The city of Port Orchard has begun demolishing deteriorating overwater structures along Bay Street as part of the next phase in developing the Pedestrian Pathway, a waterfront trail years in the making.

Demolition began Oct. 22 and will continue for up to 75 calendar days, per the city. The work marks a significant step forward in the city’s long-term vision to expand pedestrian and cyclist access along the waterfront.

“This is an exciting step forward in realizing the full potential of our waterfront trail system,” Mayor Robert Putaansuu said in a news release. “The Bay Street Pedestrian Pathway is a key investment in recreation, mobility, and quality of life for our community.”

Public Works director Denis Ryan said the properties slated for demolition were acquired by the city more than a decade ago through federal right-of-way funding. The structures have remained vacant for years and fallen into disrepair, with some railings collapsing and tides reaching inside.

“They’ve been vacant for several years — weather elements, no heat — they were falling down,” Ryan said. “We were pursuing an emergency permit to remove them sooner, but (Department of) Fish and Wildlife wanted us to go through the formal process.”

The city recently obtained a hydraulic project approval permit from WDFW, allowing the demolition to proceed within the “in-water work window” that runs from mid-August through mid-February.

While the structures will be removed, the pilings will remain in place until future construction begins. The city’s phased approach aims to maintain environmental compliance and prepare for the eventual expansion of the pathway.

The pathway—regionally known as part of the Mosquito Fleet Trail—currently runs from the Port of Bremerton Marina to the Bay Street shopping center. The next phase would extend the trail to Mitchell Point and, eventually, to the Annapolis Ferry Terminal.

Ryan said the city is working with the state Department of Transportation to secure approval to phase the project. If approved, construction on the trail extension could begin as early as summer 2027.

“The vision of the trail is transit to transit—from the Port Orchard Ferry Terminal to the Annapolis Ferry Terminal,” Ryan said. “It’s going to provide a multimodal route for walkers, joggers, bikers, and people of all abilities.”

The trail will meet state safety and accessibility standards and feature a cantilevered walkway adjacent to the road.

During demolition, minor traffic delays are expected near the work zone. Ryan said the city has kept nearby residents and businesses informed through postcards and social media updates.

“We sent out over 200 postcards to nearby residents and will continue posting updates,” he said. “And then, give us a call—if you’ve got a question, we’re happy to answer anybody’s questions.”

Information about the Bay Street Pedestrian Pathway project is available on the city of Port Orchard’s website.