Skanska Signs $596m Contract for Advanced New York Bridge

Skanska, the Swedish construction giant, known for the construction of the Øresund Bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark and the MetLife Stadium and the World Trade Center Transportation Hub in Manhattan, has secured a major contract worth US$596m to replace the Livingston Avenue Bridge in Albany, New York. 

This significant infrastructure project, awarded by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), comes at a time when the global construction industry faces numerous challenges, including supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, and increasing material costs.

The project, set to be recorded in Skanska's US order bookings for the second quarter of 2024, involves the construction of a new two-track, vertical-lift railroad bridge over the Hudson River. 

The new Livingston Avenue Bridge is expected to play a crucial role in modernising New York's transportation network, potentially stimulating economic growth in the region.

This state-of-the-art structure will enhance transport links between Albany and Rensselaer, supporting higher-speed passenger and freight rail services while also providing safer access for pedestrians and cyclists.

What does Skanska aim to achieve from replacing the Livingston Avenue Bridge?

This contract demonstrates Skanska's commitment to enhancing critical transportation links in the United States.

The project aims to achieve several key objectives:

Improved rail connectivity: The new two-track vertical lift railroad bridge will support higher-speed passenger and freight rail services, enhancing transport efficiency between Albany and Rensselaer.
Enhanced safety: The replacement bridge will provide safer access for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the Hudson River, promoting sustainable urban mobility.
Modernised infrastructure: The project includes the installation of new railroad signals, electrical infrastructure, and improved bridge and navigation lighting, bringing the crossing up to contemporary standards.
Economic stimulation: By improving transportation links, Skanska hopes to contribute to economic growth in the region.

This project highlights the ongoing need for infrastructure renewal in the United States and demonstrates the resilience of major construction firms like Skanska in securing large-scale contracts despite global industry headwinds. 

The scope of work is comprehensive, encompassing construction of control and machinery rooms, installation of new railroad signals and implementation of electrical infrastructure. 

The project will also involve improvements to bridge navigation lighting and the realignment and rehabilitation of additional rail bridges.

Skanska said in a press statement: “The new bridge is expected to facilitate higher-speed passenger and freight rail services and will offer pedestrians and cyclists a safer and more accessible route across the Hudson River.  

“Construction for this phase is set to begin this month, with completion expected in January 2026.”

How is Skanska considering sustainability in its construction projects?

At the forefront of Skanska's sustainability drive is its ambitious commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, including emissions from its entire supply chain. 

This goal sets a new benchmark for the industry and demonstrates Skanska's leadership in addressing climate change.

To achieve this, Skanska is developing and implementing innovative low-carbon solutions across its projects. These include the use of efficient building management systems, solar panels, low-energy lighting sensors, and advanced systems for air quality, heating, and cooling. 

Skanska has made a significant investment of 120 million zlotys (US$30.7m) in the second phase of its NU Warszawa Wola residential project in Warsaw, Poland.

This phase will involve the construction of two buildings, adding 136 apartments and seven commercial units to the development.

In line with Skanska's commitment to sustainability, the project will feature cutting-edge eco-friendly solutions and smart home systems. 

Residents will benefit from remote-controlled heating, lighting, and electrical sockets, as well as anti-smog diffusers in windows and walls. 

Notably, one building's rooftop will be equipped with photovoltaic panels to reduce electricity costs.

The development is set to achieve the prestigious Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) 'Very Good' certification, underscoring its environmental credentials. Additionally, the complex will comply with 'Barrier-Free Facility' requirements, ensuring accessibility for all residents.

The company has been recognised as one of the 'World's Best Employers' by Forbes, highlighting its commitment to creating an inclusive and collaborative workplace and this approach has led to numerous industry awards, including PFI/PPP Contractor of the Year and Best Private Sector Consortium.

Skanska collaborates with various high-profile clients and partners, including government bodies like the New York State Department of Transportation and the UK's Highways Agency and the company is also involved in significant infrastructure projects such as HS2 in the UK, working alongside other industry giants in joint ventures. 

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