4 viaduct columns reinforced

State construction crews are finishing pouring 80 cubic yards of concrete to strengthen four columns under the Alaskan Way Viaduct near Colman Dock.

The $5 million work is the first of six viaduct projects planned while a decision is made about how to replace the viaduct's central waterfront section.

This summer the state will put out bids on a $20 million contract to relocate Seattle City Light lines from Massachusetts Street to near the sports stadiums, the first of a multimillion-dollar plan to relocate utility lines along the viaduct.

The work on the columns, near Columbia Street, will be completed May 3, on time and on budget, said project manager Ron Paananen. Three of the columns have been strengthened and crews are completing work on the fourth, and then will return the street to normal, plant shrubs and restripe the parking lines.

The state decided to work on the columns to try to stop the viaduct from sinking. It has moved 5.5 inches since the 2001 Nisqually earthquake, and officials worry major work would be required if it settled 6 inches. Paananen said he hopes the work on the columns will stop the settling.