We recently got a note from Jeff wondering about progress on the Alki pump station project, which has now been under construction for almost a year and a half. So we checked with the King County Wastewater Treatment Division folks, and Heidi Sowell sent an update – note the chance to ask your questions in person during Sunday’s “Celebrate Seattle Summer Streets” event (closing Alki to most traffic 9 am-5 pm that day). Here’s what Heidi sent:

Crews are completing the construction of the pump station. Much of the current work on the project is occurring below ground and improvements may not be as noticeable to those living, working and visiting the area.

… 53rd Avenue Pump Station Upgrade
In February 2008, construction began on upgrades to King County’s 53rd Avenue Pump Station in West Seattle. This underground wastewater facility, located on the west side of Alki Avenue Southwest at 53rd Avenue Southwest, is more than 50 years old and in need of repairs, new equipment and more underground space.

The 53rd Avenue Pump Station will remain underground but will be about three times as large. Current improvements to the Pump Station will bring the facility into compliance with current code and design requirements while also increasing reliability. The pump station will help manage combined stormwater and wastewater flows from nearby neighborhoods and will reduce overflows into Puget Sound.

Construction Milestones

* Utility and storm drain relocation – Spring 2008
* Force main installation – July 2008
* Sheet pile driving – August 2008
* Pump station excavation – Fall 2008
* Pump station construction – Winter 2008 through Summer 2009
* Testing of upgraded facility and property restoration – Fall 2009

Learn more at http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wtd/projects/westseattle/53rdAvePS/ or visit us
at the Alki Seattle Summer Streets event this Sunday from 9 am – 2 pm (near the pump
station). Thank you for your continued patience through the 53rd Avenue Pump Station
construction!