
State Route 99 Tunnel is an extremely complex project which combines civil engineering, structures, architectural elements, mechanical & electrical systems, and traffic management. The project clearly demonstrates the need for easy BIM tools such as Tekla BIMsight in construction. The benefits of 3D modeling and added detail are best realized when all project parties are able to view and utilize the available data. When tools are available and easy to use, the project team can concentrate on the task at hand rather than solving IT related issues.
Complexity under control

In BIM collaboration, HNTB utilized Tekla BIMsight in weekly all-discipline coordination meetings to discuss the two buildings, cut and cover areas, and the tunnel with the sub-consultants, architects, and engineers. HNTB and project participants were able to see conflicts and possible design changes as all the discipline models were loaded into Tekla BIMsight.
Tekla BIMsight is proving its usefulness in large projects everyday all over the world. The State Route 99 bored tunnel is an interesting example as it combines such a vast variety of different trades into one. Usually we see just vertical construction, but the early adopters have already embraced the new technologies also in horizontal construction.

The new State Route 99 tunnel will be seismically safe, which is a clear improvement in travelers' safety. The current elevated road that the tunnel will replace was damaged by an earthquake in 2001, and it is under the risk of failure in case of seismic activity. Moving the traffic underground creates a new public space at Seattle's waterfront and at the same time the tunnel has capacity to support the future growth on the area.
State Route 99 tunnel's North Portal