Long Island Railroad (LIRR)  plans to replace the existing rail bridge over Cherry Valley Road (LIRR Bridge no. 60-O-182). The bridge carries LIRR’s Hempstead Branch, which is double track electrified (third rail) territory at this location. The bridge is located at Mile Post 18.2 between the Nassau Boulevard and Garden City stations and was built in 1871. It has one span with a total bridge length of approximately 86 feet. The bridge is open deck with standard bridge timbers and rests on stone masonry abutments. The tracks are tangent across the bridge with timetable speed of 60 mph (FRA Class 3).

When the bridge was constructed in 1871, the vehicular traffic was significantly different than what it is today. With the current vertical clearance posted at 10’-4” (surveyed at minimum 11’-6”) bridge strikes by vehicles have been a common occurrence at this location. The age of the bridge and the frequency of bridge strikes have made replacement a priority for LIRR.

The Contractor is providing all services required to complete the final design for the new bridge, the removal and disposal of the existing bridge, construction and installation of the new bridge, abutment modifications and repairs, and retaining walls for new track profile. The new structure will meet all applicable NYSDOT vertical clearance requirements to the street below (14’-0).

The design/build services for this bridge replacement scope are summarized as follows:

• Develop the design to the Final Design level, and assume the responsibility of Designer of Record
• Removal and disposal of existing Cherry Valley Road Bridge
• Fabrication and installation of new Cherry Valley Road Bridge structures
• Construct new abutments (precast cap, riser blocks, precast backwall) and new foundations
• Construct new retaining walls and backfill as required to achieve track elevation raise
• Repair/replace curbs, sidewalks, and asphalt roadway to facilitate bridge replacements
• Temporary posting and jacking of existing the Cherry Valley Road Bridge