The Gig Harbor Parks Commission hosted an open house last week at the civic center to discuss plans for future improvements at Wilkinson Farm Park.

The conceptual trail plan includes additional new trails, viewing platforms, footbridges and the possible restoration of existing wetlands.

Matt Heddin, a biologist with the Grette Associates Environmental Consultants, said his company recently completed an assessment of the wetlands in order to assist city staff members with the alignment and permitting process needed to conduct certain improvements.

Heddin said the primary purpose is to improve and enhance the existing walkways, provide new trail alignments to create a more stable path and to protect the wetland area and general environment.

“Wilkinson Park has a large wetland area that is regulated by both federal and state (entities) and by the city,” he said. “When you add new trails and structures, you have to go through a permit process.”

Heddin said the property contains a large pond that is protected by codes that provide for a 60-foot buffer around the water line and limits what can be done inside those areas. The land outside the buffer is considered upland areas.

“What we propose doesn’t impact the wetland but would affect the upland area,” he said. “A lot of the area that is highly used is degraded. There’s a lot of potential to improve these areas.”

The city requires that any trails built through the park be impervious, meaning they have to be made of material that is not hard, does not compact the soil and allows water absorption, Heddin said. Codes restrict any new trails to a width of 4 feet.

In the future, the city may consider placing wooden viewing platforms on opposite sides of the pond, where the public can view waterfowl.

A resident whose home abuts the pond questioned why the city would build viewing platforms when the pond  is covered with green film half of the year.

Parks commissioner Nick Tarabochia said that, with the preservation of the old Wilkinson barn and farmhouse, the park had a rich, historic significance that the parks commission wants to preserve, and they want the public to enjoy it.

“We have an interest in the property as a natural working farm,” Tarabochia said. “We utilize the Cushman trail with joggers and hikers and want to give the local community a chance to see a farmhouse built in the early 1900s.”

Dennis Troy, an associate planner for the city, said the park has several elements that can be used for different things.

“We have the (opportunity) to enjoy the historic element along with the water feature and a working wetland,” he said.

The board pointed out that the park will be intended for passive use with nature walks and an emphasis on the environment. There are no plans for playgrounds or structures to be built at this time.