Two Streets Near Airport to Be Permanently Closed

Construction on airport's third runway continues

(Seattle)--The Port of Seattle announced today that segments of 12th Avenue South and South 160th Street adjacent to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport will be permanently closed next week as construction on the airport's third runway continues.

12th Avenue South will be closed between 156th and 170th Streets. South 160th Street will be closed from 12th Avenue to Des Moines Memorial Drive. These segments are due west of the airport and just outside the existing airport footprint. The closures are expected to take effect on Monday, August 21.

"Construction work has progressed to the point that it's necessary to close this area to the public," said Third Runway Project Manager Michael Cheyne. "We'll be using the property to store equipment and materials used in construction of the runway."

The Port has acquired all properties along the closed streets. The city of SeaTac has agreed to turn the streets over to the Port as part of the runway project. The area will be fully fenced and patrolled by Port of Seattle Police.

Cheyne said homeowners still living in the area will continue to have access to their homes along other streets. Aviation buffs will still be able to access Viewpoint Park, off of 170th.

"By the end of the year we'll have to close Viewpoint Park as well," Cheyne said. "But we'll hold off on that for as long as possible."

The $773 million runway project is scheduled for completion in 2006. The Port of Seattle is working with state and federal regulators for final approval of a plan to mitigate environmental impacts of the runway.