Urban

Archaeology in the big city! Many people believe that archaeological digs occur mainly in pristine, remote locations or small historic towns. Not so! AECOM has undertaken major archaeological excavations within many of the Mid-Atlantic’s largest metropolitan centers. From New York City to Boston and Philadelphia to Baltimore, AECOM archaeologists are comfortable working in urban landscapes and are highly experienced in dealing with the complicated challenges these settings can present. In addition to seamlessly coordinating the efforts of large field crews and documenting complex artifact deposits, AECOM’s archaeological experts have the proven ability to facilitate and coordinate interactions with multiple municipal agencies, design and implement robust site shoring and safety systems, as well as direct and monitor construction equipment in support of site excavation. With the support of our in-house historians and digital technology staff, AECOM’s archaeologists regularly conduct authoritative historic background research using both primary and secondary source materials, generating detailed archaeological resource assessments and highly accurate site predictive models to guide excavations.

By their nature, urban archaeological projects often offer unique opportunities for sharing the science of archaeological research and excitement of archaeological discovery with members of the public, and our staff has a proven track record of developing innovative and successful public-outreach programs. Specific outreach elements incorporated into past projects include the construction of public viewing platforms, developing effective site interpretive signage, staging interactive site tours, and designing web sites and blog pages. In acknowledgement of the effectiveness of our outreach programs, several of our projects have received awards and other public recognition and accolades. In 2007, the outreach program developed for the President’s House excavations in Independence Mall, Philadelphia, brought more than 250,000 visitors to the site over a period of four months.

Whether in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, at Boston’s majestic Faneuil Hall, New York’s City Hall, or Philadelphia’s Independence Mall and historic waterfront, AECOM archaeologists serve the needs of a diverse group of clients. The National Park Service, New York’s Metropolitan Transit Authority, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Long Island Railroad, the city of Paterson, New Jersey, New York City’s Department of Design and Construction, and the city of Philadelphia are just a few of our many satisfied big city customers.

Project Fact Sheets