Geotechnical Design and Construction Solutions for Transportation Infrastructure
From highways to rail systems and bridges, Schnabel delivers high-quality, cost-effective foundation and earth-retention systems that support critical transportation infrastructure across the country.
Earth Retention Solutions for
Transportation Projects
Highways & Interchanges
Rail Systems & Transit Corridors
Bridges & Viaducts
Tunnels & Underpasses
Road Widening & Slope Stabilization
Geotechnical Support for Transportation Infrastructure
We offer a full range of geotechnical services tailored to transportation infrastructure projects:
Why Schnabel?
With decades of experience and a commitment to innovation, Schnabel is trusted by both public and private sector clients to deliver efficient, safe, and long-lasting solutions for complex transportation infrastructure. Our design-build capabilities enable us to meet aggressive timelines while maintaining the highest levels of quality and performance.
Partner with Schnabel for your next transportation project
We deliver reliable, durable solutions on time and within budget — ensuring infrastructure that can withstand the demands of tomorrow’s traffic.
Real-World Results in Transportation
Proven Expertise in Critical Infrastructure Projects
Schnabel has delivered geotechnical solutions for some of the most demanding transportation projects across the country. Here’s how we’ve made an impact.
Reno ReTRAC
Location:
Reno, NV
Client:
City of Reno / Granite Construction
Background
Downtown Reno faced increasing traffic congestion due to multiple railroad crossings. To improve traffic flow, the City of Reno initiated the ReTRAC project, which involved depressing a 2.2-mile-long section of railroad up to 35 feet deep. Granite Construction contracted Schnabel to design and build the excavation support and underpinning system required for the project.
Schnabel’s Solution
Schnabel used soil nailing to support open excavation areas and a combination of hand-dug piers and micropiles to stabilize adjacent structures. The team installed 202,800 square feet of earth retention and underpinned 11 structures, ensuring the trench remained structurally secure and watertight throughout construction.
Results
Completed in spring 2005, Schnabel’s design-build work enabled safe, efficient construction of the ReTRAC trench. The project earned the 2006 Outstanding Project Award from the Deep Foundations Institute, showcasing Schnabel’s expertise in innovative geostructural solutions.
SFIA Terminal 1C Utilidor
Location:
San Francisco, CA
Client:
City of Reno / Granite Construction
Background
In 2016, San Francisco International Airport announced plans to redevelop Terminal 1 to modernize facilities, improve passenger flow, and add new baggage handling and security areas. The renovation included a new utilidor and enhanced boarding areas.
Schnabel’s Solution
Schnabel designed and installed 122,000 square feet of braced sheet pile excavation shoring using corner, cross-lot, and raker braces instead of tiebacks due to numerous utilities and poor soil conditions. For access to the new utilidor, Schnabel built a temporary tieback wall (deadman) to support the crane road and equipment staging.
Results
Schnabel’s work enabled safe and efficient construction of the Terminal 1 utilidor and baggage system. The project was delivered on time, within budget, and maintained an outstanding safety record despite restricted site access and obstructions.