Traffic Congestion Expected in Boston as Sumner Tunnel Construction Begins
By WBZ-News Staff
BOSTON – Massachusetts transportation officials are warning commuters of heavy traffic congestion starting Monday as construction on the Sumner Tunnel gets underway. The tunnel officially closed on July 5 and will remain shut down until August 31.
The closure is necessary for maintenance work on the ceiling, road, walls, and lights, as well as for the addition of safety and climate improvements. State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver stated that so far, the project has not encountered any setbacks and is progressing as planned. All suspended ceilings have been removed, and workers are now focusing on chipping out concrete and preparing for precast arch construction.
Officials anticipate that the biggest traffic impact will be felt during the Monday commute, as last week was relatively light due to the holiday. Gulliver urged commuters to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time, especially if they have time-critical appointments. The affected area is expected to include East Boston, areas north of the city, and Logan Airport. Gulliver also noted that there may be residual impacts on the Mass Pike, the Southeast Expressway, and other routes into the city.
“We’re in it for the long haul at this point. We have another two months of this, and we want to make it manageable,” Gulliver said.
For more information on the closure and available detours, visit the official website [here].
(Source: WBZ.com)