Sending out what we hope is the final monthly construction update for the Grand Avenue Park Bridge. Visiting the park, it’s apparent that nearly all the work is done, and many have asked when the bridge will be opened. Though it’s not always obvious, some critical work continues, including lighting and electrical work pertaining to the pedestrian illumination.
We are eager to open the bridge for public use so that everyone can experience this amazing amenity. Opening the bridge to the public, however, is contingent on the completion of safety inspections of the elevator. Inspection of the elevator by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) and the Everett Fire Marshall are required for operation. L&I’s inspection services are impacted by COVID-19 and the Governor’s Safe Start plan, and even though construction on the elevator is complete, inspection could not be scheduled until late in the month. The bridge cannot be opened without the elevator’s safety inspection, since it is required for providing ADA access. Once the lighting work and the elevator inspections are complete, the bridge can be opened for use. Due to the current public health situation, no grand opening event for the bridge is planned for now. A more formal celebration will take place at a later date when it is safe to gather.
Below is a summary and photos of progress made in the latter part of July and early August:
- Installation, programming and adjustments to the multiple lighting systems and hand off to City staff. Currently, awaiting additional lights to be installed.
- Elevator pre-inspection and a punchlist (list of items to finish) was completed. A final inspection and approval for use by L&I is scheduled for late August. The bridge cannot open for public use until this takes place.
- The irrigation system, special park railing, topsoil and plants were installed, and Parks staff will take over maintenance.
- The remaining handrail was fabricated and installed on the guardrail.
- Interwest Construction is in the process of removing trailers, equipment and traffic control.
- Once the elevator is signed off by L&I, the construction fencing around the elevator and park entrance will be removed, which will allow the public to access the bridge.
For more information, visit everettwa.gov/GAPB. View the latest project photos in the photo gallery.
