Service Buildings and Ancillary Spaces

The number, type, and specifics of tunnel ancillary facilities and service buildings depend on the functional requirements of each tunnel. Broadly speaking, ventilation equipment, electrical switchgear, and other mechanical and electrical equipment required for the operation of a roadway tunnel are housed in one or more below- or above-grade buildings. There must be space to house and maintain service vehicles and emergency trucks, shops for electrical and mechanical repairs, and adequate storage for the material and equipment needed to operate and maintain the tunnel and related roadways. Traffic control and surveillance, communications and equipment monitoring functions must be accommodated,and facilities for operating personnel have to be provided. In addition, facilities for the administrative operation of the tunnel must be provided, either as part of a broader district operational facility or as stand-alone quarters.