Navigating Boston roads is tough enough. It’s about to get tougher. Work week #1 navigating the city without the use of the Sumner Tunnel is underway. Officials say the true test will be Tuesday, as most people are all back to work and in the office. So, why are we closing the tunnel all summer? It’s old, and in need of makeover. As reported by WCVB in Boston, the Sumner needs a “complete overhaul.” “Ventilation, drainage, security and fire suppression systems will all be brought up to modern during the closure,” the state told the TV station. Buckle up Boston: A guide to getting through the Sumner Tunnel Closure is here.
The Sumner was built in 1934. It’s also part of Route 1A. According to Mass.gov, it was the first traffic tunnel in Massachusetts. For nearly a century, it has taken our cars from Logan Airport to Boston and I-93. That’s a long time and a lot of cars without a major overhaul. We know it’s for our own good, but it will be painful for commuters for a couple of months. The tunnel will be closed through August 31.
All this means we need to find alternatives. From transportation to routes, Mass.gov has everything we need to know, and I’m here to pass it along. So Buckle up Boston. Here’s your guide to getting through the Sumner Tunnel closure. There are alternate routes, free transportation, and helpful hints all provided for you, courtesy of mass.gov. And hey, if you’ve had enough and need to get away from it all, why not road trip somewhere with in driving distance and take a day off!
A map of the tunnel area
As you can see here, the Sumner is located between East Boston and the North End. Drivers can take it from Logan Airport to I-93/ Boston and points north.
