Seattle tunnel crew installing water wells near Bertha

Before divers can get in to inspect what’s blocking Bertha the drill, crews are installing drainage wells.

Seattle Tunnel Partners says it’s installing nearly eight wells about 120 feet deep near Bertha in an effort to lower the water pressure in the ground.

“High groundwater pressure combined with loose soils has, to this point, prevented safe worker access,” according to STP.

Once it’s safe, workers can enter the excavation chamber at the front of the drill and determine why Bertha can’t move.

Well installation will continue next week and STP hopes to begin inspecting the machine by late next week.