State traffic engineers confirmed Friday that State Route 99 tunnel is almost open for business and just waiting to be filled to capacity.
The tunnel has sat empty since a massive, throbbing drill spent years digging out every last inch of the 9,270-foot tube underneath Seattle’s waterfront.
“We had a huge drill in there that was one-of-a-kind and we’re not sure anything else is gonna measure up,” says Washington State Department of Transportation Spokesman Willard Chesney. “We’re inviting as many drivers as possible to come down on opening day so we can send in cars one, two, three at a time — the bigger the vehicle, the better.”
Chesney says drivers should expect miles of backup at both of the tunnel’s north and south entrances on the Feb. 2 opening day, but a smooth ride once inside.
“Me, I drive a zippy little Honda Fit,” said Chesney. “I’m gonna do my best, but I have a feeling my drive through will be a quickie.”
