Relating to Bonnie J. Tough’s Nov. 10 op-ed, “How many lives is Gas Works structure worth?”: Suggesting that the one “resolution” to save lots of lives at Fuel Works Park is the entire removing of the character-defining pipes, stairs and catwalks connected to the economic cracking towers ignores an intensive understanding of the issue and the potential for a nuanced resolution.
In actual fact, the Seattle Landmarks Board rejected a plan in October that may have fully eliminated ladders and different constructions from the towers at Fuel Works Park. We’d like a “each/and” decision moderately than an “both/or” repair. Pitting Seattle households, parks officers and preservationists towards each other is neither productive nor honest.
I imagine the group wishes two main outcomes: First, we don’t need youngsters climbing on the towers and hurting or killing themselves. Second, we need to protect the landmark. As an architect who has served on the Seattle Landmarks Board for eight years (six as chair), I’m acquainted with the discussions that happen round these kinds of issues. Two related components inside the preservation ordinance to be thought-about when altering a landmark are: the extent to which the proposed alteration would adversely have an effect on the precise traits of the landmark; and the reasonableness, or lack thereof, of the proposed alteration in mild of different alternate options.
A number of traces of inquiry stem from these components. Would removing of the pipes, catwalks and stairs adversely influence the defining traits of the landmark? What alternate options has the Parks Division developed to unravel the issue? What precedents have been employed in different conditions? I can guarantee you this isn’t the primary time designers have thought-about the right way to preserve youngsters from climbing.
Eradicating the assorted parts connected to the towers would adversely influence the landmark. The remnants of our industrial previous that wrap across the towers outline the landmark a minimum of fireplace escapes and water towers assist outline the Nineteenth-century historic constructions of Pioneer Sq..
When it comes to precedent, fireplace escapes are the apparent instance of a option to stop climbing. Throughout the planet, fireplace escapes are usually situated one or two flooring above floor to stop individuals from climbing. Might this work at Fuel Works? In fact! Has the Parks Division proposed such a repair or some other alternate options? No.
Why not? I don’t know, however I believe the reply lies inside the subtext of Tough’s op-ed. She states, “Fifty years have handed. The getting old towers are corroded, brittle, and falling aside.” Might it’s that the Parks Division hasn’t invested within the upkeep of the landmark constructions and deems it simpler to take away the assorted appurtenances moderately than correctly preserve them? Might a win/win resolution emerge that proposes to demolish the remnant industrial cladding inside roughly 20 toes of the bottom; restore the low-hanging parts in order that they can’t be climbed; restore and preserve the remaining towers and appurtenances; and even take away the barbed-wire fence that panorama architect Wealthy Haag, rightly, disdained? Sure.
I’ve little doubt that an earnest dialogue between the group, parks and landmarks board can develop a workable different that resolves this difficulty whereas maintaining the construction’s integrity and security in thoughts.
A vital subsequent step at Fuel Works could be a Preservation Grasp Plan to information long-term administration and stewardship of the historic property. It could embody a structural analysis coupled with a safety and use administration plan to make sure public security. The plan may additionally discover public-private partnerships and Nationwide Historic Landmark designation to assist with funding.
Lastly, moderately than succumb to headlines like “What number of lives is Fuel Works Park construction value?” and wait till historic sources are falling aside, let’s get out in entrance of these kinds of crises. Rejoice our success with a Fuel Works Music Competition, a Kite Carnival at Lake Union, Fuel Works Gastronomy, or dozens of different alternatives to construct public consciousness, increase cash and acknowledge this jewel that {couples} Seattle’s pure magnificence with our industrial heritage. It’s what makes us an awesome metropolis.
