HomeMy WebLinkAbout_Public Art Plan Book_Adopted 020320_Port Townsend Arts Commission
Public Art PlanPublic Art Plan
ADOPTED 02/03/2020/Res 20-004
Table of Contents
Public Art Plan ................................................................................................................................... 4
Long Term Sites ................................................................................................................................. 7
City Entrance ............................................................................................................................................. 8
East Sims Way & Kearney Street ............................................................................................................... 9
Hastings and Howard Crossroads ............................................................................................................ 10
Makers & Artisans District ....................................................................................................................... 11
Point Hudson ........................................................................................................................................... 12
Salish Coast Elementary School ............................................................................................................... 13
San Juan Ave & Discovery Road ............................................................................................................... 14
Triangle Park ............................................................................................................................................ 16
Short Term Sites .............................................................................................................................. 17
19th and San Juan ..................................................................................................................................... 18
Blue Heron Middle School ....................................................................................................................... 19
Chetzemoka Park ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Clay and Monroe Streets Scenic Vista ..................................................................................................... 22
Ferry Terminal and Water Street ............................................................................................................. 23
Fort Worden State Park ........................................................................................................................... 24
Jackson Tidal Pool .................................................................................................................................... 26
Jefferson County Courthouse Park .......................................................................................................... 27
Jefferson County Fairgrounds – Potential Site #1 .................................................................................... 28
Jefferson County Fairgrounds – Potential Site #2 .................................................................................... 29
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park .................................................................................................................... 30
Kuhn Street and North Beach County Park .............................................................................................. 32
Larry Scott Memorial Trail and Port Wetlands ........................................................................................ 33
Mountain View Commons ....................................................................................................................... 35
Northwest Maritime Center .................................................................................................................... 36
Port Townsend Golf Course ..................................................................................................................... 37
Port Townsend High School ..................................................................................................................... 38
Rainier Street and Sims Way Roundabout ............................................................................................... 39
Rothschild House Museum ...................................................................................................................... 40
Thomas Street and Sims Way Roundabout ............................................................................................. 41
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Top of Haller Fountain Stairs ................................................................................................................... 43
Tyler Street Plaza ..................................................................................................................................... 44
Union Wharf ............................................................................................................................................ 45
Van Buren Street End .............................................................................................................................. 46
Visitor Information Center ....................................................................................................................... 48
Washington Square ................................................................................................................................. 49
Sites Not Recommended .................................................................................................................. 50
13th and Hancock ..................................................................................................................................... 51
35th Street Park ........................................................................................................................................ 52
Bell Tower ................................................................................................................................................ 53
Bishop Park .............................................................................................................................................. 54
Blue Heron Wetlands .............................................................................................................................. 55
Bobby McGarraugh Park.......................................................................................................................... 56
Chetzemoka Dog Park ............................................................................................................................. 57
Community Center .................................................................................................................................. 58
Cook and Elmira Trailhead ....................................................................................................................... 60
Cook Avenue End..................................................................................................................................... 61
Dahlia Park ............................................................................................................................................... 62
Elmira Street Park .................................................................................................................................... 63
Froggy Bottoms ....................................................................................................................................... 64
Gateway Park........................................................................................................................................... 65
Golden Age Club ...................................................................................................................................... 66
Hamilton Heights PUD ............................................................................................................................. 67
Hendrick’s Pond and Trailhead ................................................................................................................ 68
Howard’s End .......................................................................................................................................... 69
Laurel Grove and Redmen’s Cemeteries ................................................................................................. 70
Laurel Heights PUD .................................................................................................................................. 72
Levinski Wetlands .................................................................................................................................... 73
Lynnesfield PUD ....................................................................................................................................... 74
Memorial Field ........................................................................................................................................ 75
Parksde Drive ........................................................................................................................................... 76
Pope Marine Park .................................................................................................................................... 77
Reed Street End ....................................................................................................................................... 78
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Rosewind PUD ......................................................................................................................................... 79
Rotary Park .............................................................................................................................................. 80
Sather Park .............................................................................................................................................. 81
Skateboard Park ...................................................................................................................................... 82
St. Mary’s Cemetery ................................................................................................................................ 83
Taft Street End ......................................................................................................................................... 84
Tyler Street Wooden Stairs ...................................................................................................................... 85
W Street End ........................................................................................................................................... 86
Whitaker Wetlands .................................................................................................................................. 88
Winona Wetlands .................................................................................................................................... 89
Appendix ................................................................................................................................................. 90
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City of Port Townsend Port Townsend Arts Commission
Public Art Plan
2018
Ongoing Assumptions:
Background: The City of Port Townsend has a deep and abiding commitment to art and culture, as articulated in the Community Direction Statement from the Comprehensive Plan: “A regional center of culture and learning, Port Townsend provides its citizens with quality elementary and secondary instruction, as well as career training and college education needed for success and personal enrichment. The City offers world-class arts and entertainment and continually celebrates its cultural and historical assets by hosting many exciting festivals and events. Anywhere in town, we are only a convenient bike ride or walk from work, classes, dining, entertainment, and home. This closeness reinforces the tie between Port Townsend’s economy, culture and a large residential community. People live here because they enjoy being in the midst of the natural beauty and cultural amenities of Port Townsend.” The City of Port Townsend, Art in Public Places Policy and Procedures stipulates that the Public Art Committee of the Port Townsend Arts Commission “prepare an annual plan that identifies and prioritizes public projects that shall include public artwork. The Public Art Plan may include artwork resulting from city construction projects as well as artwork proposed by community groups or other public departments or boards for placement at existing facilities.” As codified in the PTMC Chapter 3.50, the City “allocates 1% of the capitalized costs of eligible public construction projects for the creation or placement of artwork or works as part of the construction project.”
The Conceptual Framework: The Committee is committed to the core community values of the City of Port Townsend including the notion of “quality of place,” thereby ensuring that the City remains an attractive place to live, work and visit. The arts are essential to guarantee that quality of life and to ensure that we remain a vibrant and engaged community. The Committee believes that public art is also a key component of an arts-based economic development strategy since it is a public investment in the cultural fabric that links infrastructure to community sustainability, economic vitality and civic values.
Public Art Plan 2011-2012: The Public Art Plan for 2011-2012 focused on one of the important gathering places for the local community, Uptown. This is an area that serves as a focal point for civic and cultural live, anchored by the Farmers’ Market and Community Center and surrounded by vibrant businesses and established and historical residential
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neighborhoods. The siting of public art in the Uptown area added another dimension to this special place where locals live, work, play, and shop. The Artists Selection Committee and Port Townsend Arts Commission recommended the placement of the sculpture “Great Blue” in this location, a recommendation subsequently approved by City Council. This work invites people to pause for a moment, have conversations, make connections, and enjoy the notion of place.
Public Art Plan 2008: The City Council approved the previous Public Art Plan 2008 in early 2009. There were two major capital construction projects planned at that time for Port Townsend, one for the downtown Water Street area, the maritime entrance to Port Townsend and the other for Upper Sims Way, the vehicular entrance to the City. The 2008 Plan was to unite, symbolically and literally, the City’s business and cultural realms through the placement of public art at the two portals to Port Townsend. The notion was that a cultural and commercial corridor iconically marked by public art sited at the gateways ways could enhance the City’s identity as a venue for world class arts while also serving as a key development asset, contributing to the local economy. That plan gave priority to siting public art in the “Downtown Urban Streetscape and Waterfront,” a revitalized waterfront area stretching from the Northwest Maritime Center at Point Hudson to Quincy Street with the purpose of celebrating the intersection of our historic and commercial cityscape with accessible seascape. That Plan resulted in the commissioning of Gerard Tsutakawa’s “Salish Sea Circle.” The second priority of that plan was to focus on the “Upper Sims Way Urban Landscape and Howard Street Corridor.” The goal for that location was to site public art in a way that would enliven the streetscape, stimulate cultural activity, promote way finding, and reflect the creativity and entrepreneurial life of Port Townsend. Fulfillment of that component is still pending available funding. Planning for the Future; An Assessment of Potential Public Art Sites: The Public Art Committee has designed the Public Art Plan 2019 to be used as a tool by future Port Townsend Arts Commissions, City management and City Council as opportunities for public art arise. The Public Art Committee sought input from City management about potential locations and utilized the “Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional Plan 2014.” The Committee completed 70 site reviews, assessing each location for size, terrain, function, visibility, access, environment, weather, neighborhood, and general characteristics. Each site was then rated by timing (readiness of location based on current zoning and development) and overall viability and appropriateness for public art. The rating categories are “short-term”, “long-term” and “not recommended”. All site ratings could be re-estimated on a regular basis by the Public Arts Committee as it prepares the annual Public Art Plan. The locations within each category are not rank ordered.
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The Appendix at the end of the document contains specific recommendations about certain sites received over time by the Arts Commission. This is meant to serve as a repository of suggestions that might be considered among other ideas for those sites in the future. The list of potential public art sites is not meant to be exhaustive and the Public Art Committee recognizes that there will be other locations that might be considered by the Arts Commission and City Council in the future.
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Long-term SitesLong-term Sites
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Site: City Entrance
Location: Intersection of Mill Road and West Sims Way
Size: Approximately 40' x 40'
Terrain: Paved and flat
Function: Main entry to Port Townsend, and side entrance to Discovery Road primarily used by cars and bicyclists
Visibility: This intersection is highly visible from all directions and heavily utilized.
Access: Primarily by car or bicycle
Environment: Fast moving and heavy traffic area surrounded by commercial properties, all commercial with two buildings adjacent, and an entrance to the Larry Scott Trail. Well lit.
Weather: Normal conditions, somewhat protected by trees bordering the roads
Neighborhood: Sparsely built area. There are a few businesses located there but it mainly serves as the vehicular entrance to the City.
General Characteristics: Busy, and highly trafficked
Comments: There is already an existing "Welcome to Port Townsend" sign as seen in the below photo. Considering the heavy incoming and outgoing traffic at this intersection and the speed of travel it does not seem prudent to add any public art at this location. The City and State are considering creating a roundabout here, so it is hard to know right now what the future site character will be. Perhaps once the full street development has taken place this area can be reviewed again.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: East Sims Way and Kearney Street
Location: Intersection of East Sims Way and Kearney Streets
Size: Approximately 15 yards x 15 yards
Terrain: Paved, flat with crosswalks, signal lights and handicap sidewalk ramps
Function: Major thoroughfare for automobiles, bicyclists, walkers in and out of downtown Port Townsend and major crossroad for heading to Fort Worden, Uptown and various other commercial and residential neighborhoods in the area.
Visibility: Highly visible, very well lit
Access: Very accessible by car, bicycle or foot
Environment: All commercial, very busy intersection with many neighboring businesses and two very small parks. No excessive bird issues, and low vandalism risk due to the high visibility of the intersection.
Weather: Close enough to Townsend Bay to get high winds
Neighborhood: Commercial with several businesses and two very small parks; one park is already nicely developed (Gateway Park) which has an existing art piece, and one is undeveloped (Triangle Park) across from Chase Bank.
General Characteristics: Extremely busy intersection giving access to Uptown and Downtown as well as other areas listed above.
