SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct Removal

SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct Removal

Communications to residents, businesses, and property owners on a high-profile regional project during construction

Communications to residents, businesses, and property owners on a high-profile regional project during construction

Location:

Seattle, WA

Client:

Washington State Department of Transportation

Services:

  • Planning and strategy

  • Construction communications

  • Equity and social justice planning

  • Open houses and drop-in sessions

  • Correspondence

  • Presentations and briefings

  • Door-to-door outreach and fieldwork

  • 24-hour phone line management

Project Description:

The Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program was led by the Washington State Department of Transportation in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration. Built in the 1950s, the SR 99 viaduct, a 1.4-mile double-deck concrete structure, was seismically vulnerable. The removal of the viaduct was a challenging project due to the density and proximity of residences and businesses. The project included 12 months of nighttime construction and up to five crews working at one time. S&A was hired by the design-builder, Kiewit, to conduct construction communications to frontline businesses, residents, and property owners, as well as the traveling public.

Results:

The S&A Alaskan Way Viaduct construction communications team conducted a robust outreach effort focused on providing timely information and minimizing disruption where possible to nearby stakeholders. Through proactive outreach and early communications, S&A prepared the public for construction and limited the number of complaints regarding construction activity.

By the numbers, the project included:

  • 75+ construction email updates
  • 24/7 construction phone line managed for 15+ months
  • 12 web updates
  • 30+ notices and flyers
  • 3 pre-construction drop-ins
  • 500+ project area businesses survey