wide Turn would be similar to Alternative 3B with the following main differences: The turnout structure for Phase 3 would not be built during Phase 2, but an agreement would need to be reached between the Urban Ring Project and the Winsor School that any future development on the site would either incorporate the construction of the turnout, or would not prevent its construction at some date in the future; The underground station at Huntington Avenue would be eliminated. Alternative H2(T) Sub-options
4.3.3
Sub-options have also been evaluated for the busway tunnel section in the LMA to improve connectivity with the Green Line and to mitigate potential impacts to the Winsor School. (i) Underground Stations on the Green Line
The possibility of constructing new underground stations on the Green Line C and D Branches to the west of Kenmore Station and in the vicinity of the Air Rights Parcel 7 development was considered to provide a more direct connection between the Urban Ring and the Green Line in this location. A summary of the key issues is presented below.
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A single underground station capturing both Green Line C and D Branches, to the south of the Mass Turnpike, is not possible owing to the track configuration in this location. To the west of Kenmore Square the switch to branch the C and D lines starts approximately beneath the commuter rail line and the bifurcation is complete in the region of Maitland Street. A station could not be constructed along this length of track owing to the location of the switch. To have a station immediately south of the switch would require two separate stations on each branch of the Green Line. If a single station were to be constructed immediately to the north of the switch, then it would need to be located beneath the Mass Turnpike. The station platform length for a Green Line Station is 300-ft and this would place the northern end of the station platforms approximately 1000-ft from Kenmore Square station. The station would need to be mined beneath the Mass Turnpike. The station may interfere with the Beacon Street bridge piers and the Air Rights Parcel 7 development foundations. On the D Branch, there is a section of approximately 170-ft of straight track that would allow a two-car platform (74-ft long cars) to be constructed beneath 819 Beacon Street, as shown in Figure 4.15. A three-car platform would encroach on the 400-ft radius curves which may be acceptable to MBTA with a special waiver. The gradient through this area is approximately 0.3% which is within the limits specified for a station. On the C Branch, there is ample straight track to the south of the Mass Turnpike to locate a station, as shown in Figure 4.15. It would appear that the gradient in this area is less than 1.0% which is the maximum permissible for a Green Line station, although this requires confirmation. A three-car platform could easily be accommodated in this location. For a station in either location, construction would need to be carried out while keeping trains operational. Traffic would need to be maintained on Beacon Street during construction of the C Branch station. The Green Line stations would not provide an integrated interchange with the Urban Ring as there would be two additional underground stations for the Green Line and a separate surface station for the Urban Ring. There are operational considerations of adding a station to the Green Line and this may have an impact upon Green Line capacity and add to journey times.
Consideration of the above issues and the additional cost and complexity of construction in building two new underground stations on both branches of the Green Line without providing an integrated interchange with the Urban Ring resulted in these options not being pursued any further.
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(ii)
Three alternatives relating to the Landmark Center portal have been identified: Extend the Landmark Center portal further to the north and include an underground BRT station within the portal infrastructure; Revise the tunnel alignment to follow Park Drive with a split portal arrangement on Mountfort Street and an underground station beneath Park Drive to connect with the Green Line C and D Branches; and Revise the tunnel alignment to follow Park Drive with a portal located near the BU Bridge and underground stations beneath Park Drive and to the north of the Mass Turnpike.
These sub-options are described and discussed in a memorandum dated October 7, 2008 and included in Attachment C. The additional cost and the limitations imposed on Phase 3 rail conversion associated with the split portal option or the BU Bridge option have resulted in these alternatives not being considered any further. The improved connection with the Green Line and the increased ridership associated with the underground station at the Landmark Center portal is considered to be worth the additional cost and is therefore recommended for inclusion in the LPA.
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(iii)
In an effort to mitigate potential impacts to the Winsor School and increase the use of public ROW, further variants to the tunnel alignment for Alternative H2(T) were investigated. A preliminary evaluation indicates that extending the busway tunnel alignment to continue along Longwood Avenue prior to making the turn to the north to connect with the Landmark Center portal may afford an opportunity to alleviate the impact to the Winsor School and increase usage of public ROW. The location of the Phase 3 turnout structure and possible building foundation conflicts (375 Longwood Avenue) remain to be investigated. This alternative alignment is shown in Figure 4.16. The Alternative H2(T) Tight Turn alignment also offers similar benefits in terms of alleviating impacts to the Winsor School and increasing usage of public ROW but places more restrictions on construction methodologies and on Phase 3 compatibility as discussed earlier in this report.
