Road America is viewed as a premier road racing course in the USA, as well as the world. The facility hosts racing events from mid-April through October. The four-mile track includes 14 turns with continuous elevation changes.

In an effort to improve track safety and accessibility, Road America entrusted McMahon to design and construct a new 165-foot long tunnel under the race track to serve as the main entrance for race teams, spectators and Road America personnel.

PROJECT SPECIFICS:

• Engineer-led, design/build project
• Removal of existing bridge/tunnel
• Pre-Cast Tunnel Sections (less affected by weather; reduced cure time; fast erection)
• 165-ft long x 36 ft. wide
• Minimum clearance height of 16’-8”
• 2 – 12’ driving lanes, 2 – 6’ sidewalks
• Over 1,000 ft. of gravity storm sewer for drainage (25’ deep)

CHALLENGES:

• Short, 4-month construction period – all during winter months
• Alignment of tunnel with existing roadways and grades
• Winter conditions necessitated protection of backfill and concrete to prevent freezing
• Large sign addition, after construction of tunnel was complete