Concerning the state route number 99 Alaskan Way viaduct replacement project.
Summary
Declares that the state will replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct (Viaduct) with a deep bore tunnel, which must include four general purpose lanes in a stacked formation.
Establishes that the state's maximum contribution to the Viaduct project is $2.4 billion. Provides that if the state's costs exceed $2.4 billion, no more than $400 million must be financed with toll revenue. Further provides that any costs in excess of $2.8 billion must be borne by property owners in the Seattle area who benefit from replacing the existing Viaduct with a tunnel.
Provides that the city and county departments of transportation are responsible for the cost, delivery, and risks associated with the project components for which each department is responsible.
Directs the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to prepare a traffic and revenue study for the purpose of determining the bore tunnel's potential to generate toll revenue, and to provide a final report by January 2010 to the Governor and Legislature.
Requires the state, city, and county departments of transportation to establish a single source of accountability for all elements of the Viaduct project.
Directs the WSDOT to provide updated cost estimates for construction of the deep bore tunnel and for the full Viaduct replacement project to the Legislature and Governor by January 1, 2010.
From the Engrossed Substitute House Bill Report (ESSB 5768), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