(erielack) BERGEN TUNNEL UPDATE

[DLW1155_@_aol.com]

Work on the tunnel is nearing completion. Both tracks are now reinstalled and 
catenary wire is being rehung. Both historic stone portals were reassembled a 
couple of months ago as well. Except for an additional stone to compensate 
for the  higher clearance you would hardly realize they had been dismantled. 
Above both portals the rock outcroppings have been cut back considerably 
forming a shelf above each end. The biggest changes are on the inside with 
the new concrete liner and improved lighting and drainage sytems. The rail is 
now fixed directly to the concrete slab floor and sits on rubber pads. New 
emergency stairways have been installed at the west end just outside the 
tunnel and in the west airshaft. From the look of things it should be 
returned to service within the next few weeks. No word yet on when work will 
start on the south tunnel on Tracks 2 and 4.

Al Holleuffer

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End of EL List Daily V3 #869
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