Comments: At this point in time there really is no room for a public art piece right at this intersection. However, if the City ends up putting a roundabout here then at that point a public art site might make sense within the center of said roundabout. Triangle Park, however which is at the northwest corner very near the intersection, may be a viable place to place a piece instead. See Triangle Park Site Visit Assessment for more details.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: Hasting and Howard Crossroads
Location: North side of the corner of Hasting & Howard Streets
Size: Approximately 20' x 30'
Terrain: Flat open dirt area with bus stop on street side; dusty, gravel parking area
Function: Bus stop and parking area
Visibility: Good visibility, very open, only large trees are on the adjacent corner
Access: Easy access from Hastings and Howard Streets
Environment: Rural neighborhood; all but one house is set way back; fairly undeveloped area with "scruffy" dirty and dusty feeling
Weather: No weather or bird issues though some wind could be an issue; non-sensitive terrain
Neighborhood: Rural, set back houses with lots of land around them
General Characteristics: Easily accessible with plenty of room for a public art piece which would be a nice upgrade for this corner.
Comments: The City will be developing this area in the future as part of the Howard Street development. Until the time of that development, there are some issues with lighting as there is only one street light on the adjacent corner and currently vandalism could be a risk. However, once Howard Street is developed if the bus stop were also upgraded by the City with a bench and shelter structure and additional lighting this would be an ideal location for public art. This route is used a lot by local residents and would be highly visible and the siting of public art would be a nice way to upgrade the look of this area.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: Makers and Artisan District
Location: Howard Street area from roundabout to Discovery and neighboring streets
Size: Over a square mile with various sites
Terrain: Varied
Function: New development; mixed use
Visibility: Varied; good street lighting in places; young vegetation at this time
Access: Vehicular and foot traffic; new bike lanes
Environment: Young vegetation recently planted as part of this area’s development
Weather: Some wind protection by mature woods back some distance from Howard Street and throughout neighborhood
Neighborhood: Currently little residential as this is a newly developed area; mixed commercial near Sims way
General Characteristics: This is a relatively newly opened area of Howard Street beyond the roundabout that is currently influenced by the established businesses along Sims Way with plans for future commercial development.
Comments: This is a good location for future public art siting. Considerations should be given to the City’s concept of this as a Makers & Artisans development area.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: Point Hudson
Location: Point Hudson marina area at the far Southeast portion of downtown Port Townsend
Size: About 4 city blocks
Terrain: Flat with a shallow-draft marina
Function: Community meeting place, marine-trade businesses, restaurants, campground
Visibility: Varied
Access: Road access from Jefferson, Washington and Water Streets; marine access from Point Hudson Marina
Environment: Exposed point jutting out in to Salish Sea; marine climate; commercial area of downtown Port Townsend
Weather: Extreme high winds and exposure to sun and salt spray
Neighborhood: Business district with RV campground and marina tenants
General Characteristics: Point Hudson is a Port of Port Townsend property. It is comprised of various entities themed around maritime trades and tourism. Point Hudson is the location for the annual Wooden Boat Festival and other large gatherings and serves the City as the face of the town’s maritime image.
Comments: Public art might be sited at the intersection of Jackson and Water Streets, near the Cupola House, at the intersection of Jefferson and Hudson Streets, and at the “point.” Profiled here is the end of Jefferson Street where the street meets the beach.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: Salish Coast Elementary School
Location: 1637 Grant St., Port Townsend
Size: Approximately 8 acres
Terrain: From high point at northwest corner, slopes gently to east and south
Function: Public elementary school and grounds
Visibility: Excellent visibility in all directions
Access: Bus drop-off on Discovery Road to north; private vehicle access via Grant Street to east pedestrian and bicycle paths on all sides
Environment: New construction; environmental restoration to come
Weather: Exposed to wind and weather
Neighborhood: Private residences and small multi-unit buildings; heavy local traffic on Discovery Road and Sheridan Street (1 block east)
General Characteristics: The school is open for students, but landscaping is not complete. An extensive rain garden/artificial wetland will be installed at the front entrance. Other areas will be used for teaching gardens, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Comments: The School District has a plan for landscaping and gardens, supporting both environmental remediation and learning opportunities. Those elements will better define the site as a public space and suggest where public art might fit in. The paved plaza area at the front doors is a natural location for a sculpture or memorial referencing the school’s name and/or its educational purpose.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: San Juan and Discovery (future roundabout)
Location: San Juan Ave. at intersection with F St. and Discovery Road, Port Townsend
Size: TBD
Terrain: Intersection of level San Juan Avenue at bottom of valley between Uptown hill to east and Umatilla hill to west. Bottom land with marshy patches nearby and valley views to north and south.
Function: Four-way intersection with moderately heavy through traffic. Southeast corner is built out, northeast corner has temporary/seasonal food business
Visibility: Excellent visibility in all directions, minimal traffic safety lighting.
Access: All roads at the intersection are busy with local through traffic at most hours of the day. ADA- compliant sidewalks along north side of F and Discovery and west side of San Juan (leaving pedestrian access to southeast corner problematic); marked bike lanes on all roads
Environment: Neighborhood commercial crossroads, with some accidental natural features in nearby undeveloped lots
Weather: Fully exposed to wind and weather
Neighborhood: Designated as a neighborhood commercial crossroads, but only one corner of the intersection is fully built out. Most traffic, whether vehicle, bike, or pedestrian, is passing through; little sign of neighborhood character
General Characteristics: As a neighborhood, this is very much a work in progress. While there is an existing public art installation along F and Discovery (the Milestones), it may not be greatly appreciated by the community. At present, this intersection marks a gap between two neighborhoods more than it forms a neighborhood of its own. Traffic from the entire northwest quadrant of Port Townsend must pass through this intersection to reach most public and commercial facilities in town. The intersection is usually busy with pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle traffic, including traffic to and from Blue Heron Middle School, Fort Worden and the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. The southeast corner is the only corner of the intersection presently built out for commercial use—and it is the only corner with no safe pedestrian access. The Port Townsend Preservation Alliance is developing a “Regenerative Living Community” mixed-use project on the southwest corner (the former Nomura family property), which has tremendous transformative potential for the intersection and the neighborhood overall. Preliminary project plans incorporate multiple elements of sustainable development, including a significant public art component.
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Comments: The intersection is designated for a future roundabout, in conjunction with the planned development on the southwest corner. That development and the roundabout site itself present the potential for neighborhood-compatible public art components. Over time, traffic is expected to increase through the intersection, and a roundabout may lead to increased traffic speed compared to the existing four-way stop. The roundabout and any public art site(s) should be designed to preserve or enhance the pedestrian character of the neighborhood.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Site: Triangle Park
Location: Between west Sims Way and Jefferson Street at the end of Kearney Street across from Chase Bank
Size: Two potential sites on each end of park; one is approx. 15' x 20’ and the other approximately 6’ x 8’
Terrain: Both areas are flat and grassy with nearby trees
Function: Small greenbelt park area dividing Sims Way and Jefferson Street which provides access to Sims Way for cars going south from Kearney
Visibility: Highly visible from all surrounding streets
Access: Very accessible by car, bicycle, and foot
Environment: This small primarily unused park borders one of the major intersections in and out of Port Townsend. It is a lovely bit of green space among many commercial businesses and has high activity by travelers, and residents alike. Low vandalism risk due to nearby lighting and high visibility
Weather: Normal conditions
Neighborhood: All commercial with various stores, banks, and restaurants nearby
General Characteristics: Very visible, and nicely maintained
Comments: Either end of this park could be a lovely place for a public art piece. The park is very open and visible and contains nice trees as well. An art piece here or possibly two, one in each spot, would be a great way to reflect the creative culture of Port Townsend. However, the City will be developing a roundabout at the intersection of west Sims Way and Kearney Street that may affect Triangle Park. Any public art placement here should probably be delayed until the roundabout has been completed.
Art Site Recommendation: Long-term
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Short-term SitesShort-term Sites
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Site: 19th Street and San Juan Avenue
Location: 19th and San Juan
Size: Approximately 50’ x 100’
Terrain: Uneven ground; grassy and weeds
Function: End of golf course; short cut trail for pedestrians; former community garden
Visibility: Medium
Access: Local traffic
Environment: Tree edge one side of grassy area with streets bordering the other
Weather: Normal exposure to wind
Neighborhood: Primarily residential with Mountain View Commons located within two blocks
General Characteristics: Shaped like a deep-dish slice of pie this has blocked visibility from one side of road for drivers and then abuts golf course
Comments: This is a fairly open and exposed area at busy residential intersection and provides good potential for public art siting with significant visibility.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Blue Heron Middle School
Location: San Juan Avenue
Size: Approximately multiple acres
Terrain: School buildings; concrete drive and parking areas; track and exercise areas; 70 tree orchards
Function: Middle school service grades 6 – 8 and OCEAN program
Visibility: High visibility from San Juan Avenue
Access: Easy by vehicle, bicycle, bus, walking
Environment: The middle school for Port Townsend Unified School District
Weather: Normal and average
Neighborhood: Residential
General Characteristics: Middle school created with ‘pod’ structured classrooms; exterior front open to the public but rest of campus for student use.
Comments: The most likely sites for public art are in the front of the school since that would allow public access and visibility. Precautions would need to be taken to protect from vandalism and safety.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Chetzemoka Park
Location: Jackson Street and Blaine Streets, off Monroe Street
Size: Approximately multiple acres
Terrain: Large city park with grassy knolls and expansive level areas, old-growth trees, mature shrubs, a rose covered trellis, a water garden, and a wooded cliff overlooking and providing beach access to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and beaches
Function: This is Port Townsend’s first City park and has become a multi-use and multi-generational gathering place. Chetzemoka Park was designed by Frederick Olmsted of “Olmsted & Sons,” the firm that designed New York City’s Central Park.
Visibility: The Park is surrounded by fence shrubbery and has a wooden entrance gate with 20 public street parking spaces. The Strait of Juan de Fuca, Whidbey Island and the Cascades are visible from most areas of the park.
Access: The Park is open and inviting with good signage. It is advertised in City literature and marketing materials and is used by locals and tourists alike. It is the summer home of Key City Public Theatre’s “Shakespeare in the Park” as well as the summer home of the Port Townsend Community Band program in the Gazebo.
Environment: The Park is well maintained and often used. There are numerous benches, childrens’ play equipment, the Cottage Garden building, and an outside kitchen barbeque shelter with adjacent park tables/benches. There are areas within that park that are quiet, sheltered and discrete as well as expansive open areas.
Weather: The Park runs from a City street to a natural bluff and has areas of cool shade and direct sun exposure. There would be wind and seal salt spray impacting any public art.
Neighborhood: Established residential neighborhood with lots of pedestrian and vehicular usage.
General Characteristics: This is an inviting and well-utilized City park.
Comments: There are several locations within the park suitable for the siting of public art.
Viable sites: 1. The entrance to the park is gated with an arched wooden truss “Chetzemoka Park,” behind which is a well-maintained path that ends in a small garden backed by mature cypress and with a low wooden fence in front and framed by a stone sign on the ground saying “Chetzemoka.” This might be a welcoming and visible location for public art at the place where people first enter the gardens. 2. There is a bridge over a small streambed that separates the westerly and easterly sections of the park (past the Gazebo) that might be turned into functional art.
