Today WSDOT identified the design-build teams that are qualified to submit proposals for the SR 99 bored tunnel project. The selected teams are: AWV Joint Venture, Seattle Tunnel Partners, Seattle Tunneling Group, and VTS Joint Venture.

The four teams will receive a request for proposals in the spring. The proposals, to be submitted in fall 2010, will detail the firms’ plans for completing the proposed bored tunnel’s design, constructing a tunnel boring machine and building the tunnel, including the interior roadway, tunnel systems, ventilation buildings and portal connections. The contract is estimated at approximately $1 billion.

“I am pleased this project continues to move forward on time and on budget,” Gov. Chris Gregoire said. “The Alaskan Way Viaduct needs to be replaced to protect our citizens, and our economy. I know that the Department of Transportation has identified highly regarded design teams, and I look forward to reviewing their proposals.”

“We are very pleased with the quality of the contractor teams vying for this project,” said Paula Hammond, Washington Transportation Secretary. “Their world class expertise will be invaluable as we identify innovative ways to deliver the tunnel on time, within budget and with the highest level of quality.”

Early this year, the state, county, city, and Port of Seattle recommended replacing the SR 99 Alaskan Way Viaduct with a bored tunnel beneath downtown Seattle. The plan includes a new waterfront roadway and public open spaces, transit investments, a new central waterfront seawall, and city street improvements. Environmental review of the proposed bored tunnel is underway, and a supplemental draft environmental impact statement will be available for public comment in 2010.

For more information on the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement program, please visit www.alaskanwayviaduct.org/.