Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Ardurra (Janus Research) assisted the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District Four with the comprehensive rehabilitation of the historic Henry E. Kinney Tunnel, Florida's first tunnel constructed from 1958 to 1960 and a significant engineering landmark in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its pivotal role in Fort Lauderdale's development and exceptional engineering design, the tunnel required sensitive rehabilitation addressing safety, materials, and equipment deficiencies while preserving its historic character.
The complex project updated lighting, signage, ventilation systems, electrical infrastructure, wearing surfaces, and ceiling tiles, while also incorporating advanced monitoring and safety technology. Concurrent coordination with the City of Fort Lauderdale facilitated improvements to pedestrian safety and the development of recreational spaces at the north portal, showcasing innovative multi-agency collaboration.
Key Project Highlights:
- Rehabilitated Florida's first tunnel (1958-1960), preserving National Register-listed engineering landmark for another 60 years of service
- Addressed complex safety and infrastructure needs including lighting, venting, electrical systems, and advanced monitoring technology
- Navigated challenging downtown location on major US highway, minimizing impacts to tunnel users and adjacent businesses/residences
- Coordinated extensive stakeholder consultation with local businesses, Florida SHPO, preservation groups, Broward County, and Stranahan House Museum
- Designed historical interpretive panels creating a crucial educational resource for visitors learning about Fort Lauderdale and tunnel history
- Completed Historic American Engineering Record documentation with large format photography preserved in State Archives and Library of Congress
- Enhanced pedestrian safety and recreation through concurrent City project providing increased recreational space at north portal
The project earned multiple prestigious awards, including the Grand Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Florida and the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation award for exceptional restoration achievement. The rehabilitation demonstrates best practices for preserving unique infrastructure while meeting modern safety and operational requirements.
