The Longest Tunnel In Detroit Has A Truly Fascinating Backstory
Detroiters are undoubtedly familiar with the Windsor Tunnel, which serves as an international link between the Motor City and its neighbors in Ontario. While this tunnel is worth celebrating and exploring, there’s another fascinating tunnel here in Detroit that’s actually longer than the Windsor Tunnel. History buffs and proud Detroiters alike will want to read up on its unique past.
The Michigan Central Railway Tunnel’s entrance in Detroit sits near Rosa Parks Blvd., just south of both Vermont and Porter Streets. It extends below the Detroit River into Windsor.
While this unique railway tunnel does not accommodate car traffic like its neighboring Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, it does boast a fascinating history that spans multiple generations.
Work began on the tunnel in the fall of 1906. Under the direction of the Detroit River Tunnel Company, it opened for use in the summer of 1910 and remains in partial operation today.
In its heyday, the Michigan Central Railway Tunnel was a true marvel, serving as the very first immersed tube system to transport traffic and stretching for 1.6 miles under both water and land.
By the fall of 1910, the tunnel had rendered local train car ferries largely useless, as the new underwater route provided both passenger and freight service between Detroit and Windsor.
Traffic continued throughout the decades - even with the construction of the Detroit-Windsor tunnel and its international highway in the 1930s and a variety of ownership changes in recent years.
Today, the Michigan Central Railway Tunnel remains in use under the operation of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Conversion plans have largely flopped, so the tunnel retains a sense of history.
While it might not be the city’s most famous, the tunnel is worth examining. After all, this incredible construction plays an important role in the Motor City’s transport infrastructure.
Have you ever had the chance to travel along one of the underwater tunnels in and around Detroit? Do you know anyone whose career has included work on these amazing constructions? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another historical marvel here in the Motor City by filling out our official nomination form here.
