TGEP 111: How to Overcome Challenges in Mega-Engineering Projects

In this episode, we talk with Eddie Chiarelli, vice president at New York Concrete Corp. & Strata Industries Corp, about tackling mega-projects like the Gateway Tunnel. Discover how innovative strategies, strong teamwork, and a focus on how sustainability can help overcome the challenges of mega-engineering projects. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Eddie: As a key member of the NYCC team working on Phase 3 of the Gateway Tunnel project, which has been compared to major feats like the Hoover Dam and Golden Gate Bridge, what makes this phase both challenging and exciting? How do you plan to speed up the schedule of the Gateway Tunnel project, and what innovative geotechnical solutions will your team use to accomplish this? What unique challenges do you encounter when working on large-scale construction projects in a crowded city like New York? What are the key factors that lead to the successful completion of a high-rise building project? As sustainability becomes increasingly important in construction, how do you incorporate sustainable practices into your projects? How important are teamwork and communication among stakeholders, especially geotechnical engineers, in your large construction projects? What final piece of advice can you share with geotechnical engineers to help them succeed and make a positive impact in their careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Overcome Challenges in Mega-Engineering Projects: The Gateway Tunnel project is a significant engineering challenge due to its location in New York City, involving numerous stakeholders and complex technical conditions. The excavation through soft clays and hard rock, combined with the task of supporting an active elevated park, adds layers of complexity, making this phase both difficult and exciting. To expedite the schedule of the Gateway Tunnel project, the steel beams were replaced with concrete to reduce lead times and switched to larger diameter secant piles to minimize the number of piles required. These innovations, along with other time-saving strategies, helped streamline the project and cut costs effectively. In large-scale construction projects in New York, one of the biggest challenges is securing agency approvals, managing relationships with neighbors, and navigating the city’s traffic logistics. Successfully handling these factors is crucial to keeping the project on track and avoiding costly delays. Key factors for the successful completion of high-rise building projects include effective planning, solid communication among all stakeholders, and a clear understanding of the technical challenges. Additionally, addressing site-specific constraints such as traffic and neighboring structures is essential to keeping the project moving smoothly. Engineers can reduce environmental impact by recycling concrete and steel, reusing excavated soil, and using low-emission or electric equipment. Investing in new technologies and sourcing materials locally also boosts project efficiency and supports sustainability. Embracing these practices leads to more responsible engineering overall. Teamwork and communication are crucial in large construction projects. Good collaboration leads to faster schedules, fewer errors, and higher morale, while poor communication can result in delays, increased costs, and lower project success rates. Having a well-connected team ensures the project runs smoothly and efficiently. Geotechnical engineers should gain hands-on field experience, as it helps in understanding how projects are built and enhances problem-solving skills. Continually learning new techniques, questioning traditional methods, and thinking critically will help you pivot and add value throughout your career.