Access to Boulevard Park will be temporarily impacted while construction crews use a large crane to remove a damaged wood overpass structure at the north end of the park. This work is expected to occur the week of November 20th.
Boulevard Park, built nearly 40 years ago, has received some much needed upgrades, but you may not be able to see them at first. Vital utilities necessary for the safe operation of the park were installed and include new water, sewer, power, and telecommunication services. Work started this summer and is nearly complete. Remaining work includes fine-tuning utility connections and controls and removing the damaged wood overpass at the north end of the park. This structure is damaged beyond repair and must be removed before it becomes a hazard to the public and railroad.
“New underground utilities have been installed along Bayview Drive up to State Street, resulting in improved services to the park,” said Leslie Bryson, Bellingham’s Park and Recreation Director. “Removing the old wood structure over the railroad will require careful coordination. The City asks for everyone’s patience while contractors work with the railroad operators to remove this large structure.”
Contractors will start setting up a crane on site November 20th, which will result in a road closure at Bayview Drive and impacts to trail access along the South Bay Trail. These closures are necessary for the safety of the public while contractors work under and around the railroad mainline.
Local residences will be provided access on Bayview Drive and 10th Street, however, some delays will be expected.
Flaggers will be on site and signs will be posted to direct pedestrians and traffic around the area. There will be no access along the South Bay Trail into the park. This temporary impact will allow a crane to safely remove the overpass structure. Impacts to the trail are expected to last one day on November 21. Bayview Drive closure is expected to occur intermittently over a three day time period from November 20 to November 22.
The above schedule is subject to change due to railroad safety priorities and weather. Please check the Bellingham Parks and Recreation Facebook page for project updates. For full project details see the project website.
