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, design guidelines, and cutting edge methods using ground-structure interaction. 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 Experience to Work for You
WSP provides underground engineering services for a variety of sectors, including roads and highways, rail and transport, 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.
WSP in Action
In Istanbul, Turkey, we performed extensive work on the Eurasia Tunnel. This double-deck road tunnel crosses under the Bosphorus Strait, at a maximum depth of 106m below sea level. The segmental tunnel lining has two flexible seismic joints that help decrease stress during earthquakes.
In Auckland, we provided the structural engineering for the Waterview Connection, New Zealand’s biggest and most complex road project to date, which included a 2.4 km long, 13.1m internal diameter, 3-lane, twin-tube tunnel.
In New York City, we designed the cut and cover Gateway Tunnels for the Hudson Yards, designed to directly support multiple 80-story tower blocks.
Full Lifecycle Services
We provide a full range of structural engineering services for underground structures, including:
- Precast concrete structures
- Cast-in-place concrete structures
- Shotcrete and pneumatic application of concrete
- Immersed tube structures
- Support of excavation, retaining walls, and shafts
- Temporary works
- Materials engineering
- Waterproofing
- Instrumentation
- Structural inspection, repair, and leak remediation
- Construction management
