Cajon Pass, BNSF new Mojave River Bridges at East Victorville, CA

I am very pleased to show some exclusive photos of these photographers:
Gary G. Gray (GGG), Marc Fournier (MF).

Guest Photographers: to be announced
A big thank you for sharing these excellent pictures with us.
Note: The copyright belongs to these gentlemen. Do not use any photos without written permission.

For bigger size photos - please click on the 4-digit number below each photo (the first letters specify the photographer).

updated: January 6, 2020

New: 1/04/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 1
Saw the following on TO.COM and decided to try and find out exactly what is going on in E. Victorville @ BNSF Cajon Sub MP 34.1. - East Victorville bridges on BNSF On 1/04/20, Marc & I drove down to the BNSF Mojave Bridges to checkout the action. We talked to a 'seemingly knowledgeable' construction type who told us that both bridges are 100 yrs old and must be replaced. We were also informed: # 2001: A temporary construction / heavy equipment bridge will be built to the left of the existing Bridges. Two new RR bridges (with abutments for a future third bridge) will be built to the right of the existing BNSF Mojave River bridges. The existing RR Bridges and abutments will then be removed. # 2002: Looking RR West toward Victorville. A temporary heavy equipment road is being built along the South side side of the BNSF Main. It will connect to the temporary construction Bridge being built to the left of the existing BNSF bridges. 24 hour site security now protects equipment--especially the solar panels and their batteries, which can be seen mounted on the MT-2 Bridge in photo #01. The project is expected to be completed in 20-24 months at a cost of $23,000,000+. # 2003: We were then informed that after completion of the bridge project, BNSF will remove the Flyover / Natural Crossovers and "straighten out" the tacks near Frost @ MP 39.1. GGG, MF

GGG 1/04/20 BNSF Mojave River Bridges at MP 34.1 in East Victorville - 2001	GGG 1/04/20 New temporary road along BNSF Main. - 2002	GGG 1/04/20 Flyover at MP 39.1 (Frost) w/BNSF EB (natural crossover) - 2003

New: 1/11/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 2
why replace them'? AS WE UNDERSTAND IT -- The existing bridge abutments are of stone and masonry construction and have had numerous epoxy resin repairs over the years. These bridges are not earthquake "proof" from below (earth movement) or above (the heavy weight and vibrations of 40+ daily trains). By building new bridges beside the existing bridges, the 35 MPH speed restriction will the eliminated and the existing main line will remain open during construction. # 2004: An edited Google map indicating the APPROXIMATE positions of the new bridges and the future mainline alignment.... # 2005: At one time, we could drive down to the bridges, however the new construction road eliminated that possibility. We then chose the area under the tower (upper left) as we could drive to it---the pictured "K" rail nixed that opportunity. NEVER TO BE DEFEATED, Mad Marc jumped the rail & climbed to the tower to photograph the following: # 2006-2007: Two views of where the Construction Road Bridge will be built. 2007 also shows the 20+ foot drop off to the river bed. That drop off and the always present threat of flash flooding necessitate the extra expense of the temporary bridge. # 2008: Looking RR West, toward VictimVille, the two construction roads are shown. We were told that the new ROW will be built close to the ORANGE property-line fence across the present ROW. # 2009-2012: With all that's going on, we have adopted a 'SHOOT 'EM WHILE YOU CAN' policy. MF & GGG

GGG 1/11/20 Google map proposed position of the new bridges - 2004	MF 1/11/20 (see text above) - 2005	MF 1/11/20 (see text above) - 2006

MF 1/11/20 BNSF EB intermodal - 2007	MF 1/11/20 Looking West toward VV - 2008	MF 1/11/20 BNSF 7968 WB - 2009

MF 1/11/20 BNSF 9511 EB - 2010	MF 1/11/20 BNSF 5886 DPU EB - 2011	MF 1/11/20 BNSF 7968 WB MP 34.1 - 2012

New: 1/20/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 3
Yesterday (1/20/20), Marc & I drove down to the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement Project --only to find that ALL of our favorite photographic spots have been declared 'OFF LIMITS' - with security in place. # 2013: The only remaining view of the bridges - from the favorite position of most railfan photographers. # 2014: Never to be deterred, Mad Marc drove us a bit compass West (toward Oro Grande) to find this view of the bridges. The white gravel is from an evidently abandoned project to build a second BNSF RR yard on the Southern CA Logistics Airport (old George AFB). The ARROW points to some Bureau of Land Management roads, on the other side of the bridges, that we WILL explore. # 2015 & 2016: # 2016 is a closeup image of both bridges while both images (arrows) show the CABLE SUPPORTED, HAND PROPELLED underside inspection basket. Many years ago I was offered, by a NOW RETIRED ATSF Official, a ride in said bucket with the guarantee that "you'll never forget having been in that bucket, in the middle of the bridge, with a speeding train just above you". I declined the offer!!!! # 2017 & 2018: BNSF 6505 East crosses the Mojave and heads into Oro Grande and on to Barstow. Now, to find those BLM roads on the RR East side of the Mojave River. GGG / MF

MF 1/20/20 BNSF 7770 WB - 2013	GGG 1/20/20 side view of bridges - 2014	GGG 1/20/20 check arrow right side - 2015

GGG 1/20/20 closeup w/arrow - 2016	GGG 1/20/20 BNSF 6505 EB on bridge - 2017	GGG 1/20/20 same toward Oro Grande - 2018

New: 1/24/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 4
Marc & I decided to go find a way into the other (North) side of the BNSF Mojave River Bridges. Turns out, it was an easy drive & find. The roads all belong to either the BLM, the electrical transmission Corp, or the Calportland Cement Company in Oro Grande, and are reasonably maintained. However, and as always one must have respect for the Desert --- a well maintained high clearance vehicle and adequate water are mandated. In season, total respect for rattle snakes, the heat & all of the creepy crawling desert critters is mandatory. GGG / MF

GGG 1/24/20 edited Google map - 2019	GGG 1/24/20 just enlarge to see the details and description - 2020	GGG 1/24/20 BNSF 6846 is EB past our old photographic area (arrow) - 2021
# 2019 & 2020: Leaving Victimville we traveled North via I-15. After crossing the Mojave River, we turned onto Stoddard-Wells road & drove north to Quarry Rd. West on Quarry road until intercepting the power line roads and followed one of them South. Since we were looking and shooting South, most images will be back-lit.

MF 1/24/20 BNSF 6846 EB crosses . . - 2022	MF 1/24/20 . . the Mojave River and . . - 2023	MF 1/24/20 proceeds on to Oro Grande - 2024

MF 1/24/20 BNSF 6854 is EB @ MP 34 - 2025	MF 1/24/20 UP 9008? is WB at MP 35 - 2026	MF 1/24/20 see text above - 2027
# 2027: We were told that the markers & fence (arrows) are the northern property boundary of BNSF land. If the new bridges and mainlines are to be built here, it is a very, very narrow corridor from which numerous HUGE boulders must be removed.

MF 1/24/20 Preparatory work . . - 2028	MF 1/24/20 . . near the existing . . - 2029	GGG-MF 1/24/20 . . bridge abutments. - 2030

GGG 1/24/20 BNSF 8146 EB @ MP 34.4 - 2031	GGG 1/24/20 BNSF 8276 EB @ MP 34 - 2032	GGG 1/24/20 same train on bridge - 2033

GGG 1/24/20 BNSF 4575 WB at MP 33 - 2034	GGG 1/24/20 same BNSF WB - 2035	GGG 1/24/20 same on bridge MP 34.5 - 2036

New: 2/12/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 5
our 12 Feb 2020 documentation of the BNSF RR replacement of its Mojave River Bridges at BNSF Cajon Sub at MP 34.1
Here are 2 interesting links: Ames Construction \| Ames Construction \| General Contractor https://www.herzog.com/innovation/continuous-welded-rail-distribution-machine/

GGG 2/12/20 edited Google Map - 2037	GGG 2/12/20 - 2038	GGG 2/12/20 - 2039
# 2037: An edited Google map showing our Northern & Southern Photo spots. These are COMPASS directions and do not refer to the directions of RR travel. From the SOUTHERN PHOTO AREA # 2038: The classic view of the bridges. We talked to four employees of the General contractor --- Ames construction. These gents confirmed that they will build TWO replacement MAIN LINE BRIDGES to the RIGHT - and a temporary construction bridge to the LEFT of the EXISTING BRIDGES. # 2039: A LONG shot of our NORTHERN PHOTO AREA--in an around the two tall vertical poles in the middle of the picture.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2040	GGG 2/12/20 - 2041	GGG 2/12/20 - 2042
From The NORTHERN PHOTO AREA # 2040: The MIGHTY MOJAVE RIVER in all its GLORY. The RIVER is one of the few that flow North and when the CoE must, on rare occasion, open the Silverwood Dam, flooding is the rule. # 2041-2042: Two views of the footings for the Temporary Construction Bridge.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2043	GGG 2/12/20 - 2044	GGG 2/12/20 - 2045
# 2043-2045: UP 8084 & DPU's cross the Mojave River Bridge and continue to Barstow.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2046	GGG 2/12/20 - 2047	GGG 2/12/20 - 2048
# 2046-2047: Preparations for the Southern approach to the new Bridges. # 2048-2049: From just COMPASS North of the existing Bridges, the new ROW will be on this side of the existing tracks.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2049	GGG 2/12/20 - 2050	GGG 2/12/20 - 2051
# 2050-2051: BNSF 6892 is (RAILROAD EB) @ MP 34.1 -- toward Oro Grande & Barstow.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2052	GGG 2/12/20 - 2053	GGG 2/12/20 - 2054
# 2052-2053: BNSF 6892 has crossed the Mojave River and heads to Oro Grande & Barstow. # 2054: Some drilling in the rocky area which will become the new RoW. Interesting was the 'EVIDENT' number of workers vs the number of supervisors??

GGG 2/12/20 - 2055	GGG 2/12/20 - 2056	GGG 2/12/20 - 2057
# 2055-2056: The CAJON ROVER II and the local scenery at the NORTHERN PHOTO area. # 2057-2058: The homeless / Squatter encampment on the North side of the Mojave River.

GGG 2/12/20 - 2058	GGG 2/12/20 - 2059	GGG 2/12/20 - 2060
# 2059-2060: BNSF 7359 rail train & the Herzog RUM (Rail Unloading Machine) working in the Oro Grande, CA siding - Near the CalPortland Cement plant. (See direct link above)

New: 2/21/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 6
On Friday 2/21, Marc & I drove to the Compass North side of the BNSF Mojave River Bridges in an attempt to answer our one BURNING question: What is AMES Construction going to do with ALL the HUGE BOULDERS which litter the project area? Actually, it turned into the RAILFAN's perfect day with VERY HEAVY rail traffic --- AND our Boulders question was answered. MF & GGG Despite my sincere advice that Ames should use the ROADRUNNER CARTOON method and call the ACME BOULDER BUSTER Corporation for help --- they decided to use their own equipment.

MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7312 is EB through . . - 2067	MF 2/21/20 . . . the construction area - 2068	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7849 is WB @ MP34.2 - 2069

MF 2/21/20 So, Ames sent in their own "Caterpillar HAMMER". . . . - 2070	MF 2/21/20 . . . Obviously, the Boulders didn't stand a chance. - 2071	MF 2/21/20 The newly cleared (or being cleared) Right Of Way (ROW). - 2072

MF 2/21/20 The newly cleared (or being cleared) Right Of Way (ROW). - 2073	MF 2/21/20 Two of the HAMMER doing its thing---making small rocks outta Boulders. - 2074	MF 2/21/20 Two of the HAMMER doing its thing---making small rocks outta Boulders. - 2075

MF 2/21/20 BNSF 3753 is WB through the area. - 2076	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 3753 is WB through the area. - 2077	MF 2/21/20 Concrete pour - footings for temporary construction bridge - 2078

MF 2/21/20 Concrete pour - footings for temporary construction bridge - 2079	MF 2/21/20 Work on new ROW - 2080	MF 2/21/20 We have absolutely no idea what function this contraption serves - 2081

MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7312 EB MP 34 - 2082	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7312 EB on bridge - 2083	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 6738 is WB MP 34 - 2084

MF 2/21/20 BNSF 6598 WB & 7046 EB meet MP 34.5 - 2085	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7046 East passes the BNSF WB intermodal - 2086	MF 2/21/20 BNSF 7046 East crosses the Mojave River - 2087

New: 3/04/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 7
Wednesday (3/04), Marc & I hosted Spike & Doc Jones on a quick trip to the North Side of the BNSF Mojave Bridge Replacement Project. MF & GGG

MF 3/04/20 - 2088	MF 3/04/20 - 2089	MF 3/04/20 - 2090
# 2088 - 2091: Marc followed BNSF 7009 East from the CEMEX Cement plant in Victorville to crossing the Mojave River Bridges. NOTE: in # 2091 note the newly poured Southern footings of the replacement bridges (bottom center).

