The Seattle City Council yesterday passed bill 116611, an ordinance that authorizes the execution of three separate agreements between the City of Seattle and the Washington State Department of Transportation relating to the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement program. The ordinance provides state funding and allows for full city participation in the second stage of the replacement project, which is the "Moving Forward" component pertaining to the south end of the viaduct (from South Holgate to South King streets).
The multistage project, which is managed by the state, will replace about 40 percent of the existing viaduct. Construction on Stage 2 begins in early 2010 and includes soil improvements, roadway and bridge construction, railroad track relocation, pedestrian and bicycle improvements, and construction of a new undercrossing for freight at South Atlantic Street.
Meant to improve public safety, traffic mobility and access in the area, the total cost to the state as a result of these agreements is $496 million. All three agreements are option neutral--they are needed regardless of whether the bored tunnel is constructed.
"This is substantially the bulk of the agreeements, perhaps all of the agreements between the city and the state, on all of these Moving Forward projects," Seattle City Councilmember Jan Drago said.
To watch the meeting on Seattle Channel, click here.
