PROJECT

Light Rail Ballast Wall Removal

Location: CHARLOTTE, NC
Service: WALL SAWING, CONCRETE REMOVAL, CONCRETE CUTTING

PENHALL'S ROLE & EXPERTISE

Penhall was contracted to provide specialized cutting and removal services for the concrete ballast wall located beneath the active light rail platform. Key elements of the project included:

 

  • Precision wall sawing to create controlled cuts

  • Test cuts and pressure relief cuts to support safe removal

  • Removal of approximately 185 linear feet of concrete wall

  • Coordinated work during limited access windows and a scheduled 48-hour shutdown

  • Efficient execution to meet demanding project timelines

PROJECT CHALLENGES & RESULTS

With no margin for error, this project required extensive planning and close coordination between day and night crews. Penhall crews worked four consecutive 12-hour shifts during the shutdown period to maximize productivity and ensure the work was completed on schedule.

 

  • Conducted multiple planning sessions before mobilization

  • Utilized separate day and night teams for continuous operations

  • Maintained strict safety standards throughout the project

  • Successfully completed the work within the shutdown window

  • Earned positive recognition from the City of Charlotte

  • Secured a verbal award for Phase 2 work based on project performance

EXECUTING WITHIN A 48-HOUR SHUTDOWN WINDOW

With train operations temporarily suspended, Penhall had a limited window to complete critical modifications beneath the active light rail platform. Success depended on extensive planning, around-the-clock coordination, and flawless execution.

 

  • Four consecutive 12-hour shifts to maximize productivity

  • Day and night crews working in coordinated succession

  • Multiple planning sessions prior to mobilization

  • Limited access windows with no margin for delays

  • Precision wall sawing performed beneath an active transit platform

Through careful planning, around-the-clock crews, and precise wall sawing, Penhall successfully completed this critical light rail project within a narrow shutdown window—earning the opportunity for Phase 2 work.