Story

This project involved relocation and renovation of a replica of the Bechtel family’s railcar. The railcar, WaaTeeKaa, serves as a memory to the company and its values—it dates back to 1878, and the original car was used by the family to travel between jobsites. It weighs over 60,000 pound and is nearly 61 feet long. Our team built a new platform, steel canopy, and solar panel canopy roof for WaaTeeKaa in Bechtel’s new Reston HQ. Outside of the canopy and platform the railcar itself required a complete overhaul including 10,000 pounds of structural steel, interior finishes, new redwood siding, and HVAC + lighting. The first challenge was lifting the railcar into its new platform—with the age of the car, accuracy and care were key. Custom lifting beams were designed and implemented to place it successfully. Rails, plates and spikes from the 1920s were donated by the B&O museum and accommodated the car’s design. worked closely with the architect and consultants to optimize the exterior renovation and modified designs, including the redesign of the structural steel stiffening for the car and leveling of the original hardwood floors. Bechtel’s ribbon cutting was scheduled, so our team was on a strict timeline, and with consistent and diligent work we were able to achieve the client’s goal. We implemented multiple methods of technological innovation throughout this renovation, including an Artificial Intelligence safety software “Detect” and another solution called “Trunk Tools”, a search engine tool that analyzes construction data and allows users to ask questions and receive accurate answers and links to relevant documentation. Additionally, VLX scanning was used to overlay with the project model and highlight any inaccuracies. Through these scans, our team was able to highlight a column that was formed 1’ off the mark and make adjustments before concrete was placed.