Announcement this afternoon from WSDOT – regarding some of the work you may be seeing along 99 and The Bridge (the city’s working on part of this system too) – read on:

Real-time traffic information tools, including new traffic cameras, signal
timers and electronic overhead message boards are being installed on SR 99, and
major routes leading to SR 99 in Seattle starting this week. The project, called the
SR 99 Intelligent Technology Systems Project, is one of the ways in which WSDOT and
the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) are working together to keep traffic
moving during construction of the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement.

Real-time traffic information tools will help keep cars, buses, and freight informed
of backups and incidents that may affect traffic.

* An expanded network of traffic cameras up and down the corridor will allow drivers
to click and check road conditions before they head out.
* Overhead electronic message signs displaying construction closures, lane status
and travel times will provide real-time traffic information on the go.
* Improved signal timing at bustling intersections will more evenly distribute
traffic, reducing congestion during busy times.
The project starts at SR 599 just south of S. Boeing Access Road and ends at SR 99
and N. 145th Street in Shoreline. The project is divided into two sections north
and south of the Duwamish River.
Both sections of the $11.5 million project were awarded to Signal Electric, Inc.
from Kent. All of the work will be complete by December 2010, before crews start
significant construction of the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement.
Starting this week, drivers can expect to see construction crews working during the
day on northbound East Marginal Way (SR 99) between South Michigan Street and First
Avenue S. Crews will close one of two lanes and work in the shoulder.

Installing real-time traffic information tools on SR 99 is part of an overall plan
to keep people
and goods moving during construction to replace the viaduct. Other enhancements
include added bus service, variable speed signs
on I-5 and
providing information about travel alternatives and incentives to encourage use of
transit, carpool and vanpool programs.

The Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement Program is also funding new
overhead electronic speed limit and variable message signs on northbound I-5 in
south Seattle. This high-tech system, called smarter highways
will automatically alert drivers to
changing road conditions and regulate speed limits and lane closures. Crews plan to
activate the signs this summer.

Smarter highways technology and techniques are a vital component of Moving Washington, WSDOT’s statewide strategy for improving mobility. The program uses new tools and technologies to better manage congestion by making our busiest freeways more efficient.

* To learn more about the SR 99 Intelligent Information Systems Project, please go to: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/Viaduct/SR99ITS.htm.

* For information about construction closures for this project, please visit Construction Closures in Downtown Seattle and SODO at www.wsdot.wa.gov/Northwest/King/Seattle.htm.