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Citing rapid transit’s crucial role in economic development, Texas Construction magazine named Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s (DART) Cityplace Station “Project of the Year.” In response to a 37% increase in light rail ridership in the last few years, DART built its first subway station in the Cityplace Tower, north of downtown Dallas. Clark Contractors recently completed construction of the $20 million project.
Located ten stories below an expressway and existing office, the station shell had already been built. The station was constructed in three levels, and all are accessible by stairs, elevators and escalators. Utility work, architectural finishes, and installation of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems were included in the build out.
The most challenging aspect of the project was contending with underground construction amidst a fully operational light rail system - with a train moving through the Cityplace station every five minutes. “Working in a tunnel with trains going by poses tremendous logistical difficulties in addition to the obvious safety issues,” said Clark project manager David Burrus.
The project team also reconditioned an existing escalator and elevator in the Cityplace office building above, as well as installing two inclined elevators, two hydraulic elevators and six escalators. Given that the station platform is 120 feet below grade, Clark Contractors installed the longest escalators west of the Mississippi River. Carrying passengers at an angle of 30 degrees from the platform to the mezzanine, the inclined elevators are two of six found in the United States.
Designed by Aguirre Corporation and Huitt Zollars of Dallas, the station consists of two platforms interconnected at three different areas. Two entrances, one east and one west of the expressway, come together at a mezzanine, which connects to the platforms below. Concrete and steel stairways were installed, and the addition of ramps makes the station accessible for disabled patrons. Extensive use of tile was incorporated on the walls and floors. The project also included HVAC, a state-of-the-art fire alarm and sprinkler system, specialized ticket vending machines and validators, and closed circuit TV.
Clark’s project team faced several challenges while completing the project, including limited site access with no parking facilities. Careful coordination was required because all materials had to be delivered to the site by rail between the hours of 1-4 a.m.
In addition to Clark and that architects, the project team also included LAN/STV Joint Venture of Dallas. Clark Contractors is located in Dallas.
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