Here is the good news. Rather than replacing the existing bridge WSDOT is planning on building an entirely new bridge a couple hundred yards downstream. The old bridge will then be removed and the old highway will be converted into cul de sacs on either side of the creek. The current parking lot will be paved, and they plan to keep the trail leading down to the stream. WSDOT expects that the current bridge, parking lot, and access will remain open during the construction. They will start construction in 2012 and it will continue through 2014. They were careful to note, however that these were preliminary plans and could change.

 

The one point of concern is that after WSDOT is done with the project the land around the old highway will be turned over to the county. The county will then be able to control whether or not the access point can continue to be used by boaters.

 

The WSDOT guys were impressed by the showing from the boating community, and seemed genuinely open to our concerns and input. They said they had no idea that Pilchuck Creek was such a significant recreation resource.

 

Kyle