The Challenge

Railroad infrastructure projects often present unique challenges that differ significantly from traditional utility installations. In Coldwater and Reading, K&H's crews worked in close proximity to active railroad tracks while navigating the limitations of a narrow work corridor. Maintaining a safe environment for both the public and construction personnel required careful planning and coordination throughout the project.

One of the most important considerations was protecting the railroad ballast that supports the tracks. Any work performed near the rail bed requires precision and attention to detail, as unnecessary disturbance can affect the stability and performance of the surrounding infrastructure. In addition, the project required the crew to manage existing underground utilities while accounting for elevation changes, drainage features, and varying site conditions. Traffic-control measures also had to be implemented where needed to protect motorists traveling through the work area while construction activities were underway. These combined challenges demanded a solution that could achieve accurate underground placement without disrupting rail operations or compromising safety.

K&H's Role

K&H Construction was responsible for installing conduit that would carry the electrical and communication cables necessary for the upgraded railroad crossing signal systems. Working closely with railroad representatives and project stakeholders, the crew developed drilling plans designed to safely navigate around existing utilities, avoid disturbing railroad ballast, and accommodate site-specific conditions.

Using horizontal directional drilling equipment, K&H completed carefully planned bore paths beneath and alongside the rail corridor. The crew monitored drilling operations throughout the process to maintain proper alignment and depth while ensuring the conduit installation met project requirements. Excavation and receiving pit operations were coordinated with the drilling process to expose and recover bore paths safely and efficiently.

In addition to the drilling work itself, K&H managed utility locates, maintained appropriate safety controls, and coordinated with rail personnel to ensure work could proceed without impacting railroad operations. The team's experience in complex directional drilling environments allowed the project to move forward smoothly despite the challenges associated with active rail infrastructure.