Truck damages dozens of tunnel lights

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Traffic to the westbound tube of the Downtown Tunnel was closed 90 minutes July 30 after a truck hit 35 lights.

"There was a lot of debris in the tunnel and loose lighting hanging down, so we had to send crews in to clean up the debris, and electricians to assess damage, and to remove any unsafe lighting so it would be safe for motorists again," Leila Rice, with tunnel operator Elizabeth River Crossings said.

Rice told WAVY.com a truck was not driving properly through the tunnel when it hit and damaged lights on the right side of the tunnel about midway through. Traffic stopped at 8:20 a.m. for electricians and maintenance crews to assess damage.

The truck reportedly continued driving and VDOT and ERC was unaware of the issue until they received reports of debris in the tunnel.

The truck belonged to Eure Equipment Rentals. WAVY.com spoke with Eure's Tony Shawler, who would not name the truck driver.

"It was an accident," Shawler said. "No one hits 38 light bulbs on purpose."

Virginia State Police reports the driver says he hit a hole in the tunnel that caused the truck's tarp system to move to the right to hit the lights.

Rice says the driver was not aware that he struck the lights.

"There were several citizens that flagged him down to let him know this had occurred," Rice said.

It is still unknown how the damage will be paid.

"We carry insurance like any other company, or individual," Shawler said. "I'm sure our insurance company will have to pay for it if we are at fault."

VSP says the driver was not charged.

Traffic was rerouted to I-464, and the downtown tunnel reopened at 9:47 a.m. Monday.

The right lane of the westbound part of the tunnel will be closed starting at 8 p.m. Wednesday for repairs until 5 a.m. Thursday.