Laurel Street/BNSF Grade Separation - City of Colton CA

Athalye Consulting provided Construction Management and Resident Engineering services to SANBAG for the Laurel Street Grade Separation project in Colton, California. This project was of critical importance due to frequent accidents at the BNSF railroad crossing near the BNSF rail yard, where Laurel Street intersected six tracks at grade.

To enhance safety, improve traffic circulation, and reduce air quality impacts, the project involved constructing a depressed roadway underpass to separate vehicular and pedestrian traffic from the rail corridor. Laurel Street was lowered beneath the six BNSF tracks, with Miller Drive also adjusted to tie into the new road grade. Eighth Street was redesigned to terminate in cul-de-sacs on both the north and south sides.

The project scope included:

• Construction of a new underpass structure
• Local street improvements to maintain access to adjacent businesses
• Retaining walls, drainage systems, and utility relocations
• Dedicated pedestrian facilities
• Landscaping and hardscape enhancements
• Best Management Practices (BMPs) for stormwater runoff

Beyond its immediate safety benefits, the project supported projected BNSF traffic growth, with train volumes expected to double by 2035. It also established a "Quiet Zone" within Colton, eliminating the need for trains to sound their horns at this former crossing and significantly reducing noise impacts to nearby properties.

Designed in accordance with AREMA standards and BNSF requirements, the Laurel Street Grade Separation has delivered lasting improvements to public safety, mobility, and quality of life in the City of Colton.