MF 3/04/20 - 2091	MF 3/04/20 A closeup of the above mentioned Southern footings. - 2092	MF 3/04/20 Drilling for the North side footings. - 2093

MF 3/04/20 Newly poured Construction Bridge footings / supports - 2094	MF 3/04/20 The many boulders have been "busted" and removed . . . - 2095	MF 3/04/20 . . . allowing work on the new Right of Way (ROW). - 2096

MF 3/04/20 BNSF 6752 is WB . . . - 2097	MF 3/04/20 . . . passing through the . . . - 2098	MF 3/04/20 . . . construction area. - 2099

New: 3/25/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 8
Wednesday (march 25), Marc & I braved the Killer Flu & Government "SIT & STAY", orders to continue our documentation of the BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT. MF & GGG

MF 3/25/20 Forms for the Southern mainline bridge abutment are being built. - 2103	MF 3/25/20 This abutment will evidently be a HUGE hunk of reinforced concrete. - 2104	MF 3/25/20 Surveying for the Northern Abutment is underway - 2105

MF 3/25/20 Concrete supports for the temporary construction bridge are curing. - 2106	MF 3/25/20 Concrete supports for the temporary construction bridge are curing. - 2107	MF 3/25/20 see text below - 2108
# 2108: We wondered; for what exotic reason was the trench cut. Seems it's a simple way to keep construction debris from polluting the Mighty Mojave River. Just in front of the right hand pier, it appears that work is underway for the Northern supports of the construction bridge.

MF 3/25/20 BNSF 4238 East approaches & crosses the the Mojave River. - 2109	MF 3/25/20 BNSF 4238 East approaches & crosses the the Mojave River. - 2110	MF 3/25/20 BNSF 4238 East approaches & crosses the the Mojave River. - 2111

MF 3/25/20 - 2112	MF 3/25/20 - 2113	MF 3/25/20 - 2114
# 2112: What the appropriately dressed Ames Construction Superintendent drives for a work vehicle---yeah, it's pink. # 2113-2117: After the Boulder Basher does it's thing, a wheeled Front End Loader loads the rocks & dirt, backs across the mainline and deposits its load into a home-made DIRT / ROCK separator. The dirt is being "Banked" to help build the sub-roadbed for the new alignment.

MF 3/25/20 - 2115	MF 3/25/20 - 2116	MF 3/25/20 - 2117

New: 4/07/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 9
It truly was a COOL, DARK, RAINY, and BREEZY day last Tuesday (April 7). Even with clouds of the KILLER VIRUS swirling around us, we decided to visit the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. MF & GGG
# 2120: THE BIG PICTURE! Shows the new Southern abutment being formed (upper left), the concrete foundations for the temporary construction bridge (middle), and what will be the Northern ROW to / from the new Bridge (right middle).

MF 4/07/20 The Big Picture (see above) - 2130	MF 4/07/20 The Southern foundation with a heavy rebar cage, . . . - 2131	MF 4/07/20 . . . . is in place for the abutment. 2132
# 2133-2135: The first wooden panel for the abutment form is lifted into place. Obviously, the wooden form pieces will surround the rebar cage and then filled with concrete.

MF 4/07/20 - 2133	MF 4/07/20 see large vertical photo - 2134	MF 4/07/20 - 2135

MF 4/07/20 The Northern ROW approach to new bridge - 2136	MF 4/07/20 Finished foundations for the temporary construction bridge - 2137	MF 4/07/20 BNSF 7338 WB at Oro Grande, awaits permission to enter the construction area - 2138

New: 4/16/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 10
April 16, Marc & I visited both ends of the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. There has not been much visible progress since our visit last week, but the trains were moving. MF & GGG
From the NORTH END of the project here is PART ONE.

MF 4/16/20 The Southern Abutment--We could not tell if concrete had been poured into the vertical forms but the forms are being strengthened and built higher. - 2142	MF 4/16/20 Drilling into bedrock for the new Northern Abutment foundation is underway. - 2143	MF 4/16/20 Clearance of boulders for the Northern (RR East of bridges) ROW is near completion. - 2144

MF 4/16/20 BNSF 7766 is WB to the bridges at MP34. - 2145	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 7766 WB at MP33.5 - 2146	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6660 WB bare table at MP34 - 2147

MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6660 West approaches & crosses the Mojave River Bridges. - 2148	MF 4/16/20 Note the relative position of the new Southern Abutment to the existing Bridges. - 2149	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6660 West (far track-bare table) is stopped while BNSF 7302 East (near track) approaches the bridges. - 2150
We drove around to the SOUTHERN VIEW POINT to see if we could picture both the existing BNSF Mojave River bridges and the construction of their replacement in one frame .

MF 4/16/20 Now looking generally North, the under construction Southern Abutment. 2151	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6956 West crosses the River. The positional relationship between the old & new bridges is obvious. The "CAT" Pneumatic HAMMER (Boulder Buster) had continuously worked, in the pictured one place, for the two hours we had been watching. - 2152	MF 4/16/20 This SUPER Telephoto shots & some editing magic reveals the HUGE boulder lying directly in the path of the new ROW. To give some kind of size comparison, the boulder appears to be much larger than the "CAT" machine assigned to destroy it. - 2156
New questions: Why does the new abutment appear to be much shorter than the existing bridge--Will the new ROW be at a lower level???? Is the new bridge wide enough for the (planned) future third mainline?

MF 4/16/20 This SUPER Telephoto shot & some editing magic reveals the HUGE boulder lying directly in the path of the new ROW. To give some kind of size comparison, the boulder appears to be much larger than the "CAT" machine assigned to destroy it. - 2153	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6956 finishes its crossing of The Mighty Mojave and heads RR West toward the Cemex Plant and Victorville. - 2154	MF 4/16/20 BNSF 6956 finishes its crossing of The Mighty Mojave and heads RR West toward the Cemex Plant and Victorville. - 2155
While having a GREAT Arby's sandwich & Coke (Coca Cola) for lunch, we deeply pondered the impossibilities of our photographic mission. #1 It is IMPOSSIBLE to Shelter at Home while there are trains running ! #2 It is IMPOSSIBLE to use a viewfinder, focus, adjust the telephoto and photograph a rapidly moving object while wearing a preformed surgical mask ! - #3 It is IMPOSSIBLE for us to convince anyone that we are sane !

New: 4/24/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 11
Marc & I visited the BNSF Mojave Bridges Replacement Project last Friday (4/24/20) to check on progress. Since our weekly reports usually show little visible progress, we have decided to try an every other week approach to our documentation. MF & GGG

MF 4/24/20 - 2157	MF 4/24/20 - 2158	MF 4/24/20 - 2159
# 2157-2158: While there was little VISIBLE construction progress, East Bound train traffic was heavy. UP 9033 and its DPU (UP 5297) are East Bound over the Mojave River @ MP 34.1. # 2159-2161: This large PAD was built and compacted during the week. We were told that the four large cement blocks will support the temporary construction ramp and bridge??? The PAD will support the HEAVY EQUIPMENT (crane) which will eventually be needed to remove the iron superstructures of the existing bridges??????

MF 4/24/20 - 2160	MF 4/24/20 - 2161	MF 4/24/20 BNSF 7811 EB intermodal - 2162

MF 4/24/20 BNSF EB intermodal over the Mojave River bridges. - 2163	MF 4/24/20 BNSF EB rear end DPU's pushing a UP Autorack (same train) - 2164	MF 4/24/20 Equipment and "banked" dirt used for construction ramps, pads and future ROW. - 2165

MF 4/24/20 Equipment and "banked" dirt used for construction ramps, pads and future ROW. - 2166	MF 4/24/20 We have NO idea which boulders will need explosive persuasion, but at the upper left, PROTECTIVE BLASTING MATS are ready for placement. The steel beams are for the temporary construction bridge. - 2167	MF 4/24/20 BNSF 8182 East approaches & crosses the Mojave River - 2168

MF 4/24/20 BNSF 8182 East approaches & crosses the Mojave River - 2169	MF 4/24/20 The CAT hammer drill (Boulder Buster) attachment. - 2170	MF 4/24/20 A telephoto looking at the Victorville CEMEX plant catches BNSF 8265 East (Z train-highest priority) running around BNSF 7275 East (Q train-2nd highest priority). - 2171

MF 4/24/20 Z train BNSF 8265 East approaches the Mojave River Bridges. Note the rebar extending from the bedrock behind the Southern Abutment & just ahead of the leftmost red truck. - 2172	MF 4/24/20 A closeup of the above mentioned rebar. - 2173	MF 4/24/20 Z train BNSF 8265 continues EB after crossing the River. - 2174

MF 4/24/20 Q train BNSF 7275 is EB w two Norfolk Southern RR units, the second of which is the Norfolk & Western Heritage unit # 8103. - 2175	MF 4/24/20 Closeups of NS Heritage unit--Norfolk & Western # 8103 - 2176	MF 4/24/20 Closeups of NS Heritage unit--Norfolk & Western # 8103 - 2177

New: 5/03/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 12
Last Sunday (May 5), my wife Laura joined Marc and me on a trek to both photographic spots for the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement project. From the NORTHERN end of the project! LMG, MF, GGG

MF 5/03/20 BNSF 7668 WB - 2178	MF 5/03/20 BNSF WB - 2179	MF 5/03/20 BNSF WB - 2180
# 2178-2182: As we arrived at the NORTHERN Photo spot, we heard the horn of a West Bound train approaching from Oro Grande. BNSF 7668 approaches & crosses the Mojave River Bridges.

MF 5/03/20 BNSF WB - 2181	MF 5/03/20 BNSF WB passing the site - 2182	MF 5/03/20 The wooden forms for the new Southern Abutment have been removed. - 2183

MF 5/03/20 Close up of new Southern Abutment. - 2184	MF 5/03/20 Rebar cages and forms for the concrete Southern approaches to the new bridge are being fabricated. - 2185	MF 5/03/20 Preparations for explosives - 2186
# 2186-2188: The bedrock which will support the new NORTHERN Abutment appears to be well above the level of the future ROW and will need "explosive reduction". Holes have been drilled, Detonation Cords and blast mats are ready for pouring of the LIQUID? explosives.

MF 5/03/20 Detonation Cords - 2187	MF 5/03/20 Blast Mats - 2188	MF 5/03/20 BNSF 6908 WB approaches & crosses the Mojave River Bridges - 2189

MF 5/03/20 BNSF 6908 WB approaches & crosses the Mojave River Bridges - 2190	MF 5/03/20 BNSF 6908 WB approaches & crosses the Mojave River Bridges - 2191	MF 5/03/20 Image of the finished heavy equipment PAD--now surrounded on three sides with safety "K" rails. - 2192

MF 5/03/20 Southern face of the Southern abutment. - 2193	MF 5/03/20 Closeup of rebar & forms for the concrete future approach to the Southern abutment. - 2194	MF 5/03/20 View of existing bridges & new Southern Abutment. - 2195
# 2196-2198: The CLASSIC BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES view with BNSF 7157 West heading toward Victorville.

MF 5/03/20 BNSF 7157 WB - 2196	MF 5/03/20 BNSF WB - 2197	MF 5/03/20 BNSF toward Victorville - 2198
# 2199-2206: While MAD MARC & I were photographing the bridges and other construction, Laura focused on the surrounding desert plants and rock formations. So, most of her images are of scenery except for: # 2207-2210.

LMG 5/03/20 - 2199	LMG 5/03/20 - 2200	LMG 5/03/20 - 2201

LMG 5/03/20 - 2202	LMG 5/03/20 - 2203	LMG 5/03/20 - 2204

LMG 5/03/20 - 2205	LMG 5/03/20 - 2206	LMG 5/03/20 GGG & the Cajon Rover - 2207

LMG 5/03/20 MAD MARC spots a train - 2208	LMG 5/03/20 The train - 2209	LMG 5/03/20 - 2210
A big thank you goes to Laura for her wonderful desert vegetation and special rock formation photographs. Werner

New: 5/14/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 13
Thursday (May 14), our neighbor & close friend Jorge L. joined Marc & me on a visit to the newly named "RATTLESNAKE ROCKS"---The North side of the BNSF Bridge Replacement Project. - MF & GGG
# 2211: Upon arrival, we were greeted with BNSF 4206 EB. The pictured WB stack train had "lost its air" & was stalled until air recovery . No chance was the crew going to tackle Cajon without train braking available. # 2212-2213: To the right of the orange cones is the area lowered by last weeks detonations. It now appears to be about eight feet lower than before. The orange cones cover new drill holes for the next round of explosive persuasion.

MF 5/14/20 BNSF 4206 EB - 2211	MF 5/14/20 - 2212	MF 5/14/20 holes for explosives - 2213
# 2214-2217: Rock debris from previous explosive rock fracturing is being removed.

MF 5/14/20 - 2214	MF 5/14/20 - 2215	MF 5/14/20 - 2216
# 2218-2219: Steel supports for the southern end of the TEMPORARY Construction Bridge have been erected. The temporary Heavy Equipment Pad is being used, for the first time, to support the pictured steel lifting construction crane.

MF 5/14/20 - 2217	MF 5/14/20 - 2218	MF 5/14/20 - 2219

MF 5/14/20 BNSF 8391 East to & over the Mojave River - 2220	MF 5/14/20 BNSF 8391 East to & over the Mojave River - 2221	MF 5/14/20 UP 8156 West approaches the construction area - 2222

MF 5/14/20 UP 8156 West approaches & passes through the construction area - 2223	MF 5/14/20 UP 8156 West passes through the construction area - 2224	MF 5/14/20 BNSF 6824 West @ MP 34.5 - 2225

MF 5/14/20 BNSF 6824 West @ MP 34.5 - 2226	MF 5/14/20 - 2227	MF 5/14/20 - 2228
# 2227-2228: Looking at the new Southern Abutment & the ramp leading to it, we found it interesting that preformed concrete panels were being installed to form the outside ramp wall - rather than building forms to encase the rebar cage with concrete. Obviously, this development will require more investigation.

