Trains Expected to be in Reno Trench by Thanksgiving
Snow, rain and freezing temperatures slowed Reno's downtown railroad trench project for about two months this winter, but construction officials are optimistic trains will be in the trench by Thanksgiving, despite potential delays, reports the Reno Gazette-Journal.

An expedited work schedule that includes Saturdays and some overtime will make up for the weather-related slowdown, officials say. A late November entry into the trench would keep the project in line with the original schedule, they say.

Still, a variety of potential problems could delay the project, said Ron Dukeshire, project manager for Granite Construction. Much of the work will involve pouring the concrete U-channel in which the trains will run. With a quickened schedule to make up for the weather delays, producing enough concrete to meet heightened demand could be difficult, Dukeshire said.

Nearly 95 percent of the trench has been dug, and construction of the U-channel is moving from the west and east ends of the trench. Eight of the bridges over the trench already have been built. Although about a third of the concrete work is finished, much of the concrete slab that will seal the trench from ground water downtown still must be laid.

Various work will continue along the length of the 2.1-mile trench throughout the summer. Granite officials hope Union Pacific Railroad will be able to begin laying tracks in the trench by September.