Skanska, FlatironDragados Land $1B Rail Project to Boost D.C.-Virginia Connectivity

A joint venture between Skanska and FlatironDragados has secured a $1 billion contract to build the Long Bridge North project in Washington, D.C., aimed at alleviating rail congestion between the District and Northern Virginia. The work, commissioned by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, will span from East Potomac Park to the Le’Enfant Interlocking.

The project marks the first phase of the $2.3 billion Long Bridge expansion, a long-anticipated upgrade that will replace the existing two-track system with a modern four-track rail corridor. Ultimately, seven new bridges will stretch across 1.8 miles to separate freight and passenger traffic and improve system performance.

The current Long Bridge operates at 98% capacity during peak hours and serves more than 5 million passengers annually — 2 million from Amtrak and 3 million from the Virginia Railway Express. Once completed, the existing eastern tracks will primarily carry CSX freight trains, while the new western tracks will support Amtrak and VRE services.

Construction on Long Bridge North is set to begin this month and is expected to finish by Q4 2030.

“Skanska is proud to be leading the construction team and work for the Long Bridge North Project, which will vastly improve freight and passenger rail service in the Capital Region,” said Michael Viggiano, executive vice president of Skanska USA Civil.

The broader project also includes a pedestrian and bike bridge connecting Long Bridge Park with East and West Potomac Parks, aiming to integrate transportation and recreation infrastructure.

According to Skanska, its share of the $1 billion contract amounts to $658 million. FlatironDragados, based in Broomfield, Colorado, has not disclosed its portion.

“With funding in place and planning and approvals now complete, this highly complex and critical infrastructure project is shovel ready,” Viggiano added.

The Long Bridge expansion is considered one of the most significant rail infrastructure upgrades on the East Coast. Originally conceived in 2011, the project has undergone extensive environmental review, public consultation, and funding negotiations. Now, with federal, state, and local resources aligned, the plan is moving forward as a key investment in national rail mobility.

The initiative is expected to relieve regional congestion, improve scheduling reliability for both freight and commuter trains, and expand capacity for future growth. Additionally, the pedestrian/bike bridge enhances multimodal transit options, making the corridor more accessible to D.C. residents and visitors.

Skanska and FlatironDragados bring extensive experience in major transportation projects, with the joint venture positioning itself as a key player in modernizing U.S. infrastructure. The Long Bridge North project underscores the rising demand for high-capacity, sustainable rail systems in urban areas.

Originally reported by Zachary Phillips in Construction Dive.