The Woodlands – Imagine driving through an underground tunnel to reach your destination faster. The Woodlands could soon make that a reality.
Elon Musk’s Boring Company has challenged cities to submit bids for a free underground tunnel project, and The Woodlands Township is all in.
The Woodlands Township voted unanimously Thursday night to apply for the Tunnel Vision Challenge, a contest by Musk’s company to build a mile-long dual tunnel system. If selected, the tunnels would run beneath Town Center and transport passengers in a fleet of Tesla electric vehicles.
Brad Bailey, chairman of The Woodlands Township, said the project aims to ease traffic congestion and improve safety around some of the township’s busiest areas.
“Elon Musk, The Boring Company, has a challenge out for cities to put out a bid... dual tunnel for free,” Bailey said. “We’d like to start in the mall area, a big hub for us that’s on Lake Woodlands.”
The concept is already in use in Las Vegas, where the Vegas Loop has transported more than 3 million passengers through eight stations. The underground system connects riders to major venues and Harry Reid International Airport, offering fast and convenient access.
Bailey emphasized the importance of moving people efficiently during busy times, especially around the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and other event venues.
“There are busy times when the pavilion is full. We’ve got to be sure we can move people around,” he said.
Some residents have expressed concerns about the safety of underground tunnels. Bailey addressed these worries, noting that The Boring Company is experienced in handling challenges such as gas lines and flooding.
“There’s a lot of things — gas lines. Elon Musk can figure out the flooding issue,” Bailey said.
The Woodlands project could link key spots around town and enhance public safety by reducing surface traffic and pedestrian risks.
The tunnel would help solve growing problems with insufficient vehicle parking, traffic jams, and pedestrian safety during peak commute times and major events like the IRONMAN Texas triathlon.
Submissions for the Tunnel Vision Challenge close February 23, with the winner expected to be announced March 23.
For more details on the challenge, visit Elon Musk’s Boring Company website at https://www.boringcompany.com/tunnelvision.