While I can understand the concern expressed by Larry Droguett (“Modern buildings are out of place as gateway,” Nov. 26) about the modernization of Bainbridge Island, I am thrilled about the changes occurring at Winslow Way and State Route 305. I have two reasons:

1. An art museum, with some revolving art displays and permanent art in a collection, will honor many artists living here, and the many others who simply enjoy art as an expression of creativity;

2. As an attractive greeting inviting both our residents as they return from their daily tasks in Seattle, and to visitors.

Mr. Droguett is right that we should try hard to preserve our heritage, some of which is represented by old buildings. However, I have always found it a downer to be greeted by the drab buildings of days gone by. Bainbridge Island is stocked with creative people. Let that creativity show!

As to the greediness of the developers of this project, I don’t think that was the primary motivation. I have no doubt that they hope the project makes money. Nothing wrong with that.

They have gone out of their way to include the public in the concept from the beginning by illustrating multiple design variations, then inviting the public to offer suggestions, and to choose.

The developers took an unusual step once they concluded that the green and yellow commercial building had to go. (Did you realize that it was the home of a revered family on BI, or for that matter, that it once was a home? I had not.)

They spent or will spend much more money to take it down piece by piece and deliver the pieces to the Nakatas, than normal clearing would call for. Good citizens!

Plaudits for these conscientious island residents, the developers of the Gateway project!

Norm Wooldridge

Manzanita