HomeMy WebLinkAbout090825 City Council Workshop Meeting (Joint with PC) PacketPORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 540 WATER STREET
Workshop Meeting with
Planning Commission 6:00 p.m. September 8, 2025
• Attend in person or virtually via computer or tablet at
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* If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please attempt all methods listed above
before reporting any issues to: cler .sg ort cr cit oft' t.us
L Call to Order/ Roll Call
IL General Public Comment (regarding items not on the agenda)
III. Discussion Items
A. Comprehensive Plan Update- Climate Resilience, Parks Recreation and Open
Space, Draft Economic Development
a. Staff Presentation
b. Public Comment
c. Council and Planning Commission Discussion
IV. Adjourn
Americans with Disabilities Act
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, those requiring accommodation for this meeting
should note the City Clerk's Office at least 24 hours prior to the meeting at (360) 379-5083.
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introduction....................................................................................................................................... 3
Context.............................................................................................................................................. 5
Requirements................................................................................................................................
5
TimeIino.........................................................................................................................................
7
Reference Material ---------------------------------------.8
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Policyinitiatives ...............................................................................................................................
8
impactReduction .........................................................................................................................
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HazardAwareness .......................................................................................................................
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Resource Conservation ................................................................................................................
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ResiliencemChange ...................................................................................................................
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|mp|omontadon------------------------------------------]g
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 2
Port "Fownsend's climate is more consistent and temperate than its local and global neighbors.
However, Port "Fownsend is increasingly experiencing the effects of a changing climate.
Seasonal drought, increasing fire Isk, wildfire smoke frorn surrounding areas, more intense
rainstorms, arid occasional flooding are becoming more frequent arid severe. its coastal setting
also exposes Port "Fownsend to a range of clirnate.-related hazards, including coastal erosion,
storm surges, and sea level rise. Seasonal temperature variations, dependence on mountain
mnmwpmokfor water, the ou/m|imk*daccess iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiillillillillillillilliillillillillillillillilillillillillillillillillillillilliillillillillillillilliillillilillillillillilillillillillillillillillillillilliillillillillillillilliillillilillillillillilillillillillillillillillillillilliillillillillillillilliillillilillillillillilillillillillillillilillilI
routes for moving people and goods, arid Connecting to P r
geographic isolation mmmpeninsula mtthe end
ofmpeninsula, also play significant roles in Townsend 204
shaping its climate irsk profile. 11111::::
Thom*changes threaten the physical
infrastructure ofthe city, such mmroads, utilities,
and historic waterfront properties, and the
social fabric, local *oonom8arid ecological
mymtemmthat residents value.
The Climate Resilience Element focuses on
reaponUingto.not preventing orminimizing,
climate change. This focus reflects state
guidance ondifferentiating between climate
change mitigation and climate change
resilience. italso recognizes 'that Port
Townsend alone cannot changethecourse of
climate change. The Comprehensive Plan still
has climate policy directingtheCkytolessen or
control the extent towhich Port Towmeemd'e
activities and investments contributotoclimate
change. This includes po|ioytoreduce or
manage greenhouse gas emissions, reduce or
manage vehicle milestraveled, encourage non-
motorized,transportation, and increasethe
urbantreecanopytomitigate beat island
impacts. The implementation Element has
these policies and more details. I�������
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
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members.
infrastructure investments, emergency planning, and public policy in mway which strengthens
community resilience.
Thimelement supports the following key objectives:
� identify priority climate hazards such as drought, reduced snowpack, sea level rise,
**mmoprecipitation, and flooding, and understand their potential impacts on
oommunkymystemm.
� Assess the vulnerability ofpeople, places, infrastructure, and natural mymtemminPort
Townmondmthese hazards.
� Support data -informed decision.-malking for future planning and development, ensuring
that climate risk is considered in zoning, capital projects, and emergency preparedness.
� Advance equity and environmental justice by ensuring that frontline and vulnerable
populations, including seniors, low-income households, and people with disabilities, are
considered and supported.
� Comply with new state planning requirements for climate change and resilience under
Washington's Girowflh ViamageneW Ad.
By identifying and addressing current and future climate risks, Port "Fownsend can avoid or
reduce darnages, protect public health and safety, and maintain the livability of the community.
"I"'his plan also serves as a foundation for cross -sector collaboration, bringing together local
government, regional partners, tribal governments, nonprofits, and residents to foster a shared
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
��������
Port "Fownsend has a long history of environmental stewardship and climate leadership.
Environmental activism has shaped the City, and continues mdirect how policy imwritten and
implemented. Port "Fownsend has been part of regional planning efforts to identify how
jurisdictions on the Olympic Peninsula can work together in preventing and mitigating the
impacts of climate change. "I"'he analyses and direction of these past projects shaped this
Comprehensive Plan.
"I"'he Climate Element builds on the work of those earlier initiatives. it reflects the latestscientific
understanding, community priorities, and intergovernmental collaboration. it is also designed to
be a living docurnent updated as new data, climate conditions, and community needs ernerge.
in short, this Climate Resilience Plan serves both as a local planning tool and a compliance
framework mmo*tnew state mandates. itpositions Port Townmendtoact decisively inthe face
ofclimate uncertainty and mprotect its people, eoonom8and *oomyaemmfor future
generations.
Washington State has adopted a surte of new policies reqUirillg cities and counties to formally
address climate change inlocal planning. Most notably, House Will! 1181(202@).encoded mm
RCVV3b.7O&O7O(g).amended the Growth Management Act (GMA)tomandate that
jurisdictions planning under the GMA must incorporate a chirnate element into their
comprehensive plans when updated after June 2O24,
"I"'he Washington State Department of Commerce has issued draft guidance outlining what must
boincluded inthese dimmeelements, Key requirements include:
C|imateAdoptation:
* identify and plan for clirnate-exacerbated natural hazards such as flooding, sea
level rise, wildfires, dmughtand **mmoheat.
* Conduct mdimotevulnerability assessment toevaluate how people,
infrastructure, and 000mystemmare affected.
* Adopt goals, policies, and strategies to increase climate resilience and reduce
future risks.
2. Climate Mitigation: This isnot required for Port Townemd,but the City has chosen m
undertake these elements
• inventory and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through land use,
transportation, and energy policies.
• Establish targets and performance mothomfor emissions reduction and track
progress over dmo.
3. Equity integration:
� Use the Environmental Health Disparities Map and other tools midentify
overburdened orvulnerable populations.
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
� Ensure that frontline communities are meaningfully engaged inplanning
processes and benefit frnmclimate adaptation investments.
4. |nt*Uurimdictionm|Coordinmdon:
Collaborate with regional governments, tribes, utilities, and community organizations m
share data and align planning across boundaries.
Thee req�.flirememsa|igmwhflh dhea�aWabiroadeirC|imm�eCommhmeiM Ad, Which arms to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions statewide while supporting a just transition. For Port
"Fownsend, integrating these standards into the Climate Resilience Plan ensures not only
regulatory compliance but also access to state funding and technical assistance for resilience
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
Timeline
Port Townsend and Jefferson County have already initiated climate resilience planning. "I"'his
includes plans and analyses specific to each jurisdiction, and partnering with other
organizations to identify resources, vulnerabilities, and strategies for mitigating climate change.
Many of these plans apply to both jurisdictions, or were created through joint work. This
tirneline summarizes relevant work by key stakeholders leading up to the 2025 Comprehensive
F:Ilaii Climaje Resilience 1.Ieimeinj.
tribes, cries, countles, and other local
toint kfferson County— Pon governments collaborate on the North
Townsend Ci-maiie Action Uympic Pemnauia Climate Change
Committee iCAC) formed Preparedness Plan
....................... ........ . . . .
CAC adopts the first Climate Act! Do
Plan
Jefferson county and Port"itownsend
bi their Periodic Reviews of their
Comprehensive Plans, including drafting
new Cliniate Resilience Elerne,IILS.
pp
...........
CAC formed a workgroup to
Carriple ad Sea Levell Rise and
c-irtribute to each jurisdiction',
Coastall Flooding Risk Assessment
draft
Climate Resilience Elements.
Staff and CAC review a Climate
impacts Summary to ari
ti trends and future
0
............................
projections.
Staff and CAC revue. draft Clini
Port I ownsend cornpleiied a Waterwalk.
Ik
VnInerabillity Assessment evaluating
Sea
0
Level Rise ToOrrucal I-Pstrgaticar
how local systems will be affected by
examirainA
mitigation options for the
clinnave change
Downtown Watenvailk.
Port Townsend a ndl Jefferson County adopt thejr Comprehensive Plans, including Climate Resilience
Elements, by the end of 2025
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
in addition to the documents described in the tirneline, the Port "Fownsend Climate Resilience
Element also refers toother local plans and state - pmvidodtools for analyzing climate assets,
vulnerabilities, and mitigation options. Significant plans are summarized below:
Jefferson, County Hazard Mitigation Plan
The Jefferson Coamh Hazamd ViNigatiom P|am (HIViP) oot|imeothe region's aVa egieo for
reducing risks frorn natural hazards such as flooding, wildfires, earthquakes, and severe storms.
it identifies vulnerable infrastructure and populations, sets hazard mitigation priorities, and
ensures eligibility for federal hazard mitigation funding. "I"'his plan directly informs the climate
resilience strategy by highlighting the intersection of climate change and natural hazard risks
especially those expected to worsen due to future conditions, such as more intense rainfall and
coastal flooding.
Jefferson, Countye Impacts Summary
"I"'his 2024 report synthesizes climate science and projections specific to Jefferson County. it
provides detailed assessments of expected changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level rise,
drought, wildfire risk, and other key hazards. "I"'he surnmary integrates both global climate
models and local observations, making it a vital source for understanding localized climate
impacts. it served as a foundational scientific reference throughout the resilience planning
process, ensuring that projections and risk assessments were aligned with the latest research.
City of Port"rown,sen,d Comprehensive Plan,
"I"'he Comprehensive Plan serves as the city's long-range guide for land use, infrastructure,
housing, transportation, and natural resource management. Thonew Climate Resilience
Element is designed to integrate into the City's ongoing Comprehensive Plan update. "I"'his
alignment ensures that climate adaptation strategies are institutionalized in land use policies,
ompkm| investment decisions, and zoning regulations.
City of Port,rown,sen,d Climate Action, Plan,
Adopted in2011 in partnership with Jefferson County, the Climate Action Plan set early goals
for greenhouse gas emissions reductions and community mumtminmbi|ity While primarily
focused on mitigation, it included preliminary adaptation objectives and helped catalyze broader
climate planning inthe region. Thoresilience plan builds upon this legacy byshifting focus
towairdadalptatiomand Ihazairdpirelpairedmeoa.While reinforcing theoity'along-standing climate
leadership.
Washington State Department of Commerce �� Climate
Explorer,rooi
ThoClimate Exp|or*rToo| provided bythe Washington State Department ofCommerce offers
int*rmotiv*mmpmmnddmtmmotmr*|mt*dtoo|immt*vu|normbi|ity.*nvironmontm|jumtico.mndhmzmrd
exposure. it was used to identify socially vulnerable populations, analyze exposure to sea level
rise and heat, and support alignment with state requirements under House Bill 1181.Thotoo|
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
helps ensure that the plan mo*tsregulatory standards and isresponsive mequity and resilience
priorities outlined bythe state.
l��� Used
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"I"'he City has consulted several data sources to better understand current and anticipated future
climate conditions and the likely consequences ofclimate change.