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3. The bluff area to the right of the Gazebo facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca and to the left of the theatre area is a viable site with Whidbey Island, Admiralty Inlet and the Cascades in the background.
Less viable sites: 1. There is an open grassy plot near the theatre area, but it needs to be kept free and unencumbered to allow seating for theatre performances. 2. The area in front of the Gazebo similarly needs to be kept open for public seating for events. 3. There is a lot of land surrounding the children’s play equipment that would not be appropriate for public art since it might be perceived as another play device. 4. The area surrounding the Cottage Garden and kitchen shelter should be kept open for the purposes it serves, namely a gather and entertaining place. Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Clay and Monroe Streets Scenic Vista
Location: Just north of the intersection of Clay and Monroe Streets at the Scenic Vista overlooking Point Hudson and Admiralty Inlet
Size: Approximately 10' x 8'
Terrain: Flat and grassy with a paved gravel driveway at the entrance
Function: Open scenic view area between two private residences
Visibility: This area is not readily visible from Monroe Street unless you walk up to the view area, but it can be seen from the end of Clay Street. However, it is visible if you walk up to the knoll.
Access: Walking is necessary after parking on the street. If public art were to be sited here, the impact to the neighboring houses would be minimal since access is pedestrian.
Environment: This is a residential area on top of a grassy hill with a wonderful view. Monroe Street is a main thoroughfare from Fort Worden, Morgan Hill and Uptown to downtown. There is no lighting right at the site so vandalism at night could be an issue though there may be some light visible from the nearby residences. No evidence of many birds.
Weather: High winds and salt spray are likely given the proximity to Admiralty Inlet.
Neighborhood: This is a mature residential neighborhood with a good amount of vehicular traffic and fair amount of foot traffic on the east side of Monroe.
General Characteristics: There is a “scenic vista” sign at the entrance to the driveway up to the knoll but the sign and the vista and not clearly evident from the street so limited visibility to the site.
Comments: This could be a wonderful area to place a piece due to the beautiful view. However, the impact on the neighbors and the terrain would need to be investigated first. Ideally if a piece were placed here the City would need to clean up the area to make it more aesthetically pleasing for the viewers and it might trigger a critical area review first before placement.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Ferry Terminal and Water Street
Location: Corner of Water Street and ferry terminal
Size: Approximately 20’ x 20”
Terrain: Asphalt, concrete, arroyo stones, some trees and shrubs
Function: Entrance to town via ferry
Visibility: High
Access: Pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular
Environment: Open commercial corridor with significant vehicular and pedestrian traffic
Weather: Site is directly on Townsend Bay with significant wind and salt spray; some mitigation from surrounding buildings
Neighborhood: Downtown historic and commercial district
General Characteristics: This is the entrance to the City for those arriving on Washington State Ferries from Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
Comments: This is a logical place to site public art as a symbolic welcome to those arriving to town via the ferry system.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Fort Worden State Park
Location: Bounded by Admiralty Inlet, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Kuhn Street, 49th Street, and W Street
Size: Approximately 432 acres with 2 miles of beaches
Terrain: The Park includes forested hills with numerous trails, 2 miles of beach, waterfront bluffs, forested and beach campsites, numerous historic (1898 to 1917) buildings, a parade ground, a military cemetery, pond, pier, and a lighthouse.
Function: This 432-acre Park is co-managed by the Washington State Parks and the Fort Worden Public Development Authority (PDA) and serves as a public park, lifelong learning center, and residence for numerous nonprofits and business enterprises.
Visibility: The Fort is one of the most visited within the Washington State Park system. The public has access through the main gate at Cherry and W Streets as well as via the “backside” at North Beach.
Access: There are numerous potential public art sites, all of which would have excellent accessibility and visibility.
Environment: This is a very large, multi-use and multi-generational facility with many opportunities for public engagement and enjoyment.
Weather: The beaches and beach campsite area and pier have significant wind and sea salt spray from Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The hilly and forested trails also have significant wind action. The weather is a bit mitigated when one is in the middle of the campus built-environment.
Neighborhood: The Park is situated adjacent to an established residential neighborhood on two sides and it abuts the Salish Sea on the other two sides.
General Characteristics: This is a highly utilized, inviting, and busy State Park and Lifelong Learning Center that serves both locals and visitors/tourists.
Comments: The Park is co-managed by the Washington State Parks system and the Fort Worden Public Development Authority. Any siting of public art requires review by the State Parks Historic Preservation authority and the State Parks system. They have particular concern about the preservation of cultural landscape 1898 through World War II.
Possible public art sites in the area managed by the Fort Worden Public Development Authority:
• Maker’s Square and adjacent “Sculpture Garden” are currently planned and in approval process for the siting of public art.
• The Port Townsend School of Arts is in conversation with State Parks, the Fort Worden PDA and tribes on Vancouver Island as well as the Jamestown S’Klallam tribe about the siting of several totems near the School building, by the Commons, and at the green spot north of Building 305.
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• The Fort Worden PDA is creating a “glamping” camping area and the community “Gathering Place” building would be an interesting location for public art.
Possible additional public art sites:
• The intersection of Eisenhower and Fort Worden Way in front of Taps restaurant
• In front of the Commons, which is a non-historic building built in 2007; the grassy area in front of the building would be suitable as well as in front of the window of the restaurant Reveille
• The edge of the parade ground adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Jackson Tidal Park
Location: Adjacent to Pope Marine Park and ended by Quincy Street; area is on the backside of Water Street Hotel, commercial businesses, and the Cotton Building
Size: Approximately one city block
Terrain: Concrete, grassy areas, large rocks abut Townsend Bay; lighted curb bollards; the Wave Viewing Gallery is also located here
Function: Mostly a pedestrian area although some exiting vehicular traffic from parking lot adjacent to Elevated Ice Cream and Cotton Building; the area is heavily used during the summer months for Concerts on the Dock. Pedestrian traffic is comprised of both locals and visitors/tourists.
Visibility: The area is very open and accessible
Access: The area is very open and accessible, even though it is not directly on Water Street.
Environment: This is a commercial area and also the heart of the civic corridor and plays an important part of the City’s cultural community hosting the Concerts on the Dock.
Weather: Situated right on Townsend Bay the area is subject to significant wind and sea salt spray and even breaking waves during severe weather events.
Neighborhood: Commercial and civic district
General Characteristics: The area is a part of the cultural, commercial and civic hub of Port Townsend. The Tidal Park formerly housed the now de-accessioned public artwork, “Tidal Clock”.
Comments: Given the heavy usage of the area during Concerts on the Docks as well as the vehicular traffic issues, any siting of public art would need to be very considered so as not to interfere with those activities or to cause issues of safety. There are several locations potential suitable for public art.
Potential public art sites: The main entrance to the Wave Viewing Gallery provides potential public art sites on either side of the stairs. The concrete abutment at the end of the Tidal Park and the end of Quincy Street is also viable.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
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Site: Jefferson County Courthouse Park
Location: Directly south of Jefferson County Courthouse
Size: One city block
Terrain: Varied elevations over grass and concrete
Function: Residential neighborhood recreation and open space (tennis + basketball courts)
Visibility: Varied
Access: Four roads flank this park; plenty of parking; foot traffic in busy uptown neighborhood
Environment: Uptown residential
Weather: Facing bluff where high winds possible with maritime climate
Neighborhood: Uptown residential
General Characteristics: Open space near highly trafficked County Courthouse, tennis courts, basketball courts, open grass space and community garden
Comments: This property supports many residents and visitors from Jefferson County as the building offers county-wide services.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
27
Site: Jefferson County Fairgrounds – Potential Site #1
Location: 4907 Landes Street. This potential site is on the left side past the dirt parking area after the main entrance to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds between two large trees across the road from the ticket booth building (not shown).
Size: Approximately 20' x 15'
Terrain: Flat, grass, beneath tall firs
Function: Edge of the fairgrounds main parking lot with picnic table
Visibility: Good visibility as long as cars are restricted from parking directly in front of this area.
Environment: The overall fairground is used for various large-scale City and County events. This particular area seems to be used just for picnicking and provides some nice greenery as you enter what is mostly a dirt area within the fairgrounds. Some crow activity in these trees, which may cause more maintenance issues if a public art piece were to be placed here. Also, the risk of vandalism may be high when events are not taking place. Lighting at those times may also be an issue.
Weather: Normal with possible high winds, and North Beach fog
Neighborhood: Large fairgrounds bordered by residences, and near Chinese Garden's Lagoon
General Characteristics: Nice green area near entrance to the fairground buildings and event areas; flat and easily accessible
Comments: Currently this spot is right off of the parking area, which gets very full during events. If it was decided to place a public art piece here the City would need to work with the County to make this a nice sitting area where car parking would be restricted. Developing some kind of small garden area along with the existing trees could make this a lovely addition to the entrance to the fairgrounds.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
28
Site: Jefferson County Fairgrounds – Potential Site #2
Location: 4907 Landes Street. This potential site is within the interior of the fairgrounds in the lawn space beyond the central driveway and past the food building and outbuildings. As shown, there is circular concrete within the grass area with a smaller inner circle of grass within the circle.
Size: 10' foot diameter approx. for the "hole of the donut"
Terrain: Flat, grass, with concrete circle
Function: Central space for use during public events held at the fairgrounds
Visibility: Excellent once inside the fairgrounds; there are two light poles nearby but likely only lit during events
Access: Easy access by foot only after parking and entering fairground
Environment: The overall fairground is used for various large-scale City and County events. This particular area seems to be used just for picnicking and possibly display of animals in the nearby stalls during some events. No evidence of excessive birds. Also, the risk of vandalism may be high when events are not taking place. Lighting at those times may also be an issue.
Weather: Normal and somewhat protected of high winds though it is an open area
Neighborhood: Large fairgrounds bordered by residences, and near Chinese Garden's Lagoon
General Characteristics: Nice open area with great visibility and highly trafficked during events
Comments: The City would have to work with the County to place a piece here, but it would be a lovely place for public art and good visibility for the artists work as well.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
29
Site: Kah Tai Lagoon
Location: Bordered by Sims Way, Landes Street, Park & Ride parking lot, Kearney Street, 12th Street, and 19th Street
Size: Approximately several acres
Terrain: Wetlands and marsh with large lagoon in the northwest quadrant, small pond adjacent; level gravel paths/trails traverse the park with entrances on Kearney Street, Sims Way, Landes Street, and through the Park & Ride parking lot; mature trees and shrubs with tall grasses and reeds throughout
Function: Preserved wetlands; trails that bisect the park are often used as a short-cut between Kearney Street and Landes Street or 12th Street as well as 12th Street to Kearney Street or Landes Street or Sims Way to Landes Street or Kearney Street
Visibility: Once inside the park, the feeling is of isolation and seclusion. There are a few open spaces with vistas of the Lagoon.
Access: Only pedestrian and bicycle access; primarily used by locals.
Environment: Park is surrounded by both residential neighborhoods and commercial enterprises; there is significant traffic on both Sims Way and Kearney.
Weather: Tall trees would mitigate some of the wind that blows off of Townsend Bay.
Neighborhood: Designated wetlands and City park surrounded by residences and commercial Enterprises
General Characteristics: This is a large City park and designated wetlands with numerous trails, abundant bird life, seasonal wildflowers, a lagoon, mature trees, and reedy growth.
