SW Middle Tunnel

SW Middle Tunnel. . This is the S.W. approach and portal to Middle Tunnel. It is interesting to note that in the 1850's, the engineering standards stated that if the obstacle encountered was sixty feet or greater in height, a tunnel as opposed to a cut was cheaper to construct. As you are walking through a completed approach (a term used to describe a cut necessary to reach the proposed tunnel portal). Remember all rock and dirt was removed by hand., Of the thirteen original tunnels projected to be constructed on the route, the Middle Tunnel was the only one completed due to it being the only earthen tunnel (made more of earth than rock). It took about two years to complete. During the Cold War period of the 1950's, it was used as a Civil Defense shelter for the surrounding area. Note that over time alluvial deposits due to rain and erosion have built up in front of SW portal., Upon climbing down into the entrance of the SW portal, you will encounter a large metal gated barrier. This bat friendly gate was erected to protect the population of (illegible) Bats (illegible) that now call the remnants of the tunnel home. They are native to the area and help keep the insect population under control., (caption) Sleeping (illegible) Bat , Photos by Ms. Frankie Townsend