The final touches have been put on a two-mile-long replacement for Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct, culminating in this week’s opening of State Route 99 under the supervision of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).
The underground route shuffles drivers under the city’s downtown, allowing them a direct path between north and south ends of the area. It opened ramp by ramp over a series of hours, ending a three-week long highway closure.
“Today, we can say we’ve forged a new path,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “From Jimi Hendrix to Bertha Knight Landes, our state’s history is filled with examples of ingenuity and perseverance. The opening of this tunnel is further proof that we can overcome big challenges and create lasting change in our communities.”
While some traffic alignments will still take time, WSDOT notes it is closely working with partner agencies to monitor traffic conditions and adjust as necessary, but they have urged drivers to do the same.
“People really stepped up and did their part during this closure,” Transportation Secretary Roger Millar said. “We’re hoping that people discovered new ways to get around over these past few weeks and that they’ll be willing to keep it up. When more people make smart commuting choices, it makes it easier for all of us.”