Solving Complex Design Challenges for HCTRA’s Barrier-Free Tollway Program

September 24, 2025

 

 The Sam Houston Tollway is moving to a barrier-free tolling system to enhance safety and efficiency. This major project involves numerous upgrades, including road widening, new bridge structures, and retaining walls—all without disrupting existing infrastructure.

 

HVJ's team provided geotechnical recommendations throughout this process, including for new bridges, retaining walls, high mast lighting, and overhead sign boards. However, we faced a particularly complex design challenge in creating a retaining wall system that did not compromise the integrity of existing walls and bridges. This was especially difficult when existing walls were shorter than the proposed ones, as new construction had to be very close to existing structures. We needed to propose an effective and practical solution that wouldn’t negatively impact the project's timeline or budget.

 

Our approach to tackling this challenge reflects HVJ's core values of owning solutions and ensuring that every voice is heard. As explained by Project Manager and Geotechnical Engineer, Fernando L. Aponte-Rivera, "I regularly collaborate with others from various disciplines, and the most important factor is communication. I need to translate technical knowledge into clear, practical guidance. Communication was vital during this project, specifically for developing a collaborative approach between HVJ's geotechnical team and the AtkinsRéalis’ design team. We encouraged the maximum flow of ideas from both sides. I enjoyed the deep collaboration that allowed us to develop a solution that the design team felt comfortable with. This, combined with the experience, expertise, and feedback of HVJ’s senior staff, was key to creating an effective and practical solution for the design challenge."

 

Read more about the project here.

 

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