Manhattan Tunnel Project

The Manhattan Tunnel Project will build approximately 700 feet of twin tunnels, protect existing sewer lines and utilities to ensure they are not disrupted by tunnel boring, and reinforce the Manhattan bulkhead to protect against flooding.

The project also includes designing and building an access shaft at 12^th Avenue that will be used to remove the tunnel boring machines that build the portion of the tunnel under the Hudson River and then converted into a permanent ventilation facility for the new tunnel.

Construction of this portion of the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP) is expected to begin in the coming months, with substantial completion anticipated in 2029.

Construction Approach

Due to the presence of historic fill along Manhattan’s western shore, the Manhattan Tunnel Project requires complex tunneling activities.  

To provide the flexibility needed, the selected contractor has proposed excavating the tunnel using a protective digger shield.

This will enable the majority of construction to take place underground, improving safety and significantly reducing the impacts of construction on surface roads and sidewalks.

Quick Facts

Project Purpose

• Build the portion of the new tunnel tubes connecting to HYCC-3
• Reinforce the Manhattan bulkhead to prevent flooding
• Protect existing utilities and sewer lines
• Remove obstructions that could slow or damage TBMs
• Construct a new access shaft/ventilation facility

Notable Elements

• 700 feet of twin 30-foot diameter tunnels
• Requires complex tunnelling to navigate sewer lines, the Manhattan bulkhead, and other obstructions
• Most construction will take place underground, limiting impact on surrounding community

Estimated Construction Completion

• 2029