Aug 30, 2023 - News

Sumner Tunnel to reopen Friday, followed by more closures

Steph Solis

A construction worker in the Sumner Tunnel while it's closed this summer for repairs. — A MassDOT employee in the tunnel during the eight-week closure. Photo: David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

The Sumner Tunnel will reopen to motorists Friday — just in time for the holiday weekend.

Why it matters: The end of the two-month closure brings relief to motorists traveling between East Boston and the rest of the city, including those trying to make their flights at Logan Airport.

Driving the news: Crews overhauled the ceiling and ventilation system during the 88-year-old tunnel's two-month closure.

The tunnel is set to reopen between 3am and 5am Friday.

Yes, but: It's not over yet. More tunnel closures are on the horizon for repairs, per MassDOT.

Starting in the fall, the Sumner Tunnel will be closed during the weekends, though MassDOT has not yet announced when those weekend closures will start.
It will shut down again next summer.

Meanwhile, the MBTA is ending the free Blue Line service and discounts on the Commuter Rail.

Zoom out: The tunnel reopening comes as people head to the airport for Labor Day weekend.

Domestic bookings for flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises are up 4%, and international bookings are up 44% nationwide from last year, per AAA.

Editor's note: This article has been corrected to reflect that MassDOT has not announced when additional Sumner Tunnel weekend closures will start this fall.

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Sumner Tunnel to reopen Friday, followed by more closures

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