Photo: MassDOT
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Sumner Tunnel reopened Friday in Boston after being shutdown for nearly two months.
The nearly 90-year-old tunnel was closed down back on July 5 as part of a restoration project. During the 58 day shutdown, crews were able to remove the existing suspended ceiling, install more than 700 precast concrete arches, and install new fireproof wallboard throughout. Crews also put more than 500 new light fixtures in place.
“I want to thank the residents and travelers who have been impacted by this project for their patience as we complete this critical work,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Gina Fiandaca. “Since July 5th, our crews have worked around the clock on this project. The women and men of MassDOT set the example and managed the most impactful infrastructure project the Commonwealth has seen in a decade. I’m proud of the safe, on-time work they accomplished.”
“We are very pleased to deliver this critical phase of the project on the timeline promised and I want to thank our contractor, our municipal and state partners, and our staff at MassDOT for a job well done,” said State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “The work completed during this phase ensures that the Sumner Tunnel will remain safe and in service for decades to come.”
Earlier this week, Governor Maura Healey toured the tunnel ahead of it's reopening and applauded the work that was done during the closure.
Next, there will be a number of limited weekend closures between Sept. 15 and the summer of 2024, that's when another complete closure is on the calendar.
During this year's closure, there were a number of transportation options including free trips on the MBTA Blue Line, free and reduced ferry options, reduced Commuter Rail fares, and reduced parking costs at various locations. Those options expired on Friday and the MBTA will be collecting regular fares on the previously reduced-lines.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasNews) reports
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