Let’s remember when the first section of the Viaduct opened, on this day in 1953 (April 4)
I drove in the new Highway 99 tunnel for the first time yesterday afternoon, and as far as tunnels go, it’s fine. I couldn’t help, though, missing the view of the Alaskan Way Viaduct it replaced. It was a mixture of enjoying the gorgeous view, and fearing it could collapse at any moment.
The Viaduct, though, had its origin story begin 66 years ago today. Per HistoryLink:
On April 4, 1953, the section completed in the first phase of building Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct opens. The viaduct runs along the central waterfront between Railroad Way and Western Avenue. Subsequent phases of construction will extend the State Route 99 bypass route north to Aurora Avenue via the Battery Street Tunnel and south to E Marginal Way via an extended viaduct structure, an at-grade roadway, and an overpass at the Spokane Street Viaduct. The viaduct offers the first limited-access route through Seattle and removes state highway traffic from city streets. A huge celebration featuring vintage cars, entertainment, speeches, and a ribbon cutting opens the viaduct to traffic.
To read the whole thing:
