VTA plans single tunnel for BART extension in bid to save $600 million
The Valley Transportation Authority has announced that a single tunnel under San Jose, Calif., for the BART expansion will be more cost-effective and cause less disruption. NBC Bay Area reported that VTA has finalized its decision to build a single tunnel beneath Santa Clara Street after years of debate regarding the construction of either one or two tunnels.
On Monday, VTA planners released a cost report, which will be presented to their board of directors on Thursday, NBC Bay Area reported. They indicate that drilling one tunnel will be less disruptive to local businesses and more affordable.
According to VTA Megaprojects Officer Tom Maguire, the twin bore would cost approximately $600 million more than a single bore.
VTA planners frequently compare the single bore design to the twin bore option, as earlier discussions leaned towards a shallower twin bore approach, often seen as a standard method. However, they argue that advancements in technology have made the deeper single bore method a more feasible option.
Some critics have raised concerns that the projected savings may be overstated and that the estimated $600 million in savings from a single tunnel could be offset by the expenses related to constructing 80 to 100 feet underground. Additionally, they point out potential accessibility issues for riders at such a deep BART station.
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