Comments: Although Kah Tai Lagoon park has historically been well utilized, in recent months less so after several assaults. The area is secluded, and the trails largely hidden from vehicular traffic. There are a number of sites that would be suitable for public art, but concerns exist for all of them relative to vulnerability to vandalism, maintenance and safety.
Possible sites:
• Entrance off Kearney Street
• In front of shelter
• Triangle between the two trails that intersect from entrances on Kearney Street, Sims Way and 12th Street, adjacent to lagoon
• Triangle between two trails inland from lagoon and close to small pond
• Bridge as functional art, located next to lagoon
• Open field behind the restroom and parking lot with view of lagoon
30
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
31
Site: Kuhn Street at North Beach
Location: Kuhn Street ends at the shore at North Beach
Size: Approximately 75’x50’
Terrain: Asphalt street that becomes gravel and ends at sandy beach
Function: Currently, this area serves as parking.
Visibility: This site is viewable from the street level as well as the beach level, which is 4 or 5 feet lower; natural vegetation and power lines are present; there is a street light nearby that provides nighttime illumination
Access: Foot and vehicular traffic as County and State parks flank either side of this site; the parking serves the beach access, the County park facility and Fort Worden State Park; many locals use the area without bringing a vehicle
Environment: Residential neighborhood starts across the street; unique location directly next to beach and sea
Weather: High wind area with salt spray considerations as site is within feet of surf
Neighborhood: Residential but also has State and County parks adjacent
General Characteristics: This is a treasured spot for residents as but is not on the more-frequented tourist track.
Comments: This site is less frequented in winter months. Concern would be weather and potential for night-time vandalism.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
32
Site: Larry Scott Memorial Trail and Port Wetlands
Location: Trailhead within City limits begins at Boat Haven and ends between MP 1 and MP 2 above the Port Townsend Mill.
Size: Approximately several miles of trail within the City limits
Terrain: Gravel trail with marshy reeds, rocks, beach, and wetlands adjacent to Boat Haven; there is a high bluff with private residences on the westerly side of the trail.
Function: The trail is part of Olympic Discovery Trail and Pacific Northwest Trail that is utilized for non-motorized transportation including walking, bicycling and horseback riding.
Visibility: There are parts of the trail with good visibility including the first ¾ mile out of Boat Haven. Up closer to the Mill, the trail feels much less visible and more remote.
Access: Good public access from the parking lot at Boat Haven but less so from the trailhead at MP 2. The trail is well used by walkers, bicyclists and some horseback riders.
Environment: Established wetlands with crossing gravel trail right out of Boat Haven; further on the area is more remote, and it becomes more scraggly and reedy.
Weather: The trail is adjacent to Townsend Bay and is subject to significant wind and sea salt spray.
Neighborhood: Commercial and industrial at Boat Haven trail head and the again at the Port Townsend Mill but otherwise rural and undeveloped with the exception of the private residences on top of the adjacent bluff.
General Characteristics: Bicyclists and walkers frequent this trail. There is already one public art piece sited here, Russell Jacqua’s “Leaf Wing.”
Comments: Due to the relatively remote nature of the trail, Jacqua’s public art piece has already been the subject of vandalism. There are several areas on the lower segment of the trail between the horse corrals and Boat Haven that might be potential locations for public art.
Potential sites for public art:
• Bulb out area on the waterside adjacent to the deep wetlands area; there are currently two memorial benches and a picnic table in this area. It would be subject to significant wind and sea salt spray.
• It would be possible to site public art adjacent to the horse corrals where there is already a bench. Art Site Recommendation: Short term
33
34
Site: Mountain View Commons
Location: Corner of Blaine and Walker Streets
Size: Site sizes vary; courtyard area is about 40’ x 60’
Terrain: Landscaped grounds around building
Function: Police station; KPTZ; City pool; YMCA; Food Bank; playing field
Visibility: Varies by location
Access: Parking area is between street and pool and it provides some walk-in access; additional access from Walker Street
Environment: Golf course across street; Recyclery at Blaine and Kearney; residential on two sides
Weather: This is a high wind area
Neighborhood: Residential on two sides; a crossroads neighborhood that receives heavy vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle traffic
General Characteristics: The architecture and grounds around the area are dated to the 1960s.
Comments: Large electrical vault at edge of parking area competes with façade of pool and the high-window architecture. There are several potential areas around Mountain View Commons for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
35
Site: Northwest Maritime Center
Location: Bulb out at Northwest Maritime Center corner of Water Street and Monroe Street
Size: Approximately 6’ x6’
Terrain: Bulb out which has vegetation and concrete
Function: Designated by City zoning as a site for a monument
Visibility: The site is visible for much of length of Water Street through downtown, from the top of Monroe Street and from the water past the Salmon Club and beyond.
Access: Adjacent to street corner and abutting sidewalk so both vehicular and pedestrian.
Environment: The easterly end of the Downtown Civic District and Downtown Commercial District with maritime influence of Point Hudson Marina. Lots of local and tourist traffic.
Weather: Proximity to Townsend Bay and Admiralty Inlet site will have significant wind and sea salt spray.
Neighborhood: Civic and commercial.
General Characteristics: The Northwest Maritime Center was built in 2010 and was zoned for three monument sites, this being one of them. There is significant foot and automobile traffic in the area as well as visibility and visitors from the Point Hudson marina area.
Comments: The City and the Northwest Maritime Center have agreed to site a Totem designed, constructed and donated by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe on the bulb out previously zoned for a monument.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
36
Site: Port Townsend Golf Course
Location: 1948 Blaine Street. This potential site is on Blaine near the Golf Club entrance sign and just before the actual course before you drive down to the Clubhouse.
Size: Triangle of lawn approx. 15' on all sides
Terrain: Flat, grassy area in front of poplar trees
Function: Main entrance to golf course
Visibility: Highly visible with nearby street lighting
Access: Easily accessible by foot or car
Environment: Blaine is a busy street and the Golf Course entrance is across from the Mountain View Commons, which is an active area during the day. Due to the activity, there is minimal vandalism risk.
Weather: Normal conditions and fairly protected from high winds
Neighborhood: Commercial with Community Center and ReCyclery Bike Shop across Blaine Street
General Characteristics: On busy main thoroughfare as you head towards Uptown from Kearney
Comments: A public art piece at the entrance on Blaine Street could greatly improve the aesthetics of this neighborhood and the entrance to the golf club. There already exists a wonderful 6.5' bronze sculpture of Chief Chetzemoka at the clubhouse itself, and a second piece at the street entrance would continue to enhance the whole feel of the area. As shown in the picture, there is an orange utility pole that may deflect from the art piece unless the City would agree and be able to move it underground or elsewhere.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
37
Site: Port Townsend High School
Location: 1500 Van Ness Street
Size: There are two possible site areas. One is quite large near the gymnasium and flag pole that is approx. 30' x 30' and the other is near the front entrance of the school, which is approx. 8' x 10'
Terrain: Grassy and flat in both areas
Function: Educational institution
Visibility: Both areas are nicely visible to the public and the students.
Access: By automobile, bicycle and foot at entrance, and by foot by the gymnasium
Environment: This is a pretty and nicely maintained campus. There may be some vandalism issues though due to the nature of the institution especially during off school hours.
Weather: Normal weather conditions with some wind possible since it is exposed at the top of a hill
Neighborhood: The surrounding area is primarily residential with a large athletic field on the F Street side of the school, and the administration annex building across the street. There is also St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church about a block away.
General Characteristics: Nice grounds surround the historic brick buildings and there is already a very attractive circular sitting area near the main flagpole between the gym and the adjacent buildings, which seems to be well used by the students.
Comments: Port Townsend High School is one of the oldest in Washington State, graduating its first class in 1891. It is a comprehensive public high school, serving approximately 375 students in grades 9-12. Placement of a public art piece here would honor the school and its staff and students and demonstrates the City's support of education and the creative arts in our community. There are two recommended sites for placing a piece: One site functions as the main vehicle entrance to the school and the other is a beautiful open grassy spot for students to gather near the entrance to the gymnasium. It would be necessary to work in conjunction with the School District in order to site a public art piece here since the property is owned by the District.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
38
Site: Rainier Street and Sims Way Roundabout
Location: Entrance to town, on Sims Way and Rainier Street
Size: 20’ diameter
Terrain: Manmade with concrete, dirt, plants bricks; circular and elevated
Function: The gateway to town; it slows traffic and creates an option to leave Sims Way via Rainier
Visibility: Very high visibility; created to be seen
Access: Only public art site would be in center of roundabout and so no pedestrian access but visibility of the art from all points on the circular drive.
Environment: Very high traffic area since it is the vehicular gateway to the City.
Weather: It is slightly protected by surrounding buildings.
General Characteristics: Round landscaped area in the center surrounded by flat brick pattern that edges asphalt road; some shrubs and small trees in center landscaped area
Comments: Not only is the roundabout the functional and symbolic vehicular gateway to Port Townsend, there is a burgeoning artisan, commercial and industrial nearby
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
39
Site: Rothschild House Museum
Location: Taylor and Franklin Streets
Size: Approximately 20' x 20'
Terrain: Flat with grass
Function: This house is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is owned by the State Parks Department and operated by The Jefferson County Historical Society and it now functions as a museum. The proposed area for the artwork is right past the main fenced entrance and parking area for visiting the museum.
Visibility: The area is highly visible, but the art piece would need to be higher than the four-foot fence or it would only be visible from the parking lot.
Access: Easily accessible by foot or car
Environment: Historical residential and tourist; no existing lighting right at that entrance so night vandalism might be a potential risk
Weather: This area is exposed to the weather and could get quite a bit of wind at times.
Neighborhood: This is an area of historic homes and along a main thoroughfare from Uptown to Downtown. There is a fair amount of tourist activity in this area.
General Characteristics: The landscaping is beautiful, there is a significant historical building and gorgeous views are evident.
Comments: This would be a wonderful spot for a larger public art piece. However, it would need to blend in with the historical nature of the area, which includes many wood frame houses. The City would need to work with the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the State Parks Department and the Jefferson County Historical Society to work within their guidelines for this property. Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
40
Site: Roundabout at Sims Way and Thomas Street
Location: Sims Way at Thomas Street
Size: Approximately 40' diameter
Terrain: Raised circular planting bed, in roundabout intersection between State Route 20 (30 mph) and neighborhood street; no public access anticipated; Sims Way slopes down towards a ravine crossing immediately to the east
Function: Primary function is as a traffic island and diverter to create counterclockwise traffic flow. It also serves as a visual gateway to the Upper Sims commercial corridor for traffic approaching from the east (Downtown/Washington State Ferries).
Visibility: In the middle of the road, hard to miss; fully illuminated with safety lighting.
Access: Sims Way is equipped with full ADA-compliant sidewalks, but there is no public access to the island itself.
Environment: Commercial intersection, built out on all 4 corners, on a very high traffic state highway
Weather: Fully exposed to wind and weather
Neighborhood: The Upper Sims corridor continues to evolve from a suburban strip commercial district towards an urban village model, with buildings at street frontage and parking behind.
