Baltimore: Harbor Tunnel Gets a MakeoverBaltimore: Harbor Tunnel Gets a Makeover The Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, a vital transportation artery connecting Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County, is undergoing a major makeover to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and extend its lifespan. Safety Enhancements: * New Crash Attenuators: State-of-the-art crash attenuators are being installed at the tunnel entrances and exits to absorb impact and minimize the severity of accidents. * Improved Lighting: Energy-efficient LED lighting is being upgraded throughout the tunnel, increasing visibility and reducing glare. * Surveillance System Upgrade: Advanced surveillance cameras and detectors are being installed to monitor traffic conditions and respond quickly to incidents. Traffic Flow Improvements: * New Ventilation System: A more efficient ventilation system is being installed to improve air quality and reduce congestion, especially during peak hours. * Automated Traffic Incident Management System: An advanced system is being implemented to detect and respond to traffic incidents in real-time, reducing delays and improving traffic flow. Lifespan Extension: * Structural Repairs: Extensive repairs are being made to the tunnel’s concrete structure, including sealing cracks, repairing leaks, and strengthening supports. * Electrical and Mechanical Upgrades: Electrical and mechanical systems are being modernized to improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs. * Fire Suppression Enhancements: The fire suppression system is being upgraded to provide advanced detection and suppression capabilities. The project, which began in 2022, is expected to be completed in phases. The first phase, focusing on safety enhancements, is scheduled for completion in 2024. The entire project is estimated to cost approximately $2 billion. The Baltimore Harbor Tunnel makeover is a significant investment in the city’s infrastructure that will provide numerous benefits to residents, commuters, and businesses alike. By improving safety, reducing congestion, and extending the tunnel’s life, this project will ensure the continued vitality of Baltimore’s transportation network for decades to come.