Drivers headed to Kayak Point Park will be able to reach the beach again starting July 1, after more than four months without vehicle access to the day-use area.

The reopening lands just ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend at Snohomish County's most popular park, a 670-acre park along Port Susan known for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching.

Phase 2 construction, which began February 17, will continue through fall 2026, but the road closure that forced visitors to hike a 0.15-mile trail with 71 stairs and 129 feet of elevation change is ending. Snohomish County Parks announced the July 1 date in a June 22 project update.

Crews recently poured concrete for a new waterfront plaza near the pier. The plaza will include a seating wall, a gathering space with waterfront views, and festival utility hookups. All underground utilities are installed, curb work is complete, and most site grading is finished.

The playground site is prepared; equipment installation is next. The southern and central restrooms are also being upgraded.

The full renovation carries a price tag of approximately $20 million. Phase 2 funding includes a $2 million federal grant from the National Park Service's Land and Water Conservation Fund and $2.5 million from Snohomish County.

During construction, Snohomish County Parks partnered with the Port of Everett to give county park pass holders launch privileges at the 10th Street Boat Launch at 10th Street and West Marine View Drive. The Port calls it the largest boat launch in Washington state: 13 lanes with more than 350 truck-and-trailer parking stalls.

Pass holders need a digital pass that uses license plate reader technology. County Parks directs boaters to snohomishcountywa.gov/3711 for registration details.

For those without a county park pass, the Port of Everett charges a $15 daily launch fee (includes 24 hours of parking) or $225 for an annual pass. Seniors 60 and older who live in Snohomish County pay $125.

Phase 3 remains unfunded, with no timeline announced. Visitors planning a Fourth of July trip can drive in starting July 1, though construction activity will still be visible throughout the park.