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6d ago

Federal Rail Officials Seek Cost-Cutting Advice from Elon Musk’s Boring Co. on $8.5 Billion Baltimore Tunnel Project

The Department of Transportation and Amtrak explore value-engineering options for the Frederick Douglass Tunnel replacement while adhering to standard procurement processes.

white tesla coming out of the boring company tunnel
A northbound Amtrak train emerges from the north portal of the Baltimore & Potomac Tunnel on its way to Baltimore's Pennsylvania Station. A new tunnel is scheduled to be built and be renamed for Frederick Douglass.

Overview

  • The Frederick Douglass Tunnel project, replacing the 152-year-old Baltimore & Potomac Tunnel, has seen cost estimates rise from $4 billion in 2021 to $8.5 billion in late 2024.
  • Federal Railroad Administration officials have consulted Elon Musk’s Boring Co. for cost-saving advice, but no contract has been awarded for the proposed value-engineering work.
  • The Department of Transportation confirmed that multiple stakeholders, including Boring Co., are being consulted as part of efforts to manage escalating costs.
  • Amtrak hired an independent cost estimator in 2023 to review the project, which has faced delays and management challenges in its early stages.
  • Transportation officials reiterated their commitment to standard bidding procedures for any future contracts related to the project.