General Characteristics: The Upper Sims “Gateway” corridor was designated 20+ years ago as a neighborhood identity to unify a scattered secondary commercial district. The addition of the roundabouts and street landscaping have given this unification effort a great boost, but so far, a coherent neighborhood identity is still emerging. Most traffic goes through the roundabout, rather than going to anywhere in the neighborhood. The landscaping and the low block retaining walls on the roundabout island are attractive, but they are constrained by sightlines required for driver safety. In addition, safety signage obstructs visibility of the island itself.
Comments: There is no possibility of direct public access to the site—only passing vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The only public art visible under those conditions would be a large sculpture with strong lines. It could replace the landscaping, and safety signage could be better integrated into the site design. While the inner, raised driving surface (intended for use only by trucks and other vehicles which can’t make the sharper turns of the main surface) may seem an appropriate site for pavement decoration, in practice the smaller-than-usual size of this roundabout means that driving surface is used fairly often. Any pavement decoration would be subject to heavy traffic and difficult to maintain.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
41
42
Site: Top of Haller Fountain Stairs
Location: Small spaces next to the side walk at the top of the Haller Fountain Stairs
Size: Approximately 3' x 8'
Terrain: Sidewalk with small grassy areas near rails at top of the stairs
Function: Highly used pedestrian walking access going from Uptown to Downtown
Visibility: Very visible and lovely entrance to downtown with views
Access: Easily accessible by foot or one can park easily and then walk down the stairs
Environment: Residential with historical homes on the opposite corners
Weather: Could get high winds.
Neighborhood: Historic homes in this area and much tourism traffic by foot and automobile
General Characteristics: Very nice but small area for art placement; the lighting is good so there is probably a low vandalism risk
Comments: This has potential for being a great site for a piece or pieces that really reflect the history of the area.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
43
Site: Tyler Street Plaza
Location: Tyler Street south of Water Street, downtown
Size: Approximately 50' x 50'
Terrain: Flat concrete with beach access and views across Port Townsend Bay, along west wall (Flagship Landing building), three young trees in cutouts and a semi-enclosed shed for trash/recycling
Function: The site is a street end; it must still serve as a street for emergency and other access
Visibility: Excellent visibility. Street lights on Water Street, but only business lighting on Tyler Street
Access: Easy parking and pedestrian access, all ADA compliant; nearest bus stops are 2 blocks west
Environment: Abuts busy street to north, beach to south; above high tide mark, but subject to surf spray in heavy weather; seagulls
Weather: Very exposed to wind and weather through opening to the water
Neighborhood: The site is in the downtown retail core, surrounded by businesses serving locals and tourists year-round; in the Historic District, under jurisdiction of the Historic Preservation Committee.
Other: The site is a street end, under the Public Works department
General Characteristics: As part of the refresh of the west end of Water Street in 2018, the stub of Tyler St. south to the beach access was turned into a paved plaza. The expanse of concrete makes the space feel much larger than when it was a street crowded with sidewalks, potholes, parking, and trash receptacles. Its size and location give it the potential to serve as a new “community living room,” welcoming locals and tourists alike.
Comments: The community has expressed disappointment at the present “unfinished” state of the plaza. While we cannot install any large permanent structures (because the right of way must remain accessible), one or more public-art installations could break up the visual blankness and make the space more inviting. Installations could be decorative or functional, permanent or temporary.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
44
Site: Union Wharf
Location: Downtown waterfront
Size: Approximately 80 x 20 yards, with long pier entrance
Terrain: Urban waterfront
Function: Entrance for boats
Visibility: High
Access: Boat, foot, bike, or park car nearby
Environment: Wharf on water
Weather: High winds and flooding as well as low tides and salt spray
Neighborhood: Urban waterfront and commercial district
General Characteristics: Has been rebuilt in recent years, as this newer structure was created in 1997. The wharf is open to air, constructed with a wood and metal and has a partial roof.
Comments: Historically the original Union Wharf was a gateway for seafaring travelers and industry, but it is currently mostly used for recreational and tourist travel. It is an historic and iconic landmark of the City.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
45
Site: Van Buren Street Bluff
Location: Van Buren Street south of Washington Street, uptown
Size: Approximately 50' x 100'
Terrain: Unimproved land ending in bluff, with views of ferry dock and Port Townsend Bay; unmaintained grass with scattered shrubs and wildflowers; one attractively scraggly tree in the near center
Function: The site is a street end but will never be opened to traffic.
Visibility: Sparse lighting along Washington Street and some nearby buildings, but poor visibility deeper in site
Access: Street parking nearby and easy pedestrian access, but far from ADA compliant. One bus stop across the street at the Post Office
Environment: Abuts busy street to north, dangerous bluff to south, private residences east and west; deer, eagles, and other wildlife frequent the site
Weather: Very exposed to wind and weather
Neighborhood: The site is in the Uptown Historic District, across from the Post Office (Customs House); with few exceptions, the surrounding neighborhood consists of private residences
General Characteristics: This is a charming “secret” viewpoint in a primarily residential neighborhood; most visitors are casual pedestrian traffic. Part of what keeps it secret is that access and approach are less than inviting. There is no sidewalk and, although parking is legal immediately in front of the site, the road shoulder is broken and crumbling. This does keep the site and its gorgeous views generally visible from the Post Office steps, from up Van Buren Street, and when passing along Washington Street.
Comments: Moderate access improvements, landscaping maintenance, and the addition of furniture would allow the site to function as a “pocket park.” This would be an appropriate site for public art compatible with the scale of the site, the view, and the natural environment—for instance, a small sculpture or a sculptural approach to benches or access paths. Excessive development would put the site’s beauty at risk. Any changes that would encourage deeper access into the site would risk infringing on private residences to east and west and could also expose users to the dangers of the steep bluff at the far end. The bluff is fragile, and development of the site might trigger a critical areas review.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
46
47
Site: Visitor Center
Location: Triangle park on Sims Way across from Visitor Information Center
Size: Approximately 200' x 300'
Terrain: Paved asphalt, gravel, new landscaping, space for kiosk, restrooms, lighting, Jaqua sculpture “For Willene”
Function: Gateway welcome center to Port Townsend.
Visibility: Highly visible to everyone entering Port Townsend; this is the main entrance to the downtown corridor
Access: Very accessible by car and by foot; on major thoroughfare on Sims Way
Environment: Heavily trafficked highway and side street serving as entrance to the City; some commercial businesses and Visitor Center
Weather: Normal conditions with some wind off of Townsend Bay
Neighborhood: All commercial
General Characteristics: Already paved, large amount of space, great visibility, easily accessible, very busy street with lots of tourist traffic; low vandalism risk as it is so visible and very well lighted
Comments: As described above, this site has already been designated for a significant work by artist Russell Jaqua entitled "For Willene" to be placed here as part of the City's 2018-2019 redevelopment plan. Those plans also provide opportunities for additional public art work.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
48
Site: Washington Square
Location: City Hall adjacent with grass and plaza area north of building
Size: 50’x90’
Terrain: Concrete and grass; large planter box
Function: Open space downtown and part of civic district; intermittently used as art show grounds
Visibility: Good level viewing from multiple approaches; the area is semi-illuminated at night from street lights
Access: Approachable by 2 sidewalks (foot traffic) and street intersection (vehicular).
Environment: Non-residential downtown location adjacent to City Hall; considerations are high wind, salt-air, and potential for vandalism
Weather: Area gets high winds
Neighborhood: Downtown Port Townsend, City Hall; commercial/historic hub of the City
General Characteristics: This corner location functions as an open area next to City Hall. Currently, the large area is grass framed by a concrete walkway. There is a planter box at the back corner adjacent to the building measuring about 8x10 and about 2’ above the sidewalk level.
Comments: The future size of the young trees that frame the area should be considered when siting art here.
Art Site Recommendation: Short-term
49
Sites Not
Recommended
Sites Not
Recommended
50
Site: 13th and Hancock Streets
Location: Intersection of 13th and Hancock Streets
Size: Approximately 8’ x 4’
Terrain: Concrete posts with public sidewalk access
Function: Bulwarks impede vehicular traffic and provide pedestrian zone between two street ends
Visibility: Low
Access: Pedestrian or bicycle
Environment: Residential
Weather: Normal
Neighborhood: Residential
General Characteristics: This is a relatively unused pedestrian zone between two street ends in a residential area.
Comments: There is very little pedestrian usage and so little visibility for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not recommended
51
Site: 35th Street Park
Location: 35th Street and end of Rosecrans Street
Size: Approximately 2 square City blocks
Terrain: Primarily level forested land with mature, overgrown shrubs; mixed gravel, narrow City trails meander through the area
Function: Although it is labeled as a “park” it primarily serves as a green space with hiking trails between 35th Street on the north and side streets of Logan, Rosecrans and Thomas approaching from the south
Visibility: Access is limited and there are no clear sightlines. There is a power station and cell tower at the trail entrance at 35th and Rosecrans Streets. All public streets either dead end at the park or adjacent to it.
Access: Limited; this park has a very remote feel to it and when walking the trails, one is definitely isolated.
Environment: Mature trees including deciduous and conifer as well as scraggly shrubs; trails are somewhat overgrown. This is not a heavily trafficked area and so issues around vandalism and safety would be present.
Weather: The trees and growth would limit some wind.
Neighborhood: Established residential
General Characteristics: This is an isolated “park” without heavy usage.
Comments: This is a fine green space to be preserved by the City for public use, but its location and remote and isolated nature suggest that there would be very little visibility for public art and that vandalism and safety would be issues.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
52
Site: Bell Tower
Location: On the bluff at the end of Tyler Street
Size: Approximately 70' x 100'
Terrain: Level surface at the edge of a steep bluff
Function: Historic fire bell tower, preserved as a monument and a scenic viewpoint
Visibility: Wide driveway enhances visibility from the street; site itself is wide open
Access: Paved access with 3 parking spaces, level site with brick-paved walkway; limited street parking and restricted traffic flow (cannot enter from Tyler Street); transit stop two blocks away, driveway is shared with private residence to east
Environment: Paved, with steep bluff to south, one mature tree
Weather: Very exposed to wind and weather from south and east
Neighborhood: Private residences and a church, no retail
General Characteristics: The Bell Tower is architecturally unique and plays a significant role in Port Townsend history. For visitors whose interests lie elsewhere, the view from the bricked walkway is fantastic: over the roofs of downtown Port Townsend to the south and east.
Comments: The tower itself and the view create sufficient interest in this site. It is hard to see how public art could enhance either.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
53
Site: Bishop Park
Location: Between Thomas Street and Parkside Drive, Sims Way and 9th Street playground site across Parkside Drive at southeast corner.
Size: Approximately 7 acres
Terrain: Steep ravine along east side of site down to Sims Way; uneven slope along west side; playground Site is level
Function: Public park with walking trails; children’s playground
Visibility: Poor visibility in wooded park. Playground is fully exposed on residential lot.
Access: Main signed access is at bend in Parkside Drive, with street parking only; no sidewalks or transit nearby. Ravine park is accessed by steep, uneven stairs and dirt paths, most narrow. Playground is level residential lot
Environment: Densely shaded woods in ravine, with walking paths. Playground is grass field, separated from residential backyards by wooden fence
Weather: Ravine park is sheltered by trees; playground is exposed, with one small shelter
Neighborhood: Busy commercial highway to south, residential neighborhood on other sides
General Characteristics: Both sections of the park appear underused, presumably due to the difficulty of access. The ravine park shows signs of makeshift shelters and food preparation in some areas.
