Posted in Rhode Island
August 05, 2016
Most People Have No Idea This Unique Tunnel In Rhode Island Exists
If you ask any long term Rhode Islander to think of all the significant tunnels in the state, you’ll likely hear them discuss the East Side Trolley Tunnel exclusively. Many would argue that this tunnel, which connects Thayer Street to downtown Providence, pales in comparison to this much lesser known and abandoned unique tunnel in Rhode Island. Unless you were around during its use, or spent time near it’s eastern, or western portal, it’s almost too easy to miss it entirely.
The East Side Railroad Tunnel is an abandoned tunnel that runs a little over 5,000 feet long.
The tunnel opened in November of 1908 and was meant to serve as a more direct connection between the East Side of Providence and the former Union Station. It remained in operation until 1981.
Though the tunnel is currently abandoned and sealed, it is still rumored to be illegally accessed on occasion by those that know a secret way in.
The tunnel was sealed in 1993 shortly after a large group of Brown students gathered for a party and refused to leave when asked by police.
With recent proposals to transform it into a functional bus route, the future of this abandoned tunnel is yet to be known!
Be sure to follow the future of the infamous East Side Railroad Tunnel! To discover another lesser known attractions in Rhode Island, click here.
