Traffic Payout

We would invite you inside for a ride, but even the world's largest diameter tunnel boring machine can only fit so many people.

And so we offer the next best thing, Milepost 31, a public information center that will highlight the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement, tunneling technology and the history of Seattle's Pioneer Square neighborhood. This is a first for WSDOT, an opportunity to explore interactive exhibits about one of our projects and dig into Seattle's first neighborhood.

What does viaduct replacement have to do with Pioneer Square? Replacing a highway that runs through one of the state’s most treasured historic neighborhoods comes with challenges. Pioneer Square will see years of construction impacts like noise, dust and traffic detours. Fortunately, after we put the highway traffic into the SR 99 tunnel and tear down the remaining section of the viaduct, the neighborhood will be reconnected with the Seattle waterfront.

Milepost 31 was one of several strategies we developed in partnership with neighborhood groups and historic preservationists to maintain Pioneer Square’s vibrancy during construction. It is designed to give people another reason to visit the neighborhood during construction, while giving the public another opportunity to learn about the important work we do at WSDOT.

Be sure to stop by Milepost 31's grand opening celebration on Dec. 1. We’ll have tunneling and historical experts on hand to answer questions, as well as a drawing to win an iPad® and gift certificates to Pioneer Square businesses, furnished by the Alliance for Pioneer Square.

Milepost 31 grand opening
3 – 6 p.m. (guest speakers at 3:30 p.m.)
Thursday, Dec. 1
211 First Ave. S., Seattle

After Dec. 1, Milepost 31 will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.