Light-rail tunnel project in San Bernardino County, Calif., takes a step back

Koppers will pick up and dispose crossties for a new Class 1 operator.

The Twitter deal is not the only thing Elon Musk has spoiled over the last few months.

Before pulling out of the acquisition for the social media company, Musk’s Boring Company bailed on a tunnel project in San Bernardino County, Calif.

The Boring Company proposed to do tunnel work for a line connecting the Ontario International Airport with existing railways. The cost of the 2.8-mile-long tunnel was set at $60 million and the project would be completed in just three to four years. However, the Boring Company pulled out when the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority wanted a third party to look into the impacts of such a tunnel.

Now, the SBCTA is back at square one, and held a virtual public meeting on July 20 in an attempt to flush out any concerns from the public. Officials now want a 4.2-mile-long tube connecting a transportation hub at the Cucamonga Metrolink Station and the airport.

The SBCTA is still trying to get someone to bid on the project, which is now expected to cost $492 million, and service will not begin until 2027. There is over $200 million in local and federal funds committed to the project, but SBCTA will have to find a source for the remaining amount.

Officials also have no clue on what is exactly underground. A study needs to be conducted to see if there are any sewer lines or other obstacles in the path of the proposed tunnel. Earthquake studies also need to be executed.

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