Pierce County’s Chambers Creek Properties’ “Bridge to the Beach” project is well underway. I pass by this each day as I walk the trails circling the golf course. Officially known as the North Dock Overpass, a $4 million project, the bridge to the beach will enable pedestrians to safely cross the railroad tracks and reach the west-facing shoreline that has been closed to the public during a century of mining operations on the site. This bridge is scheduled to open around Labor Day. Yes, it is compliant with all requirements for access by the disabled.
I doubt that there will be lifeguards or cleanup of the beach area on a regular basis. I foresee problems with littering and vandalism. It just comes with the territory. As more people gain [FREE] access to the beautiful areas we have here on the westside, there is the element of society that will take it all for granted, spew their garbage along the shoreline, write graffiti and leave.
Yes, I was quick to jump to this cynical position on the matter. I have seen University Place become much degraded from what is was twenty or thirty years ago. The more you give to people, the more expensive it will be for the tax-payer. Watch and see. Enjoy the beach early, and often.
