Did you know . . . the pedestrian tunnel providing safe passage under the railroad tracks is actually a drainage culvert? The pedestrian tunnel is owned by the CSX Corporation and was originally constructed to assist natural waterways flow underneath the tracks without impediment to rail service. The tunnel was built over a century ago.
In 1997, during construction of new development west of the existing railway, the culvert was converted to a dual-purpose tunnel for pedestrian and bicycle access to Adventure Park. Over time, conditions deteriorated and created issues affecting its drainage function and pedestrian use. Without the City’s partnership with CSX this asset would not be available and ensuring safety is a top priority to both organizations. For the City, accessibility to our parks is also a top priority. In order to create improved access for the public while simultaneously maintaining a functional drainageway the City is working closely with CSX to design an improvement that will guarantee both.
During this period of analysis the tunnel was closed. A condition assessment demonstrated a need for repair prior to restoring public use. Engineering plans to allow public use are being worked on currently and need to be reviewed by CSX, the Federal Railway Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Association regarding floodplain requirements.
The City is working closely with CSX to complete a detailed assessment of the tunnel which involves engineering evaluations and identifying the specific repairs needed. This step is crucial to ensure repairs are done correctly and safely. The City has focused efforts:
Status updates will be provided as they become available.