Sumner Tunnel Closure 7/5-8/5

Sumner Tunnel Restoration Project

After nearly 100 years of service, the Sumner Tunnel (Route 1A South) needs a full upgrade. The full upgrade includes improving tunnel safety, the roadway surface, tunnel ceiling, lighting and security systems, and cell phone, GPS, and radio service inside the tunnel. Full closures of the tunnel are needed to upgrade all these items. Once these upgrades are complete, the Sumner Tunnel should remain in operation for another 100+ years.

Seaport residents and business owners will see more traffic in their neighborhood as drivers detour through the Ted Williams Tunnel.

 

The Sumner Tunnel will be completely closed from 7/5-8/5.

The Sumner Tunnel Restoration Project began in Spring 2022, with weekend closures to allow for work; in 2023 the tunnel closed for two full months. This summer, there will be another full closure of the tunnel from July 5 to August 5, 2024.

MassDOT encourages the public to plan ahead and learn more about other travel options. You can sign up for weekly project email updates for the latest on travel options and construction progress.

Thankfully, there are many ways to get in and out of the Seaport and plenty of alternatives to try:

  • -Seaport Ferry between Fan Pier and North Station (Lovejoy Wharf) or East Boston (Lewis Mall)

    -Winthrop Ferry between Winthrop, Quincy, Seaport, and Aquarium. The fare will be Zone 1A/$2.40 per trip.

    -MBTA East Boston Ferry between East Boston (Lewis Mall) and Long Wharf (North). This ferry is free for the duration of the full closure.

    -The Lynn Ferry service has returned operates between Blossom Street Pier and Long Wharf (South) near Aquarium with Zone 1A/ $2.40 fares during full closure. There is free parking at the Blossom Street Pier.

    -Heading to Logan International Airport? Massport will be offering a Ticket to Skip program where all customers arriving by water transportation (water ferries and water taxis) receive a voucher to skip to the front of the TSA security line.

  • -MBTA’s Blue Line will be fare-free during the full 8-week closure

    -$2 parking at all Blue Line station parking lots and additional free parking near Wood Island Station

    -Trips on The RIDE that begin and end within 3/4 mile of the Blue Line will be free during the closure.

    -Zone 1A fare/ ($2.40) for all stations on the Newburyport/Rockport Line

    -Reduced parking fees ($2 a day) at Salem and Swampscott Commuter Rail lots

    -Free parking at All MBTA-controlled lots on Newburyport/Rockport Line

  • -SL1 travels from South Station to all Logan Airport terminals

    -SL3 travels from South Station to Chelsea. SL3 trips will be free at ungated stations.

    -The following bus routes in Chelsea are free during the closure: 111, 112/114/116/117

  • -Bicycles are allowed on ferries, allowing you to cross the Harbor directly.

    -Bicycles are allowed on the T with restrictions.

    -Bike racks are available at all T stations.

    -Bluebikes has a vast network of stations where you can borrow a bicycle.

    Read more about getting to the Seaport by bike.

  • Share the ride with a friend. Seaport TMA member employees can receive a monthly $25 gas gift card for up to 6 months by registering your carpool.

    Find a carpool partner at CommuteSeaport.

  • -Commute times will likely be shorter on Mondays and Fridays.

    -Try Mass 511:
    For real time information about roadway conditions visit Mass 511 or download the Mass511 mobile app. This website allows you to view live cameras, travel times, real-time traffic conditions, and project information before setting out on the road.

    Learn more on how to create a personalized My Mass511 account, save your favorites cameras, schedule email and text alerts for your favorite routes and areas, and save your Commercial Vehicle setting.