New Richmond Intermodal and Automotive Facility
Canadian National Railway (CN) retained Benesch to design a greenfield 120-acre intermodal and automotive facility in New Richmond, WI to meet the growing need for a multi-functional hub near the Minneapolis area. Originally planned as an automotive-only facility, the project was later expanded to include intermodal operations, requiring significant design revisions and additional coordination.
Benesch provided start-to-finish services from site selection through construction, including topographic survey, geotechnical investigations, environmental permitting, stormwater management, lighting design and paving plans.
The project site, a greenfield with numerous wetlands, required extensive environmental approvals from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Benesch’s phased approach allowed grading to begin on upland areas while permits for the wetland and floodplain work were secured, reducing project delays.
A significant challenge involved relocating 105th Street, a key emergency route for the town. The road originally crossed through the center of the site and needed to be rerouted along the facility’s perimeter. Benesch coordinated closely with the Town of Richmond and the Wisconsin DNR to ensure both project goals and community needs were met.
Additional site enhancements included two 2,500-foot sliding tracks, detention and compensatory storage ponds, office spaces, employee parking and separate truck gates for intermodal and automotive traffic. Crane maintenance zone and chassis parking areas were also integrated to improve operational efficiency at the facility.
In addition to site design, Benesch provided construction management services, acting as CN’s agent during construction. Benesch was responsible for inspecting contractor work, reviewing RFIs and material submittals, and reviewing contractor pay requests.
Benesch’s involvement from concept through construction streamlined the project, minimizing handoffs and keeping the schedule on track. The team effectively addressed CN’s operational needs while managing complex regulatory and community considerations.
