The Woodlands Township in Texas has officially thrown its hat into the ring for The Boring Company’s tunneling challenge. The township’s board unanimously approved an application for The Boring Company’s “Tunnel Vision Challenge,” which offers the opportunity for up to one mile of tunnel construction at no cost to the selected community.
The proposal put forth by The Woodlands is called “The Current,” and it involves the construction of two parallel 12-foot-diameter tunnels beneath the Town Center corridor near The Waterway. The plan is to have Teslas shuttle passengers between Waterway Square, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Town Green Park, and nearby hotels during concerts and large events. This initiative aims to alleviate the traffic congestion issues that the township faces, particularly during events at the Pavilion, which can draw crowds of up to 16,500 people and strain the surrounding roadways.
Chris Nunes, the Chief Operating Officer of The Woodlands Township, highlighted the need for a solution to the traffic and pedestrian challenges in the Town Center area. The proposed tunnel system, similar to the Loop system in Las Vegas, would provide an efficient means of transportation for residents and visitors alike.
The Boring Company issued a request for proposals in January, inviting cities and districts to pitch their ideas for utilizing its tunneling technology. The deadline for The Woodlands’ application is February 23, with no set timeline for the announcement of the winning community.
Nunes confirmed that the board has authorized the submission of “The Current” proposal but emphasized that the project is still in its early stages. He stated, “The Woodlands Township Board of Directors has authorized staff to submit an application to The Boring Company… The Board believes that an underground tunnel would provide a safe and efficient means to transport people to and from various high-use community amenities in our Town Center.”
As The Woodlands Township moves forward with its application, the prospect of a tunnel system beneath the Town Center corridor could revolutionize transportation in the area, offering a sustainable solution to traffic congestion and enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors.