Amtrak, Zoo to Paoli Electrification Transmission Line
In an effort to create a new primary electrical transmission route and increase power transmission reliability and efficiency between the Safe Harbor hydro-electric generating facility on the Susquehanna River and Philadelphia, PA, Amtrak is expanding its 138KV transmission network approximately 16 miles. The century-old infrastructure is deteriorated, has far exceeded its expected in-service life, and is therefore unable to support the new transmission line. Burns is leading the design of the new transmission line, which will be supported on new combination transmission/catenary structures. In addition to the transmission line, the project will provide catenary modifications, a redundant signal circuit, 138KV tie-ins at the Zoo and Paoli substations, and a new step-down substation at Bryn Mawr. Through the completion of this project, Burns is playing an important role in Amtrak’s continued effort to bring the Keystone Corridor up to a state-of-good-repair.
Burns Role
- Overall project management of a multi-consultant team
- Coordination with local municipalities and stakeholders
- Traction power engineering for new and modified substations
- Overhead catenary support engineering
