BOSTON (WHDH) - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation hosted a press conference Sunday to warn drivers of more slowdowns this week since the Sumner Tunnel two-month shutdown began last Wednesday.
The shutdown started during a holiday week, so MassDOT officials said drivers should not be deceived. Officials also are urging drivers to plan ahead and use public transportation when possible.
“People are going to be back from the holiday, that’s when you’re going to see most of your heaviest impacts,” said Jonathan Gulliver, MassDOT highway administrator.
The nearly 90-year-old tunnel is undergoing a $160 million project to repair its ceiling, pavement and lighting. Drivers are being diverted while the construction project continues through August.
“We’re hoping that people don’t look at the traffic impacts this week and think well it’s not so bad I’m gonna jump on the road next week it’s gonna be much much much worse. Volumes are way way down this week,” Gulliver said.
To ease traffic, the MBTA is offering free or reduced alternatives on the Blue Line, commuter rail and the ferry.
Drivers said they believe the true test will come next week.
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