Baker-Barry Tunnel Closure Early Next Year

(Baker-Barry Tunnel Courtesy of GGNRA/NPS)

The Baker-Barry Tunnel in the Marin Headlands Unit of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area that connects the Sausalito side of the Headlands to the western side, including Rodeo Lagoon where we begin our annual Wolf Ridge hike in late spring, is slated to be closed for repair work next year.

Here are the details:

The Baker-Barry Tunnel, a primary route to the Marin Headlands, will close for an extended preservation project beginning Monday, January 2, 2017.

The tunnel will be closed seven days a week through early May to all users, including vehicles and bicycles.

Additional one-day closures will be scheduled in December for pre-project inspections.

The Federal Highway Administration notified the National Park Service this week of the intended closure dates. The project was previously anticipated to begin in October 2016. Exact dates, times, and date ranges are subject to variation with advance notice.

The National Park Service has established a web page for project updates: http://go.nps.gov/tunnel, including:

• an upcoming traffic management plan from the Federal Highway Administration

• suggested times to visit the Marin Headlands to avoid peak congestion

• alternative locations for Golden Gate Bridge photography

Safer Surfaces. Better Lighting.

The Baker-Barry Tunnel preservation project will bring safer surfaces and better lighting to the historic tunnel.

Current cracks and leaks in the tunnel result in a slippery film of sediment that creates a safety hazard for vehicles and bicyclists. A new tunnel LED light system will reduce energy use by an estimated 40% and create better illumination in the tunnel for vehicles and bicyclists.

The project will also replace water and sewer lines mounted in the tunnel. The outdated water and sewer lines are subject to frequent breaks, resulting in tunnel closures.

To keep informed on the project visit: http://go.nps.gov/tunnel

During the time that the tunnel is closed you'll have to follow this route to reach Rodeo Lagoon, especially if you are towing a large cannon behind you!