Climate Models & Projections
� University otWashington Climate impacts Group
� Climate Too|box(Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center)
� Climate Resilient Washington Report
"Fribal Climate "Fool
Historical Chmate,rrends
� NOAA—National Centers for Environmental information (NCB)
� NOAA"Fides & Currents —Port ToxmmondTide Gauge (Station g444AOO)
Drought and Wildfire Conditions
� National integrated Drought information 3ymt*m(N|D|3)
� U3D|Geological Survey and USDA Forest Service
Regional, and Local Assessments
� North Olympic Peninsula Climate Change Preparedness Plan (NODC2Ol5)
b11���Uc��do
� Pacific Northwest Climate Projection 'Tool, Rogers & Mauger 2021 Chegwidden et al.
ZO17(University ofWashington)
b��a��
� 3omLeve|Rimo&Commto|HoodingRimkAmmommmont(CkyofPortTownmond.2O22)
� Jefferson County Draft Climate Vulnerability Assessment (2O23)
� Climate impacts 3ummmry(Jefferson County 2O24)
� Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (2O24)b�
� Draft "Fechnical Mernorandurn City of Port "Fownsend Sea Level Rise Resiliency (2025)
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
F:zoirt Townsa nd's iresilience will delpend on Ihow Ns cc�mmu.jniky assea s frorn physical
infrastructure to social systerns withstand and adapt to climate s~tressors. Below we examine
several categories of community assets in and near Fort " ownsend, analyzing their exposure
and vulnerability to the Ivey hazards discussed (drought, reduced snowpack, sea level rise,
windstorms, extrerne precipitation, and flooding). The examples were selected by the Climate
Action Committee to surnrnarize types of assets that are both important and face unique
challenges frorn climate change:
Example Location:
Port Townsend Farmers Market, Jefferson Land Trust Agricultural Conservation
Areas, Food Bank Growers Gardens, community gardens, and other private
businesses that produce or sell local food.
Historic Downtown Port Townsend, Fort Worden State Park, Public Utility District
(PUD), Port Townsend Library, Port Townsend schools, Jefferson Transit Center at
Haines Place
Carnegie Library, Charles Pink House, Rothschild House Museum, Jefferson Museum
of Art & History, Northwind Art Center, Key City Public Theatre, Centrum at Fort
Worden, Port Townsend Marine Science Center, public parks and open space
identified in the PROS Plan, Tribal Sites, Wooden Boat Festival & Northwest Maritime
Center
Major employment centers including healthcare, paper making, the maritime industry,
service industry, government, and other employers.
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park and surrounding parks, Fort Worden State Park, Fort
Townsend State Park, Larry Scott Trail, Chetzemoka Park, North Beach, and Quimper
Wildlife Corridor
Jefferson County Emergency Operations Center, Jefferson Healthcare Hospital, East
Jefferson Fire and Rescue, Mountain View as a Potential Emergency Command and
Shelter Site, Fort Worden as a Potential Emergency Shelter Site, Port Townsend Ferry
Terminal
Jefferson Healthcare Hospital & Clinics, YMCA of Jefferson County, Castle Hill
Medical Plaza, Port Townsend Food Bank, Jefferson County Public Health
Department, Port Townsend Community Center
Transportation routes identified in the Transportation Element, including the Port
Townsend Ferry Terminal, Jefferson Transit Haines Street Park and Ride, Larry Scott
Trail, Sims Gateway Transportation Project, Water Street & Downtown Core, Port
Townsend Boat Haven Marina, and Cappy's Trails
Jefferson County Transfer Station, Port Townsend Recycling Center, Port Townsend
Composting Pilot Program, Marine Debris Cleanup Programs, Hazardous Waste
Collection Events (Jefferson County Public Works)
Big Quilcene River Watershed, Port Townsend Water Treatment Plant, Chimacum
Creek, Port Townsend Stormwater Management System, Glen Cove Industrial Area
Water Treatment
Historic Downtown & Waterfront District, Upper Sims Way Corridor, Fort Worden State
Park & Lifelong Learning Center, Rainier Street & Howard Street Development Zones
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 10
����������i��~��
Port "Fownsend faces a variety of climate chainge stiressors while also having key resources for
climate resilience. "I"'he following subsections outline central challenges and opportunities for
F:1oirt Townsend's cliima�e resilience. These challenges and olplpoirU.iinides shape cliima�e policy.
Thissection summarizes the most critical anticipated impacts mmidentified bythe community
mndt*ohnicm|mmmommmontmindudoohmngominhydm|ogy(dmughtmndmnmwpmokdoc|ino).
rimingmom|ev*|m.mom**mmow*mthor*v*ms(homvyminfaU),andmmmocimt*dfloodingmnd
wildfire. it is not ain exhaustive list of anticipated climate impacts, but it does describe the
impacts that are most likely maffect Port Townmondduringthe2O�*mrplanning period. Below
iaamoot|imeofIhmweadhIkeyo|imnmleaVeoaoiriaexpected toaffect PowTowmaemd's
*nvironmont.infrastructure, and community.
Dirought::Drought immtop oonowmdue 0oits effect onwater supply and wildfire risk. Port
Towmaemd's wa�eirayaeiniaalready atreoaedimdirysummers. Further decreases in
summer rainfall and mnowpmokwill mmp|ify, water scarcity. Drought also impacts
agriculture and increases the likelihood of wildfires in surrounding areas, making it a
multifaceted hazard.
Summer drought conditions are expected 0obeoomomore frequent and severe. Port
Townmondiminthe eastern part ofJefferson Cuunt8mnarea already prone tosummer
diryiness. Approximately 13% of eastern Jefferson COUnty has experienced moderate
drought, with an additional 34% classified as abnormally diry. Summertime precipitation
impvojoot*dtodecremmomhorp|y(byrough|y2l%by|mt*-oonturyundorhigh*mimmionm).
intensifying mummerdrought stress.
Qheraummers will reduce soil moisture and stirearn flowsincrease irrigation needs, and
elevate wildfire risk in the SUrrounding region. Even though the westside of the Olympic
MomntaimaoalpumaNeavyrainfall, PowTowmaemd's wateiraapp|ydepends omwa�eirslheda
vulnerable mpm|ongeddiryspells,
Theohy's primary waleirsources are the Big Qwi|conowatersheds inthe Olympics (via m
2g-ni|opipe|ina).whiohm|iomonwimerminmmndmnmwmok.VVkhdiminimhodmummor
minmnddodiningonnwpaok(so*bo|ov).|mom-summorwat*rmhoumgomoou|db000mom
significant concern, Drought conditions can also diry out forests and vegetation, leading
to more frequent buirin bains and heightening the risk of wildfires and smoke impacting
the area. Out*f+*gionfires may generate smoke and poor air quality locally.
A warmer, drier climate will strain water resources, agriculture, and ecosysterns, making
dmzaglMone ofPowTowmaemd'smnoatpressing o|imnmlechallenges.
� Extreme Heat:: Pei, the Washington State Department ofHealth, the 2O2] Western North
American heat dorne was a "loing-duration, unprecedented heat wave throughout the
Pacific Northwest.' National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data shows that
inthe week prior mthe heat dome,the temperature inPort Townmondmngodfmmm
11 Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
minimumof53degrees mmmmximumof7ldegrees, with mnaverage temperature of
58.gbdegrees. During the heat dome,the temperature mngodfrommminimumofb5
degrees and mhigh ofgbdegrees, with mnaverage temperature of78.O5degrees. Tho
heat clorne was not ain isolated incident. Pei, the National Centers for Environmental
|infbmmaioin, Jefferson Coamy'saverage mamnlpeiraU.imaimoireaaedby77degrees
Fahrenheit froml8g5to2O24.While PowTowmaemd'aaamnmneirsairemild oomnpairedto
other areas in Washington, summer temperatures are expected to continue rising. "I"'he
effects of extreme heat are claingerous, particularly for hurnains. "I"'he Washington State
Department of Health reports that extreme heat is the deadliest weatheir-related hazard
inthe United States.
� Wildfire: ThoClimate Mapping for m Resilient Washington tool provided bythe University
ofVVaalhimgtom'aC|imna�e|mnpaotaGxoalpshows tha�PowTownsend imlikely tohave 8
more clays of high risk of wildfire during the 20--year planning period whein compared
with the average based on 'I 97'l .2000 data. lin 2024, Jefferson County and Port
Townmondhmv*joindymdopt*dmCommunkyVVi|dfir*Prot*otionP|mn(CVVPP)to
address the risk ofwildfire. ThoCVVPP's welbmnalpshows tha�the majority ofPort
Townmondhas mhigh risk, with areas ofmoderate and low risk and mlarge area of
extreme risk to the west of Kearney Street, North of Woodland Avenue, and east of Baker
Street.
lin addition to the risks posed by fire within city limits, Port "Fownsend is also vulnerable
to smoke frorn wildfires in other areas. Wildfire smoke is a serious public health risk that
imnot bound byjurisdictions, frequently crossing the national boarder between tho
United States and Canada. Regional cooperation to reduce wildfires is necessary to
address the hazard ofwildfire smoke.
� Reduced Sinowpmch::Diminishing mnoamtaimamowlpaolkiaeoaemtiaUya's|ow-moving
diroaglWthmaaLVVithless amowfin theOlympics, aamnmneiraVeamnflows PowTownsend
relies on will drop. "I"'his hazard is prioritized because it underpins water availability in the
diry season and affects ecosystern health. "I"'he community recognizes that drought
caused by reduced sinowpack can impact water supplies and stirearns, and place
additional stress onagriculture, food production, and *oomymt*mhealth
Tlheohy's water supply istied mmnmwinthe Olympic Mountains. Reduced mountain
sinowpack is a critical climate impact for the region. Warming winters are now causing
more precipitation to fall as rain rather than sinow in the Olympics, and spring sinowpack
has been trending downward. Climate models project substantial declines in April 'I st
sinowpack by mid-lo-late century in the Cascades and Olympics. lin sorne scenarios,
mnmwpmokcould boless than half ofhistoric levels.
Sinowpack acts as a natural reservoir, slowly releasing water in spring and summer.
Diminished mnmwpmokcoupled with earlier mnowmolt, will lead m|ow*rsummer mtmym
flows and reduced recharge of the rivers and creeks feeding local water supplies. For
Port "Fownsend, that rneans the Big Quilcene River and other sources may carry less
water during the dry season, just as demand pealks. "I"'he result could be water shortages
or the need for strict summer water conservation. 1:::Ioirt Townsend's Wateir Systeirn F:11ain
addresses this risk through the Water Systern Analysis and Watershed Protection
Program.
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 12
M,
Reduced mnowpmdkalso impairs hydroelectric pow*rgeneration inthe region (most
Northwest hydropower relies onmnow-f*driv*rs).Lower mummouimohydropower
potential could Indirectly affect Port Townmondthrough higher electricity costs or
reduced girid reliability In surnmer. Additionally, less sinowpack and warmer stream
temperatures stress salmon and aquatic ecosystems, a cultural and economic conceirin
for communities around Port Townmond.
An additional economic conceirin is that Industries In Port "Fownsend, particularly the
Paper Mill, are reliant on water. Reducing or rationing available water would hit these
Industries before they Impact residential use, potentially leading to the temporary or
permanent closure ofIndustry jobs.
Tholoss ofreliable mountain mnowpmdkundermines water security, electricity
availability, and *oomym*mhealth, making kmsignificant vulnerability for Port
Towmaemd's resilience.
� Sea Levell ffime::Sea level rise (3LR) isone ofthe most visible long-term existential
threats to Port "Fownsend. By mid-century, higheirtides and storn-I SUrges could regularly
flood pmum of downtown and low-lying neighborhoods, The city has prioritized this
hazard by conducting a detailed risk assessment in 2022. Sea level irise's potential to
displace businesses and residents, darnage Infrastructure, and cause coastal eirosion
makes km critical hazard.
