BergerWorld: 3rd Quarter 2005

Keeping Buenos Aires' five-line, 343-kilometer Metro running requires constant maintenance. This system, built in 1913, is one of the region's largest and oldest networks. In the 1980s following a decline in ridership, the Metro was privatized and rehabilitated. Since that time, the concessionaire, Metrovias SA, has continually refurbished stations and upgraded maintenance procedures and rolling stock inventory. To improve train maintenance, the Berger Group prepared a feasibility study and preliminary designs for a new $38 million Central Maintenance Facility. The facility will have a 14,900-square-meter area for major overhauls and 5,280 square meters for routine maintenance, and be located near existing Metro lines with direct access to the 'Plaza de los Virreyes' Station of the E Line via an existing subway tunnel.

Berger rail specialists analyzed current operations, identified the facility requirements and prepared designs for rail and road access, maintenance shop, auxiliary services, utilities and annex buildings, incorporating the latest maintenance technologies and equipment. The Team also prepared designs for a new Line E depot, which will be integrated with the central shop, as well as a warehouse for Line A. Berger experts also conducted an environmental impact study and prepared an environmental management plan for the proposed facility.