Beneath Boston Harbor, a marvel of engineering silently facilitates the flow of city life. This is the Sumner Tunnel. Opened on June 30, 1934, the Sumner Tunnel wasn’t always a one-way route. For nearly three decades, it bravely handled traffic in both directions. Imagine the congestion.
The Sumner Tunnel is named after William H. Sumner. He was the son of Governor Increase Sumner. The tunnel stretches 1.079 miles. That is about 1.736 kilometers under the harbor.
Initially, the Sumner Tunnel deposited traffic on the west side of the North End. The Big Dig changed this. Now, there are two exits. One connects to I-93 northbound and downtown near Haymarket Station. The other leads to Storrow Drive and Nashua Street. This connects to Cambridge via Route 28.
Think about the engineering feat. Construction occurred from March 30, 1931, to June 30, 1934. This tunnel was Boston’s first underwater passage. It enabled easier travel between East Boston and the city center.
Before 1961, if you wanted to cross the harbor by car, the Sumner Tunnel was your only option. The opening of the Callahan Tunnel relieved some pressure. The Callahan Tunnel became the dedicated route for inbound traffic. The Sumner Tunnel became the dedicated route for outbound traffic.
Until 2009, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority managed the Sumner Tunnel. Now, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation oversees it. This change streamlined transportation management in the state.
Even tolls have a history here. As of 2016, a toll of $1.50 was charged for non-commercial two-axle vehicles with a Massachusetts E-ZPass. Non-Massachusetts E-ZPass holders paid $1.75. Those without E-ZPass paid $2.05 via MassDOT’s Pay by Plate MA program. Some Boston residents got a discount. They only paid $0.20 with an E-ZPass.
Cashless tolling systems were installed in 2016. These modernized toll collection in the Boston area. This system aimed to improve traffic flow. It reduced congestion at toll booths.
The Sumner Tunnel has undergone intermittent shutdowns for modernization since 2022. These closures ensure the tunnel’s longevity. They allow for necessary repairs.
In 2023, Bryant Engineers performed a high-resolution LiDAR 3D scan. This scan captured over 1.6 billion points. These scans help with repairs.
Consider the next time you travel through the Sumner Tunnel. Remember its history. It is a vital artery connecting Boston. It stands as a testament to engineering innovation. The Sumner Tunnel is more than just a tunnel. It’s a historic landmark.