�TheoKy'stide gauge has recorded only aslight rise insea level (-0.17fttota|aincothe
early 197Os,once local land uplift/subsidence iafactored). However, global sea levels
are rising at an accelerating rate, and future projections for Port Townsend's coast show
significant increases by2O5O.
Undormmid+mngo(5O%pmbob|ity)moonehowkhhighgm*nhoumogmm*mbmions,Pou
Townoendcuu|dsee mugh|yO.8feet ofsea level rise by2O5O. More pessimistic
scenarios (upper -end projections) irldiCate LIP to —1 .0 ft by 2050 (17% probability), and
worst -case ''7%chance' scenarios approach 7.5 ftby2O5O.Even the moderate
estirnates would permanently inUndate low-lying areas and dramatically Increase the
frequency ofcoastal flooding.
FIowTowmaemd's lhia�oiriodmwmowin, which adsjuatalboveoamem high Ode lines, faces
ohmnioddm|inundmdoninth000mingdocmdomwkhoutmdmp«mdon.3ou|me|hmo(3LR)
will also exacerbate coastal *mmionofbluffs and beaches, threaten critical
Infrastructure (roads, ports, utilities) near the waterfront, and lead to saltwater Intrusion
Into aquifers and soils. Very high Udeo("Kimg7ldeo')occasionally flood aeciomaofthe
cNy's shoreline. Wiflh ain exVa 1 2 feet of sea level, moderate storms could produce
damaging floods rega|air|yThese oomoem a piromnlp�eddheChy's 2022Coaga| Rialk
Assessment which Identified assets at risk from sewage purrip stations to the Port of
Port "Fownsend marina under various SL.R scenarios. in surnmary, rising seas are
*xpoot*dtoincmmm*oommtm|f|oodingfr*quonoy.dogrmdomhom|ino*oomymt*mm(|ik*
mmkmmrmhommndmho||fimhbodm).mndn000mmitmt*oomt|ymdmptmdonmtoprot*otPort
Towmaemd'sdowntown and waterfront heritage.
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
Extreme Pirecipitaldoirv: intensifying rain events and associated flooding are identified as
a key hazard pair. Heavy rainfall can lead to flash flooding and slope failures. "I"'I'le
oomnmnamhyhmmeuperiemoedmnomafireqaeW1pimeapp|eeupmaoa~s�ommaya�ema
delivering torrents ofrain in short periods. Because these events strain mtormwmt*r
infrastructure and can flood hornes and businesses, they rank high on the list of hazards
to mitigate. Managing **r*moprecipitation imcrucial toavoid increased mtormwmt*r
and flooding.
Climate change is expected to bring more intense rainfall events to the Port "Fownsend
area, especially during the winter months. "Fetal annual precipitation may not change
drastically, with the Northwest possibly experiencing a slight increase of eight percent
bythe late century. However, the distribution ofthe rain will shift. Winters will bowetter,
mndmummors will bodrier.
Heavy downpours and storm events are projected mb000momore severe and frequent.
in Jefferson County, winter precipitation could increase by approximately '14% by 2099
under a high scenario, and models consistently show an increase in the frequency of
days with heavy rainfall. "I"'his rneans there is a greater likelihood of intense rainstorms
which can overwhelm mtormwmt*rmymt*mm.
FIowTowmaemd's hilly mairraimand dirainmgeimfiraa�iucmmawill face challenges firoirn
sudden, intense rain. Urban ninoff could cause flash flooding on streets and in low-lying
neighborhoods, and storm sewers might overflow. "I"'he Climate impacts Surnmary notes
heavier winter rainfall will elevate risks of landslides and erosion in the region. Steep
slopes and bluffs around PouTownmond(such mmthose near Fort Wordenoralong
coastal b|uff4could see more frequent shallow landslides when soils b000mo
supersaturated. Another concern is water quality. Heavy rains can increase pollutant
ninoff, overwhelm the wastewater treatment plant, and cause septic systerns to fail.
Extreme precipitation events present mgrowing threat offlooding and slope instability,
meaning PouTownmondmust prepare for heavier rainstorms even mmtotal rainfall
remains variable.
Hooding: Flooding, whether frorn extrerne rain or rising seas (or a combination), is a
priority hazard encompassing many of the above issues. "I"'he distinction of flooding as a
standalone 1pirioirNyumdeirsoomaohow damaging high wa�eircan betoPowTowmaemd's
econorny and safety. Coastal flooding threatens the downtown econornic center and
historic sites, whereas mtormwmt*rflooding can occur inmany parts oftown.
Community discussions often revolve around rnaps of flood -prone zones now and in the
future, reflecting a shared understanding that flood risk is growing and must be
proactively addressed. Responses might include upgrading culverts, enhancing ''gm*n~
infrastructure, orpossibly constructing flood defenses.
Flooding inPort Townemdcan occur frnmmultiple causes, such mmhigh tides and
storm surge along the coast, heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage facilities, and
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 14
Climate change will worsen all these types offlooding. Sea level rise will make coastal
flooding much more frequent. Areas which rarely flood today could bounder water
regularly bymid-cwntury.Storms which would have had m negligible effect inthe past
may, with sea level rise, inundate streets and buildings. "I"'he Jefferson County Climate
Element Gap Analysis warns increased precipitation intensity imcausing more riv*rino
and storrnwater flooding, which darnages property and infrastructure and can trigger
landslides. "I"'he City is updating its storrnwater management plans to handle larger
volurnes, but older parts of town have pipes sized for historical rainfall, not expected
future extremes.
King tide flooding already provides a preview of coastal inundation, occasionally
flooding the Boat Haven area and Water Street waterfront. Climate projections indicate
that what is currently a 'I 00--year coastal flood event COUld occur far more often by the
late century due to sea level rise. Emergency managers are particularly concenned
about a scenario of concurrent hazards — for example, a winter windstorm driving a
storm surge into Port"Fownsend Bay while 2 inches of rain fall in 24 hours. "I"'his kind of
compound event could produce severe flooding.
in addition to hazards that are created or worsened by climate change, there are existing
hazards to consider during planning, This short list ofenvironmental hazards summarizes
hazards that, while not demonstrably linked toclimate change, still shape Port Townmond.
Thom* hazards are included in the Climate Bement because they must be considered for
adapting to climate change, to prevent contradiction between plans for worsening and existing
hazards.
� Windmtonrnm�Port Townmendhas mhistory ofstorm demagoand power outages. Public
workshops for bazard planning have consistently highlighted wind as a top concern. A
severe windstorm can have city-wide impacts overnight —knocking out
communications, blocking moada.and oauaimgproperty damnage.While o|imna�eohamge'a
influence on windstorms is uncertain, the community prioritizes preparedness for wind
events because oftheir sudden onset and high impact.
Severe windstorms are ofamiliar hozmrdinthe Puget Sound region, and Port Townmond
is no exception. intense wind events (often auturnin or winter cyclones) have historically
caused extensive darnage, "I"'he Columbus Day Storm of '1962 brought wind gusts of over
Thomimnot yet scientific consensus onhow wind speeds may change onthe Olympic
Peninsula due to climate change. However, even if storm frequency remains the same,
the impacts of windstorms may worsen because of compounded factors. For example,
sea level rise could allow wind -driven storm surge toexacerbate high tides, causing
greater flooding. Heavier winter rains may saturate soils, making trees more prone to
toppling in high winds. if surnmers become drier, trees could be stressed or dead (from
drought or pests), increasing their susceptibility to fall in high winds.
"I"'he combination of wind events, coastal flooding, and tree weakness may result in more
hequeW pmweirootageoand imfiraa�iucmmadamnagePomTowmaemd'salbove-gmund
utility lines and many historic buildings are vulnerable to extreme wind. Recent wind
15 Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
events have caused multi -day electricity outages in Jefferson County and disrupted laind
and sea transportation, blocking roads and interrupting ferry service.
While o|iina�eohmnge'seffeo omwiindommmfirequemoyisumoewaiin,they remain m
priority hazard for Port"Fowinsend because of the significant darnage they can inflict on
the pow*rgrid,buildings, and transportation network.
� Earthqualkes:: F::1::::lVA's National Risk index Map shows that most of Port "Fownsend has a
relatively moderate risk ofearthquakes, with the southernmost census block's irialk being
relatively high. Thimimsupported bythe U3Geological Sairvey's QuateirmairyFaulkaMalp.
which shows a number of moderately constrained faults around Port "Fownsend, largely
inthe Strait ofJuan doFuca.
� Tmuinairnis::FBMA's Natioma|Rialk|mdeuMqpmalpowaflha�eadhoemauab|odkimPow
"Fownsend has a different tsunarni risk. "I"'he block rainging frorn north of Discovery Road
and west of Sain Juan Avenue has a very low tsunarni risk. "I"'he block outhined by the Sain
Juan tolgth Street, 2OthStreet, Benton Street, Franklin Street, AdmmmStreet, Jefferson
Street, Quincy Street, and the shoreline has a relatively low risk of tsunarnis. "I"'he
remaining census block, covering the southernmost area ofPort Townmond.has m
relatively moderate tsunarni risk. "I"'suinarnis should be considered in conjunction with
planning for sea level rise and flooding, as a higher average water level rneans that
inundation fromtmunmmimcan likewise reach higher areas.
Opportunities
While Port"Fowinsend is facing significant climate challenges, it also beinefits frorn sustainability
initiatives and a legacy of environmental action. Below is ain outhine of opportunities and actions
� State Reg u Wioms::Washington State currently has political support and funding for
climate mmi|ionow programs, and is regulating msupport environmental justice. Pei, state
law, elements of Comprehensive Plans must have specific goals, policies and programs
that:
o identify, protect and enhance natural areas mfoster resiliency mclimate
impacts, mmwell mmareas ofvital habitat for safe passage and species migration.
o identify, protect and enhance community resiliency mclimate ohmngoimpacts,
including social, econornic and built environment factors that support adaptation
mclimate impacts consistent with environmental justice.
o Address natural hazards created oraggravated byclimate change, including sea
level rise, landslides, flooding, drought, heat, smoke, wildfire and other effects of
more hazardous temperature and precipitation patterns.
o Prioritize actions that bonefitoverburdened communities that will
disproportionately suffer fromcompounding environmental, *oonomic,and
social impacts and that will bomost impacted bynatural hazards due mclimate
change.
� OrgaiMzed Coirnirnuinity:: Port "Fownsend specifically, aloing with Jefferson County and the
wider Olympic Peninsula, is horne to many people and organizations working to manage
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 16
effects of climate change, rninirnize local impacts, increase resilience, and manage
ecological functions.
�or example,the Climate Action Committee has set ambitious greenhouse gas emission
reductiontargets, which Jefferson County and Port Townsend have adopted. The initial
2011 reduction goals were updated by a 2024 joint resolution ofthe Board of County
Commissioners andthePort Townsend City Council. The current emission reduction
targetaare5B7%reductionfrom2O1Bbaae|ine|ewe|aby2O3O(abao|ute)and95%
below 2O1Blevels by2O5O(abmo|ute)(City Resolution 24-021)This resolution also
approved increasing sequestration of greenhouse gas emissionsto a 20% increase
abovethe2O11-2O16baseline of1.64Million Metric Tons ofCQ2(MMTCQ2)/yoar,upto
2.0MMTCO2by2030. Commented [AS4]� As requested by CAC workgroup,
Many neighborhoods and community groups conduct hyperlocal disaster preparednessadded the currently adopted er-Nss�ons reduchorls.
planning and training, ensuring that residents know how to prepare for disasters, where
to assemble, and how to offer aid to neighbors. Port "Fownsend youth are particularly
organized in support of climate resilience, with groups like Students for Sustainability
successfully mobilizing for mvehicle idling ban inthe city.
