Ohio River Tunnel (ORT)

The first major tunnel project in the regional system.

Once complete, the ORT will consist of new underground tunnels that together will capture and redirect combined sewage that currently overflows into the Ohio River and its tributaries to the treatment plant.

The centerpiece is the main tunnel — roughly 18 feet in diameter and 3.8 miles long — running from the North Shore near the Veterans’ Bridge to the new pump station and the treatment plant near the McKees Rocks Bridge. Smaller tunnels connect to the main tunnel, capturing flows from the Saw Mill Run and Chartiers Creek areas. Follow along the path of the tunnel in the video below.

Construction will be led by a massive tunnel boring machine (TBM) that will excavate the main tunnel from start to finish. Once complete, the Ohio River Tunnel will also serve as the connection point for two future tunnels planned as part of the broader regional system.

Notice to proceed was issued to the contractor on June 1, 2026. Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2032.

ALCOSAN's ORT Alignment Flyover

A short look at the path of the ORT and the new infrastructure that will be constructed.

Loads when you press play

Tunnel route and construction footprint

Using the map below, understand where the ORT runs, where construction sites are located, and see which closures or detours are active near each construction site.