Boston Dedicates Tunnel to Sports Hero Williams

Boston honored baseball great Ted Williams by dedicating a $1.95-billion vehicular tunnel linking the city’s downtown to its airport.

Williams, 77, who used a cane as he stepped to the podium on Friday, told a crowd of about 500 politicians, construction workers and former Boston Red Sox teammates at the entrance of the tunnel that he was humbled by the honor.

“I’ve never had so many people be so nice and respectful and enthused,” he said, standing in a light drizzle. “And I thought I’ve only seen this happen when somebody looks like they’re going to die. And I’d just like to say this one thing today, I’m a long way from that.” The crowd cheered.

Boston held a week of celebrations for the “Splendid Splinter,” as Williams was called.