Overview
We will replace the existing two-lane bridge with a wider, four-lane bridge with sidewalks and a bike lane. We will also build retaining walls and an enclosed storm water system for roadway runoff.
Why is WSDOT
making these improvements?
The current bridge is a narrow, “swing-span” bridge that was built in 1925. The bridge is at the end of its service life, and does not meet current traffic needs in the area. Replacing the bridge will reduce costly temporary repairs and the cost of staffing the bridge.
The Ebey Slough bridge is on the main commuter route for drivers traveling between Marysville and Everett. About 17,000 drivers use this stretch of SR 529 each day. The new fixed-span bridge will eliminate congestion caused by bridge openings. The new bridge will also increase safety for bicyclists, pedestrians and drivers using the bridge.
The End Result
We will build a new four-lane, fixed-span, steel bridge to the east of the existing bridge. The new bridge will feature sidewalks and separate bicycle lanes. SR 529 will be realigned to meet the new bridge. We will also add a two-way left turn lane just north of the new bridge.
Project Benefits
Safety. The existing bridge is at the end of its service life and needs to be upgraded or replaced in order to meet current WSDOT standards. Replacing the bridge with a wider steel bridge is the most cost-effective option. This project will also improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians using the bridge.
Congestion relief. Eliminating bridge openings will reduce traffic congestion along this commuter route.
Environment. We will improve the aquatic environment in the channel by removing the existing creosote bridge “fender” and “rests.” When fully open, the existing bridge sits on these structures in the Ebey Slough. We will replace some of the existing soil around the structures with clean sand. We will also build an enclosed storm water system for roadway runoff and a new waterline in cooperation with the City of Marysville.
We have worked extensively with local and federal environmental resource agencies to ensure our work will have minimum impacts to the surrounding environment. To minimize our impacts to environment, we will at times need to work during low tide periods, sometimes during nighttime hours. We will work closely with our contractor to ensure that work is done in a manner that minimizes impacts to the environment.
What is the project timeline?
Summer 2006 – We began designing the project.
April 26, 2010 – We advertised the project for competitive bidding.
June 16, 2010 - We awarded the contract to Granite Construction Company, who submitted the most competitive bid.
July 2010 – We began construction.
As of Aug. 1, 2010 - The SR 529 Ebey Slough bridge will no longer open for marine traffic. Affected boats should use the Snohomish River for upstream travel.
April 13-16, 2012 - We moved traffic to the half of the new bridge and permanently closed the old bridge to traffic. Crews are demolishing the existing bridge.
Winter 2013 - We expect to fully open the new bridge to traffic.
Spring 2013 - We'll complete construction.
Financial Information
Project signage will reflect the cost of construction engineering, project bid award and sales tax.
| Financial Data for PIN 152908E |
| Funding Source |
Amount ($ in thousands) |
| 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) |
$0 |
| 2005 Gas Tax (TPA) |
$37,094 |
| Pre-Existing Funds (PEF) |
$2,034 |
| Total |
$39,128 |
|
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Mark Sawyer
WSDOT Construction Project Engineer
Phone: (425) 225-8799
E-mail: sawyerm@wsdot.wa.gov
Kris Olsen
WSDOT Communications
Phone: (206) 440-4704
E-mail: olsenk@wsdot.wa.gov
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