Commission Gives Preliminary Approval to Shilshole Renovation

SEATTLE - The Port of Seattle Commission yesterday gave preliminary approval to spending $78.5 million to rebuild the area's largest recreational marina at Shilshole Bay in Northwest Seattle.

Over the next five years the Port plans to replace 22 docks and piers at Shilshole Bay Marina; replace and expand the sailing center at the north end of the marina; expand dry boat moorage on land, and replace six service buildings for restrooms, showers, laundry and storage, under a resolution approved on first reading today. The project also calls for replacing the administration building with marina-related office space and provide area for private development of a restaurant. New public areas, landscaping and enhanced parking will be included.

"Shilshole Bay Marina is ideally located on Central Puget Sound and provides the best boater access to moorage accommodations of any marina in the area," said Commission Chair Patricia Davis. "This investment by the Port of Seattle will clearly benefit boaters and liveaboards by replacing aging docks, changing the mixture of slip sizes and offering better marina services. With new landscaping, a sailing center and pedestrian improvements Shilshole Bay Marina will be an even better place for the entire community to walk, enjoy the views and visit the restaurants."

Renovations are needed, explained Charlie Sheldon, managing director of the seaport, because of the age and condition of the docks, piers and other facilities.

In addition, market changes in the recreational boating industry called for a different mix of docks and slip sizes than when Shilshole was built 40 years ago.

Construction is to begin with utility replacement next year. Reconstruction of the docks will begin in fall, 2005 and be completed in the spring of 2008. A new marina building is to be built in 2005, and restrooms and other facilities in 2007-8. Final site improvements, such as paving, sidewalks, lighting and landscaping, is to be completed in 2009.

Significant water-quality benefits also will result from the replacement of about 1,000 creosote wood pilings with steel pilings.

The length of the construction schedule - a total of three years for the docks -- is designed to limit the displacement of moorage customers and the impact on the surrounding community. The project will be financed through general port revenues. No property tax levy funds would be used. Final action on the project is scheduled for August 26.