As drivers endure delays, WSDOT is showing early progress on the Boat Canal Bridge project and plans to temporarily pause construction during the World Cup.
SEATTLE — The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is providing the first update on progress on the Ship Canal Bridge project as commuters continue to face congestion.
Much of the work is being done out of public view, but transportation officials say crews have made significant progress on upgrades designed to improve the bridge’s long-term safety and reliability.
“Hopefully they can get this done so we can move on with our lives,” said Seattle resident David Ghoddosi.
WSDOT said the project marks the first major overhaul of the bridge in more than 40 years.
So far, crews have completed 140 critical repairs, poured nearly 1,000 cubic yards of concrete, installed new decks, upgraded drainage and replaced aging expansion joints in the bridge’s two left northbound lanes.
Officials said the improvements are expected to extend the bridge’s life by at least 25 years.
“Now is the perfect time to do this conservation work,” said WSDOT’s Messay Shiferaw.
Shifero said delaying the project would only make the problem worse.
“If we don’t do it this year, that means this problem will drag on for another year, and another year after that,” he said. “So that’s why it’s always a good idea to get the job done as quickly as possible and leave.”
Still, many drivers who rely on the busy I-5 corridor say construction has taken a toll.
“It’s terrible, it’s terrible,” Godosi said. “Trying to go through the city center and back from the city center — it makes our lives more stressful.”
“The traffic is terrible,” added Seattle resident Christina Houston. “All I can say is it’s really, really bad.”
The immediate situation has eased. Construction on the bridge will be suspended from June 8 to July 10 to accommodate the expected influx of World Cup visitors.
“For the World Cup we have to have people who are relaxed and happy,” Godosi said. “We want them to enjoy our beautiful city.”
After the pause, crews will resume work on the remaining northbound lanes, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The project will be moved to the southbound side next year.
Overall, the work is expected to take about two years to complete.
Despite the disruption, some drivers say it’s worth it in the long run.
“I think it’s worth it,” Houston said. “If it’s broken, you have to fix it.”