New: 5/17/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 14
On Sunday (May 17), Marc & I drove to the SOUTHERN (Victorville) view point of BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project to photograph progress on the Eastern retaining wall of the approach ramp leading to the Southern Abutment.
# 2229: An older image, from the NORTHERN view point showing the Southern Abutment and the Eastern retention wall of the approach ramp.

MF 5/17/20 - 2229	MF 5/17/20 - 2230	MF 5/17/20 - 2231
# 2230-2233: Images of the Eastern retention wall of the ramp. Note the very thick rebar cage and the HUGE concrete pour - all to support the future heavy and rapidly moving trains. # 2234: Image of progress on the TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION BRIDGE showing two new abutment walls (one still with forms still attached).

MF 5/17/20 - 2232	MF 5/17/20 - 2233	MF 5/17/20 - 2234

New: 5/23/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 15
Work continues and we can already see part of the new Temporary Construction Bridge (TCB) sub-decking. GGG/MF
# 2235-2239: From the North end of the Bridge Replacement Project. The Powerroc rock drill and its "product(s)". The rock level must reduced to the level of the dirt road next to the existing ROW and so, it appears that several more BLASTS will be required.

MF 5/23/20 - 2235	MF 5/23/20 - 2236	MF 5/23/20 - 2237

MF 5/23/20 - 2238	MF 5/23/20 - 2239	MF 5/23/20 - 2240
# 2240-2241: Looking Railroad East toward Oro Grande / Barstow. Eventually, the new ROW will angle in from the right to join the existing ROW and somewhat straighten the mainline LEFT-HAND curve shown in # 2241.

MF 5/23/20 Existing ROW w/left hand curve 2241	MF 5/23/20 In his travels over & through RATTLE SNAKE ROCKS, Marc disturbed this Semi-friendly non-poisonous California Sharp-tailed snake. - 2242	MF 5/23/20 A labeled overview of activity on the western side of the existing ROW. - 2243

MF 5/23/20 Just below the currently used Mojave River Bridges, HUGE steel "I"-Beams of the temporary construction bridge now span the Mighty Mojave River. - 2244	MF 5/23/20 Other views of the Temporary Construction Bridge (TCB). - 2245	MF 5/23/20 Other views of the Temporary Construction Bridge (TCB). - 2246

MF 5/23/20 Topside views of the steel Sub-deck of the TCB. - 2247	MF 5/23/20 Topside views of the steel Sub-deck of the TCB. - 2248	MF 5/23/20 Heavy duty concrete forms. - 2249

MF 5/23/20 BNSF 6678 is EB over the Mojave River @ MP 34.1. - 2250	MF 5/23/20 BNSF 6678 is EB over the Mojave River @ MP 34.1. - 2251	MF 5/23/20 - 2252
# 2252-2254: FROM THE SOUTHERN END of the existing BNSF Mojave River Bridges, a topside view of Temporary Construction Bridge (TCB) sub-decking.

MF 5/23/20 - 2253	MF 5/23/20 - 2254	MF 5/23/20 A view of the Heavy Lift Pad and the approach to the TCB. - 2255

MF 5/23/20 The Southern Abutment & the Eastern retaining wall of the approach. - 2256	MF 5/23/20 The Southern Abutment & the Eastern retaining wall of the approach. - 2257	MF 5/23/20 - 2258
# 2258-2261: Detailed views of the tremendous amount of concrete used to build the Eastern retention wall of the approach to the Southern abutment. We estimate that the wall is between eight & ten feet thick.

MF 5/23/20 - 2259	MF 5/23/20 - 2260	MF 5/23/20 - 2261

New: 6/07/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 16
On June 7, Marc & I drove to both ends of the BNSF Mojave River Bridge replacement project. Our Southern access was somewhat limited by the presence of a guard, however we prevailed and send this update. MF & GGG
# 2271 & # 2273: BEFORE (05-23-20) and # 2272 & # 2274 AFTER (06-07-20) pictures of the Northern approach to the NEW Bridge. # 2271 & # 2273: This solid bedrock area had to be lowered --- and in # 2272 & # 2274 was explosively lowered about 15 feet to near proper elevation for the new ROW.

MF 5/23/20 before - 2271	MF 6/07/20 after - 2272	MF 5/23/20 before - 2273
# 2275 - # 2277: After-detonation Rubble being removed by the HEAVIEST of equipment, transported across the existing ROW and added to "RUBBLE MOUNTAIN".

MF 6/07/20 after - 2274	MF 6/07/20 Rubble to be removed - 2275	MF 6/07/20 Heavy Equipment - 2276
# 2278 & # 2279: The business and locking ends of a LARGE BORE ROCK DRILL "BIT".

MF 6/07/20 The "Rubble Mountain" - 2277	MF 6/07/20 Large Bore Rock Drill Bit - 2278	MF 6/07/20 Large Bore Rock Drill Bit - 2279
# 2280: Three 'new to the scene' pieces of HEAVY EQUIPMENT. Flanked by a heavy lift crane and a very large backhoe is the Rock Boring machine which will employ the "large bore drill bit" pictured in # 2278 & # 2279. We think that the rock drill will bore footing holes, for the short pillars, which will support the new Northern abutment ??? # 2281: From the SOUTHERN photographic area, this image is severely foreshortened by the use of a 250 mm telephoto lens. However, using the newly poured Southern abutment as a sight-line gives a good indication how the rather severe "S" curves of the existing ROW will be somewhat mitigated by the new alignment.

MF 6/07/20 Heavy Equipment - 2280	MF 6/07/20 - 2281	MF 6/07/20 BNSF 6913 WB - 2282
# 2282 - # 2285 BNSF 6913 West approaches & crosses the MIGHTY MOJAVE RIVER @ MP 34.

MF 6/07/20 BNSF 6913 WB - 2283	MF 6/07/20 BNSF 6913 WB - 2284	MF 6/07/20 BNSF 6913 WB - 2285

New: 6/14/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 17
On Sunday (June 14), Marc & I again visited the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Project.

MF 6/14/20 - 2286 A project overview from the Southern (Victorville) end of the Bridges.	MF 6/14/20 - 2287 Southern abutment with its Eastern retaining wall . . .	MF 6/14/20 - 2288 . . . fully formed and awaiting the concrete pour.

MF 6/14/20 - 2289 The Heavy-lift pad -- we do not understand the reason(s) for the "caution" signs.	MF 6/14/20 - 2290 Heavy steel plates & a bunch of welding form the deck of The Temporary Construction Bridge. The far end approach has not been completed . . .	MF 6/14/20 - 2291 . . . and at the end of the decking, there is a substantial drop-off. We do not understand the rebar protruding from the Wooden side rails.

MF 6/14/20 - 2292 We were told that a mother "lost" her son in this area & had erected this memorial in his memory. The construction crew had avoided the memorial and recently had helped the lady move the cross a few feet to a much safer area. No info on the cause or date of the death.	MF 6/14/20 - 2293 Work gas begun on the Northern bridge abutment. It is obvious that the Northern abutment will be supported by columns - unlike the Southern abutment. . . . It's obvious that we have many questions . . .	MF 6/14/20 - 2294 . . . We originally thought that this wide (6 ft diameter) pipe drill was for rock---WRONG AGAIN. It's a dirt drill. We have no idea what the HUGE device laying next to the pipe is for? . . . . that only time will answer !!

MF 6/14/20 - 2295 This DRILL TECH machine rotates the large diameter pipe dill while exerting downward pressure. Our next question is - do they leave the steel pipe in the ground or remove it and replace it with some other forming medium before the pour?	MF 6/14/20 - 2296 Overview of Northern abutment progress. Two "pipes" have been sunk" and the third drilling is underway. There are three more large diameter pipe drills laying around the site. . . .	MF 6/14/20 - 2297 . . . Note in # 2297, just to the right and above the orange markings pipe, there is a huge auger - evidently to remove the dirt from within the pipe drill.

MF 6/14/20 - 2298 A look North toward where the new ROW will join the existing ROW. With two rock drills working, it is reasonable to expect more rock blasting. In the foreground the rock with the green stripe requires "trimming".	MF 6/14/20 - 2299 A LONG RANGE look at the area described in # 2298. A quick look at the same large diameter rock drill, in both images, will give some perspective of the rock area still to be lowered.	MF 6/14/20 - 2300 # 2300 - 2303: BNSF 3744 West approaches & crosses the Mighty Mojave River

MF 6/14/20 - 2301	MF 6/14/20 - 2302	MF 6/14/20 - 2303
We realize that in about a years time, the classic view of trains crossing the BNSF Mojave River Bridges, will be lost forever. With that in mind, we decided to take as many 'bridge with train' photographs as possible. (Great idea WM)

New: 6/29/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 18
On Monday (June 29), Marc & I drove to the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. It was a very heavy rail traffic day. (MF & GGG)

MF 6/29/20 - 2304 Upon arrival, we were "greeted" with a rather short EB UP mixed freight, headed to Yermo at track speed.	MF 6/29/20 - 2305 We still don't know if these wide diameter drills bits & supporting pipes are left in the ground or removed after use. This drill appears to have been used & removed.	MF 6/29/20 - 2306 Most of the work, lately, has been centered on finishing the Southern Abutment and drilling the footings for the Northern abutment supports. Here, a mason applies the final cement coat to the Southern abutment.

MF 6/29/20 - 2307	MF 6/29/20 - 2308	MF 6/29/20 - 2309
# 2307 - 2310: Ames Construction had stockpiled a small mountain of fresh dirt (no debris) South of the project, to back-fill the approach to the Southern abutment. These very large Cat machines are rapidly filling the approach - where the dirt is spread and compacted.

MF 6/29/20 - 2310 Southern abutment is filling up rapidly.	MF 6/29/20 - 2311 The rock debris, from the explosive removal of boulders obstructing the new ROW, has been somewhat leveled & covered with dirt. We suspect this will be the new ROW inspection & maintenance road ??	MF 6/29/20 - 2312 BNSF 6942 (4X2 power) pulls a loaded WB ethanol train toward Victorville.

MF 6/29/20 - 2313	MF 6/29/20 - 2314	MF 6/29/20 - 2315
# 2313 - 2315: BNSF 6942 (4X2) is WB with a long Ethanol load - only to be stopped by a red signal at MP 35. The RED signal was caused by a switching movement at the Cemex plant @ MP 35.5. In # 2313, please note the orange cones (right center) which protect & identify holes drilled for explosives. Obviously, the boulder blocking the future Northern ROW needs some explosive persuasion.

MF 6/29/20 - 2316	MF 6/29/20 - 2317	MF 6/29/20 - 2318
# 2316 - 2318: We were surprised hearing a crossing horn from Oro Grande. BNSF 4203 (4X2) with a second long Ethanol train then runs around the standing BNSF 6942 Ethanol. This is the first time we've seen two ethanol trains on the same day. The fact that they were running 'nose to tail' made the scene even more interesting.

MF 6/29/20 - 2319 The two BNSF units are the rear DPU's for BNSF 6942 (the first Ethanol) -- now underway WB. The coal cars are part of the Cemex switching local.	MF 6/29/20 - 2320 Two views of the heavy equipment used with the wide diameter 'pipe Drills. In # 2021, the arrow points to what we think is a sleeve form for the future rebar cage & concrete pour ??	MF 6/29/20 - 2321 Two views of the heavy equipment used with the wide diameter 'pipe Drills. In # 2021, the arrow points to what we think is a sleeve form for the future rebar cage & concrete pour ??

MF 6/29/20 - 2322 Newly drilled footing for columns which will support Northern Abutment - with augers.	MF 6/29/20 - 2323 Finished footing "hole'-- on our next visit, we will TRY to understand the exact sequence of events before the concrete pour.	MF 6/29/20 - 2324 Southern abutment approach fill & compaction.

MF 6/29/20 - 2325 Rebar cage for Northern Column Abutments.	MF 6/29/20 - 2326 BNSF 7796 is EB to the Mojave bridges.	MF 6/29/20 - 2327 The Freedom Village (read below)

MF 6/29/20 - 2328	MF 6/29/20 - 2329	MF 6/29/20 - 2330
# 2327 - 2330: There are two dirt routes into and out of our Northern Photographic Location. The alternative route passes through a homeless / squatter / doper "village". I stopped the CAJON ROVER to get a few pictures and we were immediately checked out by a semi-friendly resident. I then thought that this would be the perfect place to start a VERY LOW COST CONDO development. So, for a tiny down payment of ONE SIX PACK of Yellow Tail Merlot, you too may claim a lot (of any size) in this virgin Bureau of Land Management territory. BTW, you must bring your own decorations / junk.

New: 7/10/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT - A NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT - Part 19
On Friday (July 10), Marc & I decided to avoid the virus and visit the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. We were surprised that the back-filling of the Southern abutment approach had NOT been finished since our last visit, almost two weeks ago.

MF 7/10/20 - 2331	MF 7/10/20 - 2332	MF 7/10/20 - 2333
# 2331 - 2333: The Southern abutment back-fill and dirt compaction are progressing - Pictures are from both ends of the new bridge.

