Attention anyone who drives to U Village, Children’s Hospital, Magnuson Park or other points east of the UW campus: That big hill that deposits traffic onto Sand Point Way (it’s called the NE 45th St. Viaduct) will be closed all summer.

The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) had more information:

The NE 45 th Street viaduct’s existing west approach is nearing the end of its structural life and needs to be replaced to maintain a safe and efficient travel corridor for vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles. The viaduct was originally constructed in 1938 and portions of the existing structure are nearly 70 years old.

SDOT is closing the NE 45 th Street viaduct from June 14 – September 10, 2010 to replace the west approach. During this time, you will be required to use alternate routes.

SDOT will host an open house prior to the viaduct closure on June 9, 4-7 p.m., at University Heights Community Center ( 5031 University Way NE). Get much more information about the project on the SDOT website.