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Caldecott Tunnel's 4th Bore Takes Shape, Officials Advise Commuters: 'Be Patient'

BERKELEY (KCBS) -- The fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel is really taking shape and that could fool some commuters driving through the area. KCBS' Dave Padilla reports that Caltrans officials have some friendly advice for commuters: be patient.

Caltrans officials say they're making steady progress on completing the fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel, which separates Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. While commuters passing by might think things almost look ready to go, officials still advise to be patient.

The fourth bore is expected to relieve traffic congestion especially during counter-commute hours when traffic tends to stack up.

Caltrans spokesperson Ivy Morrison said since breaking ground in 2010, a lot of work has been done.

"A possible assumption is that motorists see all this work going on and think, 'Wow! You guys are getting ready to open the tunnel to traffic.' We are getting ready to open to traffic, but it's going to be a while," she said.

Caldecott Tunnel's 4th Bore Taking Shape, Officials Advise Commuters: Be Patient

Morrison said ventilation systems still have to be installed and that's not all.

"The electrical and the drainage, in fact, are happening now inside the tunnel, so you can't see it. The roadway is going to start within the next few weeks very shortly," Morrison added.

The third bore of the Caldecott was opened to the driving public in 1964. This new tunnel will be equipped with state-of-the art systems and safety protections. It reportedly will also be capable of withstanding a strong earthquake. The opening of this tunnel will likely happen late this year.

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