LOCATION
Port Townsend, Washington
CLIENT(S)
City of Port Townsend
INVOLVEMENT
2011-2012
Adding to the unique charm of Port Townsend’s historic core are century-old tunnel areas under some of the sidewalks. The sidewalk lids were deteriorating and structurally unsound. Recognizing the potential impact of construction to downtown businesses, the city combined needed tunnel, streetscape and civil infrastructure improvements. SCJ Alliance designed and managed this major project, investigating, evaluating and rehabilitating the sidewalk tunnel spaces located along Taylor Street and Water Street in historic downtown Port Townsend.
SCJ played a key role in working with downtown merchants through design and construction to help businesses stay vibrant during this project to enhance the downtown streetscape. Construction was completed in the summer of 2012 and the community rallied to support downtown businesses throughout construction. This project received a Bronze Award from ACEC in January 2013, and it was awarded First Place in the Main Street Association’s contest in May 2013.
CLIENT TESTIMONIAL
“With all the hassle and inconvenience surrounding the sidewalk construction project, I just wanted you to know that Scott has just been stellar to work with; he’s amiable, listens, is available for questions and concerns and then addresses them, good-natured , always gives us a heads up on what’s coming for the week ahead. . . Several of the other merchants agreed that it has also been their experience with him during this process. It could have been much worse without his management of this project.”
About Time Clothing (local merchant)
STAFF STORY
“This is my most rewarding project of my career. I am proud of the work we did to refurbish downtown Port Townsend, while preserving it’s unique charm and historical significance. The many relationships I formed with merchants and staff during the project are friendships I treasure. I love going back, visiting Port Townsend, and checking in with the wonderful people in the community.”
Scott Sawyer, PE
Project Manager
