Atkins to lead LA rail expansion

Atkins has been appointed by LA rail bosses to support the development of rail projects in the city.

The UK-based firm will act as a General Engineering Consultant (GEC) for the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) as it explores options for expansion.

Jon McDonald, Atkins’ business sector manager, said: “Los Angeles is one of the nation’s largest, most populous counties and Metro is the country’s third-largest transit agency, having built six rail lines with almost 90 miles of track and 80 stations since opening its Blue Line in 1990.

“With funding from a variety of sources, the authority is likely to spend more than $20 billion over the next 10 years to maintain, upgrade and expand its rail system. This selection positions our transit and rail group with a major new client in a new market, and we’re pleased that Metro recognises the wide range of skills we bring to the table.”

LA union station (pictured), which Metro bought in 2011, is one example of the investment being made in developing rail infrastructure in the city, with several design concepts currently being examined for the site.




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