D.C. Union Station Expansion

Washington, DC

Firm

Grimshaw

Project Type

Transportation

Mixed-use Development

Duration

2021- 2022 / 1 Year

Phases Involved In

Programing and Vision Study Schematic Design

Size

53 Acres

Construction Value

$8.8 Billion

Project Description

The D.C. Union Station Redevelopment project is a multi-billion-dollar renovation of the 115-year-old station, aiming to modernize a critical gateway to the nation’s capital by 2040. The project will include the addition of wide rail platforms, an integrated bus terminal, a new train hall, and updated concourses lined with shops and restaurants, providing easy access to Metrorail, buses, taxis, ride-shares, street cars, and parking. Moreover, the project aims to create more public and civic opportunities in the area through mixed-use development built above the platforms and rail yards.

I joined the project in 2021 to contribute to the design and visioning study refresh, collaborating with multiple agencies such as the FRA, Amtrak, and real estate developers Akridge. This study led to a comprehensive redesign of the station, which was subsequently released for public comment and received positive responses, advancing the project in to the next phase for funding.

Station Planning

Initially, my role involved rethinking station planning, including site access, PUDO, Metrorail connections, access to platforms, and the relocation and expansion of the existing bus facility. My proposed solution was to stack the bus facility and PUDO above the platforms, enabling access from the new central train hall. This approach was well-received by all involved agencies, as it provides clear access and way-finding to all transit functions, creating a fully connected mobility hub.

Urban Realm & TOD

Another significant aspect of my involvement was the coordination between the TOD developer and Amtrak in a series of workshops over nine months. We collaborated on developing structural solutions to support the development over the platforms and improve access to the station. Additionally, I worked on the programming and visioning of the urban realm and improving connections to the surrounding neighborhoods.

Train Hall Design

Upon completion of the planning phase, I took on the responsibility of designing the new train hall and leading the development of the large roof spanning 600 feet. Given the complexity of the task with various constraints and considerations, my solution was a double-vaulted design that respected the geometry of the original train hall and provided the necessary structural spans to limit columns interference to the run-through tracks below.

Visualization Package

Upon completion of the design, I coordinated the visualization package, which was made available for public comment and press releases. I also assisted in developing presentation materials for agency reviews and the FRA environmental report, facilitating progress toward the project’s next phase.

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