Local government has also worked to foster climate resilience in Port "Fownsend. "I"'he
City Library won mgrant tomake the public library m Climate Resiliency Center with art,
oondidoningmndmirfi|trmdon,Librmriommr*weUpoo0onodtomddmmmtheno*dmwith
increasing surnmer heat and wildfire especially for OUr most vulnerable populations.
Expanding collaboration between these groups and local governments will bokey m
offering general education about climate planning. "I"'his also creates opportunities to
engage with workers who enact climate policies,
Disaster Preparedness: Climate change increases the frequency and severity of
disasters. .JeffersomCoamty'sQelpawmnemuofEmnemJemoyViamagemnemtprovides
pmmotiv*p|mnningandr*mouvcomforhmzovdmmnddimmmt*rs.inc|udinginPouTownmond.
"I"'he Department of Emergency Management plans for, administers, and executes a
comprehensive program of disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.
This includes coordinating volunteers, who work throughout Jefferson County in groups
indudingCommunityEmorgenoyR*mponmoT*mm(CERU.Joffermon3omrchmndR*mouo
(JSAR), Jefferson County incident Managernent"Fearn (JIM"I"') Medical Reserve Corps
(MRC).and Volunteer Emergency Communications (VECOM).
Fundfing:! Local and state fUrlding is becoming more essential to fund climate resilience
projects. Washingtoin State's Cliirna�e Commitment Act funded the creation of this
Climate Resilience Element, and will be an important funding source in implementing
climate resilience programs. Cross -jurisdiction grant applications may be an important
tool for improving regional resilience. "I"'he City will consider preparing plans, such as a
Climate Adaptation Plan, to support the creation and funding of climate resilience
projects.
17 Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
���m�1,��~~�
������
The C|imna�eBenemapolicy imidadveoconform todheataWso|imna�egaidamwe,aaggeodmg
policy to addiress buildings and energy, cultural resources and practices, econornic
development, emergency management, health and well -being, ecosysterns, transportation,
agriculture and food systerns, waste management, water systerns, and zoning and
development. All ofthe dimmt*-ireWedgoals and policies aireimoompoiratedimtoClhalp�eir7O's
oomao|ida�edlpo|ioyfmsmnewoirlk.While mnadhoftheCiy's 1po|ioydirertiomiaconsistent with what
already exists inadopted policy, there are new areas ofemphasis, including:
Impact Reduction
Climate policy incorporates a variety of directives to lessen or control the extent to which Port
Towmaemd'saotivideoand imveo�imeiMacoin tirilb�.i � etoo|imna�echange. This imo|adeolpo|ioyto
reduce or manage greenhouse gas emissions, reduce or manage vehicle miles traveled,
encourage noin.-i-notorized transportation, and increase the urban tree canopy to mitigate heat
island impacts.
Hazard Awareness
��areness
Policy is included to increase public awareness of natural events which may result in hazards,
influencing actions to prepare for climate events through desigin and behavior. "I"'his includes
education on ways to mitigate the impact of hazards and how to respoind to disasters, including
areas for assembly and shelter.
�� Conservation
�v����l���� .�������������on
Climate policy also calls for the conservation of natural resources, principally energy, water, and
trees, to reduce per capita consumption, increase building and municipal systerns efficiencies,
and pursue local and regional creative conservation strategies.
Resilience
� Change
�^����������������
"I"'he plain acknowledges the dyinarnic nature of the climate, anticipating it will chainge over firne
in various ways. in sorne cases as with critical infrastructure policy may suggest
"lhairdemimg~ittowiflhatamdsea level iriae.flooding, oir wind. |motheircases, policy may suggest m
more adaptive approach, calling for new desigin approaches to make buildings more flexible in
theface ofchanging oomdiiomaoira�ylpeof''mnamagediretrea� firomn|ooatiomaw1heireamtioilpated
climate impacts may be great enough to suggest eventual relocation of sorne activities.
Managed retreat imcomplex because many historic buildings cannot borelocated.
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 18
AdopOingaC|ina�e Resilience BeneWoomdinaeoFIowTowmaemd'slegacy ofaddressing climate
hazard preparedness. Port "Fownsend must implement this element to ensure the city will
sustainably support anticipated growth under new ranges of environmental conditions. A full list
of climate resilience goals, policies, and actions are available in Chapter '10. "I"'he
implementation table in that chapter includes specific steps the City will talke to align
infrastructure investments with climate goals, improve systern efficiency, and proactively plan
for future growth inmnenvironmentally sustainable, fiscally responsible, and equitable manner
"I"'he following implementation actions summarize near., mid-, and long-term actions the City can
talke for climate resilience.
Shoirt-Teinrm
T'hoCity will begin using the PT3umtainob|e3tm*ts Plan described inthe Tmnmpoumdon
Element to guide the development and maintenance of public rights of way. "I"'he City will
update the ub|hyplanning firameworlkstoalign wiflhtNeComprehensive P|an'sgirowd
mtmt*g8inc|udingincorpormdngLow-|mpmccQev*bpment(L|D)pmoticeainto
engineering standards and (.1evelopment review. Water, sewer, and stormwater
infrastructure assessments will guide investment priorities, particularly in areas targeted
forinfiU Air quality will continue tuboanalyzed when reviewing applications for new
development. investment priorities will also consider equitable relief from climate
impmotm, pmuicu|odythrom8h cooling centers, Interagency coordination will be
strengthened to support school, fire, and library facility planning, while the City will
improve tracking of system capacity and service gaps. "I"'his will include collaboration
with the Department of Public Health on climate related threats, such as heat and
wildfire smoke. Tho C8ywill also imp|omon1updmt*d industrial pretreatment
reqUirernents to better protect water qUality and ensure compliance with state and
federal regulations,
Mid-Temrm
"Fo align climate resilience with housing and econornic development goals, the City will
prioritize utility extensions and upgrades in identified growth areas, including
neighborhood nodes and corridors. Port Townmondwill collaborate with the Jefferson
County Department of Emergency Management and local groups to offer education on
hazards and how to respond to disasters, including preparation tips and assembly areas.
"I"'he City will also consider developing a Climate Adaptation Plan, which would support
Port "Fownsend in planning for and applying for funding to support climate resilience
projects. Supporting walkable developments imkey mreducing the climate
vulnerabilities of spread -out, suburban style development. Port "Fownsend staff will also
pmmmeaccess mw*mthorizmdonand energy efficiency services through community
organizations and Jefferson PUD.City staff will begin evaluating city -owned
infrastructure and facilities for opportunities to integrate green building practices, energy
efficiency improvements, and renewable energy systerns. "I"'he City will use the Sea Level
Rise "Fechnical investigation to mitigate impacts on areas vulnerable to inundation.
19 Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element
Long-Tenrm
"I"'he City will continue to monitor and adapt its utility systern planning based on updated
population forecasts, climate risks, and emerging technologies. "I"'his includes periodic
updates mmystemplans for water, sewer, and mmnnwat*rutilities, mmwell mm
enhancements to mmmot management tools that guide long-term maintenance and
replacement. Emphasis will boplaced onlife-cycle cost management, water
conservation, and climate resilience to ensure systerns remain efficient, sustainable, and
responsive to evolving community needs. "I"'he City will continue monitoring sea level rise
and its impacts, and plan and implement long-term solutions. City staff will work with
the CAC and community organizations to conduct climate resilience outreach and
education.
Port Townsend Climate Resilience Element 20
______________________________________________. 1
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space ....................................................................................... 1
PlanningContext ................................................................................................................................
Challenges& Opportunities .............................................................................................................. 2
Challenges: ............................................................................ ....................................................... 2
Opportunities: ................................................................ ............................................................... 2
Policyinitiatives ................................................................................................................................ 3
Open Space and "Frail Network Development ......................................... ................................... 3
Equitable and inclusive Access ............................................. ...................................................... 3
Partnerships and Regional Coordination ................... ......... ................................ ...................... 3
Maintenance, Funding, and Planning ........................................................................................... 3
Protection ofNatural Resources ....................... .......................................................................... 3
Elementimplementation .... ............................................................... ............................................. 4
Adopt the 2O25PROS Plan ..................................................... ..................................................... 4
Coordinate with City Departments ................... ........................................................................... 4
Position for and Seek Grant Funding...........................................................................................
inventory C8yfwnodProperty for Parks Purposes ...................................................................
Update the PROS Plan amAppropriate ........................................................................................
Nurture oVolunteer and Stewardship Program .......................................................................... 4
City urPort Townsend namo Recreation and Open Space oemem I naoeo
"I"'he consideration of parks, recreation, and open space is integrated into this Comprehensive
Plan update in most elements, as these spaces are of core importance throughout many
aspects oflife inPort Townmond.
ThoCity ofPort Townmondimupdating its
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PRO3)
Plan, providing mdetailed inventory, analysis,
and direoiomfor dheChyofPowTowmaemd's
parks over the next six years toten years. The
PROS Nan, and its subsequent updates, Mill! The
conmWered 1pairt of the Parks, Recremdon,and
Open SpaceEUemment of the Port Townsend
Comprehensive Nan. Thoupdated plan,
reflecting amendments generated mmpart ofthe
comprehensive planning process, imattached in
the Appendix. Updating the PROS plan mmpart
ofthis periodic update has the potential to
extend the qualification ofthe PROS plan for
Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO)grant
programs, extending the life ofthe PROS plan
from six to '10 years.
AlplpiroumnaWWg.2g%ofPowTowmaemd's
population responded mthe 2O25PROS survey,
sharing what kinds ofpark improvements they
most wanted msee. Thosurvey was useful but
had demographic limitations, particularly
limited responses for school -aged residents
and families with young children. Tommoh
more community members, PoilTownmond
staff conducted additional outreach through the
Port TownmondLibrmrySummer Reading
Program. Participants inthe survey and
community conversations shared they want to
City urPort Townsend namo Recreation and Open Space oemem naoe I
see more walking and bilking trails and increased environmental conservation efforts. in
addition, the recreation programs or activities that were most highly desired were undeveloped
natural areas/open space, urban trails/sidewalks, and protected bilke lanes for recreation and
commute. "I"'hese results provide a basis for the future park priorities and improvements
focused onwithin this element and the PROS Plan.
Th000mmunity engagement
process throughout the PROS Plan
update identified many specific
challenges and opportunities for
parks, recreation, and open space in
Port Toxmmond.Thomochallenges
and opportunities are further detailed
inthe PROS Plan, but the top themes
for challenges and opportunities are
as follows:
Lack ofpark access for residents onthe West side ofPort Townsend 2O25PROS Survey
results point specifically to the southwest, "T"his is an area where many young families
live who would use parks more frequently ifparks were more accessible.
Facilities are aging. especially some playgrounds, and require expensive maintenance.
Playgrounds and other park facilities need updates to ensure they are ADA accessible.
Lack ofawareness ofall park spaces. Many residents are unaware ofthe location or
variety of park facilities available to them, potentially traveling farther than they need to
access opark.
Opportunities -
Me community's desire for native plantings and natural features. "I"'he Port "lownm*nd
community wants to have more native plantings and natural features in their parks.
Embracing these options can lead to less maintenance demand while also providing
what the community wants. Undouui|izedpark areas can bompurpomodm
accommodate native plantings orother natural features.
