HLRT MSP International Airport Station

The HLRT MSP International Airport Station was constructed as a part of the Hiawatha Light Rail project but was funded by the MAC. Sheehy Construction was a major subcontractor to Obayashi/Johnson Brothers Joint Venture (O/JB) tasked with constructing the airport station. The 540′ long train station was constructed 80 feet below grade in an excavated cavern 540′ x 50′ x 40′ high. We took over the station construction after O/JB installed the precast tunnel wall and ceiling segments to create the shell space of the station. This project required us to use unique material handling and material distribution methods due to the main access being the north tunnel into the station. All materials including concrete were brought into the station by rail car and off loaded into the station. The cast in place station platform was eventually finished to match the finishes of the Transit Center which we also constructed two years prior.

The construction of the station included a mechanical/electrical mezzanine at both ends of the station and a connection link to the MSP Airport Transit Center with a formed structural concrete mezzanine complete with escalators and elevators necessary to get to grade level. The cast in place concrete platform included radiant heated slabs on grade with a terrazzo finish that incorporated artistic features. The wall finishes included both stainless steel and painted metal panels and tile. Metal panel ceiling “clouds” in the shape of a wing mask the ceiling structure and provide the reflective surface for indirect lighting while custom signage and kiosks complete the total station package.