Date:  Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Contact: Travis Phelps, Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement Program, 206-805-2861; 206-462-0554 (cell)

Kristy Van Ness, Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement Program, 206-805-2881; 206-300-4312 (cell)

SEATTLE – Crews will close the Alaskan Way Viaduct (SR 99) in Seattle this weekend to inspect the structure and ensure that it remains safe for drivers. Both decks of the viaduct will be closed from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 16 and 17, between Spokane Street and the Battery Street Tunnel.

During the closure, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and city of Seattle crews will inspect the structure for settlement and perform routine maintenance and preservation work such as: Applying a protective covering to exposed rebar; servicing drainage systems and traffic cameras; washing the walls of the Battery Street Tunnel and inspecting its lighting and ventilation systems; and restriping the roadway.

WSDOT will release preliminary inspection results by Friday, Oct. 22.
Drivers may encounter increased congestion on I-5 and other major north-south routes during the closure. WSDOT asks drivers to check traffic conditions before they leave at www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic, or via the voice-activated driver information line, 511. Carpooling, vanpooling or taking transit also are recommended.

For more information on the Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement program, visit http://www.alaskanwayviaduct.org/.

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