The legacy ofactive and potential parks system volunteers. Port Townm*ndimm
community that values voltinteerism. Having community members who are excited to
volunteer in the parks creates opportunity to have people engaged in maintaining and
improving the parks mymt*m
City urPort Townsend namo Recreation and Open Space oemem naoez
���m�1,��~~�
������
Goals and policies appear In the comprehensive plan policy framework and In the PROS Plan, In
alignment with community desires. Some of the main themes within the policy framework
related mparks Include:
JIF
"I"'he comprehensive plan emphasizes building and creating a comprehensive open space and
trail system. Port Townmondresidents and vimkors want msee parks and open spaces
connected bymtrail network, mndformtmi|nemv rkmbomvai|ob|eforthommtmv*|thmughout
PouToxmmond.
Comprehensive Plan policies aim mensure
equitable access toparks and recreation facilities,
Including accessible design and access for people
with disabilities. Developing neighborhood parks in
undormow*dareas immnImportant priority. Akey
theme throughout PROS Plan engagement imthe
need for more park access onPomTowmaemd'a
west side. |npmilicu|ar,the PROS Plan describes
how the City plans tohave parks with family friendly
amenities within l/4mile tot*n'minut*walk from
residential neighborhoods.
Port Townsemdparks can bestrategic In what they offer, complementing existing and popular
programs innearby communities and Jefferson Coumy.P|mnningm|ongmidoothoroommunky
entities ensures people have access to a variety of recreation facilities, activities, and programs.
�����n�� �m���Planning
Maintenance, ���
"I"'here are ongoing maintenance needs for parks, recreation, and open space In Port "Fownsend.
"I"'he Community Services Department, which houses the parks division works with other City
departments to ensure parks and trails receive the care they need. "I"'he Comprehensive Plan
policy framework makes it clear where goals and policies can be worked on by multiple
departments and highlights the need for collaboration.
Protection �����m�r�� ��
� �~����=~��� ��� ��=�~=�m�� Resources
Many policies are fied to conservation and environmental protection through parks and open
space. Parks can be used as tools for ecosystem preservation and stormwater management.
City urPort Townsend namo Recreation and Open Space Element naoes
Adopt the 2025 PROS Plan
Ensure that the PROS Plan aligns with this Comprehensive Plan and the Growth Management
Act. "I"'he PROS Plan includes extensive community engagement and identifies community
needs, desires, and a plan for implementation. Working in coordination with this plan will be the
most effective way to positively impact parks, recreation, and open space in Port Townsend.
Coordinate with City Departments
Ensure that park planning is integrated with land use, transportation, and climate initiatives.
Park goals and policies will be most effectively implemented in coordination with other city
initiatives.
Position for and Seek Grant Funding
identify and prioritize projects for funding through state, federal, and private grant opportunities.
ViaiWaiin aliginimeW wiflh N.iindiing eligilbilMy cirNeiria, such as RC O sRaindairds, to enhance dhe CNy's
ability to leverage resources for parks improvements.
Inventory City -Owned Property for Parks
Purposes
Regularly inventory City -owned lan�j to evaluate opportunities for new park spaces, especially in Coirrunented [MVVI.I: we can add sorne of the �atest
areas that are underserved based on level -of service standards. This inventory can identify vniaps rhat Wnin has worked on here
property that may be used or enhanced to serve future park and recreation needs.
Update the PROS Plan as Appropriate
Confinue, to evaluate community needs and make periodic updates to the PROS Plan to
accurately reflect the community. "I"'his will help ensure the plan remains relevant to all
residents.
Nurture a Volunteer and Stewardship
Program
Support and expand existing community volunteerism in parks by developing volunteer
prograrris and opportunities.
................
City of Port Townsend Parks Recreation and Open Space Elernent I Paoe 4
l� a[fle �ff 0,'')i-aer,as
Introduction............................................................................................................................................................ 2
City of Port Townsend Economic Development I Page .1.
Economic health is a fundamental underpinning of successful community outcomes. Jobs, business success, income levels,
housing affordability, and public services are all connected to the local, regional, and national economies. Government and
business have a symbiotic relationship. Private business relies ouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuum
on,,.government-provided services, such as public transportation Connecting to Port
systems, affordable housing, utilities, and education systems.
Government relies on the tax revenue generated from private Townsend 2045
businesses to provide services. This means the Economic MEN=
mimryµ��J)��pN�mNlyypni�i��o���:�u�n�,iiuiyoilu��6�f��i41i«oi������ivw�iiDevelopment Element and implementation is important for all m ®' t- " 0j0residents and businesses because a stable economy provides® ® ®® ® ® .
sustainable public services while decreasing the tax burden on
individuals.
The tax system in Washington State is highly dependent on sales
tax, which is challenging for cities' fiscal sustainability. When
residents shop in other areas, such as Sequim or Silverdale, the
City loses that tax revenue. Port Townsend's revenue is
supported by sales taxes from visitors through the local tourism
industry.
Economic development efforts also seek to strengthen the
economy by providing more family -wage jobs. Port Townsend
experiences an imbalance of wages and living costs primarily
tied to a rapid increase in the cost of housing. Over the long
term, Port Townsend seeks an economy which is balanced,
diverse, and nimble enough to recover from extreme weather
events, energy issues, and economic challenges. A diverse
economy also provides a wider variety of job opportunities
suited to all skill levels in the workforce.
�his element was developed based on the 1996, 2011, and 2016
Economic Development Elements, local data, and public input.
The Economic Development Council (EDC) Team Jefferson
worked with City of Port Townsend through events, meetings,
and collaborating on a survey of EDC members' goals and
desires for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing land and
opportunities within Port Townsend
The purpose of this Economic Development Element is to
provide guidance for maintaining, enhancing, and creating
economic activity within Port Townsend consistent with the
community's vision. This element presents an integrated
economic development strategy, in conjunction with the policy
framework and implementation actions presented in the Goals, Policies, and Implementation Actions Element.
City of Port Townsend Economic Development I Page 2.
Commented [KG1]: @Adrian Smith could this include
creative economy -- "its cultural resources, including artists
and creative economy workers who support its identity as
an arts community" (new bullet for historic character?)
Commented [SK2]: @Adrian Smith @Shelly Leavens
@John Mauro Is this accurate anymore? It was a longtime
ago what is different. Maybe we say that historical)
g Y Y Y,
economic development efforts have focused on the desire
for commercial, industrial and manufacturing land and
opportunities. These efforts have been largely unsuccessful
as the economy continues to shift toward tourism based and
residential support. Looking forward, key partnerships with
the Port and County are key to addressing this trend.
111�4i�omm�Vl o riiIt e :xlt
Port Townsend is distant from the major economic 1-5 corridor, located on the Olympic Peninsula near the forests
and fisheries which gave it its economic start. The city was founded with plans to become a major port city and
transportation hub via railway. This motivated investment in the community's Victorian -era waterfront
architecture and the speculative platting ofthe entirety ofthe city, far in advance of any development pressure.
Pre -platting established road rights of way and legal lots that were generations ahead of any capability to build
roads orsupply urban infrastructure.
Subsequent eras of economic booms and busts shaped Port Townsend into a city that, as described in the
Comprehensive Plan Introduction's vision, highly values "locally -rooted businesses and a resilient economy"
along with "meaningful work and family wage jobs". The focus on an interconnected local economy is particularly
important because Port Townsend is geographically isolated, a "peninsula at the end ofthe peninsula."
Beyond regional economic trends and local values, Port Townsend has also been shaped by regulatory
requirements and guidance.
The GMA does not require jurisdictions to adopt an Economic Development Element without state funding. However, Port
Townsend, like many jurisdictions has chosen to create and adopt an economic development element as described in
Revised Code of Washington Chapter 36.70A.070(7): "An economic development element establishing local goals, policies,
objectives, and provisions for economic growth and vitality and a high quality of life."
Future land uses should be closely tied to a city's economic strategy. Accordingly, this Comprehensive Plan closely links and
integrates with economic strategy to guide economic development appropriate for Port Townsend. The GMA provides some
direction for incorporating economic development considerations into the Comprehensive Plan. Among the 14 planning
goals contained within the GMA, one pertains specifically to economic development:
"Encourage economic development throughout the state that is consistent with adopted comprehensive plans, promote
economic opportunity for all citizens of this state, especially for unemployed and for disadvantaged persons, promote the
retention and expansion of existing businesses and recruitment of new businesses, recognize regional differences impacting
economic development opportunities, and encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient economic growth, all within
the capacities of the state's natural resources, public services, and public facilities." (Chapter 36.70A.020(5) RCW).
County -Wide Planning
The Economic Development Element must also be consistent with the County -Wide Planning Policy for Jefferson County,
specifically Policy #7, "County -Wide Economic Development and Employment." Policy #7, summarized below, recognizes the
distinct roles of local government and the private sector:
The private sector should be primarily responsible for creating economic opportunity in Jefferson County.
The responsibility of local government is to assure that economic development activities are carried out in
a manner that is consistent with defined community and environmental values. In order to ensure such
consistency, the comprehensive plan should clearly identify these values so that economic opportunities
will not be lost due to confusion or unreliability of process.
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page
Local government is also responsible for internal coordination of capital facilities, land use, and utilities, as well as external
coordination with other entities, including the Port of Port Townsend and Jefferson County. The CWPP directs that the
Comprehensive Plan give particular attention to the needs of nonservice sector businesses and industries and recognize that
some businesses are best suited for the urban growth area (UGA) while others may be better suited for the rural
unincorporated areas.
The City's 1996 Comprehensive Plan was adopted during a time of rapid growth, development, and economic expansion in
Washington State. The 2011 and 2016 plans learned from the Great Recession, responding to slowing economic expansion
and lowered population growth. The impacts of COVID-19 pandemic and increase of remote work are still being assessed,
but have had an impact on smaller remote cities such as Port Townsend. Finally, an ongoing economic shift is increased
retirements as many people in the Baby Boom generation leave the workforce. This was accelerated by the COVID-19
pandemic and related retirement incentives. Labor shortages are a problem for all industries. These fundamental changes
must shape Port Townsend's economic development planning, particularly when considering how to support the
community values of economic diversity and resilience, enhancement of household incomes, and compact community
structure to limit stresses on the community's infrastructure.
Challenges
The issues shaping the earlier plans still exist today, different in terms of specific events but sharing similar themes. The
Implementation section of the Economic Development Element summarizes steps to address these issues, while the Goals,
Policies, and Implementation Chapter details how the city will guide future economic development in Port Townsend.
American Community Survey Table CP03 Comparative Economic Characteristics
reports that a decreasing percentage of Port Townsend's population aged 16 and
older are in the workforce. Port Townsend's percentage of population in the
workforce has generally been 10% to 13% lower than the state average. That
difference has increased steeply since the previous Comprehensive Plan was
adopted in 2016, with Port Townsend's percentage of people in the workforce
falling more than 20% below the state average. During that same period, the
state's workforce population increased 0.3% while Port Townsend's workforce fell
9.3%.
Chart X.J X, percentage of Population Aged 16 and Older ilia the Port lfaannsirnseirnd and VVashiiirngto n 'State
VVorlkforces 2.006-202.3
City of fort Townsend Economic Developrnent I Page 4
S `%
J_0,00' ,
l(i(i(, l.(,11C1 T(il I l(il'� l(,17i1 l(ilk;9� l(Il�il(Il
VVAPopul Hol)H.I)dOldel' i)lheA/V()il<fr,iI''bil l()VVi) iulll)iill(101(1,rrinl1)+VVorlcfoirr"
Source: American Community Survey Table CP03 Comparative Economic Characteristics
The shrinking workforce is not caused by decreases in the overall population. In fact, decreases in the workforce were
concurrent with population growth in Port Townsend.
