IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gardiner Boat Ramp to Temporarily Close for Construction from July 14 to October 3, 2025
Jefferson County, WA — The Port of Port Townsend announces the temporary closure of the Gardiner Boat Ramp to all launch users beginning Monday, July 14, 2025, through Friday, October 3, 2025, due to necessary construction and infrastructure improvements.
The closure is part of a scheduled boat ramp replacement aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility, and long-term usability of the boat launch area. During this time, no public launching or retrieval of boats will be permitted at the Gardiner Boat Launch.
“We understand this temporary closure may inconvenience some users, especially during the peak boating season,” said Matt Klontz, Port Engineer. “However, these upgrades are critical to ensuring the ramp remains a usable facility for years to come.” The improved boat ramp will include a new concrete ramp and the addition of a seasonally deployed handling float for launching and retrieving boats as well as improving ADA access.
Van Ness Construction of Port Hadlock-Irondale will be the general contractor constructing the needed improvements. The total project cost is $1,072,000, with construction estimated to make up $803,000 of the total project budget. This project is being funded using $532,123 Port funds as well as $539,877 funds from the Washington State Boat Facility program administered by the state’s recreation conservation office.
Alternative boat launch sites are available near the Boat Haven in Port Townsend and at the Sequim Bay State Park and John Wayne Marina in Sequim. Users are encouraged to plan accordingly and check the Port of Port Townsend’s website for updated information and a list of alternative locations.
The Gardiner Boat Ramp is expected to reopen by Saturday, October 4, 2025, weather permitting and pending construction progress.
For additional updates, please visit Portofpt.com or contact Matt Klontz at publicworks@portofpt.com.