BOSTON — A sigh of relief for commuters as the Sumner Tunnel reopened early Friday morning after a two-month shutdown to make way for a major refurbishment project, according to Massachusetts transportation officials.
The full closure of the Boston tunnel began on July 5, and crews have been working around the clock to get the 88-year-old tunnel to reopen between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Friday.
The Sumner Tunnel carries vehicles one-way on Route 1A south from Logan International Airport and East Boston to the North End and downtown areas.
During the 58-day shutdown, the existing suspended ceiling was removed and the concrete above was prepared for the installation of over 700 precast concrete arches. Additionally, a new fireproof wallboard was installed throughout the length of the tunnel making a dramatic improvement in its fire safety. Over 500 new light fixtures were installed, and new conduit and cables were put in place.
MassDOT officials say commuters can expect to see brighter energy-efficient lighting, new ceiling arches, improved ventilation, and stormwater pumps that can withstand more intense storms.
While Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey lauded the initial phase of the restoration project for being completed in time for Labor Day weekend, motorists can expect eight-weekend closures throughout the rest of the year, including in two weeks, Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver said.
Officials are still finalizing the schedule for weekend tunnel closures in 2024, he said.
This is the Sumner work done by numbers:
- The tunnel was closed for 58 days during which construction was ongoing 24/7.
- 3 shifts a day over 58 days equals 174 work shifts or the equivalent 35 traditional 40-hour work weeks.
- 3800 dropped ceiling panels were removed.
- 711 precast arch segments and 146 precast ceiling slabs were installed, each weighing well over 6 tons.
- Over 21,000 square feet of fireboard was installed.
- 502 new light fixtures installed.
- 42,800 Linear Feet of Conductor installed.
- 24,000 Linear Feet of Fiber Optic cable installed.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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