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MassDOT Faces Questions About Dark Big Dig Tunnel

BOSTON (CBS) -- Why is part of the Ted Williams Tunnel dark?

"It's like total darkness," said Steve Anastas, who emailed WBZ. "If you look up close at the lights, it's like there are wires or some type of bungee cords just holding the lights up in place."

Last fall, after routine inspection, MassDOT uncovered springnuts securing the light fixtures were cracked. As a result, a full inspection was ordered and completed in November.

Transportation officials decided it was time to replace the nuts and work to remove, clean and install the lights has been underway.

Next week, crews are scheduled to begin installing wiring in ceiling areas above the slow travel lane.

Drivers are on edge after a drain cover that had become dislodged near the exit of another Big Dig structure, the O'Neill Tunnel, flew into a car, killing the driver.

"Especially on a bright day," said limousine driver Robert Fougeray, who uses the Ted Williams Tunnel several times a day. "You go in there, your eyes have to adjust of course, and at night time it's not much better."

A sign at the tunnel entrance warns drivers to use headlights, since light maintenance is underway.

"I would have thought it would be done by now," said truck driver Nesu Moyo.

MassDOT considers the installation on schedule and says lighting in the tunnel meets or exceeds federal guidelines.

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