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4.4
A range of alignment alternatives have been developed for both the short tunnel and long tunnel options. These alignments have been further refined and developed on the basis of preliminary ridership and costbenefit analyses, and in coordination with public consultation. The full range of alignment alternatives presented in this document are considered to be viable. A summary table comparing the stations provided by each alternative, the approximate tunnel lengths and costs is given in Table 4.4. The following sections present a general discussion on noise and vibration, electromagnetic fields, Phase 3 compatibility, and capital costs. 4.4.1 Noise and Vibration
Noise and vibration analyses have been undertaken by Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc. and address both construction phase and operations phase impacts for Urban Ring Phase 2. Some general issues related to Phase 3 impacts are also discussed. The noise and vibration analyses are detailed in a separate report and will be summarized in the RDEIR/DEIS document. A brief summary of the findings is presented below. (i) Construction
The primary locations for assessing construction noise impact will be at the tunnel portals and the underground stations. Potential construction noise impacts and mitigations will be evaluated during engineering and design of the project, as more details of the construction scenarios are known. Construction vibration levels were predicted for tunnel construction operations in the LMA. The LMA has a range of sensitive locations including residential locations and research facilities with vibrationsensitive equipment. Since many of the details regarding the specific equipment that is present and their locations at the research facilities is not known, potential vibration impact was assessed by determining the distance to impact for each criterion and each vibration source. The vibration impact analysis indicates that vibration impact may occur for nighttime residential human use at distances up to 36 feet from the tunnel when tunneling in rock with efficient propagation conditions. For common vibration-sensitive equipment such as electron microscopes (classified as VC-A or VC-B equipment), ground-borne vibration impact may occur up to 57 feet from the tunnel depending on soil conditions. In consideration of the most highly-sensitive equipment (classified as VC-E equipment), ground-borne vibration impact may occur at distances up to 359 feet from the centerline of the tunnel. As more detailed information regarding construction methodology, tunnel alignment, geotechnical conditions, specific equipment locations and building coupling losses becomes available during final design, more accurate assessments for each piece of equipment can be made and mitigations can be developed if required. 4-23
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(ii)
Operations
The noise impact assessment indicates that there are no locations along the tunnel alignments, including stations, projected to have noise impacts during operation of the BRT service. The vibration impact analysis indicates that the bus operations are not projected to generate vibration levels higher than existing vibration generated by current bus operations, trucks, and deliveries to buildings. In addition, because the primary source of vibration from rubber-tired vehicles is from roadway irregularities such as potholes, it is expected that buses operating on purpose-built, dedicated use busways or in the proposed tunnel would generate lower vibration levels than are currently experienced from buses and trucks on existing streets. In Phase 3 of the project there is the potential for the tunnel to be converted to rail transit. While the noise and vibration impact assessment for that future phase of the project will be conducted separately from this Phase 2 analysis and does not have an effect on the analysis of Phase 2 impacts, the potential for rail transit vibration impacts through the LMA tunnel alternatives is addressed here. Unlike bus operations, there is significant potential for vibration impacts from rail transit through a tunnel in the LMA. The extent of any potential impacts would need to be evaluated based on specific project factors, including vehicle type, speeds, and ground conditions in the LMA. However, a conservative estimate is that there is the potential for vibration impact on sensitive equipment at 400 feet or more without mitigation, depending on project-specific factors. There are a number of mitigation methods for rail transit available, including specially-designed fasteners and floating slab trackwork, which would have the potential to significantly reduce vibration levels through the LMA. Any Urban Ring Phase 2 tunnel recommendations would include a general assessment of vibration impacts (in accordance with Federal Transit Administration guidance) from Phase 3 rail operations. The general assessment would result in an upper bound for the potential for vibration impact from Phase 3 operations. This assessment would be based on available data in the literature, and assumptions regarding soil conditions and buildings foundations and Phase 3 rail operations. The assessment will include a discussion of the potential for reducing those impacts through a range of mitigation measures, at both the track and the receiver. 4.4.2 Electromagnetic Fields
An analysis of Electromagnetic Field (EMF)/Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) impacts has been undertaken by Gradient Corporation for Urban Ring Phase 2. Some general issues related to Phase 3 impacts have also been addressed. The EMF/EMI analysis is detailed in a separate report and will be summarized in the RDEIR/DEIS document. A brief summary of the findings is presented below. Wherever electric propulsion is used, the key determinants of EMF/EMI potential are: magnitude of electric currents and voltages utilized by the vehicles, mass and size of the ferromagnetic material in the vehicle (for moving metal fields), proximity of sensitive receptors to the transit corridor, pattern of current and voltage time variations, spatial configuration of the conductors supplying electric power, the quantity of traffic, and the degree of EMF/EMI isolation required by sensitive receptors.
