BELLINGHAM, WA – Demolition of the old railroad trestle in Whatcom Falls Park has begun.

The historic structure over Whatcom Creek was determined to be a safety hazard and the trail next to it has been detoured for several years.

The Parks and Recreation Department says the trestle can’t be repaired and its removal will help water quality in the creek.

Demolition work involves creek bypass pumping, taking down the pilings and restoring vegetation.

There will be trail closings and construction traffic in the area off Electric Avenue.

The trestle is a remnant of the narrow-gauge railroad that once carried timber from operations on Lake Whatcom to the Bellingham waterfront.