Newberry Hill Road reopens after vandalism

Newberry Hill Road has reopened, Kitsap County officials announced Thursday, following a nearly five month closure that was extended by major vandalism.

The road closed for construction in June in what was supposed to be a summer construction project to replace a culvert at Little Anderson Creek and restore a natural wildlife passage. Minor shoulder work and temporary lane closures might occur due to ongoing utility work, the county said.

Less than a week before a planned reopening on Sept. 4, the site was heavily vandalized, including damage to a retaining wall and construction equipment. Construction crews had to excavate beneath the wall, requiring substantial reconstruction. The Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident.

At least six pieces of heavy construction equipment were damaged in the alleged vandalism, costing the county somewhere between $1 million to $1.5 million. The equipment uses a universal key, which are easy to access. Damages to the road are estimated to be over $500,000.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Newberry Hill Road reopens after vandalism