What was before the Eisenhower Tunnel?
Prior to the construction of the tunnel, the Loveland Pass was the route around the mountain and over the Continental Divide. Although difficult, the Colorado DOT make every effort to keep the pass open year-round, so take advantage of the opportunity to drive the long way around and appreciate the beautiful views.
Why was Eisenhower Tunnel built?
The tunnel is the longest mountain tunnel and highest point on the Interstate Highway System. Opened in 1973, the westbound bore is named after Dwight D. Eisenhower, the U.S. President for whom the Interstate system is also named. The eastbound bore was completed in 1979 and is named for Edwin C….Eisenhower Tunnel.
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Grade | 1.64% |
Why is the Eisenhower Tunnel important?
Tunnel provided key east-west connection. When state leaders lobbied the federal government during the 1950s to extend the planned route for I-70 west of Denver, where it was originally set to terminate, they wanted to build a firmer connection between the state’s east and west sides.
When did the Eisenhower Tunnel open?
March 8, 1973Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels / Opened
Who built Eisenhower Tunnel?
Straight Creek Constructors
The Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel went under construction March 15, 1968. A four-company joint venture, Straight Creek Constructors, held a contract with the the Colorado Division of Highways to drive two lanes of an eventual twin bore tunnel under the Continental Divide, 60 miles west of Denver.
What’s the longest tunnel in America?
The Longest Tunnels in the United States
| Rank | Longest Tunnels in the United States |
|---|---|
| 1 | Delaware Aqueduct |
| 2 | Quabbin Aqueduct |
| 3 | Henderson Tunnel |
| 4 | Hultman Aqueduct |
Who funded the Eisenhower Tunnel?
The Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel was dedicated on March 8, 1973. Federal funds had accounted for about 92% of the $108 million cost.
Can you walk through Eisenhower Tunnel?
You probably weren’t planning on it, but now it’s official: You can’t ride your bicycle or walk through the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial or the Hanging Lake tunnels on Interstate 70.
How was Eisenhower Tunnel made?
The Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel went under construction March 15, 1968. A four-company joint venture, Straight Creek Constructors, held a contract with the the Colorado Division of Highways to drive two lanes of an eventual twin bore tunnel under the Continental Divide, 60 miles west of Denver.
How many workers died building the Eisenhower Tunnel?
Seven workers died
Building the tunnels through the Continental Divide was tough. Seven workers died during construction, and many dozens suffered amputations or other life-changing injuries.
Where is the deepest tunnel in USA?
There is one station within the tunnel at Washington Park, which at 259 feet (79 m) deep is the deepest subway station in the United States and the fifth-deepest in the world….Robertson Tunnel.
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Lowest elevation | 220 feet (67 m) at east portal |