Quote:
A surface boulevard can't replace a highway.
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That's probably true but remember that after Alaskan Way goes through the tunnel to the north it eventually becomes a regular surface street with stoplights, intersection, etc. so this wouldn't be much different. It's not like it's an Interstate freeway like I5. Also, pedestrian bridges could be used to cross along the waterfront area. It would take some careful planning but I think much better ideas could be presented than building a replacement viaduct. That's the worst idea of all. I was looking at Google Earth along that whole stretch of the Viaduct. The downtown waterfront portion with the existing surface street is actually very wide and I would think that it would accomodate a very large stretch of surface level replacement. The area along the far southern stretch of the Viaduct doesn't appear to have as much room for expansion. I'm just throwing out an idea but I wonder if the southern part which is in a more industrial area anyway could be replaced with a tunnel or even a replacement viaduct but have it become a surface street when it approaches the wider area to the north. Afterall, it's the Pioneer Square, downtown waterfront that's the major concern, not necessarily the entire length of the viaduct. Anyway, it's just a thought.