Update on the future of the PTMSC Aquarium!

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission to hold public meeting on Monday, June 10

The Washington Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 10, 6-7:30 p.m., Room A the Commons Building at Fort Worden, that has direct implications on the future of the Port Townsend Marine Science Center Aquarium.

The boat launch, dock and pier on which the PTMSC Aquarium is located, viewed from above.
Photo courtesy of Washington State Parks and Recreation

The primary purpose for the meeting is to present plans to replace the boat launch ramp -- adjacent to the pier on which the PTMSC Aquarium is located -- with one that is more compatible with the shoreline ecology.

Also planned is a discussion on the future of the pier itself.

Because the PTMSC has a facility located on the pier, a new proposed location will be presented.

This meeting follows the public meeting held on April 18, when various proposals were discussed and public input was documented. 

This is the first phase of the project, which requires State Parks to prepare a predesign report for the Washington State Office of Financial Management. The report compares alternatives with each other. 

Many factors will be analyzed during this process including constructibility and costs, compatibility with the natural environment, recreational access improvements, and consideration of aesthetics within the historical context of Fort Worden.

The commission is requesting public comments at the meeting on its preliminary recommendations. Please consider attending the meeting and also commenting on alternatives presented at the meeting!

More information can be found here.

For more information about the June 10 meeting, contact Michael Hankinson, 360-725-9756, or send an email at Michael.hankinson@parks.wa.gov.