Comments: The ravine park is not an appropriate site for public art. The playground is presently a bare site with no mature trees and little furniture; the existing play structure has a cartoonish maritime theme. This could be a site for public art, but it would require other site upgrades to create an appropriate context.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
54
Site: Blue Heron Wetlands
Location: Behind Blue Heron School buildings
Size: Approximately 10 acres
Terrain: Local depression
Function: Wetlands habitat preservation
Visibility: Perimeter path is clear during daytime; no provision for nighttime access
Access: Pedestrian access only to perimeter path via Blue Heron parking lots on east side, public trail from Lynnesfield PUD on west side, and public trail from 43rd St to north; unimproved dirt path, not ADA-compliant
Environment: Dense vegetation, abundant wildlife, no apparent paths into the center
Weather: Midtown wind and weather, some coverage provided by vegetation
Neighborhood: Residential neighborhoods to north and west, Blue Heron School and sports fields to south and east
General Characteristics: A natural wetlands area, well-preserved in the center of town, easily accessible for nature walks or school visits.
Comments: Not an appropriate site for public art; appreciation of natural features would benefit from interpretive signage.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
55
Site: Bobby McGarraugh Park
Location: Cherry Street at Q Street
Size: Approximately 2 acres
Terrain: Two level areas, connected by rustic stairs; steep bluff to north
Function: Neighborhood picnic and playground, public toilet
Visibility: Highly visible during daytime; no nighttime lighting or access
Access: Vehicle access via Cherry Street; parking for 10-12 vehicles. No sidewalks or public trails
Environment: Traditional open park grounds, shaded by bluff and vegetation to north
Weather: Exposed to wind and weather; some shelter from bluff and vegetation
Neighborhood: Private residences
General Characteristics: This is a pleasant park and playground for families, most likely underused due to demographic changes in the surrounding neighborhood and the difficulty of pedestrian access. Fully one-third of the level surface is dedicated to parking.
Comments: Sculpture or other public art could make an interesting addition the picnic tables and play structures, but the park’s small size and difficulty of access make this a low priority.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
56
Site: Chetzemoka Dog Park
Location: Hudson Street
Size: Approximately 60’ x 75’
Terrain: Relatively flat surface of weeds and grass surrounded by chain link fence
Function: Dog park
Visibility: Hidden from public view on a narrow, small side street in a residential area that is used by locals and those on their way to neighboring Chetzemoka Park
Access: There is no signage in Chetzemoka Park indicating that there is an adjacent dog park and there is only a small sign in front of the dog park labeling it as “Chetzemoka Dog Park”. As with most dog parks, it is surrounded by chain link and seemingly uninviting and yet also seemingly safe for off-leash pets. It is not generally visible to or known by the public and is seldom used.
Environment: Although the park is adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the water is not easily visible. The park is surrounded by a chain link fence as well as mature shrubs.
Weather: Given that it is adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, it would receive some wind and sea salt spray although that would be somewhat mitigated by the surrounding shrubbery.
Neighborhood: Established residential and well-visited multi-use and multi-generational Chetzemoka Park
General Characteristics: This dog park is underutilized by dog owners and largely invisible to the general public.
Comments: Since this is a generally underutilized, unknown and almost invisible City asset in a low traffic area, it is not generally suitable for public art. That said, if an appropriate and suitable piece of public art were to be offered as a donation, it certainly might be considered (see appendix).
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
57
Site: Community Center
Location: Block bounded by Lawrence, Tyler and Clay streets and Taylor Stairs, uptown
Size: Approximately 1 acre
Terrain: Hill sloping to northeast, with parking lot, grass lawn, mature trees
Function: Former school, now used as community meeting center, preschool, recreation center, and senior center
Visibility: Excellent visibility in all directions; full safety lighting
Access: All sides are fully paved city streets with ADA-compliant sidewalks and abundant parking. There is a transit stop at the Lawrence & Tyler corner.
Environment: Commercial center in the historic Uptown residential neighborhood
Weather: Inland site, surrounded by mature trees, somewhat exposed on arterial street faces (Lawrence & Tyler)
Neighborhood: The busiest intersection in Port Townsend’s oldest residential neighborhood, with locally-oriented businesses nearby, parades and festivals several times a year, and the Farmers’ Market in the adjacent street every Saturday
General Characteristics: As busy as it is, the Community Center is still underused and underappreciated. The attractive, mature trees surrounding it can obscure the beauty of the building itself. The popularity of neighborhood events such as the Farmers’ Market can interfere with access. Any additions to the building or site must be sensitive to its rich history and present uses and should work to minimize impacts to the surrounding neighborhood.
Comments: Outdoor spaces are well and fully used. The main building is attractive with a well-maintained exterior; the gym building looks neglected in comparison. One piece of public art, the sculpture “Great Blue,” is installed at curbside, mid-block on the Tyler Street side. Additional public art could perhaps be installed in a renovated interior space, as long as building uses kept the work easily accessible to the public. The building and land belong to Jefferson County.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
58
59
Site: Cook and Elmira Trailhead
Location: Trailhead at the end of Elmira Street just past where it crosses Cook Avenue
Size: Approximately 6' x 8'
Terrain: Dirt and gravel trail with grass and vegetation; flat
Function: Entrance into one-acre public trail within forested area
Visibility: Very little; this location would only be seen by those intentionally heading to that trailhead; the entrance is fairly remote in an area that is not very heavily used
Access: A small parking area is accessible by car. Since Cook Avenue is not really set up well for foot traffic it is likely the trailhead is used most by locals or those who drive and park.
Environment: This is a forested area but there is a residence immediately adjacent to the trailhead. There is not good lighting so there is the potential for vandalism.
Weather: Normal weather conditions
Neighborhood: Rural with one residence very near the location and others across and down Elmira Street
General Characteristics: Densely treed area with not much room for parking or an art piece to be placed.
Comments: This does not seem like a good place for a public art piece. There would be very few people to see it. It would be hard to maintain and vandalism would be a high risk.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
60
Site: Cook Avenue End
Location: North and East from end of Cook Avenue at 53rd Street
Size: Approximately 500' path
Terrain: Flat path; west half of path is paved, east half is not
Function: Scenic walking path in residential neighborhood
Visibility: Path is unmarked but clear; no safety lighting or provision for nighttime use
Access: Accessible to pedestrians at both ends; paved western section may be minimally ADA-compliant; some room for parking on residential street ends; bus stop near west end
Environment: Path runs along a steep, fragile bluff, bordered by low shrubs except for ~100' near east end
Weather: Bluff-top exposed to wind and weather
Neighborhood: Private residences
General Characteristics: This path affords stunning views to the north and west, but it runs along the edge of a fragile bluff, behind private residences
Comments: Public safety considerations place limits on existing access and further development or addition of public art would be inappropriate
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
61
Site: Dahlia Park
Location: Triangle between 10th Street, Hill Street, and Sims Way
Size: Approximately 60' x 60'
Terrain: Gentle slope to east
Function: Demonstration gardens for Master Gardeners (WSU Extension)
Visibility: Excellent in all directions
Access: Immediately adjacent to busy highway, with parking shared with neighboring restaurant; no sidewalks or transit, and busy streets discourage pedestrian use
Environment: Busy highway frontage, with commercial and residential nearby
Weather: Exposed to wind and weather as well as traffic noise and exhaust
Neighborhood: The immediate neighborhood serves mainly as a throughway for vehicle traffic and a border between commercial/trades and residential uses
General Characteristics: This park is beautifully maintained by the Master Gardeners, including a bench beneath a small arbor and a rack holding guides to the plantings, but it is isolated in a sea of asphalt, and it is only practical to visit by car, parking at the nearby restaurant.
Comments: Access issues mean only large-scale public art would be viable at this site, to take advantage of its excellent visibility. However, installing a large-scale work would require significant disruption to the present garden design. Overall, public art is not recommended for this site.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
62
Site: Elmira Street Park
Location: At the very north end of Elmira Street where it intersects with Lands End
Size: Approximately one acre
Terrain: A flat dirt narrow walking trail, surrounded by trees with a small abandoned cement observation post at the tip of an undercut bluff with breathtaking water views
Function: Public water view area between large residences
Visibility: The path to the observation post is difficult to identify and has a “no trespassing” sign hanging on a large tree at the entrance to the trail. This is a remote area with only a few houses.
Access: The trailhead can be accessed by car, bicycle or foot but the trail is foot traffic only and the entrance is very remote at the very end of Elmira Street.
Environment: Heavily treed, and very private; unstable bluff at the end of trail where the abandoned post is located. The post has been damaged by graffiti.
Weather: The trail end on the bluff would no doubt have high winds at times.
Neighborhood: Residential with large view homes further down the cross street (Lands End)
General Characteristics: This is a remote though beautiful water view area but very secluded and not stable or safe.
Comments: This property was acquired in 1994 as a trade with adjoining property owners. It is undeveloped and no development is planned due to the instability of the bluff. It is locally known as "The End of the World,” and it got a lot of attention several winters ago when some large chunks fell away from the bluff. The observation post dates to World War II. This is definitely not a good place to site any public art. The area is highly dangerous and unstable, and it would not be wise to attract more traffic of any kind to it.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
63
Site: Froggy Bottoms
Location: Between Pacific and Cedar Streets near San Juan Avenue
Size: Approximately 2 acres
Terrain: Wetland with grass, trees, boulders and pond reeds during summer; pond filled with rainwater during fall/winter; mostly uneven surfaces for entering pond area with fairly unmanicured trail
Function: Neighborhood preserve for wildlife and vegetation
Visibility: Open field with trail before getting to pond on east side; somewhat obscured on west side entrance; visible to neighborhood residents primarily - largely unnoticeable unless you are aware the pond exists
Access: By foot only although there is residential street parking at the edges of the area surrounding the pond
Environment: Green wetlands preserve area within a residential neighborhood in the Rosewood Neighborhood; fairly high vandalism risk because of low night lighting, significant area for ducks, deer and birds
Weather: Normal conditions
Neighborhood: Residential area near Fort Worden and Blue Heron School on San Juan Avenue
General Characteristics: The pond area and the nearby vegetation are part of a wetlands preserve and are maintained by volunteers in conjunction with the Puget Sound Water Quality team. It is a beautiful natural area, which is nice for the neighborhood residents and for additional visitors who enjoy bird watching, etc..
Comments: This has a nice rural feeling in a largely residential neighborhood however it does not seem a public art piece would be very viable here. Maintenance and vandalism could both be issues. If in the future the City were to maintain this area more as a public park, then the possibility of public art here might be readdressed but right now it is largely wild in nature and not kept up in a way that would be conducive to an art piece. It is natural art within nature.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
64
Site: Gateway Park
Location: Intersection of State Route 20, Kearney Street, Washington Street
Size: Approximately 80’ x 60’
Terrain: Flat, triangular landscaped area surrounded by City streets. There is one very large, overgrown mature tree and two smaller mature trees as well as mature shrubs. A gravel path meanders through the property and there are areas covered with bark.
Function: Landscaped street intersection that serves as a small pocket park. A Jefferson Transit Bus Stop Shelter is located on the State Route 20 side.
