40th Anniversary Book 10.5x13.5 FINAL

Preliminary Engineering

Our innovations matter.

PHX Sky Train™ Image courtesy of the City of Phoenix

Preliminary Engineering is often a matter of problem-solving. We must come up with the solution that will satisfy all the goals and objectives of all stakeholders. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Sky Train™ presented quite a geometric challenge. It had to avoid a canal, pass under railroad tracks, fly over an access road, squeeze between two parking garages, make a sharp turn, climb over a taxiway, and drop back down almost to grade. And, yes, we did say, climb over a taxiway—something never tried before. An original thought had been to go under the central terminal area, but that would have meant too deep a tunnel. Next came the idea of going under the taxiway, but that would have meant too long a tunnel. Then came the notion of going over the taxiway. That idea had to be presented to the air traffic control tower, and when they had agreed that it would not obstruct their view, it had to be approved by the FAA. Lea+Elliott began working on the alignment for the PHX Sky Train™ in 1985. Through all the iterations, we were there to make sure that no matter how many twists and turns and ups and downs the train was going to make, the riders would have a smooth and comfortable experience. We supported analyses that got the novel concept of a taxiway flyover approved by the FAA. We came up with the specifications for the type of system that met all the client’s requirements. We developed composite criteria—non-existent until now—for multiple train types, to make sure that the performance specifications and ride comfort requirements would be met on this relative roller coaster ride. We never say never; we just come up with the solution!

“One of our strongest attributes has been that once we engage with a client, we become vital to them. And I think this

success has been the result of all the hard work put in by my fellow employees.” John Kennedy | Principal

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