Chart X.b X, Port lowirnseirnd lotall Population n and Population n ha the Workforce, 20.15 to 2023
a ),000
;,000
6,000
V,UUV
,,,,
�,000
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
I1"10 lows "( d loYtl I'll, P(i
Source: American Community Survey Table CP03 Comparative Economic Characteristics and Table S0101 Aye and Sex, 201.5
to 2023
A contributing factor is that Port Townsend has a higher -than -average percentage of residents who are 65 or older. The 2023
American Community Survey's 5-Year Estimate reports that 41% of Port Townsend residents are age 65 and over versus a
statewide average of just 16.3% (Table S0101). This trend is not new, with Census data showing that Port Townsend's
average age has been 15-20 years older than the state average since at least 2010. The difference between state and Port
Townsend average ages has increased in the last 5 years, with the most recent estimate showing that the average age in Port
Townsend is 21 years older than the state average.
Chart X.b X, Port lowirnseirnd and Wash iiirngto n 'State Average Population Af e 2.01,0-2.02.3
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 5
A)
),4
x2,:i3
!0
37
40
37,4
37,6
37,8
M,2.
0
JO
i0
0
I'll, l ""1 a , "11 , 1 i I„^ros,-.11d
Source: American Communitv Survev Table S0101 Aee and Sex
It is important to note that many residents in Port Townsend continue working or volunteering past the age of 65, making
age an imperfect measure for how long people remain in the workforce. However, it is unlikely that workers and volunteers
in this age range will remain in the workforce over the Comprehensive Plan's 20-year planning period. Further, comparing
ACS Table S0101 Age and Sex with Table CP03 Comparative Economic Characteristics shows that as of 2022 and 2023, there
are more residents 65 years old or older than there are workers living in Port Townsend.
Chain XXX, IMnui mnl eir of Il Residents Af ed 65 a(rnd Older Co mnlpaired wirtfn NVn.uirinbeir of IResiideirnts iiirn the Workforce iiirn
Fort l owirnseirnd, 2015 to 2023
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
1'„it 'o1r,ul"Ho (',"I d()I,Jc,r ,,,,,J1'(ni l„^n',cr Jl'N„ilrf)r,r,.e
Source: American Community Survey Table CP03 Comparative Economic Characteristics and Table S0101 Aye and Sex, 201.5
to 2023
Port Townsend's population must include people who work. Including workers aligns with Port Townsend's vision of
"neighborhoods of differing income levels and life experiences." Having a local workforce is also essential for economic
resilience. Per the U.S. Census Bureau Longitudinal Employer -Household Dynamics (LEND) via Census OnTheMap, 2,160
workers commute into Port Townsend from other jurisdictions. Long commutes leave workers with less time for their
personal lives and may disincentivize them to continue working in Port Townsend. In -person jobs become vulnerable to
transportation issues, which can be more common in a geographically isolated city. Telework can also become more risky as
electrical or internet interruptions at either the worker's home or the employer's main office can stop work. Relying on a
City of Port Townsend Economic I:)eveloprnerrr I Page 6
commuting workforce instead of creating opportunities for a local workforce has negative consequences for workers, their
employers, and Port Townsend's economic vitality.
Displacement of working residents from Port Townsend is a significant concern. An additional complication is that working
residents in Port Townsend do not only work within city limits. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau Longitudinal Employer -
Household Dynamics (LEND) via Census OnTheMap also shows that 2,400 Port Townsend residents either commute out of
the city or telework for an employer outside of Port Townsend. Only 1,198 people both live and work within Port Townsend.
Chart X.b X, Number of VVorlkelrs Confnnnutiling into IPort '1fo wnsend, VVorlkiilrng and ILiving in IPort lfaannsirnseirnd, and
Q:o mnimnnutilirng Out of IPort lfaannsirnseirnd
,400
Commute
out
Workforce -aged residents and older residents are likely competing for a limited number of housing units. American
Community Survey 2023 Table B19037 Age of Householder by Household Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2023 Inflation -
Adjusted Dollars) shows that in both Washington state and Port Townsend, householders between 25 to 44 and 45 to 64
years of age have the highest household income. While higher average incomes can assist workforce -aged residents in
securing housing, it is worth noting that Port Townsend's limited housing supply contributes to high housing costs and other
costs of living, meaning that even higher -income households face challenges finding housing.
The COVID-19 Pandemic was a major public health crisis that also brought about lasting changes in the ways in which people
work. These technological and social innovations have endured, with remote work enabling many in the workforce,
including Port Townsend's workforce -aged population, to live in places other than in the town in which they are employed —
without the need to commute long distances daily. With these advancements, more businesses and their employees are
locating based on quality of life rather than for convenient access to a major transportation corridor. This means that
businesses in Port Townsend are now competing for employees with businesses far away from Port Townsend. Il lrp, ,_Il,alrga it
.inidin.rp.glr...e?¢rpin,2lnrp¢„_IPi,�zlk,iilni,g,,rra�c;GofLVIC ii tlPu ¢;¢;ell it t dit Glir into snito$tlPu Ih lh Ihooinru it�roirlkfoiMe.
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 7
Commented [SK3]: Need to add statistics about
retirement acceleration of the Baby Boomers
.... ..... .... .... ..... .....
Commented [AS4R3]: If you have stats, please provide
them for the next draft.
Household Incomes
Per American Community Survey's 2022 5-Year Estimate, Washington States' median household income was $90,325 per
year, Jefferson County's was $64,769 and Port Townsend's the median household income was $59,193.
If iigia re XXX. Il Household olld Illrnco mne iilrn Port "I I'aannslrnselrnd wiitfn IReglio nall Coi mlpalriiso n, 2013 & 2022
$100,000
$90,000
$80,000
$ 70,000
$60,000
$ 50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
j, ..
$64,796
$59,193
$90,325
PortTownsend (All Households) Jeffeson County Wrashinr_lton
Source: US Census Bureau 5-Year ACS, Table S2503.
Lower wages are attributable in large part to under -representation of trade sector employment — in higher wage jobs as
with manufacturing, professional, and technical services. Currently, Port Townsend has a higher percentage of lower -wage
occupation jobs than the rest of the state. Retail and accommodations, including lodging and food service, are major
employers because Port Townsend is a tourist destination. Incomes in Port Townsend generally do not support
homeownership, showing that contrary to the vision described in the Comprehensive Plan's Introduction, working residents
do not have "family wage jobs."
Appropriately zoned land with full municipal infrastructure is critical to accommodating new higher wage employment. This
land is scarce, generally located in areas already developed with existing commercial, industrial, or institutional uses. While
there is undeveloped land zoned for commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and mixed uses, some of these parcels do not
have infrastructure within the City. The number of industrial and manufacturing parcels are more limited The extension of
roads, sidewalks, water, and sewer lines are the responsibility of developers, which requires a significant initial investment
before these projects could be built. Participants in the joint City of Port Townsend and EDC Team Jefferson survey reported
that they do not have funding to absorb these initial costs.
The challenges of renting commercial or manufacturing spaces were consistently reported by local business -owners who
participated in the joint City of Port Townsend and EDC Team Jefferson survey. There is not sufficient data on the number of
available commercial and/or manufacturing rental units, making it difficult to calculate vacancy rates. Unlike residential
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 8
rentals, which are usually advertised in a variety of physical and online spaces that are accessible to realtors and prospective
tenants, there is no single source of information on commercial or manufacturing rental properties in Port Townsend. While
some building owners choose to post the listing to sites available to the public, others advertise by word of mouth or signs
in the building's window. Many participants shared that finding a rental for their business depended on knowing people,
either the property owner or a connected party. These challenges become more pressing as costs increase, particularly rent
costs for the space. While city staff do not have jurisdiction over rental listings, staff can work with EDC Team Jefferson to
identify tools that may help local businesses and entrepreneurs. For example, survey participants were interested in more
information on renovations and permitting for commercial spaces.
Workforce cueing
Per public engagement, a survey of local employers by Housing Solutions Network, and Census data on incomes, the biggest
barrier to business and the workforce is the lack of housing units at attainable prices. The housing element promotes policy
to increase the supply of housing intended to serve those households earning less than 120% of the area median income.
The land capacity analysis conducted during the 2025 Periodic Review found that while there is adequate vacant land to
accommodate housing, there is a gap between what local households can afford and what the market will provide. This
finding is further supported by Housing Solutions Network's 2024 survey and the joint City-EDC survey, where employers
reported that housing costs had made it difficult to attract and retain staff. Washington's requirement to plan for housing by
all income segments further underscores the need for housing that is not provided by the current market. The lack of
housing affordable to the workforce increases displacement of working -age residents and families, creating more reliance
on a commuting workforce.
Infrastructure Fending
Port Townsend will be forced to rely even more heavily on local sources of revenue as state and federal funding of
community services and capital improvements becomes increasingly difficult to obtain. City's water, sewer, stormwater, and
streets systems can expand only at considerable cost, and system maintenance still requires resources.
Port Townsend is a small city, but it is connected to a global marketplace. Limits to electrical energy and transportation make
the community vulnerable to economic disruptions, and the impacts of climate change — a global phenomenon — influence
capital investment, strategic business positioning, and the degree to which companies can tolerate adapting to changing
conditions. Competition with online businesses is also challenging for local businesses due to economies of scale.
Community
A key theme of the 2025 Periodic Review was identifying how Port Townsend has adapted through changing
circumstances. Participants shared stories about how Port Townsend has been resilient and creative. This
resilience has included successful economic drivers that are profitable, employ local workers, and provide goods
and services to residents. It also includes locally -important, often volunteer- or barter -based, economies. For
example, per US Census categorizations, the Port Townsend employment industry with the most employees is
"educational services, and health care and social assistance" (ACS 2023, Table CP03 Comparative Economic
Characteristics). This industry includes people who work in the healthcare system, a major local employer, while
also including members of the "care economy" who provide care and assistance for people of all ages. Another
example of a locally important economic industry is agriculture. Despite the Census reporting that 2% of Port
Townsend residents are employed in "agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining," many farmers,
gardeners, and other agricultural workers have commented on their role in sharing food through donations to
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 9
the Jefferson County Food Bank and Port Townsend School District. The community's creativity in creating and
maintaining important local economies is vital to Port Townsend's future economic development
The vision outlined in the Introduction shares that the Port Townsend of 2045 will be "a healthy, affordable, and
caring community valued for the marine trades, locally -rooted businesses and a resilient economy; meaningful
work, family wage jobs, and affordable housing choices."IThere will likely be disagreements about how to
achieve this vision, but historically Port Townsend's employers, workers, and industries have contributed to
community resiliency. IPuetirne o nirtniruiiU Ilnnikiiiru. foirwsaircV iistn cVevello Ilncsall csa saciiU to irecVnce cVe eirucVeiruc
oiru ountsiicVe Isuusiiiruesses..SuuclPu capsaciiU In niillcViiiru . csairu comae iiin true foirina of Iouuiill'Viiini . n oiru Bassets ovii .11.0 . as
.......... .................W.....................................g.........................................................................................................................................................1...........................................x....l................................g.........
