Alaskan Way Viaduct Projects & SR 520 Bridge Projects - Updated Cost Estimates
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Costs keep going up. When will they stop?
The primary reason that costs are increasing is because of a rising inflation rate. Also, global demands for commodities, such as gasoline, concrete, and steel, make construction across the world more expensive than just a few years ago. Economists disagree on how long these rising costs will continue but we know that much of it is outside of Washington state’s control. What we can do is make decisions quickly and get started on these urgent projects – the longer we delay, the more they will cost.
2. How can WSDOT afford to do any of the projects promised in the 2003 and 2005 funding packages?
Replacing the Alaskan Way Viaduct and SR 520 floating bridges are only two projects out of hundreds funded by the 2003 and 2005 State Legislature. They are large projects and their long construction schedules make them more subject to rising inflation and commodity costs. In light of this new information, WSDOT will reevaluate the projects funded by the State Legislature to ensure they can be completed.
3. Will WSDOT ask the State Legislature for more funding?
The state has made significant investments in transportation over the last four years. The State Legislature also authorized the Regional Transportation Investment District which will provide additional funding for Puget Sound projects. WSDOT will work with the Governor, State Legislature, and RTID officials to determine how best to fund these critical projects.
4. Can we afford to build both the viaduct replacement and a new 520 bridge?
We don’t have a choice. The Puget Sound region cannot afford to lose either of these bridges, which serve critical transportation needs.
5. Can RTID fund both the viaduct replacement and a new 520 bridge?
WSDOT will continue to work with the leadership of RTID to determine how these and other critical transportation projects can be funded.