For the Reporter

The end of winter and the turn to spring and summer mean the temporary flood protection barriers along Pacific Park in the city of Pacific will be coming down.

Starting this week, the barriers, known as HESCOs, blocking the entrance to the parking lot will be removed, opening up the park to vehicles.

“After the disastrous flooding that took place in 2009, I am happy that preventative measures have been taken to protect the community of Pacific during flood season,” said Flood District Supervisor Pete von Reichbauer, who represents Pacific on the Metropolitan King County Council. “I look forward to the recreational activities that the families of Pacific can engage in once the park re-opens.”

“The Flood Control District is committed to its mission of protecting the lives and property of the residents of Pacific,” said Reagan Dunn, chair of the King County Flood District Board of Supervisors. “These HESCO barriers have been instrumental over the past five winters in carrying out that commitment and removing the barriers earlier this year will allow residents to enjoy their park much sooner.”

For the last five years, the barriers have been put in at Pacific Park and other locations in Pacific to provide additional protection along the White River. The HESCO barrier was installed as a temporary flood protection measure along the river following flooding in 2009.

The barriers were put up in October. After a relatively dry winter, County River and Floodplain Management staff are coordinating the work with King County Roads crews and the City of Pacific for the early removal of the HESCOs.

“The City of Pacific is grateful for this relationship with King County Flood Control District in preservation of life and property along the White River while the levy project continues,” said Pacific Mayor Leanne Guier.

The King County Flood Control District is paying for the removal of the barriers, which is expected to take 1-to-2 days.