Massachusetts Department of Transportation

MassDOT Emergency Safety Inspections

Boston, MA

Benesch provided Emergency Safety Inspection of Metropolitan Highway System Tunnels for the Executive Office of Transportation (EOT) as part of a critical public safety initiative for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The work was coordinated through MassDOT and included:

  • I-90 Eastbound Ted Williams Tunnel: 1.5 mile long mainline tunnel and the 1570′ long Ramp T-A/D off-ramp tunnel. Tunnel consists of both cut-and-cover and immersed tube construction. Inspection of suspended ceiling for tunnel exhaust ducts supported by over 7200 steel hangers; Inspection of suspended lighting, signs and cameras ; Inspection of tunnel walls and roadway safety features; and Inspection of fresh air supply ducts below roadway.
  • I-90 Eastbound Connector Tunnel: 1.0 mile long mainline tunnel and the 400′ long Ramp C off-ramp tunnel; Inspection of suspended ceiling for tunnel exhaust ducts supported by over 3000 steel hangers; Inspection of suspended lighting, signs, utilities and cameras; Inspection of tunnel walls and roadway safety features; Inspection of fresh air supply and exhaust ducts along tunnel walls; and Inspection of fresh air supply ducts below roadway.
  • Ramp A (to I-90 Eastbound): 1000′ long on-ramp tunnel; Inspection of supports for overhead jet fans, ceiling panels, lighting, signs and utilities; and Inspection of tunnel walls and roadway safety features.

Project highlights

  • Performing field inspection from man-lifts, ladders and in confined spaces
  • Documenting deficiencies as well as deviations from construction plans
  • Providing deficiency lists, final reports, sketches and photos
  • Additional site visits as needed to locate deficiencies and verify repairs with State and Federal Officials
  • Accelerated inspection schedule to help re-open portions of tunnels as soon as possible