VIDEO: Howard Street Tunnel: Paving the Way for Modern Rail Advancements

July 2, 2025 – CSX is making progress in its efforts to upgrade the Howard Street Tunnel in Baltimore. The historic landmark, which dates back to the late 1800s, is getting a modern upgrade to meet the demands of modern logistics. CSX, alongside federal, state, and local partners, is advancing a massive reconstruction project to allow double-stack intermodal service along the pivotal I-95 Rail Corridor.

Among the progress being made, crew members working around the clock have removed and lowered 3,400 feet of flooring. The team has also installed approximately 1,600 feet of wall drains, marking 25% completion. These drains are essential for managing water flow and maintaining the structural integrity of the tunnel.

“We are focused on maintaining safety throughout this project as work continues,” says Derek Mihaly, CSX Director of Mid-Atlantic Construction.

Built in 1895, the Howard Street Tunnel is a historic landmark and a critical link in the freight rail network. Once the upgrades are complete, the tunnel will be capable of accommodating double-stacked container trains, significantly increasing capacity and efficiency. This enhancement will provide a faster, more direct route from Baltimore’s Seagirt Marine Terminal to the Midwest, strengthening Baltimore’s position as a key logistics hub.

With work progressing in both directions and multiple shifts optimizing productivity, the Howard Street Tunnel upgrade is on track to resume operations later this year.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make history beneath the streets of Baltimore.

Watch the below video highlights of the work in progress.