The 520 bridge-replacement project moves forward: with us or without us

The Washington State Department of Transportation released photos this week showing workers in Aberdeen pouring concrete for the "casting basin" in which 33 pontoons will be produced for the new floating bridge.  As the photos aptly demonstrate, the State is charging ahead with its plans for SR-520 whether the money is there to complete the project or not. And, as we all know, it's not.

The question for opponents is whether anything can be done at this stage to stop or even influence the State's "Preferred Alternative" for the Madison Park/Laurelhurst/Montlake corridor--the western end of SR-520 and its approaches (in other words, the unfunded part of the project).  The opponents certainly think that something can be done, and they continue to educate the public on the implications for Seattle of the State's plan.  The Coalition for a Sustainable 520 made its case again at a meeting last week at the Museum of History & Industry.

The Seattle City Council, meanwhile, has come out in favor of the "Preferred Alternative," and if you are interested in knowing why, you can hear directly from Council President Richard Conlin on Monday, July 11. At his request, the Madison Park Community Council has invited him to speak to our community and explain what, exactly, the City Council is thinking.  The meeting will happen at the Bath House at Madison Park Beach (1900 43rd Avenue E.) at 7:00 pm.