WSDOT Traffic Advisory
May 18, 2012
You can expect some delays in downtown Seattle this weekend as we close a section of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. Both directions of SR 99 between the north end of the Battery Street Tunnel and the West Seattle Bridge will close from 11 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday.
During the closure crews will wrap a protective reinforcing fiber on the concrete beams of the viaduct’s lower deck, which will protect it when we drive the tunnel boring machine beneath it late next year. Think of it as wrapping an injured ankle!
Aurora Bridge closure coming up
You may know that we’ve been working beneath the Aurora Avenue Bridge for the last 18 months. On May 29, we will close both directions of the bridge from 11:59 p.m. to May 30 at 5 am to jack up the bridge. If you want to know the details about what we’re doing, check out our Web page. If you don’t care about the work but want to know the detailed closure information for planning purposes, check our construction closure page on or after May 20.
U-District’s sign OF the times or FOR the times?
It’s definitely a sign FOR the times.
We have slowly but surely been replacing the old, faded highway signs on southbound I-5 with newer, larger lighted signs boasting higher reflectivity and toll bridge information. (Some of us have older eyes and really appreciate this!)
Last week we began work on southbound I-5 between 45th and 50th streets in the University District to build a new sign across all lanes. Crews are digging holes 19 feet deep and 4 feet wide. Concrete barrier on the left hand side will squeeze traffic down even tighter than it already is. We’ll be there for the next month. Consider keeping your eyes (old and young) open for our workers. They’re the ones in orange!
Questions?
Do you have any questions or concerns? Please feel free to contact me directly at mike.murphy@wsdot.wa.gov or 206-440-4699.
Mike Murphy
WSDOT Communications
