CDOT Management of Underground Tunnels – Cook County, Illinois

Chicago’s underground tunnel networks, including the Chicago Freight and Trolley Tunnel Systems (CFTTS) and the Wacker Drive Road Tunnel (WDRT), are critical corridors for transportation, utilities, and communications. DB Sterlin supported the City of Chicago by providing comprehensive inspection, maintenance, and repair services, ensuring these century-old tunnels remain safe, operational, and compliant with municipal standards.

Inspection and Assessment of Tunnel Systems
DB Sterlin conducted detailed inspections of structural and operational components within the tunnels, evaluating tunnel liners, dewatering systems, monitoring and control systems, programmable logic controllers, communication and fiber optic networks, electrical distribution equipment, motor controllers, fire protection and safety systems, ventilation and air quality sensors, CCTV, traffic control devices, protective barriers, and signage. Access was carefully controlled to ensure only authorized personnel entered these sensitive environments.

Preserving and Maintaining Century-Old Tunnels
The CFTTS consists of approximately 60 miles of tunnels hand-packed with concrete over a century ago, now serving as utility corridors for power and communications. The WDRT provides a lower-level roadway corridor along Wacker Drive from Michigan Avenue to Harrison Street. DB Sterlin assisted TranSystems by identifying maintenance and repair needs, overseeing contractor work, and verifying compliance with city standards, ensuring that these tunnels continue to serve Chicago safely and reliably.

Comprehensive Maintenance and Oversight
Through systematic inspections, structural assessment, and operational monitoring, DB Sterlin supports the long-term functionality of Chicago’s historic tunnel network. The work preserves essential utility infrastructure, extends service life, and safeguards reliable access for the city’s transportation and utility systems.