WASHINGTON — A landmark BNSF Railway drawbridge in Seattle will receive a $25 million for mechanical upgrades under the federal Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant.
U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) announced the funding on Friday for the Salmon Bay Bridge, which handles up to 40 BNSF, Amtrak, and Sounder trains per day, as well as allowing passage of about 100 vessels daily. The funds will replace the mechanical system of the 108-year-old bridge between Ballard and Interbay.
“The Salmon Bay Bridge is a critical piece of freight and passenger transportation infrastructure that is at risk of failure,” Cantwell said in a press release. “… These funds will ensure that one of Seattle’s most iconic bridges remains operational for another 50 years.”
BNSF will provide an additional $70 million for the project.
“This project is critically important to Washington’s rail network,” Washington State Secretary of Transportation Roger Millar said. “WSDOT is pleased to be a part of ensuring the continued operation of this bridge that links both train passengers and freight movements throughout western Washington and beyond. We thank Senator Cantwell for her leadership in funding the needed improvements.”
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