This project focused on relocating and constructing a new Amtrak passenger station in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. A key element was installing a new rail spur connecting to the existing CSX mainline near Buchanan Avenue and Pleasant Street. The revised track alignment extends north to the Rapid Central Station transit hub, creating a fully integrated facility for rail, intercity bus, and fixed-route bus services. The relocation reduced traffic disruptions caused by train dwell times at the former site and lowered Amtrak’s operational costs along the Pere Marquette route.

Our firm provided full design, engineering, and consulting services in close coordination with the lead architect for the new station and associated track infrastructure. We led design and construction documentation, supported procurement and permitting, and oversaw quality assurance throughout all construction phases. The team also addressed site-specific challenges, including utility coordination, integration with the surrounding neighborhood, and multimodal access design.

Beyond technical delivery, we facilitated ongoing engagement with key stakeholders, including The Rapid, Amtrak, MDOT, CSX Transportation, the City of Grand Rapids, and the Federal Railroad Administration. Our team led coordination meetings throughout the project to ensure regulatory compliance and alignment with the Interurban Transit Partnership’s (ITP) master plan, supporting the facility’s success as a regional transit hub.