Digital Transformation Fast-Tracks Success for Arcadis Rail

• 7 March 2026
• Construction Focus
• 219 Views

Arcadis, a global leader in infrastructure, is proving that the secret to massive railway projects isn’t just heavy machinery—it’s the digital tools and the people who master them.

Andrew Germain, Associate Technical Director at Arcadis, recently shared how the division is using advanced 3D software to overhaul the UK’s rail network. By moving away from traditional 2D paper drawings and embracing “Digital Twins” and 3D modeling, the team is catching errors before a single brick is laid.

The shift to digital engineering isn’t just about flashy visuals; it’s about the bottom line. On one project alone, the team identified and fixed over 26,000 “clashes” (design overlaps) digitally, preventing incredibly expensive mistakes during construction.

Besides, using animation tools to simulate a train driver’s view has eliminated the need for physical site visits in 90% of cases, significantly reducing staff risk and track closures. In addition, tools like MicroStation have turned tasks that once took weeks into just a few days of work.

The power of this digital-first approach is currently on display at the Cambridge South Infrastructure Enhancement Project. Set to open in early 2026, the project includes three miles of track upgrades and a brand-new station.

By 2043, the station is expected to serve 2.4 million commuters annually and remove over 1,100 car trips from the road every single day.

For Germain, the “Engineering Clarity” mission is as much about people as it is about programs. A veteran who started his journey in 1992, Germain now focuses heavily on mentoring the next generation of engineers and apprentices.

• Bentley
• Digital Twin
• MicroStation
• Bentley Systems
• OpenRail
• Railroad