A review is to be carried out for the decision-making processes for the State Route 520 and Columbia River Crossing bridge projects in the U.S. state of Washington. The review will also cover the scheme to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct with a tunnel. State transportation secretary Lynn Peterson has announced a comprehensive program assessment for the three major projects. The assessment will review the process used for key project decisions and how those decisions are documented to ensure the best accountability and project-delivery practices.
Ron Paananen, CH2M HILL program manager and former WSDOT administrator and project director, will lead the assessment of the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement, the State Route 520 Bridge replacement including the high-occupancy vehicle program, and the Interstate 5 Columbia River Crossing. “Ron’s experience managing large-scale projects and his reputation across the state and country is second to none,” said Peterson. “It’s our goal to build on the progress begun under Secretary Hammond to ensure our transportation system is safe and Washington taxpayers’ investments are sound.”
Paananen’s review will consider and recommend any improvements that clarify lines of decision-making and allow quick dispute resolution to provide cost-effective project delivery. Conclusions and recommendations from the review, which is scheduled to be complete by September 30, will be made public. Peterson will receive weekly updates on its progress.