Agenda includes development alternatives for Fort Worden pier, boat launch and Marine Science Center
OLYMPIA – April 9, 2019 –The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission invites the public to learn about plans to improve recreational opportunities and the shoreline environment in the marine area at Fort Worden Historical State Park. At the meeting, Parks planners will introduce alternative development concepts and seek feedback from the community.
The meeting is scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 18, at the Fort Worden Commons Building, Room A, 210 Battery Way, Fort Worden, Port Townsend. (Driving Directions)
This project aims to replace the existing boat launch with one that is more ecologically friendly. It will also consider alternatives to rehabilitate, remove, or remove and replace the existing pier. Because the Marine Science Center has a facility located on the pier, new locations will be considered.
This is the first phase of the project, which requires State Parks to prepare a pre-design report for the Washington State Office of Financial Management. Many factors will be analyzed during this process, including:
- Constructability and cost estimates
- Compatibility with the natural environment
- Recreational access improvements
- Consideration of aesthetics within the historical context of the fort
At the April 18 meeting, participants will view individual designs at separate stations. A State Parks representative will be at each station to answer questions. Participants will provide comments in writing so their opinions and concerns may be recorded and posted on the State Parks website. Additionally, alternatives for developments of the marine area will be located on the web at: http://parks.state.wa.us/1147/Fort-Worden-Pier-Marine-Science-Learning
All comments will be considered in the analysis of alternatives. A second public meeting will announced for late spring, so that Parks staff can present a preliminary recommendation for public review.
About Fort Worden State Park
Fort Worden Historical State Park is a 432-acre multi-use park with more than 2 miles of saltwater shoreline and a wide variety of services and facilities, including a full-service conference center that can be booked for daylong or multi-day events.
The park is co-managed by the Fort Worden Public Development Authority, which runs the overnight lodging and partners with Centrum Arts Foundation and other on-site organizations to provide unique experiences for visitors. http://parks.state.wa.us/511/Fort-Worden
News media contacts:
Michael Hankinson, Parks Planner, (360) 725-9756
Meryl Lipman, Communications Consultant, (360) 902-8557
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 19-016