Construction of the new breakwater at the Port of Poulsbo marina began this month with the goal to have it ready for the public by next year.
The port has been in the process of planning the breakwater replacement project for several years. Constructed in 1962, the breakwater is reaching 60 years old. Typically, the useful life of a breakwater is up to 40 years, a port news release says.
Public bidding for construction was completed in February. Six bids were received, and Quigg Bros Inc., an Aberdeen-based marine contractor, was awarded the project with a low bid of just over $8 million. The marina will remain open and operational during construction.
Donated concrete floats from Elliot Bay Marina, along with significant grant funding, paved the way for a new floating breakwater with transient moorage and public access to be built. The state Recreation and Conservation Office Boating Facilities Program awarded a $1 million grant while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Boating Infrastructure Grant Program awarded nearly $1.5 million.
The breakwater will be constructed using completely refurbished pontoons in combination with some new ones, per the port. The breakwater will be anchored with steel piles centered on each double slip. It will be located 60 feet Southeast and 40 feet seaward of the existing breakwater and log boom. Installation will occur prior to removal of the existing breakwater to maintain marina protection.
Additionally, wave attenuation of the floating breakwater is expected to provide “moderate” performance. A structurally sound pile wall like the existing breakwater provides “good” performance, the port says. Following construction of the new breakwater, wave energy inside the marina is expected to increase by up to 20 percent as a result of unrestricted flow beneath the floating breakwater.
Amenities of the new breakwater include:
• The Port is maximizing hookup options within electricity service limits.
• Floating restroom.
• Lighting will be provided.
• Safety ladders, equipment and a fire suppression system.
• Security upgrades are planned for separation between transient and permanent moorage.
