WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff to conduct LaGuardia AirTrain preliminary engineering
Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
A rendering of the LaGuardia AirTrain.
WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff Inc. will conduct preliminary engineering and other planning work for the new AirTrain connection to LaGuardia Airport.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said the firm’s work “will take a major step forward in advancing the LaGuardia AirTrain project.”
WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff will lead the preliminary planning work for three different components of the project including the construction of up to two new AirTrain stations at the new terminal buildings at the airport; construction of an AirTrain station at Willets Point and construction related to the right-of-way for the train from the airport to Willets Point.
Stakeholders said the AirTrain is essential to accommodate growth at LaGuardia, which is the only major East Coast airport lacking rail access and is expected to see an increase of more than six million passengers annually by 2030.
“The new AirTrain will improve passenger experience, reduce traffic congestion and serve as a key part of the modernization and transformation of LaGuardia into a world-class airport,” Gov. Cuomo said. “LaGuardia Airport is an essential part of New York’s economy and transportation network, and by providing additional transit options we will support new economic opportunities and growth throughout the region.”
WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff will analyze and assess alignment alternatives, conduct a geotechnical review, create a conceptual design for both the train right-of-way and the stations and develop cost estimates for the project. As part of the planning work, the firm also will conduct a detailed ridership analysis, analyze public-private partnerships and other options to identify the most advantageous financing plan for the AirTrain, as well as evaluate expanded parking and centralized car rental operations at a new Willets Point station complex.
PANYNJ Executive Director Pat Foye said, “LaGuardia Airport is the only major airport in the region without direct rail transit access. With passenger demand expected to reach 34 million annually at LaGuardia by 2030, providing mass transit access to the airport is fundamental to transforming it into a world-class facility that supports future growth, while reducing roadway congestion and resulting emissions.”
