WSDOT sues Seattle Tunnel Partners over tunnel project
Oct 9, 2015, 4:56 PM | Updated: 10:39 pm
The Washington State Department of Transportation filed a lawsuit against Seattle Tunnel Partners, the group behind the massive tunneling project to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct in Seattle. (AP)
(AP)
The Washington State Department of Transportation has filed a lawsuit against Seattle Tunnel Partners, the contractor behind the massive tunneling project to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct.
“The intent of today’s action is simple: protect the interests of Washington taxpayers,” said Laura Newborn in a statement from WSDOT.
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The lawsuit was filed in King County Superior Court on Friday.
“WSDOT is committed to working with Seattle Tunnel Partners (STP) to complete the SR 99 Tunnel Project,” Newborn said. “We are also committed to protecting taxpayers.”
Newborn said that the lawsuit follows filings from Seattle Tunnel Partners and their insurance companies. The lawsuit will make it possible for WSDOT to make legal claims in the future.
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WSDOT notes that it remains determined to finish the project to take down the viaduct and replace it with a tunnel.
The state agency has asked for a stay in the lawsuit while the project continues, allowing for legal disputes to begin after the tunnel is completed.