MF 7/10/20 - 2334 While most compaction can be accomplished using a large CAT man-driven vibrating machine, inaccessible areas (near walls) require a smaller manually-guided compactor-hammer.	MF 7/10/20 - 2335 It appears that the approach to the Southern abutment, which had a maximum depth of approx 20 feet, still needs around 5 feet of fill before completion.	MF 7/10/20 - 2336 BNSF 3791 east to Barstow, approaches & leaves the construction area.

MF 7/10/20 - 2337 BNSF 3791 intermodal east to Barstow, approaches & leaves the construction area.	MF 7/10/20 - 2338 Showing rock debris from a recent detonation, a used wide-bore drill, and a rebar cage for a support column of the Northern abutment. Also, two rock drills are ready to drill more holes for explosives, on the HUGE boulder, just ahead of the right-most drilling machine.	MF 7/10/20 - 2339 This new construction road will allow much easier access, to the Northern abutment, for heavy equipment.

MF 7/10/20 - 2340 The NEW construction road and an overview of the Heavy Equipment used to drill holes, . . .	MF 7/10/20 - 2341 . . . for the columns, which will support the Northern bridge abutment.	MF 7/10/20 - 2342 Heavy Drilling Equipment (close up)
# 2342 - 2344: WE THINK we have figured out the sequence of events while building (pouring) the Concrete Columns which will support the Northern abutment ?? # 1: Drill the 3 ft diameter holes down to bed rock using the wide diameter "pipe" drill. / # 2: Remove the dirt from within the pipe drill via auger. # 3: Introduce drilling "mud" (fluid) to "clean" hole & lubricate the ROCK drill. / # 4: Remove the large diameter pipe drill. # 5: Drill smaller anchor hole(s) into the bedrock. / # 6: Insert rebar cage into hole. The rebar cage will be longer than the hole is deep & therefore will need a round form for the above ground portion. / # 7: Pour the concrete. We'll see if the - GRAY-FOURNIER WE'RE JUST GUESSING & NON-CONSTRUCTION Co. - has a clue???

MF 7/10/20 - 2343 Heavy Drilling Equipment (close up)	MF 7/10/20 - 2344 Drilling Machine with equipment	MF 7/10/20 - 2345 UP 6591 w UP 6367 is EB through the project area. Check unit # 4 on next pic.

MF 7/10/20 - 2346 UP 6367 was built in 1995 as SP #321 (AC44CW).	MF 7/10/20 - 2347 The Temporary Construction Bridge has been finished.	MF 7/10/20 - 2348 The Temporary Construction Bridge has been finished.
# 2347 - 2348: The Temporary Construction Bridge has been finished. It once ended at the far end of the steel plates-about 20 feet short of the far bank. Loads of dirt had to be brought in and compacted to finish the ramp which may explain the delay in completing the back-fill of the Southern Abutment ramp. This temporary bridge, the pictured ROW crossing, and the new construction Rd down to the Northern abutment, will facilitate new construction and OLD Bridge removal.

New: 7/19/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 20
Last Sunday, Marc & I again visited the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement Project. While there was little visible construction progress, we did see two significant UP EB's.
NOTE in # 2350 & # 2355 -- The Southern Abutment approach back-fill appears to be complete --- with the dirt up to sub-roadbed level.

MF 7/19/20 - 2349 UP 8649 EB coming from Cemex.	MF 7/19/20 - 2350 UP 8649 EB DBS w3 units up front.	MF 7/19/20 - 2351 UP 8649 = EMD SD70ACe just passed the bridge

MF 7/19/20 - 2352 UP 6050 DPU on UP 8649 EB at MP 34.1 leaving the construction site.	MF 7/19/20 - 2353 Drilling equipment continues to drill holes for explosive clearing of new ROW.	MF 7/19/20 - 2354 A rebar cage is ready to be dropped into hole & become one of the reinforced concrete support piers for the Northern Abutment. The crane is sitting on a thick steel plate which covers another deep pier hole.

MF 7/19/20 - 2355 UP 6410 EB manifest	MF 7/19/20 - 2356 Like new TTX articulated auto racks.	MF 7/19/20 - 2357 UP 2637 (ET44AH) DPU of same train
# 2355 - 2357: UP 6410 +3 & DPU are EB to Yermo. These new-ish TTX double auto carriers made for nice image.

New: 8/06/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 21
Last Wed (August 6), Marc & I drove to our Northern Photographic point. We arrived to note very little visible construction progress and very light train traffic. After an idle period, a few trains appeared and a gent, in construction protective clothing, climbed the hill near us. Marc walked over and introduced himself to see if this gent could answer a few of our questions. Turned out that he is the Project Manager and had ALL THE ANSWERS --- SEE BELOW: Marc's visit with the Project Manager bore a trove of information. The project should be finished in about 16 months & the new bridge will accommodate only TWO Main tracks. When the existing (old) bridges are removed, their existing stone abutments will be retained to support another new bridge & third track - if ever needed. A new approach & abutment very much like the, now finished, southern approach / abutment will be built on the Northern end of the bridge project. So the four round vertical piers, being poured, are actually the 'near center of the bridge' supports --- 'near center' since they cannot be any closer to the River bed. The pier building process was explained to us. First, the Large diameter pipe drill cuts through the dirt and AT LEAST TEN FEET into the bedrock. Excess material is removed via auger & ground water is forced out of the hole by the introduction of a heavy polymer (pic # 2397). The large diameter pipe drill is cutoff at ground level and the round rebar cage is lowered into the hole. Concrete is pumped into the void and forces the polymer out. The above ground portion of the rebar cage is cut to the desired height, wrapped in a forming material and filled with concrete --- resulting in an immensely strong pier (pics # 2394, 95, 96).
# 2386: On the way to our photographic spot, we must cross the Mojave Northern Railway. This short-line, now owned by CEMEX, runs between the CEMEX Cement plant in Victorville and their quarry 12.5 miles NE. Here BNSF 7320 light is running Long-Hood forward toward the quarry.

MF 8/06/20 - 2386 BNSF 7320 running for Cemex plant.	GGG 8/06/20 - 2387 UP 5638 East crosses the Mojave River.	GGG 8/06/20 - 2388 UP 5638 East crosses the Mojave River.

GGG 8/06/20 - 2389 BNSF 7562 East crosses the Mojave River.	MF 8/06/20 - 2390 BNSF 7937 West approaches the Mojave River.	MF 8/06/20 - 2391 BNSF 7937 West crosses the Mojave River.

MF 8/06/20 - 2392 BNSF 7937 West crossed the Mojave River and heading to Victorville and Cajon Pass.	MF 8/06/20 - 2393 Southern Abutment with I Beam Support Plates.	MF 8/06/20 - 2394 The above ground portion of the rebar cage is cut to the desired height.
The pier building process was explained to us. First, the Large diameter pipe drill cuts through the dirt and AT LEAST TEN FEET into the bedrock. Excess material is removed via auger & ground water is forced out of the hole by the introduction of a heavy polymer (pic # 2397). The large diameter pipe drill is cutoff at ground level and the round rebar cage is lowered into the hole. Concrete is pumped into the void and forces the polymer out. The above ground portion of the rebar cage is cut to the desired height, wrapped in a forming material and filled with concrete --- resulting in an immensely strong pier (pics # 2394, 95, 96).

MF 8/06/20 - 2395 The above ground portion of the rebar cage is cut to the desired height.	MF 8/06/20 - 2396 The above ground portion of the rebar cage is cut to the desired height.	MF 8/06/20 - 2397 heavy polymer machinerie

The Bridge Deck will be supported by HUGE "I" beams. They will be seated on their bottom flange and have a TEN FOOT WEB (# 2393 and drawing). From below our bridge, with only four piers, it will be similar in appearance to (bridge shown left above),

MF 8/06/20 - 2398 BNSF 6551 West will be crossing The Mighty Mojave River.	MF 8/06/20 - 2399 BNSF 6551 West Intermodal will be crossing The Mighty Mojave River in a minute.	MF 8/06/20 - 2400 The rear of the train is traversing a very narrow RoW area we call the "shelf". Building a third main through this area would be very difficult with HUGE boulders above the far side and a drop-off into the river on the near side.

New: 8/18/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 22
Last Tue (August 18), Marc & I again traveled to the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. All construction efforts are centered around the "near bridge center" piers. Due to the geography & limited size of the project area, the piers must be erected before construction of the Northern abutment can begin. GGG & MF

MF 8/18/20 - 2403 BNSF 8049 West traverses the construction area toward Cajon Pass.	MF 8/18/20 - 2404 BNSF 8049 West traverses the construction area toward Cajon Pass.	MF 8/18/20 - 2405 The Rebar cage is readied for insertion into its BORE (hole).
# 2405 - 2406: The Rebar cage is readied for insertion into its BORE (hole) - which is hidden by a steel plate just ahead of the drilling machine's track. The prepared Borehole is, obviously, through the dirt and 10 feet into the bedrock. The drill apparatus that we have called "the wide diameter pipe drill" is actually known as a CASING BIT since it serves both functions. # 2407: Closeup of the Rebar cage. Note the spacers on the outside of the cage. These spacers will insure that the cage is centered within the casing. We have NO IDEA why the white PVC pipes were placed inside the cage, especially since end caps appear to have been glued into place.

MF 8/18/20 - 2406 The Rebar cage is readied for insertion into its BORE (hole).	MF 8/18/20 - 2407 Closeup of the Rebar cage.	MF 8/18/20 - 2408 Interchangeable working ends, mostly for the Drill Tech Borehole drilling machine.

MF 8/18/20 - 2409 Excavator slowly works its way down a rather steep construction road using its boom for additional braking.	MF 8/18/20 - 2410 UP 8902 is EB passing the Mojave River Bridges, soon.	MF 8/18/20 - 2411 UP 8902 is EB just passed the Mojave River and on the way to Barstow and Daggett.
On the UP EB train, just after the 4th engine, is a BNSF Auto Rack with a huge Graffiti.

MF 8/18/20 - 2412	MF 8/18/20 - 2413	MF 8/18/20 - 2414

New: 9/02/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 23
With Marc traveling in OR & Doc Jones otherwise occupied, Spike & I decided to continue documentation of the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. For those who don't know him, Spike is a retired USAF officer who now flies the NASA 747 known as SOFIA. thanks Spike - GGG & Spike

SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2425 Spike & I had lunch in the tent covered parking lot of DA DUMP @ 105 F.	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2426 Piers closeup	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2427 Piers in place
# 2426 - 2429: Upon arrival at the project we found that all underground work for the 'near middle of the bridge' piers had been completed - the rebar cages inserted and the excavations filled with concrete. The work appeared to be concentrated around ensuring the the rebar cages are truly vertical.

SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2428 Piers closeup	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2429 Piers centering	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2430 Heavy Lift Pad
# 2430: Looking under the existing (old) bridges & the temporary construction bridge, it appears the the HEAVY LIFT PAD has been reinforced. That pad will need to be as strong as possible when Ames Const. starts lifting the new "I" beams in & the old bridge sections out.

SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2431 BNSF 7395 WB at MP34	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2432 unknown machine	SPIKE 9/02/20 - 2433 BNSF 7395 continues on to Victorville
# 2431: BNSF 7395 West approaches the construction area. BUT THE REAL QUESTION IS---WHAT IS THAT pictured GREEN "CRITTER"? --- (see # 2432 also). The best we could come up with is: "A TACO PRESS on STEROIDS"

New: 9/15/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 24
Marc & I made the circuit (BNSF bridges project, Oro Grande, SCLA, & Gray's Hill) again, last Tuesday. So, from the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement project (# 2434 - 2442). After leaving our Northern Photographic area, we drove COMPASS West toward SCLA, only to be stopped by BNSF rail traffic in Oro Grande, CA. Oro Grande is a small berg about two miles Railroad East of the Bridges Project---on the way to Barstow. Oro Grande is the home of the large TXI Cement Plant. (# 2443 - 2448) MF & GGG

MF 9/15/20 - 2434	MF 9/15/20 - 2435	MF 9/15/20 - 2436
# 2434 - 2436: Two of the Northern piers are "wrapped" with metal forms and are apparently ready for the pouring of concrete.

MF 9/15/20 - 2437	MF 9/15/20 - 2438	MF 9/15/20 - 2439
# 2437 - 2438: The existing (old) ROW evidently needs reinforcing. Rebar sheet mesh, Shotcrete, and horizontal drilling for "tieback anchors" are pictured.

MF 9/15/20 - 2440	MF 9/15/20 - 2441	MF 9/15/20 - 2442
# 2439 - 2442: On the Northern approach, there is still a mound of SOLID bedrock between the bridge project and the tie-in with the existing ROW. More holes for the explosive fracturing of said rock are being drilled.

MF 9/15/20 - 2443 BNSF 4646 West is stopped awaiting two higher priority West-bounds to run around.	MF 9/15/20 - 2444 The red-nosed unit is one of two diesels leased by TXI to switch their smallish rail-yard. TXI / PRLX 3878	MF 9/15/20 - 2445 BNSF 7903 West runs around BNSF 4646 West.

MF 9/15/20 - 2446 Note the relatively light & bolted TXI rail vs the BNSF Mainline rail.	MF 9/15/20 - 2447 Both TXI GP-38 lease units (PRLX 3878 & . . .	MF 9/15/20 - 2448 . . . HRSX 3008) back down to pick-up empty cement hoppers from the TXI yard.

