Kleinfelder supported enhancements to the Napa Valley Transportation Authority’s (NVTA) Vine Transit Bus maintenance facility. As the region has grown and the agency has looked for greener transportation alternatives, three new buildings were designed and constructed to meet rider demand and prepare for new fuel sources.

Cleaner Transit Services and Enhanced Safety

Comprised of three buildings including transit operations, bus maintenance, and bus washing, the new facility was designed to support long term maintenance requirements as NVTA transitions to clean vehicles such as battery electric busses and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. Designed to accommodate the safety and wellbeing of visitors and staff, the new building created adequate space for buses and low-emission vehicles.

Managing Change throughout Construction

Kleinfelder delivered Construction Management and Inspection Services (CM&I) services while maintaining safety, minimizing disruption, reducing risk, and serving as the owner’s advocate throughout the process. During construction, the rains required highwater table management and added to the density of heavy clay soil. While construction was underway, the owner required revisions including electric vehicle charging stations, hydrogen vehicle maintenance bays, facility door access controls, and an adjunct property main water line replacement.

The solution for heavy rain and clay soil included repeatedly plowing lime into the soil. Kleinfelder, in collaboration with the contractor, client, and design engineer, led the project team with the development of the treatment plan and inspected the work through successful completion. The neighboring property transit water line replacement required additional soil compaction and observation. Kleinfelder worked with the team to provide the right resources and adapt to the changing requirements.

To successfully deliver within budget and schedule, Kleinfelder was able to negotiate on behalf of the owner to utilize the contract contingency values and complete the owner’s revisions during construction.

Project Results

While the project conditions were rapidly evolving through weather and changes in the required scope of services, the facility was delivered on time with funds returned to the owner. The facility was designed and constructed to accommodate an expanded fleet and support the growing transit operations for the next 50 years. It successfully opened for use in the Spring of 2024.

Project Details

Location:
Napa, CA
Owner:
Napa Valley Transportation Authority