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When was the Robin Williams tunnel built?

Published in Tunnel Construction Dates 2 mins read

The Robin Williams Tunnel, originally known as the Waldo Tunnel, was constructed in two distinct phases. Its first bore (west) opened in 1937, followed by the second bore (east) which opened in 1954. This phased approach allowed for the expansion of critical transportation infrastructure.

Construction Milestones of the Robin Williams Tunnel

Located on U.S. Route 101 in Marin County, California, the tunnel provides passage through the challenging terrain of the Waldo Grade. The decision to build two separate bores significantly increased the capacity for traffic flow, enhancing connectivity for the region.

Here are the specific opening dates for each bore of the tunnel:

Bore Designation Informal Direction Opening Year
Bore 1 (West) Southbound Traffic 1937
Bore 2 (East) Northbound Traffic 1954

Today, the tunnel is operated by Caltrans and features four lanes per bore, efficiently managing the significant volume of vehicles traveling between San Francisco and communities to its north.

Renaming and Historical Context

While its physical construction was completed by the mid-20th century, the tunnel gained its current name, the Robin Williams Tunnel, in 2015. This renaming honored the legendary comedian and actor, Robin Williams, who was a beloved resident of Marin County. This vital artery continues to serve as a key component of the Northern California transportation network, particularly for commuters utilizing the Golden Gate Bridge.

For more information about the tunnel's history and its role in regional transportation, you can visit its Wikipedia page.