Overview
We will begin to remove the viaduct along the central waterfront in 2012. However, continued settlement of four columns in the Pioneer Square area meant we needed to make immediate repairs to ensure the
viaduct is safe for drivers for the next five years.
To improve public safety, we:
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Strengthened four column footings between Columbia Street and Yesler Way to prevent
further sinking
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Drilled a series of steel rods surrounded by
concrete into stable soil
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Added a layer of reinforced concrete to tie the
new supports to the existing column footings |
 |
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Crews placed concrete to connect new underground supports to one of the viaduct's columns. |
What will construction be like?
Construction began in October 2007 and was completed in April 2008.
Why did we pursue this project?
The viaduct section between Columbia Street and Yesler Way has settled approximately five-and-a-half inches into the ground since the 2001 Nisqually earthquake. Engineers determined that the trend of continued settlement made it a prudent decision to move forward with repairs now. We will continue to closely monitor any further deterioration.
The End Result
This project limits settlement in this area of the viaduct and prevents further damage to the structure. This is a temporary repair until the viaduct is replaced along the central waterfront. Conducting the work now allows the viaduct to remain open for traffic until we begin to remove it.
Updated May 2008