Demolition crews made a major breakthrough Saturday, Aug. 16 when they brought down the roof of the Wilburton Tunnel on southbound I-405.

“We reached a milestone this morning when crews completed removing the roof,” said I-405 Deputy Project Director, Stacy Trussler. “Next, we’re going to focus on demolishing the tunnel’s sidewalls and abutments, and that will take longer than the roof.”

There are more than hundred feet of sidewalls that will need to be removed. Crews also must haul away tons of concrete and rebar.

The tunnel is being removed to make room for more HOV and general purpose lanes on the freeway.

Because of the work, southbound I-405 between Southeast Eighth Street and the I-90 interchange will remain closed until 5 a.m. Monday.