Intrepid anglers, crabbers and squid-jiggers, take note: The Edmonds public fishing pier will be closed this spring for a projected 90 days as workers repair and restore key structural elements and give the 40-year-old structure a needed face-lift.
“We’re assessing potential contractors right now,” said Edmonds Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director Carrie Hite. “We hope to have someone on board in the next couple of weeks, and at that time we’ll have a much better idea of the schedule.”
Built in 1975, the Edmonds public fishing pier is among Puget Sound’s standout salt-water fishing locations, drawing an estimated 100,000 users each year. But time, weather and tide have taken their toll on the old structure, and renovations are needed to ensure that it remains a viable place to enjoy a stroll, the water and mountain views, or a day of fishing with friends and family.
“The underlying support beams are showing significant rust and oxidation, and are the main focus of this project,” Hite said. “Average life for this kind of facility is about 35 years, so it’s definitely time.” In addition to the critical structural work, Hite said that there will be improvements to topside amenities including the “cleaning stations and benches.”
Repairs and improvements to the 944-foot structure will cost an estimated $1.6 million, of which $100,000 comes from the City of Edmonds. The balance is funded by State of Washington, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and state’s Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account. The work will likely start in March and take about three months.
But while the improvements are necessary, it leaves pier users with nowhere local to cast a line or drop a crab pot. All Edmonds beaches are marine sanctuaries, and off limits for fishing and related activities. The Edmonds Marina has always been closed to fishing.
“It’s unfortunate that during this time there will be no alternative public fishing location in Edmonds,” Hite added. “We’ll be working hard to keep the project on schedule and minimize disruption so people can get back to fishing in Edmonds as soon as possible.”
Other public salt-water fishing piers in the area include Mukilteo, Clinton, Kingston, Everett and Shilshole. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife provides a complete list of locations here.
— By Larry Vogel
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