Newberry Hill project likely delayed weeks by vandalism that remains under investigation

After being vandalized last Thursday, Newberry Hill Road will remain closed for at least a few more weeks, a county spokesperson told the Kitsap Sun Monday.

Kym Pleger, communication manager for Kitsap Public Works, said in a phone interview that crews were still assessing the damage to the road, but expect it to remain closed for “several more weeks.” A more specific timeline is expected later this week.

The road, which was set to reopen next week after months of construction, was vandalized overnight Thursday , according to the Kitsap Sheriff’s Office. Kevin McCarty, a sheriff’s office spokesperson, said the case remains under investigation, but had no updates Monday morning.

At least six pieces of heavy construction equipment were damaged in the alleged vandalism, Pleger said, resulting in somewhere between $1 million to $1.5 million in damages. Pleger said the equipment uses a universal key, which are easy to access.

“Even on eBay you can order them,” she said.

The extent of damages to the road is still to be assessed. But costs are estimated to be over $500,000, Pleger said. Crews are also still assessing damages to a retaining wall, including how much of it will need to be rebuilt.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Newberry Hill project likely delayed weeks by vandalism that remains under investigation