The Nisqually earthquake of 2001 shook up Seattle politics as well as the ground the city is built on. The Alaskan Way Viaduct, built in the 50’s, sustained some of the worst damage. Ever since, the city has become fiercely divided over the replacement of the roadway. In 2009, a plan to replace the viaduct was set in motion. The SR 99 tunnel construction project is currently in action with the massive tunneling machine named Bertha in the ground. In an effort to help the public navigate the implications of the tunnel, the Milepost 31 information center was created in the Pioneer Square District. The center, run by the Washington State Department of Transportation, has an impressive array of exhibits, all completely free.

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