This aerial photo shows the area of a joint project between the Port of Ridgefield, Clark Regional Wastewater District and the city of Ridgefield. Construction on the project will begin soon and includes upgrading a sewer line and creating a 2,000-foot-long pedestrian trail. (Port of Ridgefield)
The Port of Ridgefield, Clark Regional Wastewater District and the city of Ridgefield have announced a collaborative project to upgrade a sewer line, create a pedestrian trail and maintain a port-owned stormwater facility.
According to the port, the work is needed to support economic development in the fast-growing area between South First Circle and South Timm Road. The contract for construction was awarded to North Cascade Excavating in May. Work is expected to begin soon with an estimated completion by the end of the year.
“The project is a win-win-win,” Port CEO Randy Mueller said in a Tuesday press release. “By working together, the port, the city and the district are improving our community while saving tax dollars through efficiencies in permitting, environmental requirements, and contracting.”
Mueller confirmed Tuesday the most recent estimate for the project totals $2.251 million. Construction costs are around $1.9 million, with the wastewater district paying the lion’s share — $1.81 million. Ridgefield will pay $75,310, and the port $16,055.
The wastewater district will manage the project in coordination with the city and the port.
“We are appreciative of this partnership and excited to get started on a project that supports our growing community and connects residents and businesses to natural areas,” Ridgefield Mayor Jennifer Lindsay said in the release. “In early 2024, people will be able to use a brand-new, 8-foot-wide, 2,000-foot-long trail through a green space at the Junction.”
Mueller said the trail will begin at South 56th Place and run east to South Timm Road.
“It’s … next to a real pretty natural area in the port’s industrial park, and will be a great amenity for all the nearby workers to enjoy on their lunch breaks (or for anyone to enjoy anytime),” Mueller said Tuesday. “For years, a group of Corwin Beverage (now Pepsi) employees have been seeking this project, and we’re finally able to make it happen through a cooperative effort between our three agencies.”
Heath Henderson, director of engineering for the wastewater district, said in the release the original project was to upgrade a trunk line and increase wastewater capacity for the area around the Interstate 5 junction.
“When the port and city approached us with their projects, it just made sense to bring them all together into one joint effort to cost effectively maintain and build our infrastructure,” Henderson said. “The new trail will also provide access for our crews to perform future maintenance.”
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