Bellevue developer Eric Dupar desires to build in our community.
This is great news.
Part of his plan includes a 320-stall parking garage which is much needed in our downtown core.
At 72 feet tall, this building represents the landmark structure for our community.
The proposed building is attractive and much needed.
All of these things are positives.
What I want to ask Eric and his group is, can they do better?
The proposed building is very appropriate for Bellevue or the U District, where there are many similar structures.
But is inappropriate for the location selected.
Our downtown represents our major chance to get development right.
With our pier, performing arts center and Elwha hotel, downtown PA can be a major tourist destination and not just the gateway to major tourist destinations.
A centerpiece building that is about 250 feet long and a uniform height with uniform façade lacks the nobility a landmark building requires.
It does not match the environment and does not enhance our city’s beauty, something many buildings in the downtown core lack.
The parking structure does not utilize the view to the north.
My hope is that Eric and his group put on their creativity hats and provide a building that truly enhances Port Angeles.
James Taylor
Port Angeles