Pictures, words, opinions, initials and advertisements are just a few of the observable expressions noticed when walking through the newly renovated Free Expression Tunnel. The tunnel provides a faster route for most students as it connects North Campus and Central Campus via beneath the railroad tracks.
Anna Godwin, a sophomore in textiles engineering, is impressed with the tunnel.
“It is eye-opening as a freshman, and convenient,” Godwin said, adding that she had never seen it before.
Since the 1960s, the Free Expression Tunnel has been used to prevent graffiti on campus and offers a place for students to communicate emotions or opinions.
“The Free Expression Tunnel is a way for people to express themselves without damaging the rest of campus,” Lizzy Adams, a junior in First Year College, said. “People identify it with State – everyone knows it.”
During the Vietnam War and the Iranian hostage crisis, the walls of this tunnel were filled with protests, political messages and opinions. Although this tunnel is loved by all and it is a known entity of N.C. State, there is always room for improvement.
In July 2003, after a heavy 20-minute rainfall, the highest level of water reached five feet in the Free Expression Tunnel.
Two million dollars and approximately one year later, the tunnel is open for use. There is yet one more final inspection before it can be officially approved for opening. There will be a ceremony in August, according to John Palmiter, project manager of the Free Expression Tunnel. aThe tunnel is no longer under construction, but there are a few minor details that the designer and owner will inspect and create a ‘punchlist.’ Minor issues such as handrails, lighting and landscaping still need some touching up, Palmiter said.
The objective of the entire renovation project was to make the Free Expression Tunnel ADA compliant for handicapped students and faculty. Wheelchair ramps were placed at the north and south sides of the tunnel.
Palmiter said he is happy with the outcome but stresses the importance of keeping the new looking new.
“It was rewarding to see how we made that part of campus look nicer,” Palmiter said. “I stress to students to paint inside the tunnel to keep the brickwork looking nice.”