HBM’s involvement extended to overseeing and designing the rehabilitation of retaining walls and developing plans for four key bridges within the project: two crossroads bridges, one interstate-to-interstate ramp, and one bypass ramp. HBM also played a pivotal role in designing new or evaluating existing overhead sign trusses and overhead bridge-mounted signage, holding the Designer of Record responsibility for these elements.

This project demanded extensive coordination and integration with AECOM and other sub-consultants, transcending the typical Designer of Record role. HBM actively participated in numerous design meetings, addressing roadway and structural aspects and constructability issues. The scope of work included aspects like safety considerations (guardrail, parapets, temporary barrier walls), profile grade lines, alignment requirements, drainage scuppers, drainage system design, existing and proposed utilities, and staged construction.

One of the significant challenges overcome during the project was the optimization of the structure depth and roadway profile for the I-290 EB to I-90/94 NB interchange ramp, ensuring it met minimum vertical clearance requirements above the I-90/94 NB and SB roadways while accommodating the existing I-90/94 NB to I-290 WB Flyover Ramp. Similarly, a comparable level of coordination and vertical profile optimization was necessary for the SB Taylor Street Bypass Ramp, balancing minimum vertical clearance above the I-290 WB roadway and existing CTA tracks while maintaining clearance beneath the previously constructed NW Flyover Ramp. Notably, the alignment of the bypass ramp had the structure situated between two adjacent bridges, presenting tight clearances and construction challenges.

Additionally, HBM’s scope of work included a Painting contract for the I-290/Congress Parkway structure, contributing to the comprehensive renovation of this critical transportation hub.