Why Tunnel Trips Are Still Scary

Good to know Bostonist isn't the only one who gets nervous driving under the Shaw's in Newton that appears to balance precariously over the Mass Pike. Oh, and through the Prudential Tunnel. And through pretty much any tunnel in this city. The Globe reports today that private businesses are responsible for maintenance of the piece of tunnel that passes under their building.

The problem isn't with Shaw's or the private companies. Here's the problem: "The Turnpike Authority, which controls only the roadways, has done little to guarantee that these private owners are keeping the infrastructure in good shape."

That's all well and good if the private companies are keeping up their end of the bargain and taking care of the tunnels. However, the entire system of inspection is slippery, particularly when it comes to how often the tunnels are inspected. In short, the article suggests that no one is flying the plane. A private company might do a meticulous job inspecting and maintaining the tunnel under its building, but how is the public going to know if the Turnpike doesn't double-check it and set a few guidelines?

The Turnpike Authority has started a new policy, but the language is interesting. Private owners will be "asked" to do inspections. "Asked" isn't the same as "ordered" to do them. Oh, Big Dig, you may be over, but some things never change.

Tunnel trip image by sissnitz from photos tagged "Bostonist" on Flickr.