Urban is pleased to announce that Rock Region METRO has selected the firm to serve as owner’s representative for the Arkansas Department of Transportation’s (ArDOT) 30 Crossing project.

“We are excited to have been selected for this important contract with Rock Region METRO,” said William Thomsen, PE, Urban’s COO for national services. “Our firm assembled a lean, clearly defined team that will provide cost-effective and efficient support for the METRO. My colleagues and I look forward to working with the agency and the 30 Crossing design-build team.”

The 30 Crossing project is a part of the Connecting Arkansas Program, one of the largest highway construction programs ever undertaken by ArDOT. In a section of Little Rock, the project requires temporary and permanent modifications to the existing streetcar system operated by Rock Region METRO. The project will also require the removal and reconstruction of the overhead catenary system and track elements.

In its role as owner’s representative, Urban will perform oversight and management of pre-construction, construction, and project close-out functions for METRO. The firm will also conduct inspections – to streetcar-related systems and infrastructure – to ensure the project is performed in a manner that confirms the reported results. This contract is a multi-year engagement.

Recognizing Urban’s expertise, agencies like the FTA have selected the firm to oversee investments and assets for the past 30 years. Urban has overseen more than 50 assignments nationwide, including some of America’s largest transit projects and efforts with challenges similar to the 30 Crossing project. The firm offers clients knowledge of best design practices, sound project management procedures, safety requirements, and skills evaluating and monitoring contractors and mitigating risks.