State gives grant to extend railroad bridge
The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Funding Board awarded grants to more than 230 projects including one at Railroad Bridge Park.
The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe was awarded a $52,000 grant through the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program to extend the historical bridge and trestle 100 feet so it fully spans the Dungeness River’s migration area, according to Susan Zemek of the state Recreation and Conservation Office.
The trail bridge, located in the 28-acre Railroad Bridge Park, has suffered damage from erosion, snow and floods. Details on the grant, released by the state office, point out the bridge is part of the Olympic Discovery Trail, used by commuters, runners, bicyclists and walkers, and is especially popular for families because of its scenic, quiet setting and safety away from traffic.
Extending the trail will prevent impairment to the west channel of the river, which provides rearing habitat for four salmon species listed as threatened with extinction under the federal Endangered Species Act, Zemek wrote in a news release.
The tribe will contribute $52,000 in cash donations, staff labor and a federal grant, she said.
In total, the board awarded $343,810 in grants to projects within Clallam County. For more information go to www.rco.wa.gov/documents/press/2011/083-GrantLists.pdf.
