Pioneering the Future: Innovative Practices in Infrastructure
Ed Breed, ENV SP, Project Manager, Skanska USA Civil Northeast, Inc.
In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and increasing construction challenges, Skanska stands at the forefront of infrastructure innovation. As one of the leading global construction and development firms, our company is continuously transforming the way we design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects. From cutting-edge construction techniques to sustainable infrastructure solutions, Skanska’s practices in New England and the Northeast showcase a combination of technological advancements and a focus on community impact, creating resilient, efficient, and forward-thinking infrastructure projects. Here, we explore some of the key practices that we have adopted to foster innovation in the region.
Collaboration and Partnerships for Greater Innovation
Innovation cannot happen in isolation, and Skanska understands the value of collaboration. In the fast-evolving world of construction, Skanska strives to lead the way by incorporating innovative practices to improve project delivery, advance collaboration, and streamline operations. A key factor in Skanska’s success lies in the adoption of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) models. By uniting engineers, contractors, and other project stakeholders in a shared digital space, Skanska has revolutionized the preconstruction and execution phases of projects.
Traditionally, engineers design the project, and contractors implement it. However, this division often leads to miscommunication, delays, and unforeseen challenges that could have been avoided with better coordination. Skanska has tackled this issue head-on by integrating engineers and contractors within the same VDC environment. Both teams share access to the same data models, enabling real-time collaboration and decision-making. Engineers can provide immediate feedback on the constructability of designs, and contractors can input their expertise on how to best execute the design in the real world.
This collaborative environment not only fosters better communication but also creates a culture of shared accountability. Engineers and contractors work together to ensure that the final project design is not only functional and efficient but also feasible from an execution standpoint. By breaking down traditional barriers, Skanska’s VDC model improves project outcomes and reduces the likelihood of costly errors.
RIDOT Providence Viaduct (Skanska-Manafort JV)
One of the major features of Skanska’s VDC model is real-time data sharing. This allows all project stakeholders, including engineers, contractors, and project managers, to access up-to-date information throughout the life cycle of the project. Whether it’s project timelines, material specifications, or budget updates, everyone works from the same information. This transparency helps keep all team members aligned and informed, making it easier to make timely decisions and mitigate potential issues. If an issue arises, the data shared through the VDC model can provide insight into the root cause, enabling quicker resolution. It also allows project managers to track progress more effectively, ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
Skanska’s VDC model doesn’t only serve the pre-construction phase, but continues to play a crucial role during the project’s execution. By maintaining a consistent digital model throughout construction, Skanska ensures that the construction process remains efficient and aligned with the design. One of the ways this is achieved is through the use of 4D modeling, which integrates the project’s timeline with the VDC model. This allows teams to visualize the construction process over time, ensuring that tasks are sequenced properly and that the project progresses smoothly. This tool allows our project teams to track the physical status of the project against the planned timeline, allowing for proactive identification of delays or resource shortages.
The VDC model also supports ongoing coordination between engineers and contractors on site. If changes to the design or construction plan are needed, the model can be quickly updated, and all team members are notified. This ensures that changes are implemented consistently and accurately, reducing the chances of mistakes or miscommunication during the construction process.
On our projects, safety and workforce protection are paramount. VDC also plays an essential role in improving safety on our Skanska projects. By simulating the entire construction process in a digital environment, teams can assess potential safety risks and hazards before work begins on site. For instance, engineers can analyze the construction site layout and the flow of materials and personnel to identify any possible safety concerns. Virtual simulations allow for better planning of material handling, equipment placement, and worker movements, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents. By addressing safety concerns before construction starts, Skanska is not only protecting its workforce but also reducing delays caused by on-site incidents.
Skanska’s use of VDC extends beyond individual projects. We use the data collected during the preconstruction and execution phases to continuously improve its processes. By analyzing past project data, Skanska can identify areas where innovation can be applied to future projects. This commitment to continuous improvement helps Skanska remain at the cutting edge of construction technology and ensures that each project benefits from the lessons learned in previous ones.
Skanska’s adoption of VDC has transformed the way engineers and contractors collaborate during the preconstruction and execution phases of projects. By uniting these teams in the same digital space, Skanska has created a more efficient, transparent, and collaborative work environment. The seamless integration of real-time data, 3D modeling, and simulation tools has improved design accuracy, reduced costs, and enhanced project outcomes. Furthermore, by focusing on safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement, we want to continue to set new standards for innovation in the construction industry here in New England, the Northeast, and World-Wide. Let’s take a look at one of our project examples:
Project Spotlight: Hunts Point Interstate Access Improvement Project
In the realm of construction and infrastructure development, the Hunts Point Interstate Access Improvement Project stands out as a remarkable achievement. At the 2023 Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Conference & Expo, the project received multiple awards, including: (1) National Award of Merit in Transportation, (2) Best in Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), and (3) National Award of Excellence for Transportation. Recognized as the DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) Project of the Year, this project exemplifies the best of modern construction innovation. A major factor in its success is the effective use of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). At the heart of the project’s delivery was the selected Design-Build Team made up of Skanska ECCO III JV and VHB. Our team’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration helped make the Hunts Point project a transformative model for urban redevelopment.
Hunts Point Interstate Access Improvement Project Contract 1
What is the Hunts Point Project? The Hunts Point project is part of a larger revitalization effort aimed at redeveloping the Hunts Point area in the Bronx, New York. It is a key initiative that involves the creation of new infrastructure, modern facilities, and improved services in an area known for its important role in the food distribution network. Despite its importance, the area lacked direct highway access, leading to heavy truck traffic on local streets, safety concerns, and environmental challenges. The Hunts Point Interstate Access Improvement Project aimed to address these issues by enhancing transportation infrastructure and community amenities. This is where Skanska’s innovation in VDC came into play.
For the Hunts Point project, Skanska embraced VDC not only as a tool for collaboration and communication but also as a means to push the boundaries of what’s possible in large-scale infrastructure development. Skanska’s approach to VDC included the integration of a detailed 3D model of the entire project that included structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This model was shared in real-time with all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors. It ensured that everyone involved in the project was working from the same, most up-to-date version of the plan.
Hunts Point VDC: Integrating 4D Modeling
The Hunts Point Project’s recognition as being selected specifically as DBIA’s Best in VDC Award is a powerful acknowledgment of the value of innovation and collaboration in the construction industry. It is an example of how leveraging technology like VDC can elevate construction practices and set new standards for project delivery. Skanska’s ability to effectively use VDC has contributed to a project that will not only serve the needs of the community but will also stand as a model for future urban development projects.
Conclusion
The Hunts Point project is one of many project examples that defines Skanska’s approach to infrastructure innovation in Boston and the Northeast. MassDOT’s Chelsea Viaduct and RIDOT’s Providence Viaduct Projects have transformed the landscape and have begun setting new standards for sustainable, technologically advanced, and resilient infrastructure. Through our many groundbreaking projects, Skanska is not only enhancing the physical infrastructure but also improving the quality of life for our communities. As the Northeast region continues to grow, Skanska’s commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures that Boston will remain a leading example of how modern infrastructure can meet the demands of the future. Learn more about Skanska’s innovation practices here.