The state Parks and Recreation Commission on Dec. 14 announced the immediate closure of the docks at Jones Island and Sucia Island state parks in the San Juan Islands for construction work.

The docks will undergo major construction to replace floats, gangways, piers and pilings. Additionally, docks will be upgraded to include enhanced access consistent with requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The existing docks are more than 30 years old. During the closure, boaters are requested to not moor to the floats, watch for debris in the area and stay clear of the construction barges.

Dock work is expected to be completed around the end of February. Floats will be reinstalled around late-March to early-April 2011.

Previous work completed in the uplands on both islands under the Resource and Conservation Office’s Boating Facilities Grant program included benches, drinking fountains, Adirondack shelters and new trails, a campsite and composting toilets that are accessible to people with disabilities. The northern side of Jones Island also received a new kitchen shelter.

Donations made to State Parks through the vehicle license tab renewal program will keep state parks open in the 2009-21 budget cycle, provided adequate revenues are collected. The commission manages a diverse system of more than 100 state parks and recreation programs, including long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. The 97-year-old park system will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2013.

Washington State Parks is now on Twitter at WaStatePks_NEWS and YouTube at WashingtonStateParks.