FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

West Hylebos Wetlands Boardwalk Replacement Underway

Park closed until Mid-November

Joint press release from Friends and city of Federal Way regarding West Hylebos Wetlands boardwalk replacement and temporary park closure

The City of Federal Way has begun a major construction project to
replace the boardwalk at the popular West Hylebos Wetlands Park. The park will be closed until approximately mid-November, while
construction is being completed.

“While we’re sad that the park has to be closed during the summer season, it’s unavoidable,” said Parks Director Donna Hanson. “Construction has to be done in the dry months to minimize impacts to the sensitive wetlands environment. However, the city is committed to seeing the park re-open as soon as possible.”

Chris Carrel, Executive Director of the Friends of the Hylebos Wetlands, said, “The original boardwalk has deteriorated steadily over the past few years. Replacing the boardwalk now is necessary, so that park
visitors can continue to visit and enjoy the West Hylebos Wetlands in the future.”

Carrel noted that the structure experienced severe damage during last year’s winter storms. The foundation, which stands in water most of the year, has also deteriorated and was fast becoming unsafe.

The City of Federal Way is replacing the boardwalk with a new one that will have a much longer life expectancy.

The Parks Department and the Friends are asking people to observe the closure and not enter the construction area, which is a potentially unsafe setting for visitors. During the closure, the Parks Department recommends the following parks that contain some very special natural areas.

Dumas Bay Park—30844 44th Ave SW. This 19-acre park features shoreline access to Dumas Bay and Puget Sound.

Celebration Park—1095 S. 324th Street. The 83-acre park contains soccer and baseball fields, hiking trails through a forested wetland nature area, picnic tables, and a toddler play area.

Dash Point State Park—3045 SW Dash Point Road. The 235 acre state park includes a spectacular beach area, hiking trails through the park’s forest, and picnic and camping amenities.

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