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...........................................................................................................................s.n...............r................E. .........s.... re s..cP.
exsaina IleiistlPueo nirUniruiiU fnirsallncsalllsnsiiiruesstncVevello sairucVfiilllltlPueneedfnirinanlltiifsainaiill devello inieinitbuniilldeirs
P............................................. p. p..................................W.........................................................................................................................................P................................................____
ai.rpd....deer IIp.IP�.Ir�„,
City initiatives described in the Capital Facilities and Transportation Element, such as the PT Sustainable Streets
Circulation Plan, detail how Port Townsend will plan for and focus infrastructure. This will make more efficient
use of city resources that benefit Port Townend's economy and in particular housing development.,
Planning for and facilitating housing for all income levels is a central focus of the 2025 Periodic Review. As
housing policies and regulations are implemented, local businesses will benefit as a greater percentage of
residents are interested and able to work in Port Townsend. Reducing displacement of working -age families will
also increase the number of potential customers as these residents find it easierto shop where they live and
work, instead of going to other jurisdictions fortheir shopping. One such opportunity to address both the need
for housing and business space for new or small businesses is the development of live -work housing. Live -work
facilities offer the opportunity for housing and business costs to be combined. Employer -provided housing is a
related trend nationally and may need to be more prevalent in Port Townsend. Buildings with commercial and
residential spaces can be developed in mixed use districts as well as light industry. An additional opportunity is
partnering with Jefferson County to support live -work development in the light industry area of Glen Cove.
tlr
The City has the opportunity to expand and develop emerging economic sectors. The City's Historic Downtown waterfront
and the Port of Port Townsend continue to serve the tourist economy and marine trades respectively. Health services are
expanding (notably improvements by Jefferson Healthcare) and new economic sectors are emerging. EDC members have
shared that e-commerce has opened doors for them to run creative businesses in Port Townsend and ship their products
worldwide. Other opportunities include investment into the Upper Sims Way subarea, education at Fort Worden Lifelong
Learning Center, and facilities that support the growing local food economy. Many world-renowned artists and craftspeople
call Port Townsend home, giving the city an outsized reputation as a place for creative production and artistic excellence.
Community interest in developing and using renewable energy sources also presents an opportunity.
City of Port Townsend Economic Development I Page 1...0
Commented [KG5]: @Adrian Smith Is this intro language
set? I think it should also include the arts -- many of PT's
biggest economic drivers are arts institutions or derive a lot
of value from the arts (tourism and attracting younger
residents especially).
Commented AS6R5 : The intro was drafted b
[ ] v the
Planning Commission and approved as a draft by them and
City Council. However, they are going to review the intro
again and will discuss this suggestion.
..... ..... .... .... .... ..�,
Commented [MW7R5]: Thanks @Adrian as this will
hopefully be a critical addition.
-------------------------------------------
Commented [SK8]: I would argue right now that we are
not a resilient community... we are subject to outside forces
being remote and relying very much on outside
communities for housing and key services. I think it is
important to say we need to continue to focus on resiliency,
but the trend has moved away from it as more and more
business is located outside the City either moving to the Tri
Area or even further away orjust closing the doors. Nearly
all of our construction support is from outside the area as an
example.
Po„IJi m
Regional, national, and global economies have had a much greater impact on the local economy than economic
development plans and policies adopted by local jurisdictions. When local government has been involved, its leadership in
promoting economic development has usually been limited to several key areas, including:
• Land use (i.e., zoning development standards, permit processing);
• Public facility and infrastructure investments (e.g., utilities, transportation improvements, public safety, parks,
visitor amenities, etc.); and
• Marketing cooperation and coordination with other entities (e.g., Jefferson County, Port of Port Townsend,
Economic Development Council (EDC) Team Jefferson, citizens and property owners, businesses, etc.).
Like these earlier efforts, the City's economic development strategy also focuses on these key areas:
• Policies call for Port Townsend to have an adequate supply of appropriately zoned land to support future
commercial and manufacturing development._';Il,lhi'jlg,,,rove einiltain�ce liin�daustirliall
�IPPoir ainutiin Glleinn Cove due to tIhe,jl�aalk of uindustrial Binds iiin klte c'iit Iliii ts.
• Direction guides the City in streamlining its permit processing system to provide more timely, fair, and predictable
permit processing. When implemented, these measures will help to ensure that the City will not miss opportunities
for economic development due to delay or uncertainty of process. This applies to all scales of development, from
new commercial facilities, to renovation permits for storefronts, to issuing business licenses.
• Policies will ensure appropriate public services and facilities are in place support economic development.
..............IlAyll,ii ii, „r_; in, ,irin,iiin...iiinrii.IC it viiin.g..:Glh:e.ireIl,�a,G;��in,�hi�s Ih+etwe�n �soausiiin d ecxsnoinni,y.
• Policies foster cooperation and coordination with entities at the state, regional, county, and local level. These
provisions ensure that government agencies and other entities will work together to develop and implement
consistent strategies that promote the economic health and diversity of the area.
Land use policy promotes the development of mixed uses in many of the community's commercial districts, including the
intent to create mixed -use neighborhood centers at the intersections of community arterial streets over the next 20 years.
To meet these employment targets, a healthy business climate needs to be nurtured in Port Townsend. This can be done by
building on Port Townsend's economic development potentials and addressing constraints..
The Comprehensive Plan's Goals, Policies, and Implementation Element builds on these established components of
economic development strategy. The element articulates a course of action that will support local job skills, bolster several
sectors of our local economy, and improve our telecommunications infrastructure. This plan seeks to maximize our potential
for future economic growth in a manner that is consistent with community and environmental values. Major areas of
emphasis within the plan include:
Building and diversifying our economic base must begin with support for the survival and expansion of local business. It is
equally vital to support existing businesses and new businesses. New businesses cannot replace current economic drivers,
but they can enhance our economic base. The unifying principle of the strategy lies in improving the skills available in our
labor force.
Port Townsend possesses many highly educated individuals. However, some residents' job skills are not directly relevant to
Port Townsend's economic sectors. To address this situation, the strategy envisions a three -step scheme for improving
workforce skills.
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 11.
The first step involves maintaining and expanding the capacity to provide rapid turnaround training for workers. This can be
accomplished by obtaining additional funding for the Economic Development Council (EDC) or education partners to
establish training facilities. The mission should be specific: to provide short course vocational and certification training
programs to enhance competence of employees in the marine trades and retail sales sectors. This can also be accomplished
by coordinating in-house training to expand or enhance job skills.
The second step requires working with partners to develop local engineering/manufacturing capability. To facilitate this, the
City can work with higher education institutions to identify curricula and degree programs which promote Port Townsend's
economic vision. Examples of possible degree programs include two-year Associate's Degrees in engineering. Additionally,
the Rainier Subarea might serve as the location for technologically sophisticated and environmentally friendly incubator
industries that could offer educational opportunities. This can also be expanded to include studying the feasibility of locating
a four-year institution in Port Townsend, coordinating with others in the process.
The final step involves supporting Washington State Parks and other economic and educational entities in the development
of a Lifelong Learning Center at Fort Worden which focuses on the creative economy and the arts as a driver of quality of life
and integral piece of Port Townsend's identity and economic future. This is particularly important since the Port Townsend
location of Peninsula College closed, removing a vital educational opportunity.
Marine Trades
The Introduction envisions the "working waterfront" continuing to shape Port Townsend's future.
The potential for expansion of the marine trades sector of our local economy is considerable. The largest obstacles to
growth of this industrial sector include: a lack of appropriately located and zoned vacant land and a lack of Port
infrastructure to service larger and increased numbers of boats. The Economic Development Council's economic
development strategy indicates that added moorage, water -side work space, large capacity lifts and haul -out facilities, and
Port -area improvements are necessary to allow expansion. Completion of the 300-ton enhanced haul -out facility has gone a
long way toward alleviating existing infrastructure needs.
City leadership has a crucial role in promoting the skills available in Port Townsend's marine trades workforce, advocating for
coordination between the Port, the boatbuilding and maritime trades organizations, and others, and planning for additional
transient mooring. The City should continue to play a key role in encouraging the marine trades economy. One important
step the City took was to plan and zone to promote marine -related commerce and industry in specific shoreline areas as
part of the Shoreline Master Program Update. Equally important is the City's role in cooperating with the Port of Port
Townsend to develop and implement master plans for Port properties that are consistent and coordinated between the two
governing bodies. An additional opportunity for local partnership is with Jefferson County in supporting the success of a
Local Area of More Intensive Rural Development (LAMIRD) at Glen Cove. This area is immediately outside Port Townsend
city limits and adjacent to the Rainier Subarea. Glen Cove and the Rainier Subarea will both benefit from the development
of a sewer lift station on Mill Road, creating opportunities for businesses to support regional marine trades and other light
industry opportunities. Supporting marine trades and manufacturing in Glen Cove would also align with current interest in
low-cost areas for manufacturing space.
*' 31lt
The economic development strategy envisions Port Townsend as a hub of eastern Jefferson County's economy and
employment, with a diversity of commercial and industrial activities thriving and providing employment opportunities for
residents. The strategy also envisions that cottage -based industries and low impact light manufacturing will have a strong
presence in the community.
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page ].2.
Small manufacturers and emerging technologies deserve special attention in the City's strategy for two principle reasons.
First, small manufacturers are able to more rapidly respond to changes in the marketplace. Economic diversity can be
strengthened if we have a variety of small companies doing different things, rather than one large company doing one thing.
Having a variety of employers and fields instead of relying on a few large industries would lessen the negative impact of any
one employer going out of business or moving out of the city. That in turn makes the local economy more resilient and more
secure. Second, small scale diversified manufacturing has a tremendous potential to generate additional employment
opportunities. Statistics indicate that for every one manufacturing job created, five more jobs are created in support
services and other manufacturing),.
For these reasons, the City's strategy seeks to assist in the identification and support of small scale "clean" industry and
cottage -based industries that are appropriate to Port Townsend's resources and vision. The strategy also describes the City's
role as "facilitator" in encouraging industries to pursue joint marketing opportunities that could lead to exportation of local
goods and services throughout the global economy.
The Creative Economy
Washington has the country's highest share of creative economy GDP, but one of the lowest rates of government
investment. Here in Port Townsend, the share of creative sector jobs has fallen by 1.1% in the last five years. Port
Townsend's reputation as a desirable travel destination and place to live — as well as its local retail, tourism, and trades
economy — is integrally tied to arts and culture. The Port Townsend Creative District Arts and Culture Plan, which was funded
by the City and developed through a robust six-month engagement process with artists and sector leads in 2023, will help to
guide strategies to forward this initiative's vitality.
The City has made an investment in supporting this essential part of the community's economy and identity by bringing the
Port Townsend Creative District under its management in 2025. The Creative District program of the Washington State Arts
Commission (Arts WA) provides resources and support to bolster creative economic development.
The City will continue to leverage this new asset by working closely with ArtsWA to advocate for creative economy
investments, including the State's Cultural Access Program. It should add to the value creatives bring to the community by
offering smoother pathways for collaboration between the City government and artists and revitalizing the 1% For the Arts
program. By recognizing the arts' unique ability to enhance resident and visitor experience across economic sectors, the City
will both build economic opportunities and open doors for community engagement.
The City's economic development strategy recognizes service industries, including retailing, are a vital part of the economic
and community landscape. In Jefferson County, about 14% of all jobs are in either the wholesale or retail trades. While many
of these jobs do not provide the "family wage' envisioned in the Introduction, or create additional support industries like
manufacturing jobs, the service industry still provides many meaningful employment opportunities, fulfills community
shopping needs, and boosts local government revenues.
The vision statement and the City's economic development strategy both recognize the importance of retail trades to our
local economy and quality of life. The community vision places special emphasis on building the strength and vitality of
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City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 1"
One significant role local government can play in promoting community retail trades lies in providing and maintaining public
infrastructure and improvements in commercial districts throughout town. In this regard, the City has placed special
emphasis on implementing the Port Townsend Gateway Development Plan and developing mixed -use neighborhood
centers. They entail comprehensive public improvements to improve the quality of the physical link between public and
private spaces in the commercial districts along the Sims Way/Water Street corridor from the Ferry Terminal to the City
limits and in those mixed -use districts where a compact form serves pedestrians and cyclists.
