Vancouver takes steps to improve stairs at Wintler Park

Work is underway on a new stairway at the northeast end of Wintler Park, a popular waterfront park in Vancouver’s Riverview neighborhood.

Contractor Art Rojsza said the stairs should be finished by the beginning of August. Previously, there were seven steps made of railroad ties that led down to the main paved path that connects with the Waterfront Renaissance Trail. The steps were rotted and the ground around them had eroded, making it hazardous.

“They were really more of an obstacle than a support,” Rojsza said.

The new stairway will have 15 steps and three landings made of galvanized steel with grating, as well as a handrail. Rojsza said the design should still allow vegetation to grow around the stairs, as opposed to a set of stairs made entirely of concrete that would have a greater impact on the environment.

“Because of the size of the project and the sensitivity of the area, we decided to dig by hand rather than bring in equipment,” he said.

Rojsza and his wife, Margaret, both of Ferndale, said there has been a steady flow of people walking through the area in the evenings since they began working Monday. Vancouver Parks and Recreation Director Julie Hannon said the park has weather-based attendance and attracts a lot of people on warm, sunny days. There is also a group of runners and walkers using the southeast entrance of the park to reach the waterfront trail.

Hannon said the city’s general fund will cover the $34,308 project.