First 520 Bridge Pontoons to Float Through Ballard Locks on Saturday

The reconstruction of the State Route 520 Bridge reaches a major milestone Saturday when according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.

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The pontoon arrives Saturday morning, Aug. 11, in Shilshole Bay from Grays Harbor, according to the state, and then it will be sent through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (aka, the Ballard locks) between 6 and 9 p.m. Saturday, the state reported. 

The Ballard locks close to the public at 9 p.m. Due to limited parking and capacity at the Ballard locks, interested visitors are encouraged to travel by Metro bus routes 17 or 44 or by bicycle. There are other viewing locations located along the route, including at Commodore Park, West Ewing Mini Park, Gas Works Park, Sakuma Viewpoint, and the Foster Island Trail. A list is posted on the SR 520 program website.

The tugboat towing the pontoon can be tracked online by searching for vessel “Peter M," though a different tug will take the pontoon through the Seattle waters. Another pontoon left Friday morning, Aug. 10, being towed by the tug “Ocean Ranger.” It is expected to arrive in Seattle on Monday night, Aug. 13, according to the state.

The Ballard locks close to the public at 9 p.m. Due to limited parking and capacity at the Ballard locks, interested visitors are encouraged to travel by Metro bus routes 17 or 44 or by bicycle. 

Of course, it will take a little planning for Eastsiders to go view the pontoon as it floats through Seattle -- the .