Texas A&M University is exploring a unique way to address the growing congestion on its College Station campus with an underground tunnel courtesy of The Boring Company.
The university has seen rapid growth in recent years, with its student population increasing by around 18,000 in the past decade. With this expansion, traffic congestion and overcrowding have become serious issues, particularly between classes. To tackle this challenge, Texas A&M is considering a proposal from The Boring Company to build an underground tunnel system, called the “Aggie Loop.”
According to a report from The Battalion, The Boring Company has proposed a 2.3 mile (3.7km) underground transit loop as part of a two-phase project to alleviate congestion and provide quick transportation across the campus.
The Aggie Loop would connect some of the most heavily trafficked areas on campus, allowing students to travel across areas that typically require long walks or bus rides in a matter of minutes.
“The Boring Company proposal provides a mobility solution that improves campus-wide connectivity, reduces road congestion, allows for future expansion as the need arises, and the vehicles in the tunnel are zero-emission electric,” said Peter Lange, Texas A&M’s Chief Operating Officer.
This underground system is not designed to replace Texas A&M’s existing transportation infrastructure, but rather complement it. The tunnel would be built 30 feet below ground, minimizing surface disruption and making it possible for future expansions. If required, a second phase would another 2 miles (3.2km).
While the proposal presents a promising solution, it is not without its challenges. Funding the project, which is estimated to cost between US$250 million and US$350 million, remains a significant obstacle.
