Local Drivers Weigh In On Month-Long Sumner Tunnel Closure

Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio

BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Sumner Tunnel began its month-long closure on Friday.

It will be closed seven days a week until Aug. 5.

The Sumner Tunnel is situated between East Boston and the North End, taking drivers from Logan Airport to I-93 and Boston.

Read More: Sumner Tunnel Closes For A Month Starting Friday

WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas spoke with a few drivers who rely on the Sumner Tunnel for their business.

“I was looking at the sign [that’s] up until Aug. 5, and [thought] ok, Day 1. Here we go,” said Norma, a rideshare driver from Waltham.

Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio

She explained that the Sumner Tunnel closure is affecting her business and her sleep schedule.

“I’ve had to go nocturnal, which is unhealthy. I’ve had to go from starting work 8 p.m. or 10 p.m. to do the entire night shift, so that by the time of that rush hour, I’m completely done. It’s a sacrifice because it’s unhealthy.”

Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio

Other drivers were not as bothered by the closure. “I’m not worried about it. Some other drivers are, but after 7 o’clock I don’t come to the airport,” said one driver.

“Do a little pre-navigation, and know the roads, and you’ll be fine,” shared another person.

Read More: MBTA Reaches Historic Workforce Agreement With Labor Unions

The closure began a day after the 4th of July holiday and comes in the middle of many people’s long holiday weekend.

“Why couldn’t they wait until after the holiday?” wondered Norma.

“Because we still have all these folks who are taking the long weekend, so come Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday when people need to come back — that’s going to be chaos.”

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation recommends that people traveling to and from Logan use public transit through the MBTA to avoid traffic delays caused by road detours.

For a full list of recommended detours and more information on the Sumner Tunnel closure, check out WBZ NewsRadio’s article.

WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.

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