WSDOT examines options for tolling future SR-99 tunnel

The Alaskan Way Viaduct is still standing, but
transportation officials are
already evaluating options for tolling on a replacement
tunnel.

The Seattle Times reports
that a
survey hatched discussions on the delicate balancing act
for the tunnel
tolls to avoid traffic congestion in downtown Seattle. The
tunnel is scheduled
to open to traffic, and tolls, in 2015.

The state is counting on $200 million in revenue to help
support the $3.2
billion replacement for the project.

In order to raise the revenue, the Washington State
Department of
Transportation is examining how high they could raise the
tolls before
drivers started using downtown streets.

Seattle may see additional congestion in the next few
years, as a
potential third stadium could be added to the SoDo
district, and the
possible addition of
street cars and
bike lanes.

Tolls are expected to vary by time of day, much like the
520 bridge,
meaning drivers will pay more at peak commute times and
less at other
times of day.