Tunnel Wins Vote in Seattle

A long simmering debate over how to deal with a damaged inner city freeway has seemingly found a conclusion as voters in Seattle have approved a plan to begin work on replacing the freeway with a tunnel.

1 minute read

August 18, 2011, 11:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg

More than 60% of voters are in favor of replacing the Alaskan Way Viaduct with a tunnel beneath the city -- a plan opposed by many, including the current mayor.

"Councilmember Mike O'Brien, a tunnel foe, called it a "decisive" result, and said "the people of Seattle are ready to move forward." He called on tunnel opponents to take the loss graciously and work to make the tunnel the best possible project for the city.

But not all opponents were satisfied. Anti-tunnel activist Elizabeth Campbell issued a statement calling the Referendum 1 vote "far from a decisive victory" and vowed to continue her efforts.

The $2 billion tunnel is the most controversial part of the $3.1 billion state project to replace Seattle's creaky double-decker waterfront highway that was damaged in the 2001 Nisqually earthquake."

FULL STORY: Voters backing Seattle tunnel; fight may finally be over

Wednesday, August 17, 2011 in The Seattle Times

Government / Politics Infrastructure Transportation Washington Tunnel Seattle Alaskan Way Viaduct View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.