Carkeek Park closures scheduled for pedestrian bridge prep work

Meghan Walker Ballard

Carkeek Park will be closed intermittently from May 5 to 12 as Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) begins geotechnical work related to the upcoming pedestrian bridge replacement project.

The closures will support two major drilling operations on the park’s beach to evaluate soil conditions ahead of construction for the new bridge. A helicopter will be used to transport and reposition drilling equipment on three of the workdays, prompting full closures of certain areas of the park.

Here’s the schedule of closures and expected impacts:

  • Monday, May 5 – Park Open
    Crews will begin staging equipment at the Model Airplane Field and on the beach. Some nearby parking will be closed, and visitors are asked to avoid areas marked with caution tape.
  • Tuesday, May 6 – Park Closed Noon to 5 p.m.
    The pedestrian bridge, beach, and surrounding areas will be closed as helicopter crews deliver a drill rig to the beach. Loud noise and visible activity are expected. The rig will remain on the beach overnight.
  • Wednesday, May 7 – Park Open
    Drilling will continue on the beach, with crews on site. Expect construction noise throughout the day.
  • Thursday, May 8 – Park Closed 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
    Another full closure of the beach and surrounding pathways is scheduled as the helicopter repositions the drill rig to a second location.
  • Friday, May 9 – Park Open
    Onsite drilling continues, but no closures are planned.
  • Saturday, May 10 – Park Closed 7 to 11 a.m.
    Crews will wrap up helicopter operations, removing the drill rig from the beach and returning it to the staging area.

SPR emphasizes that all dates and times are weather-dependent and may shift based on site conditions. Visitors are urged to follow instructions from park rangers, observe closure signs, and avoid taped-off zones to help maintain safety.

“These temporary closures are a critical step in improving park infrastructure and long-term access to the beach,” SPR said in a statement.

More details on the Carkeek Park Pedestrian Bridge Replacement Project are available online.

Photo: Seattle Parks / TIA International Photography