New: 9/24/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 25
IMPORTANT: Pictures 2452 & 2453 are NOT of the current BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. They are added to answer several questions concerning the parts and general assembly of a poured in-place bridge. Pic 2452 is of the BNSF Ranchero RD (Hesperia, CA) Bridge Project completed in 2012. Pic 2453 is of some bridge, location unknown, that used 10 foot web "I" beams for deck support. Thurs was a very warm day with very heavy smoke from the multitude of CA fires. As you will note, train traffic was very heavy. MF & GGG

GGG 6/07/12 - 2452	GGG 9/24/20 - 2453	MF 9/24/20 - 2454
# 2454 - 2457: The four piers have been poured. The wooden deck will support the pouring of the pier cap. Atop the cap will rest the huge "I" beams which will support the bridge deck. See # 24520 & 24531.

MF 9/24/20 - 2455	MF 9/24/20 - 2456	MF 9/24/20 - 2457

MF 9/24/20 - 2458 UP 8556 East approaches the project area @ MP 34.1.	MF 9/24/20 - 2459 Reinforcement of the existing ROW is shown. Horizontal drilling, . . . .	MF 9/24/20 - 2460 . . . . insertion of HOLD-BACK rods and shot-crete placement continues.

MF 9/24/20 - 2461 Shows the approximate position of the future Northern abutment	MF 9/24/20 - 2462 BNSF 8151 WB @ MP 34.1 approaching . . .	MF 9/24/20 - 2463 . . . . & crossing the Mojave River.

MF 9/24/20 - 2464 From the Southern Photographic point. To the right of the bridges, this image shows the bedrock needing to be removed for the new ROW to be connected to the existing track.	MF 9/24/20 - 2465 Debris removal after the latest explosive fracturing.	MF 9/24/20 - 2466 BNSF 9299 is WB @ Mojave River

MF 9/24/20 - 2467 UP 8556 is EB crossing the Mojave River	MF 9/24/20 - 2468 Debris removal after the latest explosive fracturing	MF 9/24/20 - 2469 BNSF 9299 is WB @ Mojave River

New: 10/03/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 26
Howdy from the SMOKY & HOT California High Desert. There is visible progress to report on the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. MF & GGG

MF 10/03/20 - 2470 An overview of the entire project looking East toward Victorville.	MF 10/03/20 - 2471 The 'near middle of the bridge' piers cap rebar cage is complete and the wooden forms are being built.	MF 10/03/20 - 2472 The 'near middle of the bridge' piers cap rebar cage is complete and the wooden forms are being built.
OUR LATEST QUESTION: To the right of the Piers, the cap seems to be 'cantilevered' (2470 - 2472) and supported by thick wooden uprights. Why wasn't another concrete pier built to support the unsupported section?

MF 10/03/20 - 2473 The 'near middle of the bridge' piers cap rebar cage is complete and the wooden forms are being built.	MF 10/03/20 - 2474 BNSF 8015 East, with an absolutely filthy KCS 4005, crosses the Mojave River.	MF 10/03/20 - 2475 BNSF 8015 East, with an absolutely filthy KCS 4005, crosses the Mojave River.

MF 10/03/20 - 2476 BNSF 8015 East, with an absolutely filthy KCS 4005, crosses the Mojave River.	MF 10/03/20 - 2477 Construction Hieroglyphs -- must mean something to someone????	MF 10/03/20 - 2478 Shotcrete & 14 'HOLD-BACK' bolts have been installed to reinforce the existing ROW.

MF 10/03/20 - 2479 Cat hammer drill begins work on the Northern Abutment footings.	MF 10/03/20 - 2480 Cat hammer drill begins work on the Northern Abutment footings.	MF 10/03/20 - 2481 It appears there is still more blasting required - to reduce the bedrock down to the desired Northern approach ROW level.

MF 10/03/20 - 2482 It appears there is still more blasting required - to reduce the bedrock down to the desired Northern approach ROW level.	MF 10/03/20 - 2483 With southern CA Logistics Airport in the upper background and Rock Creek Nature Park to the left, BNSF 5409 + 6 leads the longest Ethanol train we've ever noted.	MF 10/03/20 - 2484 BNSF5409 W clears what we call the 'shelf' and heads onto the Mojave River bridge.

MF 10/03/20 - 2485 We are sure that Saturday's BOMB (ethanol) was at least two miles long.	MF 10/03/20 - 2486 We are sure that Saturday's BOMB (ethanol) was at least two miles long.	MF 10/03/20 - 2487 The three WORKING DPU's for BNSF 5409

New: 11/06/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 27
PROGRESS Last Friday (11/06/20) was a chilly and very windy day with some serious dust storms, as you'll see in some of our pictures. It has been a month since we visited the Bridge replacement project and the progress was very evident. MF & GGG

MF 11/06/20 - 2488	MF 11/06/20 - 2489	MF 11/06/20 - 2490
The attention catchers were the HUGE Manitowac crawler crane (# 2488), the finished near mid-span pier (# 2489), and the two (of 7) HUGE "I" BEAMS already spanning the Mighty Mojave River (# 2490).

MF 11/06/20 - 2491	MF 11/06/20 - 2492	MF 11/06/20 - 2493
The three above items are highlighted in # 2491 & # 2492, as UP 3041, with eight trailing diesels, approaches & crosses the old BNSF bridges. # 2493: Just how large the crane is, may be partially demonstrated by the twenty 10 ton counter weights stacked on its rear frame.

MF 11/06/20 - 2494	MF 11/06/20 - 2495	MF 11/06/20 - 2496
# 2494 & # 2495 show the two (of 7) "I" beams seated in their permanent positions on the Southern Abutment and the mid-span pier. # 2496: A comparison --- The worker is normal size & then, there's the 10 foot "I" beam.

MF 11/06/20 - 2497	MF 11/06/20 - 2498	MF 11/06/20 - 2499
# 2497: In both # 2496 & # 2497 notice the number of pre-drilled holes -- all are there for a reason, I'm learning. Also, note the riveted construction of the 100 year old existing (old) bridge. # 2497 also shows the 'cross members' which stabilize the beams. # 2498: Beam sections awaiting use. It is obvious that these sections are not long enough to span the River. So, "I" beam splicing is the answer.

MF 11/06/20 - 2500	MF 11/06/20 - 2501	MF 11/06/20 - 2502
# 2499 & 2500: All one must do is to drill 250 holes in each web of the two beams & 500 matching holes in two 2 inch thick steel plates. The flanges each get 120 holes and matching plates as shown. So, 740 one inch bolts later -- a longer and very strong beam. # 2501 & 2502: While we, your untrained construction observers, are trying to figure all this out, two BNSF East Bounds pass the site almost nose to tail.

MF 11/06/20 - 2503	MF 11/06/20 - 2504	MF 11/06/20 - 2505
# 2503:The beam section is removed from the flat bed and lowered to a flat area to await splicing. Note at the arrows, the beam and the splice plate(s) have already been drilled. The splice plate is temporally attached to one beam, but will moved and span both beams later in the splicing process. # 2504 - 2506: The next section of "I" beam is lifted off the flatbed and laid upon a flat area --- ready to be spliced.

MF 11/06/20 - 2506 (see text above)	MF 11/06/20 - 2507 Building of the Northern Abutment is well underway.	MF 11/06/20 - 2508 Building of the Northern Abutment is well underway.

MF 11/06/20 - 2509 Rebar and other supplies for the Northern Abutment are stockpiled.	MF 11/06/20 - 2510 BNSF 5222 West approaches the project area.	MF 11/06/20 - 2511 (see text below)
# 2511: More holes are being drilled for the explosive rock fracturing. The bedrock should be nearing the desired sub-roadbed level. The orange pre-built forms will be used in the construction of the Northern Abutment.

New: 11/12/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 28
We have been making almost daily trips to our Northern view point trying to photograph the huge Manitowoc MLC300 crane lift & place one of the huge bridge deck support beams. Maybe we'll be successful Monday??. GGG & MF

MF 11/12/20 - 2512 The crane & beam in question.	MF 11/12/20 - 2513 The crane & beam in question.	MF 11/12/20 - 2514 Four of seven beams, between the Southern Abutment & mid-span pier, are in place.

MF 11/12/20 - 2515 The entire construction scene.	MF 11/12/20 - 2516 UP 9095 is WB through the construction site.	MF 11/12/20 - 2517 " Construction progresses on the Northern Abutment "

MF 11/12/20 - 2518 Construction progresses on the Northern Abutment	MF 11/12/20 - 2519 The 'long reach' concrete pump & its setup.	MF 11/12/20 - 2520 The 'long reach' concrete pump & its setup.

MF 11/12/20 - 2521 The 'long reach' concrete pump & its setup.	MF 11/12/20 - 2522 Probable last bedrock explosive reduction site.	MF 11/12/20 - 2523 BNSF 3847 East passes through the construction area.

New: 11/23/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 30
# 2530: Looking SE down into Mojave River LOWER NARROWS. The ‘notch’ in the rock escarpment, near image mid-center, houses the UPPER NARROWS and BNSF Frost. The trees are in their full fall color on this very windy & dusty day. # 2531 - 2533: Despite our many trips to our Northern view point, Ames Construction was able to lift and place all seven HUGH beams, into place, without our direction?? or witnessing. GGG & MF

GGG 11/23/20 - 2530	MF 11/23/20 - 2531	MF 11/23/20 - 2532

MF 11/23/20 - 2533 See text above	MF 11/23/20 - 2534 A size comparison. Note the men standing atop the GIANT beams.	MF 11/23/20 - 2535 A size comparison. Note the men standing atop the GIANT beams.

MF 11/23/20 - 2536 Progress on the Northern Abutment. It appears that this Northern abutment will be a smaller copy of the Southern structure.	MF 11/23/20 - 2537 Progress on the Northern Abutment. It appears that this Northern abutment will be a smaller copy of the Southern structure.	MF 11/23/20 - 2538 BNSF 7661 continues EB with 33 y/o ATSF/BNSF Warbonnet 765 in the consist. The area, again, seems to be ready for explosive bedrock fracturing.

New: 11/30/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 31
# 2539: The huge Manitowoc crane has not seen much use in the last week. We noticed several workers around the machine but they were not preparing to lift anything. # 2540 - 2541: We got a clue as to future activity when a Road Mobile heavy crane and a fleet of heavy haul lowboy tractor trailers showed-up. It's Manotiwoc disassembly time.

MF 11/30/20 - 2539	MF 11/30/20 - 2540	GGG 11/30/20 - 2541
# 2542 - 2543: Disassembly began with the removal of some of the 10 ton counterweights. It appeared that each lowboy trailer would have one 10 ton counterweight loaded on the trailer 'goose-neck' leaving the long bed for the longer boom sections. This sequence allows maximum utilization of the trailers while keeping them below the highway weight limits.

MF 11/30/20 - 2542	GGG 11/30/20 - 2543	MF 11/30/20 - 2544
# 2544 - 2546: The main boom was lowered & rotated to facilitate removal of the main block (hook). On the net, there is an animation of the assembly of a similar Manitowoc MLC-300 crane. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wufZLSI10us
# 2547: This pole stood directly in the middle of any good shots of the first phases of the construction, causing Marc to scale the HUGE boulders for a decent image. We didn't do too badly for being armed only with a HAND SAW --- HE HE.

MF 11/30/20 - 2545	MF 11/30/20 - 2546	MF 11/30/20 - 2547

MF 11/30/20 - 2548 UP 7142 is EB with a long & heavy train. There are 5 units up front.	MF 11/30/20 - 2549 The concrete portion of the Northern Abutment is complete. The PRE-BUILT & BOLT TOGETHER forms are being removed and stored for a future project.	MF 11/30/20 - 2550 A good shot of the entire project. Interesting that ALL of this was needed to cross a tiny stream that is a trickle 99.99% of the time. Of course, it's the .01%, when this a REALLY ROARING River, that concerns everyone (Especially the BNSF).

New: 12/10/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 32
Marc & I made it back to the Bridge Replacement Project last Thursday (Dec. 10). MF & GGG # 2551-2553: The Northern Abutment has been finished and filled. The smaller & lighter beams between the near mid span pier & Northern Abutment have been placed by the same smaller crane, used to dismantle the HUGE Manotiwoc crane.

MF 12/10/20 - 2551	MF 12/10/20 - 2552	MF 12/10/20 - 2553
# 2554-2558: Three long rows of "steel concrete studs" are welded to each beam while the space between the beams is closed by welded "concrete pans". We were a bit surprised by the size of the generator needed for welding. If the previous Ranchero RD (Hesperia) BNSF Bridge building plan is followed, several horizontal layers of "sheet rebar" will be added to the Studs for added concrete strength. It appears that the finished concrete Bridge Deck will be, at least, 24 inches thick.

MF 12/10/20 - 2554	MF 12/10/20 - 2555	MF 12/10/20 - 2556

MF 12/10/20 - 2557	MF 12/10/20 - 2558	MF 12/10/20 - 2559
# 2559-2562: The steel concrete pans, used to fill the gap between beams, are cut to fit (11) and welded to the beams. This process, of course, is designed to provide a solid "floor" for the concrete pour.

