What is this project?
Allegany County Department of Public Works is proposing to resurface the exterior portal walls and line the interior of the Borden Tunnel, located on the Great Allegheny Passage Pedestrian (GAP) Trail at mile marker 17.9, and 2.4 miles east of Frostburg. The County evaluated several alternatives and proposes to resurface the exterior tunnel portal walls and wing walls with mortar, line the interior of the tunnel with a corrugated structural steel plate arch liner system, and fill the space between the original tunnel liner and new liner with grout. Allegany County was awarded a Recreational Trails Grant for project construction, and this project is being reviewed under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for environmental impacts.
Why is this project necessary?
The Borden Tunnel was constructed in 1911 as part of the Western Maryland Railway. The Borden Tunnel is a vital part of the connectivity of the GAP trail. This project is needed to restore the integrity and safety of the tunnel structure. The completed project will allow continued use of the GAP Pedestrian Trail between Frostburg, Maryland and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Installation of a tunnel lining would provide 75 years of service life in accordance with federal and state highway design standards.
How are historic resources being protected?
The Borden Tunnel is listed on the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties (AL-V-A-126). As part of required state and federal reviews, the historic attributes of the Borden Tunnel will be fully researched and documented.
What is the project timeline?
Construction will coincide with the annual winter closure period for the Big Savage Tunnel (November 30 to April 1), to minimize impact to pedestrian access and travel on the GAP trail.
We want your feedback!
Allegany County Department of Public Works wants to hear your comments about the proposed improvements and any other comments you may have regarding the project. We are committed to maintaining public involvement throughout the project planning process and welcome your questions and comments. To provide feedback, please contact Allegany County Department of Public Works via email: countyclerk@alleganygov.org, RE: Borden Tunnel Project by September 18, 2024.