Project: 580 / 680 Highway Interchange, Alameda County, CA

OVERVIEW

Luster provided resident engineering, civil and structural inspection, and office engineering as prime consultant for the $116 million replacement of the southbound I-680 to eastbound I-580 loop with a direct southbound to eastbound connector ramp. Construction value was $62 million.

Luster worked with an integrated project/construction management team comprised of Alameda County Transportation Authority, Caltrans and consultant staff, and impacted businesses were worked with closely to minimize inconvenience.

This interchange modification provides for a freeway-to-freeway connection from southbound I-680 to eastbound I-580. The ramp connecting westbound I-580 to northbound 680 has been improved as well. The I-580/680 interchange is at the crossroads of two of Alameda County’s most significant commute arteries, funneling traffic from the north, south, east, and west. It is used by more than 275,000 vehicles a day.

Early work included major excavation, earthwork associated with ramp construction, and roadwork. In addition, the freeway was restriped to allow room for excavation. Forty-five miles of piles were driven in accordance with city noise policies, and numerous detours had to be provided to accommodate work on the busy freeway.

Unique project characteristics include:

• 45 miles of piles
  
• 53,000 cubic yards of concrete
  
• a one-mile bridge
  
• complex staging
  
• high-traffic volume
  
• unique environmental requirements
  
• 4,400-ft. fly-over and 1,800-ft. connector
  
• storm water pollution prevention policies
  
• public relations and community outreach
  
• multiple detours
  
• coordination with multiple agencies