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Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels Get New Fire Suppression System

SUMMIT COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4)- A major safety upgrade has been installed inside the Eisenhower and Johnson Tunnels that includes 120,000 gallons of water.

"It's only a matter of time, it's Russian roulette every year, every decade without a fire suppression system," said Rep. Jared Polis, a Democrat representing Colorado.

TUNNEL FIRE SUPRESSION  (1)
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Polis was there as Colorado Department of Transportation officials put the new fire suppression system online.

TUNNEL FIRE SUPRESSIO
(credit: CBS)

The system isn't designed to put out the flames but to keep them from spreading which would give firefighters more time to respond.

TUNNEL FIRE SUPRESSION  (3)
(credit: CBS)
TUNNEL FIRE SUPRESSION  (2)
(credit: CBS)
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