Many people who live in New Orleans never make it very far outside of Orleans Parish, let alone explore the Westbank. But there are some very interesting roadways and sights and sounds over there that are worth exploring. The Belle Chasse tunnel is one of those–the history is very interesting and I’ll be fascinated to see what happens with it in the coming years!

Construction began on this tunnel in New Orleans in 1954.
Wikicommons / Dr. Warner
It was meant to serve a new part of the Intracoastal Canal.
It cost over 2.4 million dollars to build and was opened in February of 1956.
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The Industrial Canal began operations later that year.
Plaquemines Parish politicians believed that building a tunnel was superior to drawbridges.
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In 1956, the tunnel was the first underwater tunnel that did not require any operating personnel.
Wikicommons / Dr. Warner
Today, many experience issues with leaking when taking this roadway.
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That is why the tunnel has earned the nickname the Belle Chasse carwash.
Controversy has surrounded the tunnel for many years, reaching a head when the tunnel was flooded after Katrina.
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There has been some talk of replacing the tunnel with a high rise bridge, but no plans have been made yet.

How many of you have ever driven on this tunnel? Do you think it is safe? Or do you think they should replace it with something new? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! We love to hear your feedback.

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