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Feds approve state's plan to rebuild 520 with 6 lanes

The new 520 bridge across Lake Washington got a big green light yesterday, as federal officials approved the state’s plan to put in a six-lane replacement.

The Federal Highway Administration signed a ‘record of decision’ – allowing the state Department of Transportation to make final designs and obtain construction permits for the $4.6 billion dollar project.

WSDOT plans to choose a contractor this summer. The old bridge is vulnerable to earthquake damage.

But many neighbors still oppose the project, with one telling The Seattle Times there probably will be a lawsuit against it – though they haven’t yet made that decision.  They say it’s too big and “out of scale with Seattle.”

Bellamy Pailthorp covers the environment for KNKX with an emphasis on climate justice, human health and food sovereignty. She enjoys reporting about how we will power our future while maintaining healthy cultures and livable cities. Story tips can be sent to bpailthorp@knkx.org.