Sumner Tunnel Closure
About the Project
The Sumner Tunnel (Route 1A South) will be fully closed this summer so crews can perform a variety of upgrades. The restoration project includes two full closures:
the first full closure was completed in 2023.
the second full closure will be from July 5 to August 5, 2024.
MassDOT encourages the public to plan ahead and learn more about other travel options. Click here to sign up for weekly project email updates for the latest on travel options and construction progress.
Visit the project website to learn more: www.mass.gov/sumner-tunnel. For any questions or comments, email the MassDOT project team at Sumner100@dot.state.ma.us.
How will this affect travel in the Lower Mystic area?
Traffic will increase in several Lower Mystic municipalities due to the detours, and MassDOT is encouraging everyone to avoid travel around the Sumner Tunnel if possible. See the detour route through the Lower Mystic area below.
Consider alternative travel options
The Lower Mystic TMA offers free services that make sustainable travel more convenient. Sign up for any of our programs on WaytoGo.
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When your carpool group travels together 4 days during the month, we’ll give you $50 to cover the cost of gas. Click for more info.
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If you’re interested in biking, the Lower Mystic TMA offers a free Bluebikes trial for anyone that lives and works in an area serviced by Bluebikes. Click for more info.
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When you commute using a non-drive-alone mode, we’ll pay for a Lyft ride in the event of an emergency. Click for more info.
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Any trip that you log on our commuter benefits platform, WayToGo, will get you points that can be redeemed for free gift cards. Click for more info.
MassDOT is also taking measures to encourage alternative travel during this time. Read for information on reduced or free travel options during the tunnel closure. For more details, visit the MassDOT Sumner Tunnel website.
Drivers are encouraged to use 511 to stay updated on real-time travel times.
Public Transit / Commuter Rail
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Travelers will only have to pay Zone 1A fares ($2.40) when riding on the Newburyport/Rockport Line.
Parking at the Salem and Swampscott stations will be reduced to $2/day. All MBTA lots north of Salem will be free.
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Parking at the following MBTA stations will be reduced to $2/day:
All Blue Line stations that offer parking (Orient Hights, Suffolk Downs, Beachmont, & Wonderland)
Parking at all MBTA stations north of Salem on the Newburyport/Rockport line will be free.
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Riding the Blue Line will be free during the Sumner Tunnel Closure.
All Blue Line stations that offer parking (Orient Hights, Suffolk Downs, Beachmont, & Wonderland) will be reduced to $2/day.
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Water Transportation
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Taking the ferry is one of the best alternative travel options during the Sumner Tunnel closure. During this time, the East Boston Ferry will be completely free.
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The MBTA's Lynn Ferry service will operate between the Blossom St. dock in Lynn to Central Wharf in Boston (near Aquarium).
Trips will cost Zone 1A fare ($2.40), and the ferry operates 7 days a week.
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The MBTA's Winthrop Ferry will service Winthrop, Quincy, Logan Airport, Aquarium and Seaport. The ferry operates 5 days a week on weekdays only, and trips will cost Zone 1A fares ($2.40).
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Travel To & From Logan Airport
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The Logan Express will be discounted 25% when buying online tickets, and children under 17 ride free.
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Riders who take water transportation to the airport will be issued a "Ticket to Skip" to the front of the line for checkpoint screening.
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An extra SL1 bus will be added to the day-time schedule to add more frequency due to increased trip time on the Ted Williams Tunnel. The SL1 is always free for travelers coming from the airport.