This was originally posted in November 2008, but I am reposting because the actual renovation period is getting nearer and because a few folks have recently expressed interest in this project. Also, if you are interested in having a speaker on this issue at our next meeting, please note that in the comments to this post.
The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is preparing to rehabilitate the bridge that crosses Thornton Creek on 15th Avenue NE at 105th Street. Due to age and increased traffic volumes, the bridge has deteriorated and needs to be repaired to ensure safe travel across Thornton Creek.
The bridge crosses the Northgate Branch of Thornton Creek on 15th Avenue NE at 105th Street. The bridge is approximately 1 ½ blocks south of NE Northgate Way, between NE 105th Street and NE 107th Street, and is near Thornton Creek Park.
This project is one of six bridges included in the City of Seattle’s Bridge Rehabilitation and Replacement Program.
Project Benefits
Improves safety.
• Corrects structural deficiencies due to the larger vehicle loads.
• Repairs the pedestrian railing.
• Increases pedestrian comfort by providing a physical separation between the sidewalks and traffic lanes.
Protects an important asset.
• Extends the bridge’s useful life by decades.
Reduces the City’s maintenance backlog.
• Contributes to the improvement of Seattle’s transportation system.
Improvements include:
• Strengthening the bridge structure.
• Repaving the bridge surface.
• Replacing expansion joints.
• Repairing cracks and spalls in concrete.
• Adding a separation railing between the sidewalks and the traffic lanes.
• Increasing the substandard height of the pedestrian railing.
• Correcting settlement problems on the south approach to the bridge.
• Correcting erosion problems under the bridge.
Construction Information
• The majority of work is expected to occur from the bridge deck.
• SDOT anticipates construction beginning in late 2009.
• Construction plans are under development. SDOT will work closely with the community to share information as it becomes available.
• Partial and full closure of the bridge is anticipated during construction.
Environmental Considerations
• Some construction access to the ravine and floodplain will be required to retrofit the bridge from below – a buffer area will be established to protect Thornton Creek.
• Any disturbed areas will be replanted.
• This project will be reviewed under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA); a SEPA Checklist will be prepared as required to evaluate any potential environmental impacts.
Project Funding
This project is funded by Bridging the Gap, a voter-approved $365 million dollar levy for transportation maintenance and improvements.
Over the next nine years, Bridging the Gap will address the City’s mounting transportation problems and create a strong foundation for Seattle’s transportation future by reducing the infrastructure backlog and investing in major transportation projects.
Want to Learn More?
Kit Loo, Project Manager – (206) 684-3669 or kit.loo@seattle.gov
LeAnne Nelson, Project Communications – (206) 684-3897 or leanne.nelson@seattle.gov
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