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The magnetic-field excursions from electric-propulsion currents are expected to have a frequency spectrum of 0 to 10 Hertz, and to occur at intervals (e.g., every two minutes) determined by the intermittency of bi-directional transit traffic. It is expected that the magnetic component of EMF/EMI produced by the transit system is likely to be the most problematic in terms of interference with sensitive research measurements. The highest magnetic fields are expected at grade, at the edge of the right of way (~15 feet from the route centerline). For the various technologies, this maximum is ~65 milli Gauss (mG) for hybrid electric/emission-controlled diesel/compressed natural gas BRT, ~210 mG for dual-mode BRT, ~1,010 mG for light rail technology, and ~1,610 mG for heavy rail technology. These values should be compared to the earths (steady) magnetic field, which is ~550 mG in Boston. However, these EMF/EMI fields drop rapidly with distance. The analysis illustrates peak fields in the vicinity of the various alignment alternatives and also lists some potential mitigation measures that can be employed. 4.4.3 Phase 3 Compatibility
In assessing the conversion of Phase 2 tunnel alternatives to Phase 3, the rail alignment from Assembly Square to Dudley Square previously identified in the MIS and presented in the DEIR as Figure 2-1.3 is used as the base case for comparison. In addition, the analysis of Phase 3 compatibility also recognizes the potential for Phase 3 rail service connections to Allston, which was not included in the Urban Ring corridor in the MIS. A summary matrix presenting Phase 3 compatibility is presented in Table 4.3. This shows three categories: basic compatibility (i.e. tunnel cross section and alignment criteria); basic features (i.e. portal elements, station elements, turnouts etc.); and advanced features (i.e. detailed elements of rail functionality). Also included is a section on non-compatible tunnel that would not be converted in Phase 3. Major structural works required for Phase 3 that could be built during Phase 2 may include: Dedicated underground turnout structures to suit Phase 3 rail alignments; Longitudinal extension of underground stations to allow for Phase 3 platform lengths; Vertical extension of underground stations to allow Phase 3 station platforms to be built beneath the Phase 2 station (such that both BRT and rail could operate simultaneously); and Construction of a larger diameter tunnel to incorporate two decks - an upper deck for BRT, fitted out during Phase 2, and a lower deck provided during Phase 2 and fitted out for rail during Phase 3.
In general, where cut and cover structures are required for tight turns in Phase 2, these would be built to incorporate Phase 3 turnouts. In addition, where portals are required to be re-graded during Phase 3 conversion, the portals would be designed and constructed to accommodate these requirements in Phase 2.
