Edmonton Intermodal Terminal

Client: Canadian National (CN)

A new intermodal terminal was required in Edmonton to accommodate Canadian National Railway’s (CN’s) significant increase in intermodal traffic. This new terminal is critically located in Edmonton’s transportation system, adjacent to the Yellowhead Trail and Anthony Henday Drive, which form part of Alberta’s North-South Trade Corridor. The construction of the new intermodal terminal began in September 1999 and finished on time and on budget with the grand opening held October 2, 2001.

Initial site grading was completed in June 2000. Construction of approximately 1,000 m of track and site drainage works was also completed. The track into the yard was placed to allow future construction materials to be delivered by rail. Construction of the site drainage system, which ties the yard’s storm water drainage into the city’s sewer system, was completed in April 2001.  Close to 100,000 m2 of roller compacted concrete pad area was placed in just 36 days.

UMA provided engineering design and project management services for each phase of the project. This included survey, design, contract administration, field coordination, and construction inspection. UMA worked closely with both CN and the contractors to maintain the aggressive project schedule and budget requirements.

One of the challenges of this project was the proximity of the terminal to an environmentally sensitive wetland. Measures were taken to ensure the continued health of this ecosystem.

In 2002, this project received an Award of Merit in the Environmental category from the Consulting Engineers of Alberta.