After more frequent rock falls from above US 50 at Cave Rock in Nevada, NDOT prioritized this tunnel rehabilitation and extension project to protect travelers from the dangerous conditions. The tunnel was retrofitted with a concrete liner and extended using a new 60-foot long and 27-foot tall concrete structure. The extension was then painted to resemble the natural surroundings.
Cave Rock is sacred to the Washoe Tribe and is a federally restricted site. Crews worked closely with Tribe representatives to manage the repair and safety improvements with respect for tribal heritage and spiritual priorities.
Q&D looked for ways to reduce the construction duration and mitigate traffic impacts on this scenic route essential for Lake Tahoe tourism. By fast tracking the concrete beam construction, pre-casting them at Q&D’s corporate yard, the team expedited construction of the tunnel lid saving several weeks from the schedule.
Project Overview
Location
U.S. 50, Glenbrook, NV
Designer
Nevada Department of Transportation
Awards
America’s Transportation Award for Enhancing Community and Quality of Life from AASHTO; Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Best in Basin Award; APWA Nevada Chapter Project of the Year Award
Delivery Method
Design-Bid-Build
