KINGSTON – A portion of NE West Kingston Road will close to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic on April 17 to make way for construction of a new 150-foot, two-span bridge across Carpenter Creek.
The bridge will replace a 60-inch diameter culvert considered to be a partial barrier to fish migration.
The road will be closed between Siyaya Avenue NE and South Kingston Road, and is expected to reopen in December. Driveway access will be maintained for residents within the work zone.
The project is funded in partnership with Kitsap County Public Works and the United States Navy.
“The partnership with the Navy was crucial to the project happening on this timeline,” County Commissioner Rob Gelder said of the project. “This isn’t just a culvert replacement project, but a project that will increase the safety and functionality for drivers and pedestrians alike. Road closure is never easy, but I hope the community will appreciate the improvements when it’s all complete.”
Proponents say removing the culvert and installing the bridge will restore the natural tidal function of the Carpenter Creek estuary. In addition, the historical salt marsh habitat will be reclaimed and fish migration to and from Carpenter Creek enhanced.
“Replacing that tiny culvert with a big bridge is good for the marsh, the grasses, the fish, and all the wildlife, too. It can’t come soon enough,” said Naomi Maasberg, administrative director of Stillwaters Environmental Center, located adjacent to the estuary. “The temporary inconvenience will be so worth it.”
The bridge project will also provide safety benefits for motorists and pedestrians, including wider travel lanes, new street lights, a five-foot sidewalk and a five-foot bike lane built on the north side of the road. On the south side, a six-foot paved shoulder is included as part of the project.
Kitsap County conducted an extensive traffic study during the planning phase of the project. The study recommends Lindvog Road NE as the most effective detour route during the closure. To reduce delays, motorists are advised to travel during off-peak hours, adjust travel routines, and combine trips or carpool.
Bridge construction is being done by Redside Construction, LLC from Bainbridge Island under a $3.7 million construction contract.
To learn more about the project and to sign up for electronic notifications, go to www.bit.ly/WKingston or call Kitsap1 at 360-337-5777.
