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Alaskan Way Viaduct-Position Statement

The Washington Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects(WASLA), along with the American Institute of Architects(AIA), and other allied professionals, are concerned about the seismically unsound condition of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and the seawall. A remedy for these failing structures is urgently needed. WASLA commends Seattle mayor Greg Nickles and others who provided strong advocacy for this critical issue and opportunity.

WASLA agrees with the AIA position on this issue and is adopting a similar position. WASLA also supports the AIA design objectives to create a vital place along Seattle's waterfront. Those objectives are:

* Connect the City with the waterfront. This new public space will enhance the life of the community and create a great place for public use

*Create a sustainable solution for Seattle's future. The effort will help reduce greenhouse gases and protect a healthy marine environment

*Incorporate multiple modes of transportation. This anticipates changing technology and patterns of mobility that are currently emerging

*Support a mix of vibrant uses along the waterfront. This would include 24-hour publicly accessible urban services, accommodating all of Seattle's citizens.

Consistent with these objectives, WASLA supports the following position:

PERMANENTLY REMOVE THE VIADUCT AND DON'T REBUILD IT

*Build a Cut-and-Cover Tunnel. This is the preferred option if complete financing can be guaranteed, the above-noted objectives are met and the State of Washington's expert review panel determines it is viable. If the cut-and-cover tunnel cannot meet these criteria and further study is conducted that demonstrates there is not a detrimental effect to Seattle's surface streets by replacing the viaduct with an integrated system of surface streets and transit modes then WASLA supports replacing the viaduct with the integrated system noted.

*Support expanded mobility planning and implementation. Seattle citizens and leaders need a a better understanding of the ways that the existing transportation infrastructure can be utilized by distribution of the existing traffic capacity of State Highway 99 into the City's street grid.