Visibility: Lots of visibility from all streets (State Route 20, Kearney, Washington)
Access: There are parking spaces on Washington abutting the Park, vehicular traffic surrounding it and opportunities for pedestrians to utilize the gravel paths.
Environment: Very busy street intersection with numerous commercial enterprises including the Penny Saver, Food Co-Op, Wells Fargo, and several thrift and consignment shops.
Weather: It is located in close proximity to Port Townsend Bay so wind and sea salt spray are factors.
Neighborhood: Busy commercial district with significant vehicular traffic
General Characteristics: The Park itself is fairly dark due to the mature trees and the fact that it is crowded with landscaping. There is currently the Soroptimist sculpture sited there as well as a memorial bench, “Bill’s Bench in Memory of William Goodhue 1925 – 1992.”
Comments: This site already has one public art piece and a memorial bench in a rather small, overly landscaped space. Any additional public art would likely conflict with the existing piece and overwhelm the relatively small space.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
65
Site: Golden Age Club
Location: Hudson Street between Chetzemoka Dog Park and Chetzemoka Park
Size: Approximately 50’ x 60’
Terrain: Scraggly shrubs and weeds surrounding several severely dilapidated structures situated on a bluff facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca
Function: Abandoned but originally established in 1955 for retirees, it is situated on a former U.S. Army property subsequently acquired by the City as government surplus.
Visibility: Although sandwiched between two City parks, the property is hidden from public view on a narrow, small side street with limited public use.
Access: There is no signage indicating the history of the Golden Age Club or even identifying it.
Environment: The buildings are dilapidated, boarded up and not maintained. The land between the Buildings are overgrown and unkempt. If the buildings were removed, renovated or repurposed, the area might become more suitable for public use.
Weather: Given that it is adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, it would receive some wind and sea salt spray although that would be somewhat mitigated by vegetation and the buildings.
Neighborhood: Established residential neighborhood and well-visited multi-use and multi-generational Chetzemoka Park
General Characteristics: This is a City property that needs significant revitalization set amid a residential neighborhood.
Comments: Unless and until the City revitalizes this property, it is not suitable for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
66
Site: Hamilton Heights PUD (planned unit development)
Location: Adjacent to Highland Loop community; Eastern Port Townsend near Rainier Street and Highland Loop
Size: About 15’ x 30’
Terrain: Wetland plants and grass
Function: Buffer zone and drainage function between Rainier and Highland Loop Streets
Visibility: Varied
Access: Vehicular and foot traffic
Environment: Residential neighborhood
Weather: Tall tree protected area inland from beach winds
Neighborhood: Dense residential surrounded by treed green areas
General Characteristics: Remote city service area with little community traffic
Comments: There is no identifiable area suitable for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
67
Site: Hendrick’s Pond and Trailhead
Location: Between Hendricks Street and 29th Street (entrance) and Hendricks Street and 30th Street (entrance)
Size: Approximately one block
Terrain: Rough scraggly and uneven narrow path that meanders through overgrown brush and anemic trees; there is a dry pond located just off the trail
Function: Officially part of the Port Townsend designated public trails, this area functions essentially as a short cut between two parts of the same neighborhood at the point where Hendricks Street ends for a one-block segment.
Visibility: This area—trail and pond—area very difficult to find. Neighbors and two City of Port Townsend workers were asked to help locate Hendrick’s Pond and Trailhead and none were able to identify it.
Access: There are two entrances to this segment of public trails and the pond, both in relatively obscure and overgrown areas; not widely utilized or known.
Environment: Residential neighborhood with limited and only local vehicular traffic and almost no pedestrian use
Weather: The site is surrounded by tall shrubs and some trees as well as homes so has no “open” weather risks.
Neighborhood: Established residential
General Characteristics: Reasonably remote and inaccessible trail and dry pond that don’t currently serve as a park but rather as a short cut between two streets
Comments: Given issues of accessibility, remoteness, lack of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, this is not a viable site for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
68
Site: Howards End
Location: Howard Street at 3rd Street
Size: Approximately 1 acre
Terrain: Gentle ravine
Function: Natural drainage and tree buffer
Visibility: Highly visible from street; no visibility inside
Access: At corner of Howard & 3rd, fully built streets ready for commercial development; no designated Parking; public trail connecting downhill to Larry Scott Trail runs along west side, power lines along east Side; no access inside site
Environment: Dense wood but surrounded by commercial lots
Weather: Foliage provides cover and acts as windbreak
Neighborhood: Howard and 3rd Streets south of Sims Way are designated for future commercial Development; adjacent lot has public notice with site plans posted
General Characteristics: This is a triangle-shaped unbuildable parcel in an otherwise commercially-zoned area, preserved for drainage and as a tree buffer.
Comments: Not appropriate for siting of public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
69
Site: Laurel Grove and Redmen’s Cemeteries
Location: Discovery Road between 19th Street and Hastings
Size: Approximately at least one city block
Terrain: Large open grassy area with mature trees interspersed among gravesites and headstones; there is a gravel path/road that provides access to more remote areas of each cemetery.
Function: The community cemetery had three prior locations before final siting at Laurel Grove on Discovery Road in 1861 by the Masonic Lodge No. 6, which still has responsibility for it today. Adjacent to Laurel Grove is the cemetery established by the Imperial Order of Redmen (IORM) in 1902, which is still run by the three individuals to whom the Order ceded it in recent years.
Visibility: The cemetery properties are clearly visible from Discovery Road with a significant frontage on that road demarked by a chain link fence and one small blue building next to a driveway with stone gate markers, “Laurel Grove Cemetery” and a smaller white sign marking “Redmen Cemetery.”
Access: The narrow driveway entrance for Laurel Grove Cemetery is off of Discovery Road but “private property” signs at the entrance as well as surrounding chain link fencing make the area uninviting but the same is not true for the Redmen Cemetery.
Environment: Each cemetery has a very large open area with monuments and headstones.
Weather: Each cemetery area is largely exposed with only occasional trees and shrubs but probably has limited severe weather patterns.
Neighborhood: Discovery Road in this area is primarily residential with the exception of these cemeteries and the large senior living residence almost across the street.
General Characteristics: There is clearly historical significance of this community cemetery, Laurel Grove and it has been used by the Victorian Festival for enactments but is main purpose remains as a graveyard to hold the remains of those who are deceased and so it has limited public use. The limited use is true of Redmen Cemetery, but it has not been used for such festival events.
Comments: These are significant historical and cultural cemeteries for Port Townsend with gravestones and monuments that have their own artistic merit and aesthetic. It seems inappropriate to site public art at these locations since it would clearly be in competition with and perhaps diminish the character and importance of these historical sites of remembrance.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
70
71
Site: Laurel Heights PUD (planned unit development)
Location: 20th and McClellan Streets
Size: Approximately 10' x 10'
Terrain: Grass
Function: Residential, affordable housing unit development
Visibility: Highly visible but only probably seen by people entering the development as it is set back from any major thoroughfares and a bit difficult to find
Access: Access is primarily by car though once in the development walking is easy
Environment: Residential with a small park/child's play area and a basketball court centrally located in the development; high density residential area however, since it is a fairly remote neighborhood there may be some vandalism risk.
Weather: Normal conditions with fairly good wind protection
Neighborhood: Residential - affordable public housing units with many children as well as adults living in the neighborhood
General Characteristics: This appears to be a nice residential development with a mix of all ages
Comments: The first possible potential public art site is a street end that is at the entrance to the development. The other possible area would be a half block down near the front of the sales office. However, there is not much general public visibility at either site.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
72
Site: Levinski Wetlands
Location: Northwest area of Port Townsend near 49th and Hendricks Streets
Size: Several city blocks
Terrain: Wooded and wet
Function: No apparent community function; wildlife habitat
Visibility: Varied with thick trees and shrubs
Access: Difficult to find access off 49th Street; no apparent entry
Environment: Undeveloped woods and wetlands
Weather: Marine climate; near north facing with high winds
Neighborhood: Remote residential on outskirts of town
General Characteristics: In-city wetlands area with undeveloped land
Comments: Difficult to find and actually identify this area as it is completely overgrown and lacks posted/easy access.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
73
Site: Lynnesfield PUD Open Space (planned unit development)
Location: 41st Street at Jackman, near county fairgrounds
Size: Various areas approx. 100-200' across
Terrain: Gently sloped lawns, newly planted trees
Function: Designated open spaces in residential PUD
Visibility: Excellent visibility from street, public trail, and nearby residences
Access: Unmarked on-street parking; no paved sidewalks, no transit service
Environment: Newly planted vegetation to mitigate recent development
Weather: Exposed to typical midtown rain and wind
Neighborhood: Residential PUD
General Characteristics: This is a quiet, isolated neighborhood, developed as a series of PUDs. The open spaces function as playgrounds and dog-walking areas. The central space borders a paved public trail leading from the Fairgrounds and the North Beach neighborhood to the Blue Heron School grounds.
Comments: There are several attractive sites for public art, but the isolation of the neighborhood would greatly limit its visibility. Pedestrian and park facilities are likely a higher priority.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
74
Site: Memorial Field
Location: Surrounded by Quincy Street, Washington Street and Monroe Street with bluff behind
Size: Approximately two city blocks
Terrain: Flat grassy area
Function: County owned athletic field that is also used for the Rhody Festival arcade and fair and the occasional car show
Visibility: Completely enclosed by green wooden fence, chain link fence and bluff
Access: Entrance gate is locked except during events; the entire athletic field is enclosed by green wooden fence, chain link fence and bluff
Environment: Public athletic field in commercial and residential neighborhood
Weather: Two blocks in from Admiralty Inlet and Townsend Bay so some wind and some sea salt spray but those are mitigated by enclosing fence
Neighborhood: Commercial and residential
General Characteristics: The field gets heavy usage during athletic and special events but is otherwise closed to the public. The main entrance is gated and highlighted by a large concrete façade with two large cannons on either side of the gate. There are two other chain link fence entrances that are utilized when needed for vehicular traffic.
Comments: This location is not suitable for public art. The entrance already is memorialized with two large cannons. There are no appropriate sites within the field due to it being utilized for athletic events; safety and vandalism are key concerns.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
75
Site: Parkside Drive
Location: City block between Hancock and 9th Street
Size: Approximately one City block
Terrain: Level City street, asphalt with no sidewalks
Function: City street
Visibility: Typical residential City street that is not on a major thoroughfare
Access: City street open to the public but likely only used by residents, given its location
Environment: Grass plots about the street asphalt
Weather: Typical upper Port Townsend
Neighborhood: Established residential neighborhood two blocks off Sims Way
General Characteristics: Quiet side street with residential characteristics
Comments: This is a relative short, relatively remote, relatively quiet residential street used by those who reside there. This is not a viable public art location.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
76
Site: Pope Marine Park
Location: Madison and Water Streets
Size: The overall park is a city block long, but the additional public art site area could be approx. 20' x 20'
Terrain: Flat and grassy, and paved further over in the park beyond the below photo
Function: Very popular outdoor recreational area with a small playground in Port Townsend used for events, relaxing, and viewing the water there are bordering buildings, walkable docks, and beach access.
