RICHLAND – The Tapteal Greenway hosted a heartfelt farewell to Bateman Island, inviting community members for a historical walk as the removal of the causeway approaches.
The event was initially scheduled for December 6, but with the causeway’s imminent removal, it was moved up. The walk aimed to educate attendees about the rich history of the island.
“It’s like saying goodbye to a friend, and everybody else has the same friend,” said Scott Woodward, former president of the Tapteal Greenway.
During Sunday’s walk, participants learned about the island’s history, including figures like William Clark and explorer David Thompson. The walk offered a chronological glimpse of the island’s past.
Woodward, now a board member with the Tapteal Greenway, emphasized the importance of recognizing the island’s historical context, especially its connections to local tribes and the Yakama River.
“I figured it would be a great idea to be able to create a historical place and space about this and how special it really was,” Woodward said.
Woodward noted how involved the nonprofit was throughout the process leading to the decision to remove the causeway.
“They were very open and transparent. The Corps of Engineers, Department of Fish and Wildlife. We had lots of public meetings, and there’s lots of people in this community that obviously, as you can see today, have affection for this place,” he said.
As Woodward reflected on his last visit to the island, he shared the significance it holds for him and the community.
“It used to be a spectacular space, with lots of salmon. This was a gathering place. It was a cultural exchange place, where ideas and art and everything was exchanged,” Woodward said.
Once the causeway is removed, the only access to the island will be by water. Woodward mentioned that he has already heard plans from people intending to bring kayaks and boats to help clean up and restore the island’s natural beauty.
For more information about the Tapteal Greenway and their efforts, visit their official website.
