Saltwater Park bridge is closed - police to step up patrols

Photo by Keith Miles

From the City of Shoreline

Over the weekend a large number of people ignored the signs indicating the pedestrian bridge at Saltwater Park was closed, moved the fencing around the construction site, and accessed the beach via the bridge.

The City says "The pedestrian bridge that crosses BNSF railroad at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is CLOSED." 

Closure is necessary to complete much needed structural repairs and upgrades to the 50 year-old bridge. The repair work requires complete closure of the bridge and beach area, including the off-leash dog park.

Crossing private property without permission and crossing the railroad tracks to access the beach are illegal. It is also illegal to remove barrier fencing around the construction site to gain access across the bridge.

Illegally accessing a construction site is dangerous. This is especially true with bridge construction as it may not be clear what areas of the bridge are secure to walk across and which are not. 

Shoreline Police will step up patrols of the park to ensure individuals do not illegally access the bridge or the beach.

Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is a heavily used park, even during the winter months. While our goal is to complete the project as quickly as possible and open the bridge, the number one priority for the City, the contractor, and BNSF during construction is safety.

The repairs and upgrades are necessary to maintain a safe bridge and allow continued access for emergency and maintenance vehicles. Completion of these repairs will extend the life of the bridge 20 or more years at a fraction of what it would cost to replace the bridge.

More information here or call 206-801-2700.