MF 12/10/20 - 2560	MF 12/10/20 - 2561	MF 12/10/20 - 2562
While we trying to understand construction techniques, there was plenty of rail action.

MF 12/10/20 - 2563 BNSF 7948 East @ MP 34.2	MF 12/10/20 - 2564 BNSF 7827 & 3886 MEET -- Our first meet on or near the bridge project	MF 12/10/20 - 2565 Sperry Rail Services checking for rail defects

MF 12/10/20 - 2566 While Marc was climbing the rocks, I took a break from doing nothing	MF 12/10/20 - 2567 BNSF 3886 West toward the project	MF 12/10/20 - 2568 We have absolutely no idea why, after exploding all the base rock, AMES is digging a deep hole in the Northern approach????

New: 12/17/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 33
Last Thursday (Dec. 17) was another cloudy, windy & cool day in the High Desert. We made, what was intended to be a quick trip to the BNSF Bridge Replacement project. MF & GGG

MF 12/17/20 - 2569 BNSF 8049 + 5 East Bound greeted us	MF 12/17/20 - 2570 A picture of the bridge deck progress. The outside safety walkways & railings, the deck side concrete forms, and concrete pan placement have been completed. The welding of the steel concrete SPIKES is progressing and the rebar placement has begun.	MF 12/17/20 - 2571 What enticed us to stay longer was trying to figure out exactly what the gent in the foreground was doing??? At first, he appeared to be just poking the bridge with a long pole. (continued on next line below)
# 2572-2773: He would often visit a large box, remove a “sock of donuts” and load them on his work device pole. So, last evening, I set out to determine just what are the “donuts”, what is their function, and are they worth paying a worker to “play” with them. It seems that the “donuts” are actually called CERAMIC FERRULES and without them, this kind of welding is nearly impossible. They are heat resistant, focus the heat of welding, protect the operator, and retain the molten steel from flowing away. # 2574: The worker in question places a ferrule, via his work device, onto the “I” beam exactly where he wants the next spike welded (see arrows). Later, the welder loads a spike into his welding gun, places the nose of the loaded welding gun into the ferrule, and initiates a BOLT OF LIGHTENING. The worker at the far left breaks & removes what’s left of the ferrule.

MF 12/17/20 - 2572	MF 12/17/20 - 2573	MF 12/17/20 - 2574
# 2575-2577: A new (to us) hydraulic telescoping boom crane is being used to deliver different sizes, lengths & shapes of rebar for bridge deck fabrication.

MF 12/17/20 - 2575 New Crane	MF 12/17/20 - 2576 Rebar awaiting installation	MF 12/17/20 - 2577 Rebar delivery

MF 12/17/20 - 2578 BNSF 6665 East @ MP 34.3	MF 12/17/20 - 2579 Even more drilling for explosives used to lower the bedrock level to the desired sub-roadbed elevation.	MF 12/17/20 - 2580 A smaller backhoe is used to “dress” the Mighty Mojave Riverbed.

New: 12/30/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 34
Yesterday, 12-30 Marc & I, again, ventured out to the BNSF Bridges Project. Marc & GGG

MF 12/30/20 - 2581 BNSF 8362 leads a LONG empty ethanol EAST for a refill.	MF 12/30/20 - 2582 BNSF 8362 leads a LONG empty ethanol EAST for a refill.	MF 12/30/20 - 2583 Two looks at the layers of heavy rebar needed for a super-strong concrete deck.

MF 12/30/20 - 2584 Two looks at the layers of heavy rebar needed for a super-strong concrete deck.	MF 12/30/20 - 2585 see text below	MF 12/30/20 - 2586 see text below
# 2585 - 2589: Filling and "dressing" the areas under the Northern span of the new bridge and the sides of the Northern abutment. It's fun & interesting watching these huge machines work, in the hands of experienced operators. We wonder if they'll use some of the rock rubble to protect the piers from THE DESTRUCTIVE FORCES of MIGHTY MOJAVE RIVER?

MF 12/30/20 - 2587	MF 12/30/20 - 2588	MF 12/30/20 - 2589

MF 12/30/20 - 2590 BNSF 5076 West approaches the project	MF 12/30/20 - 2591 The last bedrock knoll needing EXPLOSIVE reduction to ROW level.	MF 12/30/20 - 2592 BNSF 8355 West @ MP 34

New: 1/15/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 36
Yesterday (15 Jan) was a beautiful day with no wind, perfect temperatures, airplanes, trains, a good friend, and capped-off with a huge McD's burger and a truck-load of fries. GGG & MF

GGG 1/15/21 - 2596 A brand new Boeing 787 (painted for American Airlines) was shooting landings at Southern California Logistics airport.	MF 1/15/21 - 2597 The bridge deck was poured last week and the deck side-rails were poured just before our arrival.	MF 1/15/21 - 2598 Note the huge pile of new ballast ready for use on the Southern approach.

MF 1/15/21 - 2599	MF 1/15/21 - 2600	MF 1/15/21 - 2601
# 2599 & 2600: BNSF 7129 & DPU's power an empty ballast train West through the site. In #04, note another large pile of new ballast ready for the Northern approach. #05 also shows rubble removal of the last rock mound impeding completion of the Northern approach. BTW, the pictured ballast train was not involved in this project. # 2601: BNSF 5794 East passes an area recently refilled to sub roadbed level. Evidently, BNSF wants their ballast to sit on dirt & not solid bedrock. Therefore, these areas were lowered to below sub-roadbed levels and then refilled with fresh dirt.

MF 1/15/21 - 2602	MF 1/15/21 - 2603	MF 1/15/21 - 2604
# 2602 - 2604: BNSF 7918 E & BNSF 6775 W meet at MP 34 causing a slight sensory overload of sight & sound.

New: 1/22/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 37
With HEAVY rain & some snow predicted for the coming week, Marc and I decided that a trip to the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement Project would be appropriate for last Friday 01-22-21. Although cool, windy and dark, train traffic was heavy. MF & GGG # 2605: Overview-The bridge is essentially finished except for the possible installation of safety railings atop the three foot wide deck side walls? # 2606: A small mountain of ballast has been stockpiled for the bridge and its approaches. Fourteen track panels have been delivered. BNSF uses wooden ties on bridges and switches because they provide better cushioning for the rail and are easier to replace - when necessary.

MF 1/22/21 - 2605 See text above	MF 1/22/21 - 2606 See text above	MF 1/22/21 - 2607 BNSF 7564 East approaches the area.

MF 1/22/21 - 2608 Using the "Bridge Walker", crews disassemble the two construction walkways	MF 1/22/21 - 2609 Using the "Bridge Walker", crews disassemble the two construction walkways	MF 1/22/21 - 2610 UP 2662 is West-bound through the area

MF 1/22/21 - 2611 Mid-train DPU 6763 of UP 2662 West-bound	MF 1/22/21 - 2612 See text below	MF 1/22/21 - 2613 See text below
# 2612 - 2614: The CAT Hammer Drill widens the Northern approach while the the Front End Loader collects the debris and piles it, to close the old construction ramp. The ramp was closed to prevent future 4-wheel traffic and to mitigate erosion.

MF 1/22/21 - 2614 See text above	MF 1/22/21 - 2615 The far northern approach appears to have been lowered to appropriate sub-roadbed levels	MF 1/22/21 - 2616 BNSF 7751 East @ MP 34.5

MF 1/22/21 - 2617 BNSF Track Geometry train is WB	MF 1/22/21 - 2618 A short (10 cars) BNSF Tie train is WB @ MP 34.5	MF 1/22/21 - 2619 The BNSF Tie train meets UP 5649 East @ MP 34.5

New: 2/07/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 38
Last Sunday (Feb 7) was a nice day at the project however, only ONE train transited the area during our ninety minute visit. MF & GGG In # 2620, notice the near three inch thick layer of sub-roadbed (cushioning & waterproofing???), applied to the concrete bridge deck.

MF 2/07/21 - 2620 UP 3086 with mid-train DPU UP 9000 is WB.	MF 2/07/21 - 2621 UP 3086 with mid-train DPU UP 9000 is WB.	MF 2/07/21 - 2622 A closeup of the sub roadbed material mentioned above.

MF 2/07/21 - 2623 It appears that the near mid-span pier was built wide enough to support a future third main track across the Mojave River??	MF 2/07/21 - 2624 The OLD construction ramp has been "walled off" with boulders to prevent four wheeler access and to mitigate storm runoff. In the upper left, above the ballast piles, the track panels have been wrapped in plastic????	MF 2/07/21 - 2625 The Northern approach sub-roadbed is near completion.
		GGG 2/07/21 - 2628
MF 2/07/21 - 2626 Here, the Northern approach sub-roadbed indicates where the new track will intercept the existing ROW.	MF 2/07/21 - 2627 Shows how much solid rock was explosively fractured and removed. The highest point is now about 20 feet high & the rock slope, at one time, reached over to the existing ROW.	Several have ask why the Southern Abutment & the near mid-span Pier structures were not built perpendicular to the orientation of the bridge. I found this 'newer' Google Earth (10-02-20) image of the project area and it shows that the architects / designers had to follow the River banks - where they could find solid bedrock to anchor the structures.

New: 2/12/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 39
IT WON'T BE LONG NOW! After a cold, wet & very WINDY early AM, Marc & I hit the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Project. - MF & GGG # 2630: Using one relatively small dump & two larger trucks, ballast is delivered to the site. Watching the speed of the "round-robin" delivery, WE THINK that CEMEX is mining and sizing the ballast at their mine (thirteen miles northeast) and delivering it via their private RR. Again, WE THINK that CEMEX drops the ballast near their Victorville plant, where it is loaded onto the dumps and brought to the site (an approximately one mile trip).

GGG 2/12/21 - 2629 UP 5861 rolls EB through the construction area	MF 2/12/21 - 2630 see text above	MF 2/12/21 - 2631 Two pictures of the new bridge with its first layer of ballast.

MF 2/12/21 - 2632 Two pictures of the new bridge with its first layer of ballast.	MF 2/12/21 - 2633 BNSF 6424 East passes the front loader & roller spreading ballast on the Southern approach.	MF 2/12/21 - 2634 The Northern junction where the new ROW (lower front) will accept the existing tracks. Note the difference in levels of the existing main lines and the two sets of "free rails" awaiting use.

New: 2/19/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 40
Friday, Feb 19, was a really great day -- weather & railroading wise. GGG & MF # 3635-2638: Crews have started laying panel track on the new bridge. Remember that the BNSF uses wood ties on bridges and switches. We THINK that the bolted rail on the wood ties, will be replaced with the welded "ribbon rail" laying beside the panels. Concrete tie placement has begun at the far end of the panel track. Additional infos from Paul Westover (UPRR MOW) to the above paragraph: I thought I'd add a side note....the wood ties which are longer on each end of the bridge with the "pigtail" clips (pandrol "E" clips) are known as transition ties and are used to transition from concrete tie track to wood tie track.....I'm not sure but I believe it's something to do with the harmonics of concrete to wood with the train traffic......just thought I'd add that as I'm sure some have noticed the difference between the concrete ties and the wood ties......UP uses special concrete ties on top of bridges with a rubber pad which is adhered to the bottom of the tie from the manufacturer......they also have a slightly different cross section as well as a black painted diamond upon the tops of them which denote their special use. ... thank you, Paul, GGG

MF 2/19/21 - 2635	MF 2/19/21 - 2636	MF 2/19/21 - 2637 Longer wood ties on Bridge

MF 2/19/21 - 2638 Bridge is ready for the second track.	MF 2/19/21 - 2639 UP 7058 leads a light engine move EB.	MF 2/19/21 - 2640 UP 7058 leads a light engine move EB to meet BNSF 7004 WB.

MF 2/19/21 - 2641 UP 7058 EB is meeting BNSF 7004 WB.	MF 2/19/21 - 2642 BNSF 7004 WB just passed UP EB engines.	MF 2/19/21 - 2643 BNSF 7004 WB passing the constuction site.

MF 2/19/21 - 2644 Something SELDOM SEEN -- a brand new & clean auto rack	MF 2/19/21 - 2645 Two views of the Northern Approach with ballast, concrete ties & "ribbon rail" awaiting use on the new #2 track.	MF 2/19/21 - 2646 Two views of the Northern Approach with ballast, concrete ties & "ribbon rail" awaiting use on the new #2 track.

MF 2/19/21 - 2647 On the way home, while crossing the Mojave Northern / CEMEX track, we noticed locomotive #419 headed South.	MF 2/19/21 - 2648 On the way home, while crossing the Mojave Northern / CEMEX track, we noticed locomotive #419 headed South.	MF 2/19/21 - 2649 With the San Gabriel Mountains in the background CEMEX 419 starts to descend the 4% grade into the Victor Valley.
After a bit of research: MN / CEMEX 419 was built in 1978 as a UP SD-40-2. It was rebuilt by Knoxville Locomotive and delivered to CEMEX in 2018 as a SE32C Tier-4 (3200 HP).

New: 3/05/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 41
Friday, March 5, was a great day to chase trains & explore the Mojave. The new BNSF rail bridge is finished. Train traffic was heavy due to the reopening of the Trans-Con, after a 40+ car derailment closed both mains near Ludlow, CA (about 50 miles East of Barstow). We saw several newer T-4 units including the three new Progress Rail (EMD) demo units which, unfortunately, went through just as we arrived. GGG & MF # 2650-2651: Overview of the Bridge with new safety railings and what appears to be an inspection ladder installed on the far side (see 2651). Track #2 is in-place and three pieces of 'track finishing equipment' can be seen in the background.

