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$93M to demolish the Alaskan Way Viaduct, complete other key projects

May 17, 2018, 10:38 AM | Updated: 10:59 am

viaduct, Alaskan Way Viaduct closure...

(WSDOT)

(WSDOT)

It will cost the state $93.7 million to demolish Seattle’s aging Alaskan Way Viaduct and wrap up other critical infrastructure projects related to the city’s new tunnel.

RELATED: Bye Bye Battery Street Tunnel

On Wednesday, the state selected Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. as the contractor. The contract includes design and construction services.

Project details include:

  • Removing the Alaskan Way Viaduct
  • Removing the Columbia Street and Seneca Street ramp structures
  • Decommissioning the Battery Street Tunnel, removing utility and mechanical systems, sealing the entrances and filling the tunnel
  • Raising Aurora Avenue North to grade between Harrison Street and Denny Way, rebuilding the street, and reconnecting Thomas and John streets across Aurora Avenue North
  • After viaduct demolition is complete, restoring waterfront roadways, sidewalks, street lighting and other elements to a temporary condition until the City of Seattle builds the new waterfront

The state mandates the work is finished in less than nine months and no cross streets can be closed for more than 30 days at a time. WSDOT aims to move Alaskan Way from under the structure. It wants to keep one lane open to keep goods and people moving.

RELATED: Explore the Battery Street Tunnel’s secret room

Demolition of the viaduct is expected to happen in 2019, after the new tunnel opens to traffic. The new tunnel could open by October.

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$93M to demolish the Alaskan Way Viaduct, complete other key projects