Date:
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Contact:
Joy Carpine, WSDOT Communications, (206) 464-1186 (Seattle)
Amy Grotefendt, Alaskan Way Viaduct & Seawall Replacement Project, (206) 267-3789 (Seattle)
SEATTLE – Last week’s inspection for latent damage on the Alaskan Way Viaduct revealed no new damage to the two columns that were inspected or to the rebar within the columns. WSDOT inspected these columns because they had existing cracks on the exterior that increased the potential for additional unseen damage beneath the concrete.
Work was conducted between Seneca and Spring streets and between Yesler Way and Columbia Street. A one-block portion of the street-level pedestrian and bicycle path was closed during this work for safety reasons. The inspection was completed Friday afternoon on schedule, and the adjacent bike/pedestrian path was re-opened.
“It is great news that the steel beneath the concrete in these two columns is intact and no immediate repairs are necessary. However, broken rebar is just one of the ways the viaduct is vulnerable to another earthquake,” said WSDOT Bridge Engineer Jugesh Kapur. “We continue to have serious concerns with the weaknesses in the viaduct’s foundation, the settling soil beneath the viaduct, fragile column joints, and the deteriorating seawall.”
Project Director Ron Paananen echoed his concerns. “The Alaskan Way Viaduct won’t make it through another major earthquake. Replacing the viaduct is one of WSDOT’s top priorities to ensure the public is safe.”
More investigations will take place on October 14 and 15, during the viaduct’s semi-annual inspection and closure. At that time, crews will examine crack monitors on the viaduct and determine if additional settlement has occurred. During the March 2006 inspection, additional movement was found near Columbia Street. This area has settled a total of 4 ½ inches since the Nisqually Earthquake in 2001. During the October weekend inspection, crews will also look for new cracks and other progressing damage to the structure.
If new damage is found during the October inspection, additional weight restrictions or repairs may be necessary.
For more information, please go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/viaduct.
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