The power is on, the cutterhead is hooked up and two miles of Seattle soil await the teeth of ‘Bertha,’ the world’s largest tunneling machine, which you can “meet” in person on Saturday, July 20!
Aside from running final tests, there’s only one thing left to do before the massive machine’s launch later this month: say goodbye.
On Saturday, July 20, Gov. Jay Inslee and the Washington State Department of Transportation will host a public celebration at Bertha’s launch site, west of CenturyLink Field, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Following a dedication ceremony, attendees can talk with project staff, learn about the tunneling operation and view Bertha from one of the walkways that span her 80-foot-deep launch pit.
The event includes activities designed to teach kids about science and engineering and provides the opportunity for attendees to sign their names on one of the concrete segments that will form the tunnel’s walls. Food trucks will also be on-site.
Because the event will be held at an active construction site, all attendees will be required to sign a safety waiver and wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes. There is limited access for guests with strollers and wheelchairs. Attendees can check on nearby parking and transit options.
To download a PDF with a map and more info, click here.
Bertha, who has been updating her progress on Twitter since December, said she has mixed feelings about her pre-launch celebration.
“Don’t get me wrong. I’m ready to celebrate,” @BerthaDigsSR99 tweeted Tuesday. “But I really hope no one breaks a bottle over my head. Talk about a painful tradition!”
Tunneling starts at the end of July after final testing is complete. The tunnel is scheduled to open to drivers in late 2015.
For more information, visit http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/Viaduct/About/FollowBertha]]>
