On September 10, 2010, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) officially re-opened the NE 45th Street Viaduct to all traffic. The viaduct was closed from June 14 until September 10 while its 468-foot west approach was fully replaced. The work was completed on schedule and, as promised, in time for the first Huskies home football game.

“By replacing the old timber structure, SDOT completed a significant roadway enhancement that will ensure safer travel for years to come,” said Peter Hahn, director of SDOT. Mr. Hahn also highlighted the completion of the project on-time and thanked the community for their patience during the closure. “It is through communication with and support from the nearby community that projects like this are so successful.”

Members of the community also spoke in support of the project. Joshua Kavanagh, director of Transportation Services at the University of Washington, thanked SDOT for its early coordination and support during the project. “The viaduct serves as a vital link for the university staff and students, and the reopening in time for the first Husky game will ensure another successful football season and school year,” said Mr. Kavanagh.

The project required the demolition of a timber structure and construction of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall to support the new concrete roadway surface. In addition, crews repaved 22nd Avenue NE from NE 45th to NE 54th streets prior to the closure. The total cost of the project is approximately nine million dollars.

To view pictures of the viaduct’s construction or to learn more about it, please visit the project Web site at www.seattle.gov/transportation/45th-bridge.

For more information: Maribel Cruz, (206) 684-7963, maribel.cruz@seattle.gov

Media contact: Richard Sheridan, (206) 684-8540, richard.sheridan@seattle.gov