Thanks to everyone who took part in the groundbreaking ceremony on May 5. It was a huge success and we look forward to getting construction underway in the coming weeks.

Throughout the construction process we’ll be posting periodic updates to let you know what’s going on. You can also stay informed about construction and reach us in a number of ways:

• Visit our project website at www.kingcounty.gov/southparkbridge
• Call our staffed Construction Information Line at 206-263-9979
• Send an email to southparkbridge@kingcounty.gov
• Contact me at 206-684-1154 or ashley.deforest@kingcounty.gov

Here are just a few things you’ll see in the coming weeks…

Who is moving into that new trailer on Dallas Street?
The construction management team-made up of King County Road Services staff members and our bridge design and construction consultants-will be moving into their new construction offices on Dallas Street within the next week. Their job will be overseeing the construction to make sure it is on schedule, within budget, and built in accordance with the design plans, specifications, and permit conditions. You’ll probably see a few familiar faces from King County, including Tim Lane, deputy project engineer, and Trinh Truong, project manager. Be sure to say hi!

What was here 1,000 years ago?
A past survey of the construction area found three prehistoric archaeological sites. One of these is in the path of the new bridge and under the footprint of the old bridge. Around 1,000 years ago, the main channel of the Duwamish River flowed about 350 feet south of the existing channel, and the ancestors of the Duwamish people lived on the banks of the river. (This channel had become an oxbow, or a U-shaped bend in the river, and was filled in during the early 20th century.) A team of consultants plans to dig as many as 22 excavation pits west of the old bridge approach in search of archaeological materials such as shells, animal bones, stone tools, and hearths. Any items found will be analyzed before going to the Burke Museum.

When will we see the contractor?
Kiewit-Massman, the joint-venture contractor selected for the project, received its official “Notice to Proceed” on May 17, which means that work on the bridge construction can begin. The first order of business will be to move in to their on-site offices, which are on the Boeing side of the bridge. Next you’ll see their workers bringing materials and equipment into the construction staging area on the south side of the bridge. Starting in July, the contractor will start salvaging the gears from the pier of the old bridge for reuse in the pedestrian railings of the new bridge. (Visit the project website to see a rendering of the new railing.)

Where can I learn more about the construction schedule and activities?
Information about the construction schedule and activities is available on the project website at www.kingcounty.gov/southparkbridge. We will be sharing updated information at a variety of neighborhood meetings in the coming weeks – stay tuned!