Queens-Midtown Tunnel closed due to water conditions; traffic congestion, MTA warns of delays

NEW YORK (WABC) — The Queens-Midtown Tunnel has partially reopened to two-way traffic after being closed Wednesday afternoon due to flooding.

It appears that a contractor working on another project at street level on the Manhattan side drilled a hole and breached the tunnel, causing salt water to flow into the tunnel around 1:30 p.m.

The contractor is not affiliated with the MTA and it is unclear what project the contractor was working on.

The MTA has restored two-way traffic in one of the tubes, while the other tube is still being evaluated and remains closed for repairs.

“Emergency Management is aware of this incident and we are working closely with relevant transport and response agencies. While partners work to restore service, you can expect significant traffic delays and disruption at this time, particularly if your bus route passes through the tunnel.”

According to the MTA, buses that normally travel through this tunnel are being rerouted and motorists must find an alternate route.

These buses are running with significant delays due to heavy traffic caused by the closure of the Queens-Midtown Tunnel: M:15, 15-SBS, 34-SBS, 34A-SBS, M42, M50.

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