• Subcontractors
  • Employee Portal

November 25, 2025

Microtunneling Completed at Suffolk Pump Station

MEB, Bridgeman Civil, and Bradshaw Construction Corporation recently completed a microtunneling operation at the HRSD Suffolk Pump Station project, installing approximately 900 feet of 48″ diameter pipe beneath an active railroad. The work provided a critical underground utility connection while maintaining uninterrupted rail service.

Method and Execution

Microtunneling is a remote-controlled, computer-guided tunneling method used to install pipelines with a high degree of accuracy and minimal surface impact. For this project, Bradshaw operated a microtunnel boring machine (MTBM) that advanced at a rate of roughly 1.6 centimeters per minute. The slurry system maintained face pressure to balance groundwater and soil conditions, allowing the team to achieve precise control of line and grade throughout the drive.

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

Technical Advantages

This approach allowed the team to:
  • Complete the installation with no disruption to surface operations or rail traffic.
  • Maintain tight alignment tolerances critical to long-term system performance.
  • Improve safety by minimizing surface excavation and reducing exposure to active or sensitive work areas.

Project Significance

Successful completion of this crossing represents a key milestone for the Suffolk Pump Station project. The microtunneled segment provides a reliable underground connection that supports the facility’s overall infrastructure and reflects MEB’s commitment to safe, well-coordinated project delivery.

By Anna McGrath