What are the biggest design challenges the design team faces?
The most challenging design issue for this project is developing a design that can adequately address a number of competing issues and interests. The design must meet the purpose and need within the funding constraints of the project, provide a serviceable facility that will meet the needs of the Port, the city, and the State well into the future, and withstand demanding seismic, tide/current, and ice conditions while maximizing flexibility for future use often seen at busy waterfront facilities. In addition the final structural design must also address the need to reduce, avoid, or minimize impacts to environmental and aquatic resources such as whales, fish, and migratory birds. The design alternative selected for the final structure is an earthen filled sheet pile structure, or open cell sheet pile, with necessary fender piles and panels placed waterside of the bulkhead. The gravel fill option provides flexibility for installation for surface improvements and underground utility inst
