Date:
Monday, June 30, 2008
Contact:
Kristy Van Ness, Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement Program, 206-382-6361 (Seattle), 206-437-5061 (cell)
Amy Grotefendt, Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement Program, 206-295-9846 (cell)
SEATTLE – The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) took another step toward replacing the Alaskan Way Viaduct. WSDOT and FHWA have released the environmental assessment for the South Holgate Street to South King Street Viaduct Replacement Project. This project is adjacent to and south of the stadiums and will replace one mile, or approximately 40 percent, of the vulnerable Alaskan Way Viaduct.
Construction on the south end of the Alaskan Way Viaduct will begin in 2009. The new road will be open to traffic in 2012. In addition to replacing the viaduct with a seismically sound structure that is designed to current roadway and safety standards, the new road will improve access for residents from south and west Seattle to downtown and the stadium area. This construction will also provide an undercrossing near South Atlantic Street so that trucks and other vehicles can avoid the railroad tracks when it is occupied by trains, allowing for consistent freight mobility. The road has been designed to work with any of the central waterfront replacement options, whether it’s above ground, below ground, or on the surface.
The report further describes how the project will be built and the construction schedule. It also outlines the anticipated effects of south end viaduct construction on the environment, traffic and surrounding neighborhoods. The report is available for download on the program's Web site. The public is invited to submit comments via e-mail, mail, and at the upcoming public hearings where a court reporter will also be available. Public comments must be received or postmarked by Aug. 11, 2008.
Submit comments to:
E-mail: southviaductEA@wsdot.wa.gov
Mail: Washington State Department of Transportation
Attn: Angela Freudenstein
999 Third Ave., Ste. 2424
Seattle, WA 98104
Environmental Assessment Hearings:
July 10, 2008
4 – 7 p.m.
Town Hall
1119 Eighth Avenue
Seattle
July 15, 2008
5 – 8 p.m.
Madison Middle School
3429 45th Avenue SW
West Seattle
WSDOT, King County, the City of Seattle, and FHWA are moving forward to replace or repair approximately half of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. The remaining section of the viaduct will begin to come down in 2012. Learn more about the work online.
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