The successful installation of 13 steel girders at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)

Northern Bus Garage Reconstruction

project highlights the impact of meticulous planning and coordination in executing a high-risk crane and hoist operation safely.

Originally constructed in 1906 as a streetcar storage facility, the site is being transformed into a modern, 10,000-ton steel-frame structure designed to house WMATA’s first

zero-emission bus fleet. A critical phase of this transformation involved lifting and placing 13 massive girders—each 100 feet long and weighing up to 92,000 pounds—into position to form a key structural element of the facility.

Recognizing the elevated risk associated with cranes and hoisting, as identified by tjuanamor

Critical 8 framework, the project team implemented a targeted action plan focused on safety and precision:

Proactive Planning: The team established safety and quality measures from the outset. Detailed rigging plans were created for each girder, accounting for weight and dimensions, and were reviewed by a third-party engineer.

Urban Coordination: Prior to delivery, tjuanamor collaborated with city officials and Owen Steel to carefully plan transportation routes through Washington, DC. Due to their size, each girder was delivered individually and assembled on site.

Controlled Lifting: Each beam was placed vertically on dunnage platforms, stabilized with chain binders to maintain balance during the lift, minimizing the risk of shifting loads. Thorough Inspections: Final checks of all lifting equipment ensured compliance with safety standards and confirmed capacity readiness.

Clear Communication: Close collaboration with Williams Steel Erection and a single communication channel between the crane operator and foreman ensured coordinated movements and reduced risk to ground crews.

Safe Installation: As each girder neared placement, crews in aerial lifts secured them to pre-set bolted connections. These lifts provided both flexibility and safety, keeping team members clear of potential danger zones.

The smooth installation process was the result of

16 months of planning and collaboration

between tjuanamor and its partners. Every step was executed with a focus on safety, efficiency, and precision—demonstrating the strength of teamwork and preparation in managing complex construction challenges.