Open Shield Tunneling
More Services
Open Shield Tunneling
Open shield tunneling is a sequential excavation method used to construct tunnels in areas where surface disruption, limited access, or ground conditions make open-cut installation impractical. CRS Contractors performs open shield tunneling for utility and infrastructure crossings that require controlled excavation and continuous ground support throughout construction.
When It’s Used
Open shield tunneling is commonly selected for:
- Crossings beneath active roadways, rail corridors, or developed areas
- Installations in constrained sites where open-cut excavation is not feasible
- Projects requiring tunnel support as excavation advances through variable ground conditions
Our Approach
CRS Contractors evaluates subsurface conditions, loading above the tunnel, shaft access, and alignment requirements early in project planning. The company sequences excavation and open shield installation to maintain support at the face and along the tunnel as work progresses, helping reduce settlement risk and maintain control in sensitive or heavily constrained environments.
Featured Projects
South Hartford Conveyance and Storage Tunnel: Consolidation Conduits (Contract No. 5)
Hartford, CT
Collection Systems
Hartford, CT
CT DOT Job #033-133-Emergency Declaration Project Cromwell, CT
Cromwell, CT
Open Shield Tunneling
Cromwell, CT
Up Smith’s Creek Community Complex Bulkhead Replacement-Woodbridge
Woodbridge, NJ
Bulkheads / Piles
Woodbridge, NJ
Replacement of Mercer County Bridge No. 250.3 Carter Road-Hopewell-Mercer County
Hopewell, NJ
Roads & Bridges
Hopewell, NJ
Trusted By Industry Leaders
Start Your Project With Confidence
Engage early to reduce risk, delays, and costly change orders.