HDR Joint Venture to Deliver New York’s Transformative Interborough Express Light Rail Project

Expands Mobility and Promotes Sustainable, Transit-Oriented Growth for New York City Communities

HDR, in joint venture with Jacobs, has been selected to provide design and engineering consultant services for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) Interborough Express (IBX) Light Rail Project — a new transit line connecting communities across Brooklyn and Queens, New York.

A major investment in New York City’s transit future, IBX will deliver a world-class, light rail system to enhance mobility, reduce travel times and support sustainable urban growth. Spanning 14 miles through one of the most densely populated corridors in the U.S., the Jacobs-HDR JV team will lead design development addressing freight integration, tunnel retrofits and major bridge modifications while also advising on delivery strategy and operational readiness studies.

Leveraging existing rail infrastructure, IBX will continue building on the MTA’s track record of completing projects better, faster and cheaper than ever before. This can be accomplished while maintaining essential freight connectivity to local ports and supply chains.

“The Interborough Express is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technology to improve mobility and quality of life for New Yorkers living in the two most populous boroughs and beyond,” said HDR Transportation President Tom McLaughlin. “IBX will also be transformative, driving economic investment and providing better access to core services and businesses throughout the region. Our team is excited to provide the design and engineering, operational planning, procurement and project delivery support to move this important project forward.”

“The Interborough Express will set a new standard for modern transit — economically efficient, environmentally conscious and designed around the passenger experience,” said Jacobs Executive Vice President Katus Watson. “Through advanced service planning and intuitive station design that reflects the character of each neighborhood, we’re working with the MTA to deliver a community-centered system that keeps New Yorkers safe and connected to opportunities for growth.”

With projected ridership among the highest in the U.S. for light rail transit, IBX is expected to deliver immediate and lasting benefits — expanding access to jobs, education and essential services while catalyzing growth across Brooklyn and Queens.

About HDR 
HDR is a 100% employee-owned professional services firm. Founded over a century ago to bring electricity to a changing world, we are now a global company specializing in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. Our success in built and natural environments continues as we collaborate to solve our clients’ and communities’ most complex challenges.