Get together, again

28 June 2023


Summer is for gatherings and celebrations – getting together to share experience and lessons learned, such as at RETC 2023, in Boston in June, and also to celebrate successes and knowledge gained to be of benefit to the future.


Our shared future.

It was tough to see that, at times, in recent years during the Covid pandemic and lockdowns and being apart. But opportunities are here again to gather with gusto, refresh ourselves, and see friends and colleagues. It is no small thing, togetherness.

One of the fantastic aspects of civil engineering – and hence underground infrastructure – is that it is about creating ways of being together in the world, to benefit the many. That has higher purpose and the ways of joining forces to do so, and to apply science and technology, and softer systems in useful ways, makes it all happen.

To that end, TTNA is pleased to preview what’s lined up for RETC 2023 – and it is a packed program.

We are also happy to list many other, international, events that can be of interest and help, schedule for soon after – and spotlight the flagship training course in the UK run by the British Tunnelling Society (BTS). An array of seasoned experts are coming together in early July to share immense experience with attendees. Another busy program is planned and the doors are open to welcome tunnelers from North America and elsewhere.

In this issue we also look at other developments internationally, from the latest R&D in UK to how a traditional tunneling method was developed for Madrid subway, in Spain. TTNA also has a review of the ITA’s guide on shafts.

A discussion on risk in construction and how insurers can help to change that profile – possibly with a pilot project – is also discussed.

But we’re most pleased to start the issue with an update on the Hudson Tunnel project as procurement moves ahead, and hear from Robbins on how TBM systems can support sustainability. In Canada, we see the progress made with TBM breakthroughs in Vancouver.