In 2004, in an effort to preserve portions of the City of Gig Harbor historic waterfront, City of Gig Harbor residents approved a $3.5 million bond to acquire and develop a waterfront park that emphasizes panoramic views and captures the history of local boat manufacturing.  Anchor QEA was initially retained to complete a review of environmental conditions and support negotiations with the seller, and since then has been involved in all aspects of this complex project, including its permitting.  The site remediation and restoration elements of the project occurred in the summer and fall of 2008 and included sediment cleanup; removal of docks, creosote piles, and a wood bulkhead; capping the site with a sand cover; and creation of restored intertidal and riparian habitat. 

Anchor QEA obtained all permits and approvals for the project including a hydraulic project approval from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, shoreline and clearing and grading permits from the City of Gig Harbor, a 401 Water Quality Certification from the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), a Nationwide 38 permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Endangered Species Act consultation, a memorandum of agreement from the Washington State Department of Archeological and Historic Preservation for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic and Preservation Act, and a Waste Disposal Authorization from Pierce County. 

Additionally, Anchor QEA completed site investigations, performed upland soil remediation, developed a sediment cleanup alternative under the Ecology Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP), and assisted the City of Gig Harbor with developing a conceptual level park design including assisting with public involvement.  Together, the VCP site cleanup process and park design elements will result in a waterfront park that meets the City of Gig Harbor’s objectives.  Final park design and dock reconstruction were completed in 2008, with final construction planned for late 2009.