MF 3/05/21 - 2650 Overview of the Bridge w/Track #2 in-place	MF 3/05/21 - 2651 inspection ladder installed on the far side	MF 3/05/21 - 2652 The Northern Approach with the new main track #2 leading to the connection point.

MF 3/05/21 - 2653 BNSF 3694 is WB into the construction area. The boulders (lower right) were evidently placed to prevent Mojave four wheeler explorers from meeting the sudden 10 foot drop to track level.	MF 3/05/21 - 2654 BNSF 6748 EB intermodal @ MP 34.	MF 3/05/21 - 2655 UP 2582 w/all AutoRack is West Bound.

MF 3/05/21 - 2656 UP 6598 DPU WB for UP 2582.	MF 3/05/21 - 2657 BNSF 6766 is WB w/all AutoRacks.	MF 3/05/21 - 2658 BNSF 7892 DPU WB for BNSF 6766.

New: 3/15/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 42
March 15 was a COLD and SUPER WINDY day on the Mojave. We ventured out to the Bridge Project where Marc ran into two BNSF Officers who informed him that Main Track #2 will be "cut-over", to the new bridge track, next Sunday (3-21). Main Track #1 will be cut-over on 15 April. Would you believe that we will attend both "EVENTS"? MF & GGG

MF 3/15/21 - 2659 Bridge Main Track #2 will be the first to be put into service and is being "dressed". The new Main track #1 is in place, but buried under ballast.	MF 3/15/21 - 2660 UP 5568 East approaches the construction area.	MF 3/15/21 - 2661 UP 5568 East clears the construction area. at MP 34
# 2663-2664: The routine is: A layer of ballast is applied to the new rail & existing ballast. The Brand New HARSCO 6700SJ2 tamper clamps onto the rails and lifts the rails & their attached ties. The ballast is shaped and vibrated into position under the, now higher, rails and ties.

MF 3/15/21 - 2662 BNSF 7425 is WB @ MP 34	MF 3/15/21 - 2663 A layer of ballast is applied	MF 3/15/21 - 2664 Brand New HARSCO 6700SJ2 tamper

MF 3/15/21 - 2665 BNSF 5916 is EB at the site MP 34	MF 3/15/21 - 2666 BNSF 5817 DPU's are EB at the site	MF 3/15/21 - 2667 The Northern "cut-in" area is pictured.

New: 3/21/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 43
Sunday (3/21) was "cut-over " (track connecting) day at the BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT. However we went to the Bridges Project in the AM and were told that the actual cut-over would occur sometime around 2000 (8:00 PM). So, we settled for the flurry of work preceding the actual track connections. MF & GGG # 2668: I've always wanted to get a picture illustrating the lengths Marc will go to for THAT picture. Too bad, but he had my camera & I was left with a PRE-Historic (as in REALLY OLD) CELL PHONE. That boulder has to be 20+ feet tall and is rounded & slick. However, Marc can get pictures as in photos # 2669-2672.

GGG 3/21/21 - 2668 Marc on top of the rock formation to get those pics # 2669-2672. See description above.	MF 3/21/21 - 2669 Marc gets me photographing him with my Stone-age cell phone.	MF 3/21/21 - 2670 From Marc's Boulder - facing West, the Rt 66 Bridge, Power Plants at SoCal Logistics Airport, and a WB BNSF 7186 leaving Oro Grande can be seen.

MF 3/21/21 - 2671 BNSF 7186 West emerges from the 'shelf' and heads toward the project.	MF 3/21/21 - 2672 Bridge Overview---BTW, a BNSF official told us that that those huge "I" beams weighed 214,000 pounds each.	MF 3/21/21 - 2673 Two pics of the NORTH END connecting (tie-in) of Old & New portions of MAIN TRACK #2.

MF 3/21/21 - 2674 Two pics of the NORTH END connecting (tie-in) of Old & New portions of MAIN TRACK #2.	MF 3/21/21 - 2675 OLD Main Track #2 was cut into 30+ foot sections for removal.	MF 3/21/21 - 2676 UP 8979 is EB through the area. The white marks on OLD MT #2 indicate where track is to be cut.

MF 3/21/21 - 2677 BNSF 4308 is EB through the construction area.	MF 3/21/21 - 2678 On the way to our Southern Photo area, we spotted CEMEX 415 SB to their Victorville facility with a WB BNSF on the main.	MF 3/21/21 - 2679 BNSF 5610 is WB

MF 3/21/21 - 2680 Removal of 30+ foot sections of the OLD #2 track.	MF 3/21/21 - 2681 The removed sections of OLD #2 track are stacked off the ROW.	MF 3/21/21 - 2682 The Southern connection of the new & old track sections are being bolted together.

MF 3/21/21 - 2683 The Southern connection of the new & old track sections are being bolted together.	MF 3/21/21 - 2684 The Southern connection of the new & old track sections are being bolted together.	MF 3/21/21 - 2685 The ballast tamper & regulator are busy 'dressing' the new connections & track.

New: 4/06/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 45
In Jan 2020, BNSF & Ames Construction began a project to replace the two railroad bridges that cross the Mojave River at MP 34.1 on the Cajon Sub - between Oro Grande & E. Victorville. The new bridge is open for rail traffic & the two older bridges, built in 1914 & 1921, are now trackless and awaiting recycling.

MF 1/11/20 - 2689 BNSF 7968 is WB on 11 Jan 2020 at project beginning - A scene NEVER to be repeated !!	MF 4/06/21 - 2690 BNSF 6500 is WB over the new bridge on Main #1 04-06-21	MF 4/06/21 - 2691 BNSF 5893 is EB over the new bridge on Main #2 04-06-21

MF 4/06/21 - 2692 An overview of all three bridges	MF 4/06/21 - 2693 The old & trackless bridges awaiting demolition & recycling	MF 4/06/21 - 2694 Scraping the ballast from the old bridges. We were told that Ames Construction was required to erect a net under the old bridges to prevent any ballast from falling into the River (trickle).

MF 4/06/21 - 2695 One of four areas where the existing ROW was bolted (cut-in) to the new bridge tracks. After track "destressing" and the passage of a specific tonnage of trains, these areas will be welded. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rail_stressing	MF 4/06/21 - 2696 BNSF 3920 EB MP 34.4	MF 4/06/21 - 2697 BNSF 6573 WB MP 34.1
Next will be pictures of the removal and demolition of the old bridges. From what we are told, a Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) will be placed on the Temporary Construction bridge. One OLD bridge will then be laterally moved onto the SPMT and then the huge load will be moved AWAY from the overhead 500KV power lines. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-propelled_modular_transporter Should be worth the price of admission. - GGG & MF

New: 4/09/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 46
With the new BNSF Mojave River Bridge finished and in service, the moving & demolition of the OLD BNSF Mojave River bridges will be the FINAL part of the project. This last phase has hatched several "WHY, HOW, & WHERE questions. The old bridges must be moved since NOTHING from the demolition may be introduced into The MIGHTY MOJAVE RIVER. Also, there is an imminent electrical hazard from the 500KV transmission lines directly above the project area. The demolition will be easier & safer with the old bridges on solid ground and well away from the active mainline. So, the following is a combo of 'what we've been told' and what we have 'concluded'. # 2698 & 2699: When the project was first begun, two tall poles were erected (one on each side of the river), with thoughts that they would support bridge removal. When the crews attempted to attach guy cables, electrical ARCING from the power lines was encountered. This ARCING problem also eliminates use of the HUGE MANITOWOC crane to remove the bridge(s), since its boom would be near vertical in order to support bridge weight. The poles and the transmission lines can be seen, at the ARROWS, in # 2698 & 2699. # 2700: An edited GOOGLE showing the bridge moving sequence. A Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) will be positioned on the temporary construction bridge (B) and the old main #1 bridge (A) will be hydraulically moved to sit upon it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-propelled_modular_transporter The crawler (with bridge) will then move to a position near (C). Obviously, the process will be repeated for the second bridge. The area near (C) is away from the River, safely positioned between the transmission lines???, on solid ground, and allows plenty of room for demolition equipment. More when the cutting torches get to work. GGG & MF

MF 4/06/21 - 2698	GGG 4/06/21 - 2699	GGG 4/06/21 - 2700

New: 4/23/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 47
Marc & I visited the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement Project this AM. Marc ran into a BNSF Structures gent who, among other things, told us that the OLD bridges will be moved to their recycling position on 5 & 6 May. Guess where we’ll be ???? - MF & GGG # 2701: As sent before --- An edited GOOGLE showing the bridge moving sequence. A Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) will be positioned on the temporary construction bridge (B) and the old main #1 bridge (A) will be hydraulically moved to sit upon it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-propelled_modular_transporter The crawler (with bridge) will then move to a position near (C). Obviously, the process will be repeated for the second bridge. The area near (C) is away from the River, safely positioned between the transmission lines ???, on solid ground, and allows plenty of room for demolition equipment.

GGG 4/23/21 - 2701 See describtion above.	MF 4/23/21 - 2702 A ground view of the above described move of the old bridge(s).	MF 4/23/21 - 2703 UP 8207 + 8 is EB with a 2 mile long train of empty hoppers.

MF 4/23/21 - 2704 Two views of the deckless bridge skeletons. Workers were below the deck probably detaching the bridges from their abutments.	MF 4/23/21 - 2705 Two views of the deckless bridge skeletons. Workers were below the deck probably detaching the bridges from their abutments.	MF 4/23/21 - 2706 BNSF 8256 is EB with another heavy train.

New: 5/06/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 49
May 6th found Marc & I on the Rt. 66 (Southern) side of the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Replacement Project with expectations that Barnhart Crane & Rigging Corp would be moving the OLD Bridges to their demolition positions. Marc returned on 7 May to photograph the progress: See # 2723-2724

MF 5/06/21 - 2710 BNSF 6826 + 4 roar across the new bridge with a long stack train.	MF 5/06/21 - 2711 The two crawler sets, support beams and moving machinery are all in place . . .	MF 5/06/21 - 2712 . . to move the OLD track #1 bridge into position above the crawlers.

MF 5/06/21 - 2713 One set of "hydraulic rams and slide shoes" is bolted to the notched "I" beam and ready to move the bridge.	MF 5/06/21 - 2714 BNSF 7362 +9 Light Power move is WB @ MP 34.1	MF 5/06/21 - 2715 show the progressive movements of the bridge to its desired position above the crawlers.
# 2715-2719: show the progressive movements of the bridge to its desired position above the crawlers.

MF 5/06/21 - 2716	MF 5/06/21 - 2717	MF 5/06/21 - 2718

MF 5/06/21 - 2719	MF 5/06/21 - 2720 BNSF 609 & DPU's propel a monster stack train toward L.A.	MF 5/06/21 - 2721 BNSF 609 & DPU's propel a monster stack train toward L.A.

MF 5/06/21 - 2722 After we left the area on 6 May, the crew moved the bridge up the ramp, over to the right and then backed it into its demolition position.	MF 5/07/21 - 2723 BNSF 4072 is WB. Cement blocks have been placed under the old track #1 bridge to begin building its demolition supports.	MF 5/07/21 - 2724 Also note that the bridge is positioned between the 500KW power lines so that a boom crane may safely be used during demo.

New: 5/13/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 50
We visited the BNSF Mojave River Bridge project last Thursday. The demolition of the old #2 Main Line bridge was well underway. The driving and most limiting factor is the mitigation of any chance of contamination of the River or the atmosphere by lead, from the layers of lead based paint covering the bridges. The weight of the first bridge moved was 526,000 pounds according to scales on-board the modular crawler. Old #2 mainline bridge is estimated to weigh 660,000 pounds. I checked the prices of scrap steel ($211.00/ton) and iron $218.00/ton). The scrap value of both bridges is somewhat more than $124,000 -- No one will get rich from the scrap. Marc found out that EACH & EVERY piece of steel/iron, removed from the bridges, must be soaked in a solution to remove the lead based paint - BEFORE any other recycling processes can begin. MF & GGG

MF 5/13/21 - 2725 The area to be torched is "painted" with the white lead based paint stripper and allowed to sit for 24 hours before application of the adhesive red & white paper.	MF 5/13/21 - 2726 The area to be torched is "painted" with the white lead based paint stripper and allowed to sit for 24 hours before application of the adhesive red & white paper.	MF 5/13/21 - 2727 After removal of the red & white adhesive paper & the stripper containing the lead, the area may be torched. Notice the areas designated for future cutting & the personal protective garment worn by the operator.

GGG 5/13/21 - 2728 Our photographer, Marc is always climbing and looking for the best photographic spot.	MF 5/13/21 - 2729 Cutting and lowering the beam pieces into the reclamation bins.	MF 5/13/21 - 2730 Cutting and lowering the beam pieces into the reclamation bins.

MF 5/13/21 - 2731 Cutting and lowering the beam pieces into the reclamation bins.	MF 5/13/21 - 2732 The working end of the CAT SCRAP & DEMOLITION SHEAR	MF 5/13/21 - 2733 BNSF 4269 WB @ MP 34.1

MF 5/13/21 - 2734 Cross bracing being removed	MF 5/13/21 - 2735 Acetylene torch cutting	MF 5/13/21 - 2736 A "BOX BEAM" end - after its meeting with the SCRAP & DEMOLITION SHEAR

New: 5/15/21 to 5/18/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 51
Last week, Marc made two solo trips to the construction site. The OLD Main Track #1 bridge is ALMOST gone.

