Port of Seattle finalizes $800,000 in funding for Miller Creek restoration

The Port of Seattle Commission has approved an interlocal agreement to restore a segment of Miller Creek in Burien and SeaTac. The Port of Seattle will contribute $800,000 towards a $3.5-million joint project that will help replace a failing culvert and create 450 feet (137 metres) of new salmon habitat on port property along Des Moines Memorial Drive.

The project removes a large fish barrier on Miller Creek and is a key component of the overall restoration of the Miller Creek watershed. Currently the creek supports a run of hatchery Coho salmon, and its restoration will contribute to regional efforts to recover resident Orcas, that feed on salmon.

A deteriorating culvert near 144th St. will be replaced with a new, larger culvert just south of the existing location, protecting the roadway and improving fish passage. These actions will provide a comprehensive approach to watershed management, create a continuous stream, restore the natural channel, and improve stormwater infrastructure. The contribution by the Port of Seattle helps to expand the project to create additional salmon spawning habitat on Miller Creek.