California authority kicks off construction of first high-speed rail viaduct

The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) and its contractor Tutor-Perini/Zachry/Parsons (TPZP) have begun construction of the Fresno River Viaduct, agency officials announced yesterday.

Running parallel to BNSF Railway Co. track, the viaduct is the first aerial structure that is part of the high-speed rail program. It's also the first of three viaducts to be constructed in CHSRA's first construction package, which is a 29-mile construction area stretching from Madera County to Fresno County, Calif.

Martinez Steel Corp. and Outback Materials are supplying components for the 1,600-foot Fresno River Viaduct. Approximately 75 workers will complete the project, CHSRA officials said.

Construction of the viaduct is expected to last nine to 12 months.