Port comprehensive plan updated

2008-0715_port_plan_1-100.jpgThe Port of Anacortes has released an updated draft Comprehensive Plan that will guide the Port District for the next few years. The plan includes few surprises. 

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The Port of Anacortes has released an updated draft Comprehensive Plan that will guide the Port District for the next few years. The plan includes few surprises. 

Changing industry demands, regional population growth, and increasingly strict environmental protection requirements are altering the dynamic for Washington Ports. The plan says the Port of Anacortes is well-positioned to respond to these changes.

Recognized locally and nationally as a destination for the marine industry, boaters and tourists, the Cap Sante Boat Haven is one of Anacortes’ most treasured assets. The Port is looking at 11th and 9th streets as major pedestrian routes to connect downtown to Cap Sante Marina.

The plan calls for continuing to upgrade old docks. And, it calls for a new small boat center at the northeast corner of the North Basin.

For what’s known as Parcel One, south of the marina, the plan calls for a marine-related commercial or educational development. The facility would be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and environmental controls, classrooms, work stations, and a study curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the marine industry.
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The plan calls for a new environmental clean-up at Seafarers’ Memorial Park and the installation of a wave-break and reef habitat at the southern property line. The existing timber breakwater would be removed. The clean-up will start next year.

Along the Guemes Channel, the Port District will move the Port office and put the building up for lease. They will continue to host community events. A redesign will improve and expand Dakota Creek’s facilities.

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At Anacortes Airport, the Port District will, where designated, accommodate commercial and light industrial development. Additional aviation-related industrial tenants are desired at the airport to increase use of the site and provide lease revenues.

At Ship Harbor, just east of the state ferry terminal, Plans include creating an environmental reserve, recreation area and educational center within the wetlands, and developing a potential Ship Harbor Interpretive Center and boardwalk system that will increase awareness of the precious ecosystem.

These projects won’t be cheap. Long-term costs at Cap Sante Boat Haven will be upwards of $11 million. Along the Guemes Channel, costs will be more than $2 million and nearly that much at the airport. Total estimated dost: $15 million over the next 10 years.

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