Illini 411: How does the university keep ground water out of the steam tunnels?

Steam tunnel construction near the observatory and Freer gym, 1934. (Image courtesy of U. of I. Archives)

A: A torrential downpour? Melting snow and ice? No sweat. All nine miles of the underground steam tunnels, which connect many of the campus’ buildings and have been used as a heating source since the 1930s, contain a massive system of drainage tiles and sump pumps to keep them free of ground water. While some of the tunnels are open to the public, the ones with steam pipes are dangerous and technically inaccessible—though that hasn’t stopped generations of fearless urban explorers from poking around down there, albeit illegally. So, the next time you decide to go underground and take fate into your own hands, you can thank Facilities and Services for keeping your shoes dry!

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