To address heavy congestion at the at‑grade rail crossing of Okeechobee Road in Hialeah, Florida, STV was contracted by Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) to design a new 300‑foot railroad bridge spanning both Okeechobee Road and the Miami Canal. The project supports a major traffic relief effort led by Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the City of Hialeah, which widened and lowered the roadway to eliminate delays caused by freight rail movements. In addition to the bridge design, STV supported the installation of new stormwater drainage systems, traffic signals, streetlights and sidewalks. Completed more than one month ahead of schedule, the project improves mobility and reduces congestion for thousands of daily commuters.
What challenges did STV address?
Rail service to and from Hialeah Yard could not be disrupted, requiring intricate staging and continuous rail operations during construction. The team needed to design complex structural sequencing while planning for temporary shoring, track realignments and phased installation of the new bridge over an 18‑month construction period. The project also needed to maintain consistent coordination among roadway contractors, utility providers and local partners.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV designed the 300‑foot railroad bridge and provided civil and structural engineering services that supported the broader grade‑separation initiative. The team developed temporary track alignments and shoring schemes to maintain rail operations and worked closely with FEC, the design‑build contractor and local agencies to ensure safe execution. STV’s approach enabled uninterrupted rail service while accelerating project delivery.
How does this project benefit the community?
Removing the at‑grade crossing reduces significant traffic delays, improves safety and enhances emergency response times for residents and businesses. The new bridge allows freight operations to move efficiently while giving motorists a more reliable route through one of Miami‑Dade County’s busiest corridors.
Key stats and accolades
- 300‑foot railroad bridge
- 18‑month construction period
- New drainage, lighting, sidewalks and signals installed
- Completed more than one month early
