The Use of Numerical Analysis in Rehabili tation of Baltimore Howard Street Tunnel

Abstract: This paper discusses the use of numerical modeling for optimization of tunnel rehabilitation scheme to improve the clearance of the Howard Street Tunnel in Baltimore, MD. With a total length of approximately 8,700 feet, the Howard Street Tunnel consists of three sections: concrete box section, original cut-and-cover section, and original mined section. The Howard Street Tunnel currently has a minimum vertical clearance of 4-’19” but a vertical clearance of 0-’21” should be achieved by lowering the track profile and/or structural modifications. Finite element modeling was used to determine the maximum allowable depth of cut in the brick arch at the cut-and-cover and mined sections of the tunnel. The results of these analyses allowed the designers to formulate a cost-effective solution which minimized the risk of compromising the structural integrity of the tunnel.Howard Street Tunnel, Tunnel rehabilitation, Numerical analysis.