Protecnium’s Role in the Ship Canal Water Quality Project – Storage Tunnel in Seattle

At Protecnium, we are proud to have contributed to the Ship Canal Water Quality Project – Storage Tunnel in Seattle, a landmark project in urban sustainability and civil underground engineering.

Led by Lane Construction Corporation, this initiative aims to significantly reduce combined sewer and stormwater overflows into the Lake Washington Ship Canal through the construction of a storage tunnel over 4 kilometers long and nearly 6 meters in diameter.

A transformative infrastructure for urban water management

The tunnel boring machine (TBM) “MudHoney” excavated more than 400,000 tons of material, creating a tunnel capable of storing up to 110 million liters of water during heavy rain events. This infrastructure helps:

• Prevent urban flooding.
• Reduce pollution in the canal.
• Protect public health and aquatic ecosystems.

This project represents a significant step forward in improving water quality, complying with environmental regulations, and adapting to climate change in the Seattle metropolitan area.

Protecnium’s expert contribution: TBM surveyors and engineers

From February 2022 to June 2023, Protecnium provided specialized TBM surveyors and engineers, who played a critical role in:

• Monitoring tunnel alignment.
• Ensuring geometric accuracy.
• Providing real-time technical verification during excavation.

Our specialized team was essential to the technical success of this large-scale infrastructure project, meeting the highest quality standards.

Engineering committed to sustainability

• Our involvement in this project reaffirms Protecnium’s commitment to infrastructure that:
• Supports resilient urban development.
• Addresses current environmental challenges.
• Places technical engineering at the service of people and the environment.

We thank our professionals and partners for the opportunity to contribute to this emblematic project that sets a new benchmark in sustainable urban water management.