Sumner Tunnel closure expected to create heavier congestion starting Monday
BOSTON – Massachusetts transportation officials are warning commuters to expect heavier traffic congestion starting Monday due to the closure of the Sumner Tunnel for construction throughout the summer.
The Sumner Tunnel officially closed to all traffic on July 5 and will remain completely shut down until Thursday, August 31. During this time, crews will be working on the ceiling, road, walls, and lights, as well as making safety and climate improvements.
State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver stated on Sunday that there have been no setbacks so far, and everything is going according to plan. Workers have already removed 100% of the suspended ceilings and are now focusing on chipping out concrete and preparing for precast arch construction, which will continue for the rest of the summer.
While the area was closed last week, officials anticipate that the biggest traffic impact will occur during the Monday commute. Gulliver explained, “Last week was an extremely light traffic week. It was a holiday week, and a lot of people were on vacation. Impacts were pretty minor. We expect that to really increase over the next few weeks as those holiday travelers come back. We’re really encouraging everybody to leave a lot of extra time.”
Traffic is expected to be affected in East Boston, north of the city, and at Logan Airport. Gulliver also noted that there will likely be residual impacts on parts of the Mass Pike, the Southeast Expressway, and other routes into the city. He advised commuters to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys, especially if they have time-critical appointments.
To ensure fast emergency response times, MassDOT has implemented plans that include a command center with direct access to agencies on the grounds. Gulliver stated, “In the event of an emergency, we can work with people who are there on the ground, such as a detail cop, and have them stop or redirect traffic if necessary. That enables us to make decisions really quickly.”
For drivers who need to navigate the affected area, the MASS 511 app provides up-to-date information on the quickest travel routes.
For more information on the Sumner Tunnel closure and detours, visit the official website.
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How long is the Sumner Tunnel expected to be closed for construction?
Attention Boston Commuters: Prepare for Heavier Traffic Congestion
Get ready for heavier traffic congestion starting Monday, as the closure of the Sumner Tunnel for construction is expected to create delays throughout the summer. The tunnel officially closed on July 5 and will remain shut down until August 31.
Transportation officials in Massachusetts are assuring commuters that there have been no setbacks so far, and the project is proceeding as planned. Crews have already made progress by removing 100% of the suspended ceilings and are now focusing on chipping out concrete and preparing for precast arch construction.
Last week, when the area was closed, traffic impact was minimal due to the holiday week and many people being on vacation. However, officials are anticipating a significant increase in traffic starting with the Monday commute. State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver urged commuters to leave extra time for their journeys, especially those with time-sensitive appointments.
The closure will affect traffic in East Boston, north of the city, and at Logan Airport. Additionally, there may be residual impacts on parts of the Mass Pike, the Southeast Expressway, and other routes leading into the city. To alleviate any potential issues, MassDOT has implemented emergency response plans, including a command center with direct access to on-ground agencies. This will enable quick decision-making and traffic redirection if necessary.
For drivers navigating the affected area, the MASS 511 app provides real-time information on the quickest travel routes.
Stay informed about the Sumner Tunnel closure and detours by visiting the official website.
Thank you for reading CBS NEWS.
Oh great, just what Boston needs – more traffic congestion! Brace yourselves, folks.
Oh no! The closure of Sumner Tunnel is undoubtedly going to lead to chaotic traffic in Boston. Commuters should brace themselves for longer travel times and plan alternate routes to avoid the congestion. Stay patient, everyone!