Amtrak has selected STV to provide preliminary design services for the modernization of the Richmond Static Frequency Converter (SFC) Station in Philadelphia, a critical traction power facility that supports operations along the Northeast Corridor.
The project focuses on replacing Static Frequency Converter #4 at the Richmond SFC Station, Amtrak's largest traction power converter station and one of the world's largest railway converter facilities. The modernization is intended to strengthen power reliability for passenger rail operations connecting Washington, D.C., New York City and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Under the contract, STV will complete a comprehensive site survey, infrastructure assessment and state-of-good-repair review before conducting a technology evaluation for the replacement system.
The firm's responsibilities also include developing design criteria, engineering drawings, technical specifications, construction cost estimates and project schedules to support future phases of the modernization program.
Because the facility is located within a National Register historic boundary, the project team will coordinate with environmental and historic preservation stakeholders throughout the design process.
The Richmond converter station plays a vital role in supplying traction power to one of the nation's busiest passenger rail corridors. Replacing aging equipment is expected to improve system reliability and support long-term performance of Amtrak's electrified rail network.
STV brings extensive experience in rail systems engineering, including traction power, signaling, communications and maintenance facilities. The firm has supported major transportation agencies across the country and continues to provide engineering and project management services for significant rail infrastructure initiatives, including Amtrak's Gateway Program, Ivy City Yard improvements and other Northeast Corridor modernization projects.
Source: STV.
