Port Selects Architect for Shilshole Upgrades

The Port of Seattle has selected Mithun Architects for planning and design services on a $15 million upgrade to landside facilities at Shilshole Bay Marina. The 1,500-slip marina is the sailing center of Puget Sound.

The proposed upgrades include replacement of the existing mixed-use administration building, which houses Charlie's Restaurant & Little Pebble Bar, various tenants and marina staff. Other planned improvements include: construction of a new mixed-use building at the north end of the marina, expansion of the dry boat storage area, various site improvements related to the pedestrian walkway, landscaping, storm water handling, parking lot improvements and upgrade or replacement of the restroom and shower buildings.

While the landside project is separate from a plan the Port is working on to replace the docks at the marina, the two efforts will be coordinated to ensure that the entire facility meets the needs of the many users it serves.

"These upgrades will help us continue to serve the many people who use the Marina and provide them with improved facilities and services, and allow us to make a number of environmental enhancements to the property," said Darlene Robertson, General Manager of Shilshole Bay Marina.

The architect selection committee included Steve Cohn representing the Ballard District Council, five Port of Seattle staff members, and Port Commissioner Paige Miller, who served as an observer. The selection committee narrowed the initial 10 proposals down to three finalists. The three finalists made presentations at a community open house on April 3. The Port considered input from the members of the public who attended the open house as part of making the final selection.

"I think this was a very thorough and open process," said Commissioner Miller. "The committee made a great choice. Mithun Architects is a Seattle firm that really understands the needs and interests of boaters, marine businesses, our neighbors and the public-at-large. This is an exciting opportunity for the Port to build a special place for the entire community."

"With all of the great work completed on the master plan, we are looking forward to working with nearby residents, boaters and the neighborhood to create a vision for Shilshole's landside development," said Bert Gregory, Mithun's President and partner in charge of the project.

Site planning will be done this year. Mithun's final design is expected by the end of 2003. Construction will begin in 2004 with completion estimated for 2011.