MassDOT Announces Sumner Tunnel Summer Closure: What You Need to Know
Boston, MA – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has just dropped a traffic bombshell: the Sumner Tunnel’s summer closure will be shorter than expected! Buckle up, commuters and visitors, because here’s the scoop:
🔵 Closure Duration: Originally slated for two months, the Sumner Tunnel will now be closed for just one month. That’s right, from Friday, July 5 to Monday, August 5.
🚧 Weekend Woes: But wait, there’s more! Prepare for additional weekend closures. Starting Fridays at 11 p.m. and wrapping up Mondays at 5 a.m., these closures will keep you on your toes.
🛣️ Detours and Traffic: Brace yourselves for detours and traffic snarls during the closure. It’s like a real-life maze out there!
💡 Project Details: This isn’t just any tunnel maintenance; it’s the next phase of the $160 million Sumner Tunnel project. Since April 2022, MassDOT has been hard at work on the tunnel ceiling, roadway, walls, and lighting. Plus, they’re boosting safety and climate resiliency. Fancy, huh?
🛤️ Focus on the Road Deck: State officials spill the beans: this summer’s work will primarily target the road deck and its trusty sidekicks.
🌆 Areas Impacted: If you’re heading into Boston and areas north of the city, brace yourself. Logan Airport and East Boston travelers, you’re in the clear. But those leaving Logan and Eastie? Buckle up!
🚍 Transit Bonanza: Remember last summer? MassDOT’s back with transit incentives:
- 🚇 Free MBTA Blue Line rides
- ⛴️ Free or reduced-cost MBTA water ferry options
- 🚂 Reduced MBTA commuter rail fares on the Newburyport-Rockport line
- 🚌 Free service for riders on key Chelsea bus routes (Silver Line 3, anyone?)
- 🅿️ Discounted parking at select MBTA and Commuter Rail lots and garages
- 🚐 Free RIDE trips within 3/4 mile of MBTA stops
Reference: MassDot https://www.mass.gov/info-details/sumner-tunnel-restoration-project-details-and-closure-schedule
