The 110-year-old bus tunnel connecting the East Side of Providence to downtown is undergoing ongoing repairs that are proving to be more extensive and costly than initially planned by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). The agency’s board of directors recently voted to allocate an additional $7.5 million to the project, bringing the total cost from $15.8 million to $23.3 million. This decision was made in response to stress cracks caused by water seeping through a layer of shotcrete, a type of concrete sprayed onto internal rebar support.
The extra funding for the project will be covered through Federal Transit Administration grants, as outlined in the informational packet provided to the agency’s board of directors. Christopher Durand, RIPTA’s interim CEO, emphasized that this investment is crucial for the tunnel’s structural integrity over the next 30 years. The East Side Tunnel, originally built in 1914 for trolleys to reach the top of College Hill, is now utilized by six bus routes and occasionally emergency vehicles to navigate the steep incline of the hill. The tunnel last underwent repairs in the 1990s.
RIPTA closed the tunnel in March for planned improvements to its drainage, lighting, and other structural repairs. However, due to the extent of damage discovered during the renovation process, the completion date has been delayed from September to late October. Jack Plouffe, project manager, highlighted the urgency of completing the repairs before cold weather sets in to ensure safe passage for buses and other vehicles.
During the renovation, it was revealed that the tunnel had far more cracks and leaks than initially estimated. Plouffe explained that the removal of the shotcrete layer allowed water to flow freely through the cracks, causing significant damage. To prevent future issues, RIPTA will collaborate with Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design to ensure their drainage systems do not leak into the tunnel. Additionally, shotcrete will not be used on the ceiling during the renovation to mitigate the risk of future cracks.
Board Chairman Peter Alviti Jr. emphasized the importance of thorough exploration before embarking on major projects to avoid unexpected cost increases. RIPTA, like many transit agencies nationwide, has faced financial challenges in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The state allocated $15 million for RIPTA in its fiscal year 2025 budget, falling short of the agency’s $18.1 million shortfall. RIPTA must also submit an operational analysis to the governor’s office by March 1, 2025, to address these financial constraints.
In conclusion, the ongoing repairs to the East Side Tunnel highlight the complexities and challenges involved in maintaining aging infrastructure. Despite the setbacks and increased costs, RIPTA remains committed to ensuring the safety and functionality of this vital transportation link for the Providence community. By addressing the structural issues and implementing preventative measures, RIPTA aims to extend the tunnel’s lifespan and improve the overall transit experience for residents and visitors alike.
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