Outbound Armstrong Tunnel in Pittsburgh Reopens, Inbound Tunnel Closes

Published on May 08, 2025

PITTSBURGH – The Department of Public Works announced today that the outbound Armstrong Tunnel in Pittsburgh has reopened to traffic, and the inbound tunnel has closed to traffic. Closure of the inbound tunnel, which is expected to reopen in June 2025, is required for crews to complete miscellaneous construction, including additional roadway work. These traffic changes are part of a $13.1 million Armstrong Tunnel rehabilitation project that began on March 4, 2023.

While the outbound tunnel has reopened, the sidewalk on that side of the tunnel is expected to remain closed through September. The sidewalk work associated with the rehabilitation project has been completed. However, Duquesne University will be using scaffolding in the area to make repairs to the Fisher Hall pedestrian bridge above Forbes Avenue.

During the inbound Armstrong Tunnel closure, vehicles will be detoured using Second Avenue, Ross Street, and Forbes Avenue. Until the sidewalk reopens, pedestrians will continue to be detoured using Forbes Avenue, Ross Street, and Second Avenue.

The Armstrong Tunnel, which provides a vital connection between Second Avenue and Forbes Avenue, is used by an average of 11,039 vehicles daily. Its rehabilitation is necessary to extend its life and to ensure driver and pedestrian safety within it. The work during the project includes concrete repairs; removal of the ceramic tile liner and replacement with fireproof wall panels; masonry cleaning at the tunnel entrances and exits; lighting, electrical, and fire detection and suppression system upgrades; installation of a CCTV monitoring system; and placement of new pavement, curb, sidewalk, signage, and pavement markings.

Mosites Construction Company of Robinson is doing the project. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is paying 80% of the cost, and Allegheny County is paying 20%. Of the federal funding, $1.25 million comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) oversees federal funding.

Media inquiries may be directed to Brent Wasko, Public Information Officer for the Department of Public Works
brent.wasko@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-350-2451 or 412-577-6175 (cell).