Tokyo Bay tunnelIn 1997, the 15-kilometer (9.3-mile) toll expressway, Tokyo Bay Aqualine bridge and tunnel that spans the narrowest gap of Tokyo Bay, opened to traffic after 31 years of studies. It connects the cities of Kawasaki and Kisarazu. The project took 8-1/2 years to complete and cost $17 billion. Total length: 15.1 km (9.38 mi) includes a 4.4-km (2.7 mi) bridge, a 9.5-km (5.9 mi) shield tunnel, and two artificial islands. It has the world's longest undersea tunnel, running 60 meters (197 feet) deep under the surface of the water. An artificial island, Umi-hotaru, connects the bridge and tunnel portions, as a parking, rest area and tourist attraction, offshore in Tokyo Bay. Previously, the trip required a 1 hr ferry or 100 km (62.1 miles) drive. |
