C-W Port approves recreation and renovation contracts

“It’s exciting to finally see it come to fruition.”

— Bill Macrae-Smith

The building leased by the Westlie Ford dealership will undergo several improvement projects.

In addition to a new storefront entry area and exterior siding, the 1970s-era building at 40 S. Marina Way, Washougal, will receive a fire sprinkler system and new roof.

Port of Camas-Washougal Commissioners Bill Ward and Bill Macrae-Smith approved a $987,210 contract with RSV Building Solutions, of Vancouver. RSV was the only bidder on the project, that is expected to get underway soon and be completed by the end of this year.

Commissioner Mark Lampton had an excused absence for the July 21 meeting.

The port owns the 25,750 square foot building.

Tapani, Inc., of Battle Ground, was awarded a $2.66 million contract for construction of Washougal Waterfront Park at the Port of C-W and a .70 mile trail.

Tapani submitted the lowest bid, among five companies.

That project is expected to begin in August.

“The majority of the work is anticipated to be completed this year, with some landscaping that may need to be delayed to spring 2016,” said Port Finance Director Kim Noah. “It really depends upon the weather in the fall.”

In addition to a non-motorized boat launch for kayaks and canoes, the project will include a 12-foot wide concrete path, plaza, lawn areas and a trail head.

“It’s exciting to finally see it come to fruition,” Macrae-Smith said, regarding the awarding of the contract.

The port will receive a $700,000 Washington Wildlife Recreation Program’s water access grant and a $500,000 WWRP trail grant, as well as $500,000 from the state Aquatics Land Enhancement Account.

Ward thanked the port staff for its efforts to secure the financing.

“It is a huge amount of money,” he said. “It provides a lot of inertia to move forward.”