Port Commission Names Park in Honor of Jack Block

The Port of Seattle Commission has named the public access park at Terminal 5 in honor of outgoing veteran Port Commissioner Jack Block. A longshoreman for 50 years, Block was first elected to the Port Commission in 1973. His final term as commissioner ends December 31.

"This is a very appropriate and lasting tribute to your contribution to this Port," Commission Chair Clare Nordquist told Block.

The Jack Block Public Shoreline Access and Park is located at 3443 W. Marginal Way S.W., just off Harbor Avenue in West Seattle. It includes 15 acres of landscaped buffer areas with interpretive information, pedestrian/bicycle pathways and access to the shore.

Block thanked his fellow commissioners and Port staff members for their efforts over the many years he worked with them.

"I have never worked with a more dedicated group of people," Block said. "It was an honor to serve the people of King County. I'm proud of my contributions, and I know I've made a positive difference for our children and grandchildren."

During his tenure as a Port Commissioner, Block took a special interest in waterfront public access and viewpoints. "We now have a network of trails and viewpoints that stretches from Alki Point to Fishermen's Terminal," he said.

Block also played key roles in the Port's move into containerized cargo handling, expanded trade with China and Vietnam, revitalization of the Central Waterfront, improvements to the regional transportation infrastructure, environmental clean-up efforts, and the phenomenal growth of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

The Port will place a plaque at the site that will stand in perpetuity as a monument to Commissioner Block's years of valued service.

Note to Editors: A digital photo of Jack Block Public Shoreline Access and Park is available at www.ivey.com/Ivey.POSView/. The image is titled T-5park.jpg.

Port of Seattle public access points: www. portseattle.org/portandyou/community/02access.htm