Tourism
The City's strategy focuses on managing and integrating tourism into the economy while safeguarding the unique qualities
that bring residents and visitors to Port Townsend in the first place.
Tourism is a major economic driver in Port Townsend, and is particularly important because the City's remote location
makes other industries challenging. Where many jurisdictions struggle to create a tourism industry, Port Townsend benefits
from the established tourism industry bringing money into the local economy. Additionally, tourism proved to be a
significant resiliency factor during COVID given people changed travel habits to local opportunities rather than air travel.
Port Townsend is a significant asset to the Northwest as a destination and place where people can enjoy our unique cultural
mix of historic diversity in people and environment.
To improve upon tourism benefits, additional lodging options are needed. Many visitors only make day trips to Port
Townsend due to the lack of lodging.
For many years, the City and community at large have promoted the Washington State Ferry system with some desiring
improved boat access. A push to encourage visitors to come to Port Townsend via boat rather than car has been also been a
focus for many years. Recently, small cruise boats have added to the economic vitality of Port Townsend without bringing
additional vehicle trips and parking demands.
Many residents feel that peak season tourist volumes in Port Townsend are at or near the saturation point. Additionally,
surveys indicate that preservation of the heritage, culture, and environment of Port Townsend is critical to the community.
Accordingly, the focus of the strategy is maintaining and enhancing sustainable year-round opportunities for visitation.
Reducing the "seasonality" of the tourist industry could reduce the fluctuation in income, employment, and tax revenues in
the retail and service sectors. Additionally, reducing seasonality could diminish downtown parking demands and overall
conflicts between residents and visitors. Tools for reducing seasonality could include supporting year-round festivals and
events that attract visitors, a focus on building a robust arts community that attracts visitors for cultural experiences, and
continuing work with the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, which invests in sustainable tourism.
Commercial Historic District
There are three important areas where City government can support the Commercial Historic District
First, the City plans for the provision and maintenance of appropriate public improvements in the Commercial Historic
District. The quality of the physical link between public and private spaces is crucial to the proper functioning of the
Commercial Historic District and its businesses. Public improvements should help create an inviting environment for
shoppers, with clearly marked streets, convenient shopping places, well -lit sidewalks and good pathways between parking
areas and stores. Public improvements should provide basic infrastructure and services in a manner that is visually
compatible with the nature of the functions they support. The City should develop a comprehensive public improvements
program that is tailored to the specific needs of the district while reinforcing private projects.
Second, the City's plan should continue to improve upon f -parking management to meet the needs of customers,
merchants, employees, visitors, and residents. It should be regulated to encourage turnover of customer spaces. In order to
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page 1...4
ensure well designed, maintained, and managed parking in the Commercial Historic District, the City should revisit the 2004
Downtown Parking Management Plan, 2016 parking inventory, and the proposed 2024 parking pilot. Continued work on
parking management would be undergone with public involvement, particularly from residents, workers, and property
owners in Historic Downtown.
Parking management is a highly controversial topic with desires ranging from creating pedestrian malls via closing
downtown streets to building parking garages. Many communities have steered away from parking garages due to the
extreme costs and environmental and associated environmental challenges. The City and Jefferson Transit developed a park
and ride facility at the Haines Place terminal that is highly under utilized. Incorporating new modes of transportation such as
bike and car shares along with promoting walk on the ferry trips, are ways to increase economic activity without building
costly parking garages.
Finally, the City should continue to assist the Port Townsend Main Street Program in strengthening the Commercial Historic
District's existing economic base and gradually expanding it, acknowledging the level of economic and cultural activity
occurring there. The City, in conjunction with the Port Townsend Main Street Program, continue work to enhance diverse
resident- and visitor -based commercial activities and community events in the Downtown.
Telecommunications in Port Townsend include both wired and wireless telephone services, cable and satellite
television, and high-speed broadband technologies. It is important to upgrade telecommunications
infrastructure to support home -based personal and professional service businesses. With two main internet
providers and NoaNet/PUD fiber system, the challenge becomes distribution and connectivity rather than
capacity. The City will play an important role in researching and identifying aspects of infrastructure that must be
upgraded in order to make Port Townsend a feasible location for online -based businesses moving to our area.
City of fort Townsend Economic Development I Page ]..5
Without concrete targets, it is difficult to monitor the success of an economic development strategy. The overall
goal of the strategy is to foster a net increase of family wage jobs, those paying a wage or salary which allows an
individual or familyto purchase a home within Port Townsend, feed and clothe a family, pay for medical care,
take a vacation, save for retirement, and afford college education.
The implementation table in Chapter 10 outlines specific steps the City will take to align economic development
investments and actions with its economic development policy initiatives, coordinating with other plan priorities
and establishing a foundation for specific, trackable, and pragmatic action. These implementation steps,
combined with the policy initiatives, constitute the community's economic development strategy.
Early actions include master planning for the mixed -use neighborhood centers and in preparing or updating master plans for
the marine trades districts, and to review and update the capital facilities plan to ensure industrial land availability is a high
priority for infrastructure investment. Related to mixed -uses, there will also be a focus on workforce housing. Local
partnerships for regional economic development strategies to diversify the economy will also begin in this time period.
Additional short-term action involves studying and implementing an appropriate incentives program to assist local business
creation and expansion, particularly in navigating various land use permit processes. This will also include an assessment to
determine adequate land supply for industrial uses and an attendant rezoning process, if warranted. Finally, the City plans to
consider currently permitted home -occupations and determine additional appropriate commercial uses in residential zones.
In the medium term, the City can work with local businesses to identify targeted online classes and training that would be
beneficial to Port Townsend's economic development. The City can also lead a feasibility study for a four-year institution,
coordinating with other schools and stakeholders to study and, if appropriate, promote the siting of a new higher education
college or university in Port Townsend. This can include a broad campaign to enlist the help of deans of instruction across
the Washington university system, state -level education administrators, local community and economic development
groups, local school districts, and others. To support light industry, the City will continue working with Jefferson County to
provide sewer service to Glen Cove. This phase will include coordinating with EDC Team Jefferson to develop and distribute
economic and development information about Port Townsend for prospective businesses, a listing of all available funding
sources for economic development efforts, and a study of local market conditions to identify additional retail opportunities
and a strategy to realize them. Work with EDC Team Jefferson may also include a review of regulations on hotel lodging to
support the tourism industry and ensure that visitors are able to stay in Port Townsend during their visit.
Longer term implementation actions include investment into utilities for master planned areas per the capital
facilities plan. The City may work with EDC Team Jefferson to continue their manufacturer's roundtables. Other
long-term work includes exploration of off-season event possibilities to expand ourtourism reach, and ongoing
coordination with the PT Main Street program to promote downtown events, parking programs, management,
and marketing, and coordination with local utility providers to identify and remedy service deficiencies. To
measure the impacts of this work and current trends, there will be periodic assessments of trends and progress.
City of Port Townsend Economic Development I Page 1...6
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Table I. List of City owned parks in Port Townsend. Acreage calculations include parcel boundaries
and do not include right-of-way areas, except for Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park which includes right-
of-way areas. Also included are proposed RCO classifications and proposed future classifications for
each city owned park. Relevant city owned stormwater facilities are detailed in the table.
City Owned Park
Parcel Acreage Not
Including Right -of-
way
Proposed RCO
Classification
Proposed Future
Classification
12th & Hancock Park
0.8
Mini -park
35th Street Park
12.8
Neighborhood Park
Adams Street Park
0.1
Mini -park
Baker View Park
0.2
Neighborhood Park
Bell Tower Park
0.31
Mini -park
Bishop Park
3.6
Mini -park
Bishop (Stormwater Facility)
0.4
Mini -park
Bishop Play Park
0.5
Mini -park
Bobby McGarraugh Park
2.5
Neighborhood Park
Cappl�s
30.4
-
Natural Area
Chetzemoka Park
9.3
Community Park
Chetzemoka Dog Park
0.6
Special Use
City Entrance Park
0.6
Mini -park
Minnie Nakano Park
0.1
Mini -park
Elmira Street Viewpoint Park
0.9
Mini -park
Froggy Bottoms (Stormwater Facility)
2.24
Natural Area
Gateway Park (Triangle 11)
0.1
Mini -park
Golf Park
59.9
Special Use
Community Park
Haller Fountain/Terrace Steps
0.5
Mini -park
Intersection Park (Triangle 111)
0.1
Mini -park
Jefferson Land Trust
63
-
Natural Area
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park*
83.9*
Natural Area
Kah Tai Park
-
NA
Neighborhood Park
Larry Scott Trail**
0.6**
Special Use
Levinsky (Stormwater Facility)
21.4
Natural Area
Mountain View Dog Park
2.6
Special Use
Pope Marine Park0ackson Tidal Park
1.1
Mini -park
Rotary Park
1.5
Mini -park
Sather Park Field (east)
1.1
Mini -park
Sather Park (west)
4.6
Natural Area
Street -end parks (Unnamed)
2.75
Mini -park
Seamus Sims Skate Park
0.7
Special Use
Tyler Street Stairs
0.1
Mini -park
W St Street -end Park
0.1
Mini -park
*Area includes ROW
** Area was calculated using assumption the trail on average 1 Oft wide
Table 2. List of privately owned park amenities available to the public in Port Townsend. Acreage
calculations include parcel boundaries and exclude right-of-way areas.
Private Owned Park
Parcel Acreage
RCO Classification
Birkenfield Community HOA
0.1
Special Use
Hamilton Heights HOA
7.8
Special Use
Lynnsfield HOA
6.3
Special Use
Towne Point HOA
13.7
Special Use
Trail Crest HOA
16.4
Special Use
Table 3. List of Jefferson County owned parks in Port Townsend. Acreage calculations include
parcel boundaries and exclude right-of-way areas. County classifications were taken from the
counties 2022 PROS Plan.
County Owned Park Parcel Acreage County Classification
Courthouse Park 1.1 Neighborhood Park
Jefferson County Fairgrounds 32.5 Special Use
Jefferson County Memorial Athletic Field 3.9 Special Use
North Beach Community Park 1.4 Community Park
Port Townsend Community Center 1 Special Use
Undesignated Parcels in Cappy's 3.4 Natural Area
Table 4. List of state own parks in Port Townsend. Acreage calculations include parcel boundaries
and exclude right-of-way areas.
State Owned Park Parcel Acreage State Classification
Fort Warden Historical State Park 376.2 Historical State Park
Rothchild House 0.5 Heritage Site
Table 5. List of school district owned facilities in Port Townsend. Acreage calculations include
parcel boundaries and exclude right-of-way areas. Also included are proposed RCO classifications
for each facility.
Parcel
School Owned Facilities Acreage RCO Classification
Blue Heron Play Area and Athletic Fields 36.9 Neighborhood Park
Mountain View Campus 1.7 Community Park
Port Townsend High School Athletic Fields 18.6 Community Park
Salish Coast Elementary Play Area and Natural Area 11.8 Neighborhood Park
Table 6. List of open space categories in Port Townsend. Acreage calculations include parcel
boundaries and exclude right-of-way areas.
Open Space
Parcel Acreage
Cappy's
30.4
Conservation Easement
13.3
Nonprofit (US Lighthouse)
4.8
Jefferson Land Trust
63.0
Open space
24.5
Private Open Space
112.3
Public Facilities
174.3
Public Parks
555.3
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