Tuscarora Tunnel Upgrade

The tunnel’s eastbound tube opened in 1940, followed by the westbound tube in 1968. Renovations were completed in the 1980s, but after 40 years, damage to the tunnel ceiling and liner walls caused by groundwater infiltration meant structural repairs and new waterproofing measures were needed.

Additionally, tunnel upgrades were needed to lighting, ventilation, and electrical systems that helped improve safety, maintainability, and energy efficiency for motorists and turnpike workers.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) manages the operation of five concrete-lined bored tunnels, which are all part of the PTC roadway system, and include Tuscarora, Allegheny, Kittatinny, Blue Mountain and Lehigh.

PTC turned to Gannett Fleming to evaluate the Tuscarora Tunnel’s existing conditions, recommend fire/life safety systems improvements, identify opportunities to reduce future maintenance and energy costs, and provide preliminary engineering and final design services. Gannett Fleming chose Woods Air Movement USA to supply the new ventilation system.

We manufactured, tested and supplied 12 High Temperature 180JMG Axial Fans, replacing the original inefficient ventilation system which used large centrifugal fans.

The 6 foot exhaust fans are designed to extract hazardous pollution if traffic is standing still in the tunnel - or smoke in the event of a fire - quickly and efficiently to allow safe evacuation and easier access for emergency services.

Our client was invited to the factory in Tennessee to witness the testing as it took place in our research & development lab. The tests included:

• Aerodynamic performance testing ISO 5801, Fans - Performance Testing Using Standardized Airways, test type D.
• In-duct acoustic testing ISO 5136 Acoustics
• Overspeed 125% operating speed
• Balance Quality and Vibration Levels

The new fans were also compliant with the project’s Buy America requirements.

The award-winning improvements will make traveling through the tunnel safer, smoother, and more comfortable for the estimated 24,000 motorists who use it daily.

For advice on how to improve tunnel ventilation please get in touch.