Transit and Rail

Transit is not simply a transportation mode; it is a community-building tool. Transit influences investment decisions and fosters economic development and revitalization.

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Rail and Transit

Successful implementation of transit and rail projects depends on an understanding of how developers operate and how realities change in the short and long term. Rail and transit projects need ongoing adjustments, and this can only be achieved with good communication among public agencies, private ventures and local communities.

WSP has led the rail and transit sector since its first project: the design of the New York City subway system, in the 1890s. Our expertise is built from years of experience in public transport infrastructure worldwide.

We provide the full range of planning, design, engineering and management services for the complete rail project lifecycle. Together, we provide clients and partners comprehensive planning, design, program and construction management services, and strategic advice for high-speed rail systems to main line railways, through to passenger and freight rail projects. Combined with our depth of experience and expertise in complex buildings and linear infrastructure, we have the know-how, adaptability and responsiveness that governments and the private sector require to meet challenging rail programs in a variety of delivery environments.

Meeting Future Demand

According to a UN report, 54 percent of the world’s population live in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase to 66 percent by 2050. This means that cities all over the world need to reconsider their public transport services in order to meet future demand.

Rail and transit systems play a leading role in the future of modern transportation. They offer sustainable solutions that reduce carbon emissions, create greater mobility with increased energy efficiency and provide long-term economic benefits.

WSP’s experts help transportation agencies plan, design and manage all forms of mass transit—heavy and light rail, streetcars and people movers, and bus rapid transit. We take pride in our ability to offer flexible solutions to suit the individual requirements and fulfill the visions of our valued clients. We deliver advanced and sustainable outcomes to make transportation smarter, faster and more affordable for our clients and their communities.

The California High-Speed Rail is a good example of our involvement. The new line will connect Los Angeles and San Francisco in three hours, while contributing to economic development and a cleaner environment.

Transportation agencies rely on us to execute projects under every form of project delivery, including design-build and public-private partnership. We employ the latest technologies and methodologies to develop infrastructure that addresses anticipated demographic, social, and economic changes, and we plan and design transportation systems to be resilient to the threats posed by climate change.

Our engineers and planners view public transit as a means to improve the communities in which we live and work, and wherever possible we apply the latest concepts in sustainable development to improve social, economic and environmental conditions.

We help our clients find the right solutions to their challenges through innovative planning and design, deep knowledge of the federal and local regulatory environments, and strong management of project delivery.

Locally Dedicated with International Scale

With over 130 years of experience, WSP contributed to the creation of the first subways in America, South Asia, Australia and Africa.

Future-focused and Driven by Sustainability

WSP works with policy makers, fleet operators, and various levels of government to support adoption of zero-emission vehicles and public transit bus fleets.

World-class Rail and Transit Solutions

WSP combines design and construction-phase services with advisory, land use planning, and program management to provide clients with a holistic approach.

An Integrated Approach to Mobility

WSP's Mobility Marketplace consolidates mobility services under a single payment system and operational umbrella for selected transportation modes and services.

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