Schlangenbader Street Tunnel Closed Indefinitely Due to Severe Defects
The Austin Street autobahn tunnel in an unidentified city has been unexpectedly closed since Thursday, April 20, due to severe structural defects. The closure, announced by the Senate Administration for Mobility, Consumer Protection and Climate Protection, has led to temporary traffic rerouting. The decision was made following a fire department exercise that revealed defects, with the renovation costs being enormous and uncertain.
The tunnel's closure is not entirely unexpected, as discussions about the possible demolition of the autobahn bridge at Breitenbachplatz hinted at this possibility. The closure is due to defects found in the emergency call system and ventilation during a technical inspection. The renovation of the tunnel is extremely costly, with a previous estimate of 30 million euros, and construction prices have since risen dramatically. The traffic administration defends the short-term implementation of the tunnel closure, prioritizing safety over further risks to tunnel users. The closure of the tunnel would provide more space for redesign at Breitenbachplatz, but would also mean more traffic in surrounding neighborhoods.
The closure of the tunnel was commissioned by the Senate last October. The exact decision on the tunnel's permanent closure or renovation depends on several factors, including the results of ongoing investigations and political will. The public can stay informed through the website of the responsible authority, local media, and official social media channels. The reopening of the tunnel remains uncertain due to the enormous renovation costs.