MF 5/15/21 - 2737 Closeup of the crawler - ready to move Old Mainline #2 bridge.	MF 5/15/21 - 2738 Closeup of the Hydraulic Ram and slide shoe - ready to move Old Mainline #2 bridge.	MF 5/15/21 - 2739 The deck of Old Mainline #01 bridge. The bridge deck crossbeams are being removed using the CAT SCRAP & DEMOLITION SHEAR.

MF 5/15/21 - 2740 The deck of Old Mainline #01 bridge. The bridge deck crossbeams are being removed using the CAT SCRAP & DEMOLITION SHEAR.	MF 5/15/21 - 2741 The deck of Old Mainline #01 bridge. The bridge deck crossbeams are being removed using the CAT SCRAP & DEMOLITION SHEAR.	MF 5/18/21 - 2742 The small heap of twisted metal, under the Hyundai arm, is all that's left of the Old Mainline #1 bridge on 05-18.

New: 5/20/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 52
Our Thursday (May 20) visit to the Bridge project was very fruitful. Marc introduced himself to Mark Biloki, who, it turns out, is the Ames Corp Project Manager for the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. Mark was very helpful in answering our many questions and even found some bridge artifacts for our collections. He informed us that the OLD Mainline #2 bridge, which Barnhart was about to move, actually weighed 840,000 pounds. By the end of next week, all remnants of the old bridges should be removed - leaving three minor projects. The temporary construction bridge must be removed along with the existing two abutments for the OLD main #1 bridge. The existing abutments for OLD bridge #2 will remain for a future new third mainline --- if & when. Site Cleanup will finish the project. We will follow 'till the end 'cause we're out of projects to follow. # 2743-2745: show the remains of the OLD #1 Bridge. It took less than two weeks to move and demolish the bridge. The holdup is that the bins can be filled much faster than they can be moved to the recycler, while observing highway load limits. The scrap & demolition shear is a fearsome looking machine up close.

MF 5/20/21 - 2743 (see above)	MF 5/20/21 - 2744 (see above)	MF 5/20/21 - 2745 (see above)

MF 5/20/21 - 2746 The lead crawler is in position to receive OLD mainline #2 bridge.	MF 5/20/21 - 2747 BNSF 7164 is WB @ MP 34	MF 5/20/21 - 2748 The bridge is sitting on the slide shoe of the transfer beam and the hydraulic ram is compressed-ready for action.

MF 5/20/21 - 2749 The hydraulic ram is shown extended after a movement stroke.	MF 5/20/21 - 2750 Lubrication of transfer surfaces	MF 5/20/21 - 2751 The pressure hoses must be protected

MF 5/20/21 - 2752 Bridge is sitting on the transfer beam-moving left to above the crawlers	MF 5/20/21 - 2753 Bridge is above crawler (BNSF 8225 WB is passing the site)	MF 5/20/21 - 2754 Crawler assumes bridge weight of 840,000 pounds

MF 5/20/21 - 2755 UP 3078 is WB @ MP 34	MF 5/20/21 - 2756 Bridge ready to move up ramp after steel beams & wood cribbing are removed	MF 5/20/21 - 2757 BNSF 8225 WB @ MP 34.1 (second unit still in "Santa Fe" lettering).

MF 5/20/21 - 2758 BNSF 7009 DPU for BNSF 8225 WB @ MP 34.1	MF 5/20/21 - 2759 Steel beams & wood cribbing are being removed	MF 5/20/21 - 2760 Transfer Beam, Hydraulic Ram & Slip shoe removed (huge graffity on Auto Rack)

New: 5/27/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 53
#2761-62: As mentioned last report, our new Ames Construction friend 'liberated' a few pieces of the OLD Main #1 bridge for our collections. Pictured are of a piece of angle iron nine inches long & weighting twenty pounds and a few rivets.

MF 5/27/21 - 2761 see above	MF 5/27/21 - 2762 see above	MF 5/27/21 - 2763 BNSF 4430 is EB & switching tracks at East Victorville.

MF 5/27/21 - 2764 There has been little progress in the demolition of OLD bridge #2 due to crane operator availability. However, the bridge has been moved and is now sitting on steel pipe & wooden supports. The crawlers are no longer on site.	MF 5/27/21 - 2765 BNSF 6437 is WB though the area.	MF 5/27/21 - 2766 Workers treating the places to be cut, with the chemical which will protect us all from the lead based paint contaminated water & air ??? The bridge demolition, with full crews, will resume next week.

New: 6/10/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 56
Friday was an interesting day at the Bridges Project. Rail traffic was very heavy. Construction work centered on demolition of the OLD Main Track #2 bridge and removal of the abutments of OLD Main Track #1. The abutments for OLD Main Track #2 will be retained for any future Main Track #3 construction. The OFFICIAL date for project completion is 20 AUG 2021. - GGG & MF

MF 6/10/21 - 2773 BNSF 7234 East passes the CEMEX cement plant @ E. Victorville.	MF 6/10/21 - 2774 BNSF 7234 East passes the CEMEX cement plant @ E. Victorville.	MF 6/10/21 - 2775 Same train passes what's left of the OLD Main #2 bridge.

MF 6/10/21 - 2776 The bridge was built in eight sections. Two sections have been removed and moved to the left to facilitate further . . .	MF 6/10/21 - 2777 . . . cutting at ground level. Cutting has been slowed due to the increased (up to 3 inches) thickness of the steel.	MF 6/10/21 - 2778 BNSF 8106 West passes the area heading toward Victorville.

MF 6/10/21 - 2779 BNSF 8106 West passes the area heading toward Victorville.	MF 6/10/21 - 2780 Yuri Lopez, BNSF Project Manager, showed us two 'rescued' pieces of the bridge which were raised lettered "ILLINOIS STEEL". Illinois Steel Company - Wikipedia	MF 6/10/21 - 2781 BNSF 6421 East heads toward the new BNSF Mojave River bridge at MP 34.3.

New: 6/19/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 57
Sat, 06-19, was a HIGHLIGHTS day. Marc & I left early to beat the Mojave HEAT of 107F. We visited the BNSF Mojave River Bridges Project, the Kemper Campbell Ranch (Frost), and Greentree Rd Extension Project (The Demise of Gray's Hill). GGG & MF

MF 6/19/21 - 2782 The Mojave River Bridges Project is winding down. The OLD mainline bridges once stood between the "K" rails and the "Cat" backhoe in the upper middle of the picture.	MF 6/19/21 - 2783 The few remaining tons of the the OLD Main Track #2 bridge awaiting removal.	MF 6/19/21 - 2784 The few remaining tons of the the OLD Main Track #2 bridge awaiting removal.

MF 6/19/21 - 2785 It appears that the Temporary Construction Bridge is being dismantled however that effort will leave the Cat backhoe "trapped" on the far-side oh the river???? There is a way out if they want the Cat to cross the tracks. Notice that the graffiti criminals have 'found' a new canvas.	MF 6/19/21 - 2786 The PROBABLE?? route of a FUTURE?? third Main Line Bridge. Note that the Northern Pier for the NEW bridge was "overbuilt". Of course, two new abutments would be required.	MF 6/19/21 - 2787 OLD Main #2 abutment has been removed & OLD Main #1 abutment is being lowered or removed?

New: 7/19/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 59
THE BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT IS COMPLETE Therefore, our documentation of the OLD bridges demolition and NEW bridge construction is also complete. Special credit and thanks to Marc Fournier for all of the rock climbing and snake dodging he endured to gather well over the one thousand images presented here. Without his skill & determination, this presentation would not have happened. Our thanks to Mark Biloki, Ames Construction Co. Project Manager, and Yuri Lopez, BNSF Project Manager for sharing their knowledge and expertise. Gary G Gray

GGG 1/20/15 "old" Bridge at MP 34.1 - 2791

Gorden Glattenberg Feb 1955 AT&SF 3759 - 2792	MF 7/19/21 New Bridge at MP 34.1 - 2793

Cajon 1 with 2006 photos - click here	Cajon 2 with 2007 photos - click here	Cajon 3 with 2008 photos - click here
Cajon 4 with 2009 photos - click here	Cajon 5 with 2010 photos - click here	Cajon 6 with 2011 photos - click here
Cajon 7 with 2012 photos - click here	Cajon 8 with 2013 photos - click here	Cajon 9 with 2014 photos - click here
Cajon 10 with 2015 photos - click here	Cajon 11 with 2016 photos - click here	Cajon 12 with 2017 photos - click here
Cajon 13 with 2018 photos - click here	Cajon 14 with 2019 photos - click here	Cajon 15 with 2020 photos - click here
Cajon 16 with 2021 photos - click here	Cajon 17 future	Cajon 18 future
History of Hill 582 photos - click here	Ranchero Road Project - click here	Colton Flyover Project - click here
Highway 138 East Project - click here	Mojave River Bridges - click here	Green Tree Blvd. Project - click here

New: 11/16/20 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 29
Not much bridge progress to report on 11-16. However, on our way home we did catch the ever-elusive Mojave Northern (CEMEX) morning train, headed North to the mine. GGG & MF # 2524 - 2527: The train was powered by CEMX 416 -- SD60 BLT 10-86 EX-CEMX 2125- UP 2125 & CNW 8051 and had ten open and two covered cement hoppers.

MF 11/20/20 - 2524 CEMX SD60 (ex. UP/C&NW)	MF 11/20/20 - 2525 CEMX SD60 pulling cement hoppers	MF 11/20/20 - 2526 CEMX SD60 pulling cement hoppers

MF 11/20/20 - 2527 End of Mojave Northern morning train.	MF 11/20/20 - 2528 With proper safety equipment, worker wires rebar cage for Northern Abutment.	MF 11/20/20 - 2529 Forms / rebar progress on Northern Abutment

New: 1/08/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 35
While Marc is camping down near the Salton Sea, Laura & I decided to visit the BNSF Mojave River Bridge Replacement Project. There was very little activity at the site. GGG & LMG # 2593 - 2594: I think that the first concrete deck pour must have occurred last week. The plastic tarp is usually applied to freshly poured concrete to protect the surface and to retard the chemical curing reaction. # 2595: Wood and portable forms have been stockpiled. It appears that they will be used to "form-up" the side walls of the deck. Amazingly, there was no railroad activity in the hour we spent there.

GGG 1/08/21 - 2593	GGG 1/08/21 - 2594	LMG 1/08/21 - 2595

Tuesday (3/23): NO BIG DEAL, but here is MY FIRST train over the new BNSF Mojave River Bridge @ MP 34.1 of the Cajon Sub ---- DRUM ROLL PLEASE. GGG

GGG 3/23/21 - 2686 UP 8962 - A very long & heavy coal loads is WB on old MT-1 @ MP 34	GGG 3/23/21 - 2687 UP 8109 and 8245 DPU's (nose-to-nose) for this coal train are WB on old MT-1 @ MP 34	GGG 3/23/21 - 2688 BNSF 4007 is EB, at track speed, on the NEW Main Track #2 of the NEW BNSF Mojave River Bridge.

New: 5/05/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 48
We had been told that the OLD BNSF Mojave River Bridges were to be moved today but, the crew was still assembling the Modular Crawlers. So, here are three of the scene today. MF & GGG # 2701: Now, we're told that TOMORROW the two Modular Crawler sections will be spotted on or at the ends of the Temporary Construction Bridge (far left). OLD bridge #1 will be moved left, to rest upon the crawlers. The entire assembly will then be moved to the dirt area in the foreground for bridge torching.

MF 5/05/21 - 2707 See describtion above.	MF 5/05/21 - 2708 Additional equipment for the crawlers.	MF 5/05/21 - 2709 BNSF 4003 WB passes the area at restricted speed.

New: 6/04/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 54
We made a quick and VERY HOT (100F+) trip to the BNSF Mojave River Bridges project Friday AM. MF & GGG # 2767 - 2769: The OLD #2 mainline bridge superstructure is 50% demolished.

MF 6/04/21 - 2767 (see above)	MF 6/04/21 - 2768 (see above)	MF 6/04/21 - 2769 (see above)

MF 6/04/21 - 2770 The 5+ hour late AMTRAK #3 passed WB through the project area.	MF 6/04/21 - 2771 A long & heavy BNSF EB manifest passes the area.	MF 6/04/21 - 2772 A view of what's left of the OLD Main Track #2 bridge.

New: 7/03/21 BNSF MOJAVE RIVER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Part 58
Finishing touches & cleanup activities continue at the BNSF Mojave River Replacement Project. Speed limits have been raised to P-50 & F-45. GGG & MF

GGG 7/03/21 - 2788 Only two large pieces of OLD Bridge #2 remain. The "I" beams are from the temporary construction bridge which is being dismantled.	MF 7/03/21 - 2789 The standing remains of the temporary construction bridge. We have been told the the concrete footings for this temporary bridge will left in-place for any future 3rd main track construction.	MF 7/03/21 - 2790 Standing on the OLD #2 mainline bridge Southern abutment showing the "overbuilt" near mid-span pier, both of which will support any future bridge building.