— from Michael Durland —
Thanks to all of you who signed a petition several weeks ago asking for more Public Input on the proposed new Deer Harbor bridge. Your support was a big help in getting more dialogue on this project.
The County Council will be discussing the bridge project at next Tuesday’s Council meeting in Friday Harbor. If you can be there to express your opinion that would be great. You can also call or email the Council members so they have your opinion before the public discussion.
My concerns have always been the impact the footprint of the new larger wider bridge will have on this residential area, the increased height of the roadbed because Public Works is proposing a single span of 80’ with a 3’ thick beam rather than a bridge span supported on pilings as is now, the designed speed of 20 mph which will increase vehicle speeds in this heavily used pedestrian area, and the impact the increased sediment flows will have on the oyster beds in the tidelands and the eel grass beds and crab population in the harbor.
If you share these concerns and have other concerns please send your comments to Council members Rick Hughes, Bob Jarman, and Jamie Stephens.
I’m still wondering how it could possibly cost THREE MILLION dollars to replace a wooden bridge that is — what ? — 20 feet long? And why not simply rebuild the existing bridge and preserve the rural character of the area?
I do believe Public Works got a grant, need I say more.
Ooops. It’s technically ONLY $2.4 million. But then, it’s early.
The old bridge is killing the estuary. It obviously should never have been built. The new bridge plan is the only logical option.
Now up to $2.8 million.
A drop in the bucket. San Juan County has the highest per capita income in the state of Washington. (Wikipedia)
Time to right some of the wrongs of our poverty-stricken, short-sighted predecessors.
Dan,
I live south of the outfall of the bridge and own the oysterlands there. I would like to talk to you about your knowledge of the estuary. Call me.
Michael