WSP’s tunnel design methods combine over a century of experience, state-of- the-art numerical analysis, traditional calculation methods, and the application of latest codes, and. Our structural teams work in close coordination with geotechnical engineers, civil engineers, planners, and construction engineers to deliver efficient and durable facilities the meet all the design requirements.

Our structural engineers are involved in all aspects of a project from early planning phases through construction, as well as in the inspection and rehabilitation of existing tunnels and underground structures. This continuity provides the interdisciplinary collaboration and project understanding essential for the successful delivery of complex underground infrastructure projects.

Putting our tunnel structural engineering experience to work for you

WSP provides underground engineering services for a variety of sectors, including roads and highways, rail and transit, water and wastewater supply, utilities, power and nuclear waste repositories, and for scientific research facilities.

Key considerations in our underground structural designs include strength, durability, efficiency of materials use, and constructability. Loads can arise from soil, rock, groundwater, internal loads/pressure, surface loads, and seismic events. Our approach to tunnel structures relies on the implementation of sophisticated ground/structure interaction and state of the art applications and are engineered to last with nominal maintenance.

Full range of structural engineering services

Services for underground structures include:

• Precast concrete structures
• Cast-in-place concrete structures
• Shotcrete/sprayed concrete and pneumatic application of concrete
• Immersed tube structures
• Durability engineering
• Support of excavation, retaining walls, and shafts
• Temporary works
• Materials engineering
• Waterproofing
• Ground movement impact assessment, instrumentation and monitoring
• Instrumentation
• Structural inspection, repair, and leak remediation
• Construction management
• Ground improvement