The Brescia Metro Line project represents a significant infrastructure development for the Municipality of Brescia, executed for Metro Brescia SCARL. This comprehensive underground transit system required sophisticated engineering solutions to construct deep stations and access wells in an urban environment with sensitive historical structures.

The project presented unique challenges due to Brescia’s historic city center, requiring careful attention to potential settlement impacts on existing buildings and churches. The use of Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology necessitated detailed structural assessments and advanced geotechnical engineering to ensure the protection of the city’s architectural heritage while advancing modern transportation infrastructure.

Project Scope

TECON was responsible for the detailed and construction design of five deep underground stations and two TBM access wells. The project encompassed comprehensive structural engineering, geotechnical design, and construction support spanning from 2003 to 2009.

Station Design & Construction

• Detailed design of four major stations: Volta, Lamarmora, Brescia 2, and Vittoria
• Design of two in and out wells for TBM operations
• Complete reinforced concrete structural design for all station and well structures
• Integration of mechanical, electrical, and passenger circulation systems

Geotechnical & Retaining Systems

• Detailed design of earth retaining structures utilizing anchored slurry walls
• Micropile foundation systems for deep excavation support
• Comprehensive anchoring and strut systems for temporary excavation support
• Design of temporary steel bridges and decks for construction access

Structural Analysis & Protection

• Three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) analyses of multiple Brescia buildings and churches
• Assessment of TBM-induced settlement fields and their impact on historic structures
• Development of settlement acceptability criteria for buildings and churches
• Real-time monitoring and mitigation strategy development

Engineering Approach

TECON’s methodology combined advanced computational analysis with practical construction support. The three-dimensional FEM analyses provided crucial insights into how tunneling activities would affect existing structures, allowing proactive measures to protect Brescia’s architectural heritage. The team developed detailed bar bending sheets and provided continuous assistance to contractors during both execution and commissioning phases, ensuring that design intent was maintained throughout construction.

The anchored slurry wall system was specifically engineered to provide stable excavation support while minimizing ground movement. This approach, combined with micropile foundations and carefully designed strut systems, ensured safe construction of the deep stations while maintaining the structural integrity of surrounding buildings. The temporary steel structures were designed for both safety and efficiency, enabling continuous construction progress without compromising worker safety or urban functionality.