Virginia, October 15, 2025
An innovative XXL tunnel project in Virginia is leveraging smart software to enhance data management and progress tracking. This approach optimizes construction timelines and resource use, ultimately improving transportation connectivity in the region. The tunnel promises to facilitate economic growth, providing a boost to local communities and industries. With a focus on efficiency, this project sets a new standard in modern construction practices for large infrastructure projects.
Hampton, Virginia
HRBT Expansion Project in Hampton, Virginia, is the largest highway construction initiative in Virginia’s history, valued at $3.9 billion. It involves widening a 10-mile stretch of Interstate 64 (I-64) to alleviate traffic congestion in coastal Virginia. A central component of the project is the construction of a 3.5-mile marine crossing over the Virginia harbor, which includes the boring of two 1.5-mile-long tunnels using a 46-foot Variable Density Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM).
Utilization of Smart Software
To manage the substantial data generated by the tunneling process, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has implemented Tunnelsoft’s Tunnelling Process Control (TPC) software. TPC serves as a comprehensive data-management and visualization platform, centralizing access to machine and field data in a customizable interface. It captures real-time sensor data and manual inputs, supporting shift reporting, geological classification, and borehole drilling logs. The software also delivers automated reports, monitors key performance indicators, and sends notifications when critical thresholds are breached, thereby enhancing oversight, risk reduction, and operational efficiency.
Field Operations and Reporting
In the field, TPC is utilized to create shift reports that track the utilization of the TBM. The software automatically records TBM advance times, ring building durations, and general waiting times. These waiting times are categorized and described using comments input directly by tunnel inspectors working on the TBM. Inspectors can seamlessly integrate site photos into their reports, providing immediate visual context alongside written observations. At the end of each shift, the incoming data are automatically integrated into the shift reports and distributed via email directly from the software.
Real-Time Monitoring and Visualization
During tunneling operations, inspectors use the TBM dashboard within TPC to monitor parameters such as torque, thrust force, rotation speed, advance rate, tail void grout, tail seal grease, and alignment. The slurry treatment plant (STP) dashboard allows for tracking of slurry parameters, including densities and flow rates, as well as the filter presses and fill levels in the holding tanks. The data can be visualized directly in TPC or exported to Microsoft Excel. Engineers use customized visuals to present senior management with objective assessments, supporting decisions on contractual matters and reducing project risk.
Background Context
The HRBT Expansion Project is a significant undertaking aimed at improving transportation connectivity and reducing congestion in the Hampton Roads area. By leveraging advanced software solutions like TPC, the project aims to optimize construction timelines and resource utilization, contributing to the region’s economic growth and development.
FAQ
What is the HRBT Expansion Project?
The HRBT Expansion Project is the largest highway construction initiative in Virginia’s history, valued at $3.9 billion. It involves widening a 10-mile stretch of Interstate 64 (I-64) to alleviate traffic congestion in coastal Virginia. A central component of the project is the construction of a 3.5-mile marine crossing over the Virginia harbor, which includes the boring of two 1.5-mile-long tunnels using a 46-foot Variable Density Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM).
How is smart software being utilized in the HRBT Expansion Project?
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has implemented Tunnelsoft’s Tunnelling Process Control (TPC) software to manage the substantial data generated by the tunneling process. TPC serves as a comprehensive data-management and visualization platform, centralizing access to machine and field data in a customizable interface. It captures real-time sensor data and manual inputs, supporting shift reporting, geological classification, and borehole drilling logs. The software also delivers automated reports, monitors key performance indicators, and sends notifications when critical thresholds are breached, thereby enhancing oversight, risk reduction, and operational efficiency.
What are the benefits of using TPC software in the HRBT Expansion Project?
By leveraging advanced software solutions like TPC, the HRBT Expansion Project aims to optimize construction timelines and resource utilization, contributing to the region’s economic growth and development. The software enhances oversight, reduces risks, and improves operational efficiency, ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and meets its objectives.
Key Features of the HRBT Expansion Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Value | $3.9 billion |
| Project Scope | Widening a 10-mile stretch of Interstate 64 (I-64) |
| Tunneling Component | Construction of a 3.5-mile marine crossing over the Virginia harbor, including two 1.5-mile-long tunnels |
| Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) | 46-foot Variable Density Tunnel Boring Machine |
| Software Utilized | Tunnelsoft’s Tunnelling Process Control (TPC) software |
Key features chart
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Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
The VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionvanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Virginia and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Virginia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and the Home Builders Association of Virginia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Williams Mullen. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
