News Release

News Release Greg Nickels, Mayor Grace Crunican, Director Contact: Rick Sheridan, 206-684-8540 For Immediate Release November 2, 2009

SDOT to host NE 45th Street Viaduct Project Open House SEATTLE – The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) invites the public to an open house to learn about replacement plans for the west approach of the NE 45th Street Viaduct. It will be held on Thursday, November 12, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the University Presbyterian Church located at 4540 15th Avenue NE, Seattle. The NE 45th Street Viaduct’s existing west approach is nearing the end of its structural life and needs to be rebuilt to maintain a safe and efficient travel corridor for vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles. SDOT will replace the 468-foot west approach, and evaluate the east approach and main span for seismic retrofit needs. SDOT is planning to construct the new west approach during summer 2010 when traffic is lighter due to the University of Washington’s summer session. Based on community input, SDOT will utilize a fullclosure construction phasing for the work to shorten its timeframe and reduce how long travelers are detoured around the area. The closure will last up to four months. The department is working closely with local community groups, institutions and businesses in planning this project, and will continue to involve the public as it moves forward with final design and construction. The project is part of the voter-approved Bridging the Gap program and will cost approximately $30 million. For additional information, please visit the project Web site at www.seattle.gov/transportation/45th-bridge.htm. The Seattle Department of Transportation builds, maintains and operates Seattle's $12 billion transportation infrastructure. To further Mayor Nickels’ goal to get Seattle moving, the department manages short- and long-term investments in streets, bridges, pavement and trees, that better connect the city with the region. ###

Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 3900, PO Box 34996, Seattle WA 98124-4996 Tel: (206) 684-ROAD (684-7623), Internet Address: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation An equal employment opportunity employer. Accommodations for people with disabilities provided on request.