‘It’s starting to look like a real park’

The Port Orchard City Council Jan. 28 heard about a “digger toy” and other improvements at Paul Powers Park.

“It’s starting to look like a real park,” Public Works director Denis Ryan said.

The old cyclone fence is being replaced with a split rail fence, and playground equipment is being updated to meet safety standards. A mini-excavator “digger toy” will be added to the play area for children, and the basketball court has been cleaned and will receive a new backboard for the hoop.

Also, the Transportation Committee provided updates on several projects. Regarding the Bay Street pedestrian pathway, the city is still awaiting permit approval from state and federal agencies to proceed with removal of dilapidated buildings, a priority for the city due to safety concerns.

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The committee also outlined plans for the replacement of the failing culvert in Annapolis. Design work is set to begin soon, with construction anticipated in 2029. In February, the committee will further discuss bicycle signage along Sidney Avenue and has allocated $100,000 for road maintenance and repairs in the area, particularly around Paul Powers Park.

Ryan also briefed the council on preparations for upcoming cold weather and potential black ice. Public works crews are on standby and ready to deploy equipment as needed.

“We are monitoring the weather closely, and our crews are preparing for any needed response,” Ryan said. He also mentioned that the city is reassessing snow and ice routes to reflect Port Orchard’s growth, with adjustments to priority routes possible.

Lastly, police chief Matt Brown announced that two new officers are set to join the department, though due to delays in training, they will not be fully independent immediately.