Fidalgo Bay Trestle Replacement
Creosote Pilings are Highly Flammable
Creosote Pilings Can Leach Toxic Chemicals into the Sediment
The Fidalgo Bay Trestle Project is a long-term multiple year effort that aims to replace the existing trestle with environmentally friendly non-creosote material and remove the entire riprap causeway from the trestle crossing over to Weaverling Spit. Full removal of the causeway will increase flow and flushing of the Fidalgo Bay system which will improve water quality, nearshore species and habitat and reduce wave energy and shoreline erosion. The trestle's creosote pilings contain toxic chemicals that leach into the sediment. Creosote is also highly flammable and the trestle has burned twice in arson fires, releasing toxic chemicals into the air. Removing the creosote pilings and associated sediment and replacing with environmentally material will reduce the fire risk and will improve water quality and health of aquatic organisms.
We are currently in the first phase of the Project which is a feasibility study and conceptual design. The feasibility study will help determine whether to pursue funding for the second phase of this project for the removal of the causeway and replacement of the trestle.
Community education and outreach in support of this effort is essential and involves the collaboration of multiple partners including the City of Anacortes, Skagit Marine Resources Committee, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, and Samish Indian Nation:
- Community meetings and regular updates
- Outreach booth at special events
- Project website/StoryMap
- Interpretive signage installed along the Tommy Thompson Trail at the project site
- A series of short videos
Project Partners and Stakeholders