Although digging for the SR 99 Tunnel Project doesn't commence until 2013, a new public information center in Seattle's Pioneer Square is opening Dec. 1, 2011. Milepost 31, named for the point where SR 99 enters Pioneer Square, is a project of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) in partnership with neighborhood advocates and historic preservation officials.
The facility, which includes information on local history along with tunneling technology, was developed to draw visitors to the neighborhood during the tunnel construction that will replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct. It's part of a federal requirement to "mitigage project effects on historic properties."
The information center on First Avenue South features historic artifacts, 3-D models and pieces of tunneling equipment. Interactive exhibits will show the changes to Seattle's landscape and shoreline over the years, and how crews plan to build the massive tunnel. The world's largest-diameter tunnel boring machine will be used on the State Route 99 Tunnel Project.
The Milepost 31 Grand Opening will feature guest speakers and drawings for prizes provided by the Alliance for Pioneer Square (including and iPad and gift certificates to Pioneer Square businesses). The event is part of a busy night in Pioneer Square that includes a Seahawks game, tree-lighting ceremony in Occidental Park and monthly art walk. You'll find more information on The New Pioneer Square website.
Milepost 31 Grand Opening
Thursday, Dec. 1, 3-6 PM
211 First Avenue South, Pioneer Square, Seattle
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