App allows you to throw money into Seattle tunnel project

By now, the vast majority of people living in the Pacific Northwest have heard of the delayed Seattle tunnel project. However, very few have first-hand experience of pumping money into the project. Until now.

A mobile app offers users the ability to throw money into the tunnel repair pit.

The app, developed by Dallan Porter, puts the user above the pit where Bertha is hanging. The object is to throw enough money into the pit to raise Bertha out &#8212 ironically, crews recently lowered the tunnel boring machine back into the pit, a feat that took two days. It’s no easy task, as it takes quite some time and money to make any progress.

A new app allows anyone to throw money into the Seattle tunnel project. Just don’t expect to get anything out of the effort.

Insurance companies sue to get out of paying for Bertha repairs

The app is almost like a modern-day political cartoon, Porter told KIRO Radio’s Colleen O’Brien.

“I’m all for the project,” Porter said. “But it’s a lot of money being poured into it.”

The Seattle tunnel project is more than a year behind schedule. It’s received national attention, which might explain why Porter, an Arizona resident, is so familiar with it. To be fair, he also has friends in Seattle.

The idea for the app was sparked by all the controversy surrounding the project, Porter explained. He understood the frustration as complications kept arising. There were some news stories that referred to the project as a “money pit.”

Bertha Digs Seattle took between 100 and 200 hours to develop, according to Porter.

“This new game (more like a simulator) lets you experience that raw adrenaline rush as your tax dollars fly down the pit at Bertha,” a description of the game reads.

Maybe Porter’s next app can be used to help Bertha actually finish the rest of the dig under Seattle’s waterfront.