FOLLOWUP: Why vehicles under the West Seattle Bridge got spattered with concrete

Last night we published Stephen‘s reader report about his car getting spattered by concrete and rocks while he was driving under the west end of the West Seattle Bridge on Monday afternoon. Others reported in comments that it had happened to them, We asked SDOT about it this morning. This afternoon, we have their reply:

Yesterday, crews were grinding the bridge deck in preparation of the concrete overlay coming to the Fauntleroy Expressway. The grinding machine removes old concrete and preps the surface for paving and sprays water while it’s working to keep dust under control. Unfortunately, [it] went deeper than expected, and a combination of the existing concrete and water dripped through the bridge deck and onto the ground and some cars below. Initial inspections show no serious damage to the bridge structure or deck that won’t be fixed when the new pavement is laid.

If someone believes their private property – including their vehicle – was damaged, then they can file a damage claim with the city through our online portal at Filing a Damage Claim | seattle.gov. We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused for anyone who has been affected.

The Fauntleroy Expressway is the formal name of the west end of the bridge, before and as it curves up toward Fauntleroy Way.

ADDED: In response to a followup question, SDOT spokesperson Mariam Ali said the problem was caused by failure of a “sensor,” which has since been replaced.

Anth May 10, 2022 (4:10 pm)

Thank You. Though I see in the comments of the original story that it happened to people this morning as well. Can we find out from the city if this is potentially going to be an ongoing issue?

WSB May 10, 2022 (4:35 pm)

I just added a bit more info – what SDOT says was a failed ‘sensor’ has been replaced, so it shouldn’t be …

CarDriver May 10, 2022 (4:34 pm)

WSB. Speaking of concrete….any updates on the special mix and as noted in your story general concrete deliveries.

WS resident May 10, 2022 (5:18 pm)

Good to know no one was hurt! Is it me, or is it hilarious that it’s now raining concrete?! 🤣🤣

Skipalapondo May 11, 2022 (12:12 am)

This made me chuckle. It’s like the big guy upstairs is exasperated by our prayers. “First you want the bridge to get fixed, then you get mad that it’s being fixed! You begged me for concrete, and now it’s falling out of a blue sky and you’re praying for no concrete! Make up your mind, mortals!”
- Voila May 11, 2022 (6:12 pm)
  
  Well, people have demanded proof of work being done on the bridge ;)

Colonel Mustard's Wrench May 10, 2022 (7:42 pm)

Who from SDOT is in charge out on site ?
Could someone let SDOT know that West Seattle is fed up with their incompetence ?
Come on SDOT, put your best crew on the remainder of the work to be performed, quit screwing around, and properly supervise your crew !

Stephen May 11, 2022 (10:32 am)

I already talk to Theresa from SDOT and she’s going to relay this message to the onsite sup to be more cautious about there concrete work on the upper bridge.

Jeepney May 11, 2022 (6:19 am)

Minor inconvenience to pay as the work to get the bridge back in service continues.

momof3boys May 11, 2022 (10:14 am)

just as a data point – that water/concrete mix will really damage your paint job, you’ll want to wash it off, without rubbing. But, take a look – and file a claim if necessary.

Jim P. May 11, 2022 (1:26 pm)

I hope some of the people who got this concrete bath will return and update the thread with their success or lack of in getting recompensed.
As others mention, don’t let this stuff sit on your bodywork or windows or it’ll be a royal mess.

I am cynical enough to expect to see claims routinely denied or people get offered $25 no matter what it actually cost.