BOSTON – Boston’s Ted Williams Tunnel was closed to traffic to allow for two organ transplants Thursday, including one during the height of the morning commute, officials said.
The westbound lanes of I-90 and the southbound Route 1A ramps at the tunnel were restricted around 8:15 a.m. to accommodate traffic, MassDOT announced at 8 a.m. when travelers took to the roads in and around the city.
The tunnel reopened to traffic shortly after 8:15 a.m., but residual traffic was backed up for miles.
The ramps were restricted again at 11:45 a.m. to accommodate a second organ transport, MassDOT said.
The Ted Williams Tunnel and Tobin Bridge have been serving as alternate travel routes for drivers since the Sumner Tunnel closed earlier this month. MassDOT says they’ve been working with public safety and transportation officials to plan for scenarios like Thursday’s.
“We’ve worked extensively on planning so that everyone knows their role and what to do in an emergency,” said State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “We’ve been very confident in our approach and this was a great example of how it works in real time.”
No additional details were immediately available.
MassDOT Notice: Ted Williams Tunnel #Boston will close briefly at 8:15 approx. for medical transport
— Mass Transit (@MassDOT) July 13, 2023
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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