MassDOT mounts education campaign about Sumner Tunnel closure this summer

At the June 13 meeting of the Local Government Advisory Commission, Transportation Secretary and CEO Gina Fiandaca discussed plans to close the Sumner Tunnel this summer and asked local officials to help get the word out about the closure as well as mitigation plans.

Built in the 1930s as the first traffic tunnel in Massachusetts, the mile-long Sumner Tunnel (Route 1A South) runs under Boston Harbor and serves as a major artery connecting East Boston and Logan International Airport to Boston and Interstate 93. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation will close the tunnel from July 5 through Aug. 31, and again next summer, for major restoration work.

The MassDOT has released a comprehensive Sumner Tunnel Mitigation Plan to address travel impacts and provide cost-effective, efficient alternative transportation options for residents and visitors. The agency encourages travelers to “Ditch the Drive” and use alternative means of travel. Travelers can use MassDOT 511 to review traffic conditions and the MBTA’s Trip Planner to plan public transit trips.

The MassDOT will hold an in-person public information session on June 15, 5:30-7:30 p.m., in Boston covering project goals, construction activities and travel options. Virtual sessions will be held on June 20 and on June 21, both beginning at 6 p.m.