Visibility: Extremely visible both by car and on foot and the park sits at the heart of downtown Port Townsend and borders the Bay
Access: Very accessible on one of the main tourist streets of Port Townsend (Water Street)
Environment: This is a vibrant tourist center that is a festive, commercial area of downtown Port Townsend. This is a well-lit area so there is minimal vandalism risk; seagulls and crows also frequent it
Weather: Very prone to wind and storms coming off the Bay
Neighborhood: The area is in the heart of the civic and commercial downtown of the City. There is a lot of pedestrian and vehicular traffic at high tourist times near the park.
General Characteristics: This is a gorgeous park frequented and enjoyed by people all over the world.
Comments: The park already has a beautiful public art piece on the paved section of the park entitled “Salish Sea Circle” by artist Gerard Tsutakawa placed in 2011. Anything additional sited in the park would need to not negatively impact the existing piece. There may be room for a smaller piece in front on the grass in front of the log bench and on the side of the playground area as shown in the picture below. However, it would need to be child friendly. Since there are a lot of things already capturing people's attention at the park including the views, the buildings, the existing sculpture etc., another public art piece is not recommended.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
77
Site: Reed Street End
Location: End of Reed Street north of Chetzemoka Park
Size: Approximately 40’ x 60’
Terrain: Grass, hedge and trees, gentle slope toward water
Function: No apparent community function; open space
Visibility: Varied
Access: City street (Reed Street) as it meets bluff
Environment: Seaside residential
Weather: High wind location; marine fog and spray
Neighborhood: Residential
General Characteristics: Open area with good potential view of Salish Sea shipping channel.
Comments: This site is located in close proximity to two residences.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
78
Site: Rosewind PUD (planned unit development)
Location: Umatilla & 35th Street & Haines Street
Size: Approximately 9 acres of private residences and common space
Terrain: Total area includes flat and hilly terrain
Function: A cohousing community originally built in 1994 with 24 individual homes and 4.5 acres of common space that includes a Common House, community garden, community greenhouse, and community trails
Visibility: This is a private community not situated on any main street and has very limited visibility to those who are not members.
Access: A private community on private land held under a community housing agreement
Environment: Private residential in quiet, secluded area of Port Townsend
Weather: Area is surrounded by other residences and not broadly exposed to weather
Neighborhood: Private residential
General Characteristics: The community membership is very diverse including some artists and there is artwork on various homes and the Common House.
Comments: This is a secluded, private community and the site is not suitable for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
79
Site: Rotary Park
Location: Adjacent to US Bank building and by ferry terminal
Size: 15’ x 20’
Terrain: Pebble-crete with grassy areas based on a wheel spoke pattern
Function: Pocket park with picnic tables and one light stanchion in the center
Visibility: Very little visibility except by the few pedestrians who meander behind the Bank building or away from the ferry dock
Access: Through US Bank parking lot or adjacent ferry dock
Environment: Sparsely landscaped with urban feel
Weather: High winds and salt spray from Townsend Bay
Neighborhood: Historic downtown and commercial district
General Characteristics: This small pocket park is under-utilized and somewhat hidden.
Comments: This pocket park has low utilization and low visibility. Although a public art work might invite more usage, it might also not be seen.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
80
Site: Sather Park
Location: This is a nature preserve at the top of Morgan Hill bordered by Taylor, Adams, and Cosgrove Streets. There is also an extended open area bordered by hedges between Quincy, Foster, and Adams Streets that is also part of the Park.
Size: 4.9 acres
Terrain: Flat and heavily wooded with trails with the exception of the open area at Quincy
Function: Lovely neighborhood park within the City for use by walkers
Visibility: The borders of the Park are marked but within the park it is densely populated by trees and not visible to outside the park at all
Access: Easily accessible to entrances by car or foot. Within the park it is accessed by foot only
Environment: Peaceful residential area; no lighting at night within the Park
Weather: Normal weather conditions
Neighborhood: All residential
General Characteristics: Beautiful park area within City limits used primarily by local residents of Morgan Hill
Comments: This area does not lend itself to a public art piece. Within the Park nothing would be very visible and all of the entrances are limited in space for any artwork. Even the open area at Quincy and Foster is bordered by tall hedges and if a piece were placed in the center of that area only those that entered that section of the Park would see it.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
81
Site: Skateboard Park
Location: Corner Jefferson and Monroe
Size: Approximately 150’ x 150’
Terrain: Concrete skate park surrounded by metal fencing
Function: Skateboard park
Visibility: Relatively high
Access: Opening through metal fencing
Environment: Built environment of concrete and metal utilized for entertainment and sports
Weather: Somewhat setback from Townsend Bay and surrounded on three sides by buildings so more limited effect from wind and salt spray
Neighborhood: At edge of civic, downtown commercial and residential neighborhoods
General Characteristics: This is a sports and entertainment facility designed for and utilized by youth and families.
Comments: This is an active and well utilized sports facility. Any public art would likely tend to be included in skate activity and therefore damaged.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
82
Site: St. Mary’s Cemetery
Location: San Juan north of Blue Heron Middle School
Size: City block
Terrain: Slightly sloped
Function: Catholic cemetery
Visibility: Large hedge against sidewalk along San Juan
Access: Vehicular; foot traffic from sidewalk on San Juan
Environment: Middle school next door; residential
Weather: High wind area; PNW seaside climate
Neighborhood: Residential
General Characteristics: Traditional cemetery with monuments, headstones and shrubs
Comments: It does not appear that there are any city-owned portions of this cemetery except for maybe along the sidewalk where there is a large hedge.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
83
Site: Taft Street End
Location: End of Taft Street at Hudson Street on bluff at Strait of Juan de Fuca
Size: Approximately 15’ x 25’
Terrain: Small grassy area with shrubs surrounding and obscuring view to Strait of Juan de Fuca
Function: Small bluff area at street end adjacent to underutilized Chetzemoka Dog Park
Visibility: This site is in a relatively obscure and hidden intersection of two minor streets. There is a street sign located at the center street-edge of the site that further obscures any view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Any work sited here would gain little attention.
Access: There is very little vehicular traffic in this area as it is used only by locals, primarily by those who live in the neighborhood or the few who are on their way to the Dog Park. There is also some pedestrian use of Taft and Howard for those walking to Chetzemoka Park.
Environment: Residential neighborhood; Taft Street End is located at a bluff and is a fragile area that would trigger shoreline review
Weather: Location on a bluff on the Strait of Juan de Fuca indicates wind and sea salt spray area that would likely impact any artwork and poses a risk to the bluff structure
Neighborhood: Residential neighborhood adjacent to Chetzemoka Dog Park and Chetzemoka Park
General Characteristics: This is not an area that invites those passing by in automobiles or on foot to rest, ponder and enjoy the space.
Comments: The bluff location and associated risks—including fragility that would trigger a shoreline review - the size of the site, the lack of easy public access and visibility suggest that this is not a viable site for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
84
Site: Tyler Street Wooden Stairs
Location: Connector from Washington Street to Downtown and Water Street business district
Size: Approximately 15’ X 50’
Terrain: Wooden steps on steep sloped bluff
Function: Stairs allowing passage from Washington Street to Downtown
Visibility: Low
Access: Pedestrian
Environment: Steep steps located on steep slope covered by shrubbery
Weather: Wind exposure
Neighborhood: Historic district
General Characteristics: The stairs provide a passage from major Uptown street to the Downtown business district.
Comments: This area does not have a clear space for public art. There are port-a-potties, dumpsters, parking lots, and storage containers used by local businesses. There is a lot of vandalism and littering here. The grounds are not kept up.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
85
Site: W Street End
Location: W Street End at south easterly end of Fort Worden State park and the end of Walnut Street on a bluff at Strait of Juan de Fuca
Size: 60’ wide x 12’ feet deep, narrower at spots
Terrain: Small grassy bluff with one tree at northeasterly edge; there is significant undercutting of the bluff with rocks, shrubs and beach below; a low wooden two-slate fence frames the area with one adjacent bench
Function: Street end that is occasionally used by pedestrians to pause and sit while using short bluff trail that provides safety from the curving street and traffic.
Visibility: There is a streetlight that provides illumination at night, but the light pole would also obscure any public art and currently impacts the view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Fort Worden.
Access: Pedestrians use the short bluff trail that bisects the street end. There is limited public parking for those who might wish to stop their cars.
Environment: Residential neighborhood that is adjacent to the widely used and very popular Fort Worden State Park so there is a fair amount of vehicular traffic utilizing W Street as it segues to Walnut Street.
Weather: Location on a bluff facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca indicates wind and sea salt spray area that would likely impact any artwork. Current bluff undercutting and erosion already indicates fragile bluff structure.
Neighborhood: Fort Worden State Park has numerous historic buildings, open fields, bluffs, beaches, trails, a dock, and is very much a multi-use, multi-generational facility surrounded on the southeasterly side by private residences.
General Characteristics: On the one hand this could be regarded as a good site for the walking public to rest and enjoy the views as well as a public art piece. On the other hand, there is the consideration of current significant bluff erosion so there would be issues about public safety as well as the safety of any artwork. The speed of the traffic as it curves around from W Street to Walnut Street and vice versa could also be unsettling to those standing at the street end.
Comments: The already significantly undercut bluff and associated risks, the size and location of the site adjacent to a curving traffic pattern, and the clearly fragile bluff area that would trigger a shoreline review suggest that this is not a viable site for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
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Site: Whitaker Wetlands
Location: South end of Beech Street
Size: Approximately 1 acre; pond ~100' diameter
Terrain: small pond and wetlands
Function: Nominally the intersection of Beech and C Streets, which cannot be built through due to the pond.
Visibility: Vegetation screens site from street; visible from residences
Access: Off a dead-end residential street, with no sidewalks or transit access; public trail runs nearby
Environment: Wetland depression
Weather: Somewhat sheltered by surrounding trees and the depression itself
Neighborhood: Private residences, with an adjacent public trail and open space on oddly-shaped lots
General Characteristics: This is an interesting natural formation and wildlife habitat, and there is a bench next to the pond for public seating. However, both the pond and the adjacent wetlands abut residential backyards, with tended lawns transitioning abruptly to unkempt vegetation. Changes to increase accessibility would disrupt the residential neighborhood.
Comments: Not an appropriate site for public art.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
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Site: Winona Wetlands
Location: Point Hudson marina area at the far southeast portion of downtown Port Townsend
Size: About 4 city blocks
Terrain: Flat
Function: Wetlands
Visibility: Varied
Access: Difficult to access; trails and roads not clear
Environment: Thick woods and greenery
Weather: Inland from beach area with moderate winds
Neighborhood: Remote residential area
General Characteristics: Many trails and open space; wildlife; dirt roads and many “no trespassing signs” makes access less possible and inviting
Comments: This location has elusive access, “no trespassing signs” and overgrown trails.
Art Site Recommendation: Not Recommended
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Appendix
Clay St. and Monroe Scenic Vista: This is such a beautiful view area that ideally the city could provide a bench for seating and a paved area near the public art piece as long as placing a piece there would not be detrimental to the terrain or adverse to the neighbors that border it.
Top of Haller Fountain Stairs (Jefferson & Taylor St.): One recommendation would be to place two small art pieces at either side of the stairway with a pergola built at the entrance as well.
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