A stretch of Vancouver’s Waterfront Renaissance Trail was closed Friday due to erosion near Tidewater Cove, marking the first report of damage resulting from the Columbia River’s climb into flood stage.
Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation sent out a news release and photo that shows a chunk of concrete broken free from the trail near the cove, west of Wintler Park. The parks department closed 400 feet of the trail.
Barricades are being used to keep walkers and joggers from getting too near the damaged path. Signs were set up to direct foot traffic to a detour on Columbia Way.
“We are working closely with engineers, operations teams and adjacent property owners to monitor and assess high-water impacts and potential short-term and long-term options and costs,” said Pete Mayer, the parks director. “As the Columbia River rises, we will continue to keep a close watch on this and all sections of the waterfront trail and take action where necessary.”