Port of Olympia Blog
Community is at the Heart of the Port Peninsula Integrated Master PlanÂ
The Port of Olympia is embarking on an exciting journey to create a comprehensive vision for the future through the Port Peninsula Integrated Master Plan. Our plan aims to integrate multiple projects and initiatives across key areas. Projects being integrated include Budd Inlet cleanup, evaluation of the marine terminal, evaluation of Swantown Marina and Boatworks, sea level rise resilience, and considerations for the Deschutes Estuary Restoration Project. We also will consider parks and open spaces alongside community input from Vision 2050 and Destination Waterfront.Â
By actively engaging with our community, we believe we can transform the Port Peninsula into a more equitable, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable space. Through collaboration and partnerships, we envision a vibrant future that strengthens connections to economic opportunities for all while respecting the environment and creating public spaces.Â
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Get Involved and Weigh InÂ
We are offering multiple ways for you to engage with us during our master planning process, and we truly appreciate your participation.Â
Over 120 people joined us for tours of the Marine Terminal during Harbor Days. And if you missed our first webinar, don’t worry—you can watch it on the Port Peninsula Integrated Master Plan webpage.Â
We’ll keep you updated with more opportunities to get involved. Here are the upcoming events:Â
- Join a Port tour on Oct. 1 – visit our website to sign up Â
- Register for our Webinar on Oct. 2
- Get more info at PortOlympia.com/masterplanÂ
- Signup to receive email updatesÂ
Our Participation Objectives   Â
- Foster Engagement Throughout the Planning Process: We will incorporate opportunities for public input throughout the planning process, ensuring continuous community involvement.
- Ensure Broad Representation: We are committed to reaching out to all residents, recognizing that our community is diverse. We will employ various communication techniques to ensure everyone has a voice.
- Utilize Effective and Equitable Communication Channels: We recognize that no single method works for everyone. Therefore, we will use multiple channels to distribute information and gather feedback, making it easy for all community members to engage.
- Educate and Encourage Participation: Understanding land-use issues and decision-making frameworks is crucial for meaningful participation. We will provide educational materials and design engagement opportunities that encourage informed input.
- Develop Staff Expertise: Our team will continue to build expertise in public participation, ensuring we can bridge language, cultural, and economic differences, making our engagement efforts truly inclusive.
- Commit to Continuous Improvement: As communication tools evolve, so will our methods for public involvement. We are dedicated to finding new and effective ways to engage with our community.
- Maintain Transparency: We will track and share the results of public engagement, ensuring that the community can see how their input influences the planning process.
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Including People Throughout the Community Â
To ensure a well-rounded planning process, the Port is engaging with groups representing diverse perspectives from across Thurston County. We’ve also established an Advisory Committee to review key information and collaborate throughout the process. This committee includes representatives from local Tribes, city and county governments, educational institutions, and other organizations.Â
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Join Us in Shaping the FutureÂ
The Port Peninsula Integrated Master Plan is more than a plan—it’s a collaborative effort to shape the future of our community. Your input is invaluable, and we encourage you to participate in this important process. Together, we can create a future that reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of Thurston County.Â
Stay informed, get involved, and help us build a better tomorrow. Visit portolympia.com/masterplan to learn more about the Port Peninsula Integrated Master Plan.
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