The Sumner Tunnel, a critical artery for drivers in Boston, has been undergoing repairs and will be closed for a month starting July 5. This tunnel typically carries about 40,000 vehicles daily under the harbor from East Boston to downtown. Here's essential information on the scheduled closures and detours to help you navigate the traffic.
Where is the Sumner Tunnel?
Built in the 1930s, the Sumner Tunnel carries Route 1A southbound traffic between East Boston and the North End of Boston. It connects Logan Airport to downtown Boston, Interstate 93, and points north. The adjacent Callahan Tunnel runs alongside it, carrying traffic in the opposite direction.
Why are there closures?
The tunnel has faced two years of weekend closures and a two-month shutdown last summer for much-needed repairs and upgrades. Last year's work included ceiling repairs, lighting installations, and fireproof wall panels.
Closure Schedule
Weekend Closures: June 14 and June 21, from Fridays at 11 p.m. to Mondays at 5 a.m.
Monthlong Shutdown: July 5 to August 5.
Additional Weekend Closures: Tentatively scheduled for August 9, 16, 23; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 18, 25; and November 1, 8, 15.
For the latest schedule updates, visit the Massachusetts Department of Transportation website.
How to Avoid Gridlock
Public Transportation:
The MBTA Blue Line will be free in both directions, with open gates at all stations from Wonderland to Bowdoin.
The East Boston ferry and Chelsea bus Routes 111, 112, 114, 116, 117, and Silver Line 3 will also be free during the tunnel closure.
Driving Detours:
Use the Callahan Tunnel or the Ted Williams Tunnel for access to Logan Airport and East Boston.
For routes north to Maine, Portsmouth, NH, or Newburyport, take Route 1A north to US-1 north.
For routes south, use I-90 West/Ted Williams Tunnel to I-93 south.
For routes west, use I-90 West/Ted Williams Tunnel.
Specific detour routes include:
East Boston to Downtown Boston: Rerouted to I-90/Ted Williams Tunnel via Bennington Street and onto I-93.
Leaving Logan Airport to Downtown Boston: Rerouted to I-90/Ted Williams Tunnel and onto I-93.
Route 1 South to Downtown Boston: Divert to Route 1A in Revere at the Bell Circle Rotary, then rerouted to I-90/Ted Williams Tunnel and onto I-93.
Route 1A South to Downtown Boston: Continue along Route 1A, rerouted to the Ted Williams Tunnel and onto I-93.
Route 145 (Bennington Street) Exit Closed: Follow the local East Boston detour with guidance from message boards and signs.
For real-time traffic updates, check Mass511.
More Information
Stay informed about the Sumner Tunnel project by signing up for email alerts from MassDOT. For questions or concerns, email Sumner100@dot.state.ma.us or call the construction hotline at 508-510-2920.
For detailed information on the project and upcoming closures, visit the Sumner Tunnel Project page.Sumner Tunnel Closures: What You Need to Know
Kommentare