Fencing around Vernon Creek for Phase 2 of the Polson Park Creek Naturalization project (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Ecosystem Restoration, Flood Mitigation

Polson Park Creek Naturalization project on schedule

Aug 14, 2025 | 6:00 AM

The work at the creek running through the park in downtown Vernon is moving along as planned.

A city staff report said the Polson Park Naturalization Project “remains on schedule, with construction expected to be completed by November 2025.”

The project, which is in the second and final stage, has recently seen the stream bed constructed, woody debris installed to enhance aquatic habitat, the creation of a bat relocation habitat, concrete demolished, and continued implementation of environmental protection measures.

Once complete, the naturalization of the creek will reduce the risk of flooding at the park, while also enhancing the local ecosystem to benefit wildlife, including fish.

The report said public access through the park has been maintained with a temporary pedestrian bypass and bridge, though the internal park road remained closed to vehicles.

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Additionally, staff have looked into the new bridge installed in the first phase of the project after receiving complaints that the rust from the structure was transferring onto people and their clothes.

The report said the bridge was built using weathered streel, which forms a protective rust layer on its surface to shield the underlying steel from further corrosion.

According to staff, “weathered steel performs well in Vernon’s climate,” though the bridge will be inspected regularly “to ensure the material continues to function as intended.”

City staff previously told Vernon City Council that once the rust layer settles it should stop transferring to people and clothing upon contact.