Throw a party on the viaduct

Just after the Alaskan Way Viaduct closes for nine full days later this month, the Washington Department of Transportation is offering the structure up as a unique venue for an event.

On October 22nd one person and up to 24 of their friends will win exclusive access to the Viaduct’s downtown section for 30 minutes.

To enter, answer the question “What would I do with 30 minutes on the Alaskan Way Viaduct?” in 100 words or less and send it to viaduct@wsdot.wa.gov by Sunday, Oct. 16. The winner will be escorted to a private section of the viaduct at a predetermined time to follow through with their plan. Check the WSDOT website for contest details, rules and restrictions.

If you aren’t selected, or don’t want to enter, there is a commemorative walk on Saturday, October 22nd. “This is a perfect opportunity to get a firsthand perspective as this historic event unfolds,” the release states. During the walk, a portion of the top deck will be open to watch crews tear down the southern mile. As a souvenir, attendees will get to take home a piece of the viaduct.

The commemorative walk will be from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with the celebration continuing until 2 p.m. No RSVPs are required, but you must wear sturdy shoes. No pets or bicycles are allowed on the viaduct. Kids under 18 must be with an adult. Parking is available in the fenced construction site just south of Railroad Way South and on adjacent city streets and in nearby pay lots.