Design work continues for development of Unocal property

The proposed park on the former Bainbridge Island Unocal site is coming closer to becoming a reality.

Now comes the question of what to call it.

Islanders discussed possible plans for the site at the gateway to Bainbridge Island Thursday night.

Small groups were formed in the library at Bainbridge High School. The groups critiqued designs by architect JohnPaul Jones, and two designs were presented to the audience, based on ideas from previous meetings.

Aspects of both designs were favored, such as having a single paved path instead of two, and including a small gathering area at one end of the park.

Jones will be working on the plans further before the Citizens Park Task Force can present a final draft to the three government agencies involved in the site; owners Kitsap Transit and the city of Bainbridge Island, and the Bainbridge Island parks department, who will manage the maintenance of the park.

In the meantime, island residents are being asked for suggestions on what to call the site.

It has previously been referred to as "Unocal Park" due to its history as a Unocal gas station. But the group would like come up with something a little more attractive.

Bruce Weiland of the Citizens Park Task Force has said that the term "park" has created some confusion of the site, and they have been distancing themselves from the label.

What the group is planning is more of a green space or gateway for people walking to and from the ferry and not a recreational area.

Islanders can submit name ideas on the group's website at www.letsbuildapark.wordpress.com.

Contact Bainbridge Island Review Editor Brian Kelly at editor@bainbridgereview.com or 1-206-842-6613.

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