The tunnel that goes underwater, a remarkable feat of engineering, is part of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT), located in Virginia, USA.
This extraordinary structure seamlessly connects the Virginia mainland at Virginia Beach, near Norfolk, with Virginia's Eastern Shore, spanning a significant portion of the Chesapeake Bay. It serves as both a vital travel convenience and a popular tourist attraction.
An Engineering Marvel
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is much more than just a passage; it's recognized globally as an award-winning engineering marvel. Its innovative design and construction have earned it a place among the seven man-made wonders of the world, a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming natural barriers.
Key Features of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The CBBT is an intricate system of bridges, tunnels, causeways, and islands. The underwater sections are specifically designed to allow large ships to pass overhead, maintaining the vital shipping lanes of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Location: Connects Virginia Beach (near Norfolk) on the mainland to Virginia's Eastern Shore.
- Length: A massive 17.6-mile toll facility, encompassing both bridge and tunnel segments.
- Function: Facilitates convenient travel and serves as a unique scenic route for tourism.
- Design: A complex structure blending bridges and deep-water tunnels, essential for maritime navigation.
- Recognition: Celebrated internationally as a significant engineering achievement.
Quick Facts: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Virginia, USA (Chesapeake Bay) |
| Connects | Virginia Mainland (Virginia Beach/Norfolk) & Virginia's Eastern Shore |
| Total Length | 17.6 Miles |
| Status | Toll Facility |
| Distinction | Award-winning Engineering Marvel; One of the Seven Man-Made Wonders of the World |
For more information on this iconic structure, you can visit the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel official website.
