Preserving America's Critical Tunnel Infrastructure

How strategic maintenance keeps our vital transportation arteries flowing safely 

Beneath our waterways and through our mountains lie engineering marvels that quietly serve millions of travelers each year. These tunnels represent significant infrastructure investments requiring specialized maintenance and preservation strategies to sustain their structural integrity and operational excellence.

Unlike traditional roadways, tunnel pavements face unique challenges that can accelerate deterioration. The enclosed environment prevents natural drying processes, while constant traffic loads and limited maintenance windows create complex operational demands. Proactive maintenance and preservation become not just beneficial—they become essential.  

Today, we highlight some remarkable tunnels in the great Aloha State that continue to serve thousands of motorists daily, thanks to the inherent longevity and durability of concrete and diamond grinding.   

Tetsuo Harano Tunnels 

The Tetsuo Harano Tunnels on Hawaii’s island of O’ahu were formally opened in 1994. As the longest tunnels in the state, the Tetsuo Harano Tunnels carry Interstate H-3 through the center of the Ko’olau Range. The tunnels serve as a link between the O’ahu communities of Kāne’ohe and Halawa. 

Diamond grinding the concrete pavement within the tunnels has ensured a comfortable and safe ride for travelers, while ongoing maintenance has helped these more than 30-year-old tunnels retain their grandeur over the years. In addition to diamond grinding, minor work has been done, including expansion joint repairs in May 2025 to ensure accommodation of natural expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. 

LikeLike Tunnels

Nestled within the Koʻolau mountain range, the LikeLike (aka the John H. Wilson) Tunnels on Hawaii State Highway 63, have been a critical transportation link since opening in 1960. Constructed with reinforced concrete and steel, this engineering marvel has withstood Hawaii’s unique environmental challenges for more than six decades thanks to preservation techniques

including diamond grinding to enhance longevity, comfort and safety. 

By combining the inherent durability of concrete with preservation techniques including diamond grinding, these tunnels continue to provide vital connections for those residing on or visiting the island.  

In our next installment of “Tunnel Vision,” join us as we head to the eastern portion of the U.S. and discover how concrete innovations like diamond grinding and restoration techniques keep vital tunnels like Virginia’s Monitor Merrimac and Florida’s Port of Miami safe, smooth and ready for the future.

Visit www.igga.net to stay informed about the latest developments

in infrastructure preservation and engineering excellence.