For the Reporter

The transition from winter and its heightened threat of flooding to milder spring weather means the temporary flood protection barrier can come down in Pacific Park along the White River.

Starting Wednesday, April 13, the barriers, known as HESCOs, blocking the entrance to Pacific Park’s parking lot will be removed, restoring public access to the park.

The King County Flood Control District is funding the barrier removal project, which is expected to take three days. The park will be accessible to the public by the weekend.

“After record-setting rainfall that extended the flood season into April, I am pleased to see that Pacific Park will once again be accessible,” said King County Flood Control District Supervisor Peter von Reichbauer. “I look forward to the increased recreational activities that the residents of Pacific can enjoy once the barriers are removed.”

The barriers closing Pacific Park were installed in October. Now that the threat of severe seasonal flooding has passed, King County River and Floodplain Management employees are coordinating with King County Roads crews and the City of Pacific to remove the HESCOs and restore access to the riverside park.

“The city appreciates working with King County Flood Control District in protecting our citizens during the flooding season and opening the park for recreational activities for our community to enjoy spring through fall,” said Pacific Mayor Leanne Guier.

While flood season has passed, the White River is dynamic and the potential for flooding related to an unusual storm event is always possible.

The HESCO barrier was initially installed as a temporary flood protection measure along the White River following flooding in 2009.