Traffic alert: How tunnel machine’s arrival will affect bicyclists

Earlier today, we mentioned the Seattle Times (WSB partner) update on the upcoming arrival – probably Tuesday – of the Highway 99 tunneling machine “Bertha.” Tonight, WSDOT asked us to share an alert for bicycle riders regarding how its arrival will affect the shared-use path along the Pioneer Square waterfront:

The first change will come on Monday, April 1, when the crossover will shift a block south, from South Jackson Street to South King Street.

Once we start unloading Bertha in 41 pieces from a vessel docked at Terminal 46, the path will be temporarily closed at South King Street several times per day. This is necessary to maintain safe path access while we move large equipment across the sidewalk. Police officers will be on site to help direct traffic while we move Bertha’s pieces.

The sidewalk near South King Street offers a great view of Bertha’s arrival point, so we’re expecting that people will gather on the path to catch a glimpse of Bertha being unloaded. Please ride with caution and expect delays if there are crowds.

8 Replies to "Traffic alert: How tunnel machine's arrival will affect bicyclists"

  • James March 29, 2013 (8:22 pm)

    Can’t wait to see Bertha.

  • cjboffoli March 30, 2013 (8:19 am)

    Considering the machine’s origin, they should have given her a Japanese name.

  • westcatle March 30, 2013 (11:01 am)

    How about “Gawdzilla”

  • Bicycles meet Bertha March 30, 2013 (5:52 pm)

    I bet the bike boyz stop for Bertha. Stop signs, fergetaboutit. Bertha? What nice teeth you have….lol.

  • Batt March 30, 2013 (5:54 pm)

    Or “Godrilla.”

  • rbj March 30, 2013 (10:16 pm)

    What a disaster this whole tunnel is going to be…

    Thanks McGinn, for doing nothing.

  • Jim March 31, 2013 (9:28 am)

    Will there be a webcam on this arrival and move ?

  • Buck March 31, 2013 (9:58 am)

    41 pieces? I hope they read the manual.

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