The Vodcast Goes Behind the Scenes of Tunnel Inspections Beneath the Gateway Arch

April 29, 2026

Ever wonder what it takes to inspect critical infrastructure in some of the nation’s most iconic locations?

In the latest episode of The Vodcast, host Bryan Bossart trades his desk for the field, joining Volkert’s Bridge and Tunnel Inspection team in St. Louis for a behind the scenes look at railroad tunnel inspections beneath the Gateway Arch.

This work was performed in support of the Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division (EFLHD) of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), in partnership with the National Park Service. Volkert has served as a bridge and tunnel inspection consultant for FHWA/EFLHD since 2005, supporting inspection efforts across national parks, monuments, and other federally managed sites.

Featuring insights from team members Kameron Flowers, EI and Britt Bumpers, PE, CBI, CTI, the episode offers a firsthand look at the work that goes into tunnel inspections and the role they play in maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure.

Watch the Full Episode Here

Watch the latest episode of The Vodcast to go underground with our Bridge and Tunnel Inspection team.

A Closer Look at Tunnel Inspections

From early morning safety briefings to hands-on inspection work, this episode highlights the expertise, dedication, and teamwork required in the field. Viewers will gain insight into the tools and techniques used, as well as the importance of safety and precision on every project.

Supporting Federal Lands Infrastructure

Through its long-standing partnership with FHWA/EFLHD, Volkert performs inspections on a wide range of structures across the National Park System and other federal facilities. These efforts help identify structural needs, support maintenance planning, and ensure safe and reliable infrastructure for public use.

Projects like the tunnel inspections beneath the Gateway Arch demonstrate the importance of collaboration between federal partners and engineering teams working in complex and highly visible environments.

Delivering Excellence Underground and Beyond

At the core of this work are the people who make it possible. Kameron Flowers and Britt Bumpers share their experiences in the field, offering perspective on the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of tunnel inspections. Their work reflects Volkert’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality solutions wherever the job takes us.