Callahan Tunnel to close for months as part of rehab project

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) – The Callahan Tunnel will close for three months early next year as the state plans a complete rehabilitation of the tunnel.

The proposed work schedule includes a full tunnel closure with detours in place beginning in January 2014, followed by an additional four to five months of work requiring overnight closures between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

The $34.9 million project includes rehabilitation of the 52-year old tunnel's deck, curb line, gutters and replacement of the tunnel's wall panels.  The original deteriorated wall panels were removed in December 2012 as a safety measure due to significant corrosion to the panel wall anchor system.

"The Callahan has served motorists well since the day it opened in 1961 and was paired with the Sumner tunnel," said MassDOT Highway Administrator Frank DePaola.  "However, every aspect of the tunnel is in fair to poor condition, and the time has come to put the Callahan in shape to last another 50 years."

Officials said they will reach out to motorists prior to and during the closing of the tunnel with information about detours, alternate routes and public transportation options.

The Callahan Tunnel carries traffic from Boston's North End to Logan International Airport and Route 1A in East Boston.

Cox Media Group