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LRT
HR
LRT
HR
LRT
Description
Alt ernat iv e 3 A
LMA Tunnel (Ruggles - Yawkey) Note 1, Note 2 Note 1, Note 2 None None Yawkey (Parcel 7) Station would be abandoned 550
Alt ernat iv e 3 B
LMA Tunnel (Ruggles - Park Drive) Note 1 Note 1 None None The tunnel from the turnout to the Park Drive portal (including the portal) would be abandoned 2500
A turnout would be included during Phase 2 (beneath the Winsor School playing fields) to allow a Pilgrim Road tunnel alignment compatible with Phase 3 LR/HR to Park Drive or
Alt ernat iv e 3 C
LMA Tunnel (Ruggles - Allston) Note 1 Note 1 None None The tunnel along Commonwealth Ave to Allston, including the portals at Allston and BU Bridge, would be abandoned. 8000
The platform tunnel for Yawkey/Kenmore station would be built and stub created for launch the The platform tunnel for Yawkey/Kenmore station would be built and stub created for launch the TBM toward Cambridge TBM toward Cambridge
Alt ernat iv e 4
Ruggles to Cambridge Melnea Cass Blvd portal can be regraded to extend tunnel to Dudley Square. Cambridge portal would need to be regraded to extend the tunnel to Sullivan Square Melnea Cass Blvd portal could be used for LRT to come to surface and run on surface route to Dudley Square. Allston Branch n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Conversion of the Allston branch is not part of the MIS identified route, but could be achieved. 0 or 7700 + 2 stations Melnea Cass Blvd portal can be regraded to extend tunnel to Dudley Square. Cambridge portal would need to be regraded to extend the tunnel to Sullivan Square Note 4 Note 4 The spur to Cambridge could be converted to HR 0
Alt ernat iv e 4 A
Ruggles to Cambridge (& Kendall Sq) Note 3 Melnea Cass Blvd portal can be regraded to extend tunnel to Dudley Square. Melnea Cass Blvd portal could be used for LRT to come to surface and run on surface route to Dudley Square. Melnea Cass Blvd portal can be regraded to extend tunnel to Dudley Square. Note 3 None None The spur to Cambridge could only be used for LRT 0
Vertical alignment through Park Drive would need to be deep to allow mined extension of station Vertical alignment through Park Drive would need to be deep to allow mined extension of station tunnel beneath Green Line cut and cover box. tunnel beneath Green Line cut and cover box.
Allston Branch
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
The spur to Allston would be abandoned (it could not be converted to rail due to horizontal alignment radii)
8200
Passive provision for future construction of a turnout beneath the Winsor School allows either LR or HR to Park Drive or Yawkey/Kenmore.
NOTES 1 Leon Street portal can be regraded to extend beneath Ruggles Station and extend to Dudley Square. The Phase 2 portal should be built with Phase 3 in mind to minimize future disruption and construction complexities. 2 Yawkey portal can be regraded to suit Yawkey/Kenmore Station and extension to Sullivan Square. The Phase 2 portal should be built with Phase 3 in mind to minimize future disruption and construction complexities. 3 The horizontal alignment is compatible with LRT but not Heavy Rail. The alignment to Cambridge could potentially be amended to be Heavy Rail compatible once further information is available on foundation constraints. 4 Hawes St station (Green Line "C" Branch) would be extended to meet the turnout, thereby creating the full station box for Phase 3. 5 Special tunnel lining rings would used where future station extension walls to be built. 6 Advanced items that could be considered during detailed design include: accommodation of rail systems within the tunnel (utility ducting, supports etc), stray current protection, roadway construction details that facilitate later removal and replacement with rail, platform dimensions for LRT conversion. 7 Consider the diversion of existing utilities (e.g. sewers, water mains, etc) during Phase 2 that will accommodate the works associated with Phase 3 to minimize cost, disruption, and schedule.
4.4.4
A preliminary capital cost estimate for each of the tunneled options has been prepared by Keville Enterprises Inc., and is presented in Table 4.4. The estimate provides a comparison between each of the tunnel alternatives, but does not indicate the change in cost for the remainder of the Urban Ring (e.g. change to surface routing options required to connect to the tunnels).
Park Drive (Green Line "B" & "C" Branches)
Yawkey/Kenmore
West Station
Total Length of Tunnel * (feet) 12,500 9,800 2,700 17,100 9,800 7,300 9,800 9,800 7,900 7,900 17,700 17,700 23,300 15,500 7,800 30,500 22,200 8,300 9,800 9,800 9,100 9,100 11,000 11,000 8,000 8,000 7,900 7,900
Yawkey (Parcel 7)
Ruggles
Alternative 3 (Option 1)