Waldport
Waldport is a small town situated at the beautiful Oregon coast along the mouth of the Alsea River. The city asked Urban Field to facilitate the idea finding with city staff and the public for an underutilized sports field and former high school gymnasium, located at the heart of Waldport at along a natural slough.
an opportunity to focus on bigger issues
12-acre site gave them a chance to look in more depth at lots of questions beyond what was originally brought up
what is the strategy to get public buildings out of the tsunami zone
is eco-tourism something that fits Waldport?
fishing town becomes...?
TOOLS FOR ENGAGEMENT
We suggested to conduct a focused three-day charrette to give as many people as possible the opportunity to participate and arrive at a consensus for the future use of the much debated site in a short amount of time. The charrette started with a walk of the site, followed by presentations on the background and requirements for the site, and alternating break-out group sessions and group presentations. After three days of lively discussion, many great ideas, hands-on planning with scissors, glue, and colorful paper, and good food, the community arrived at a preferred alternative. Our team guided the process and prepared the tools, materials, and plans to help illustrate the issues and concepts.
the results of the charrette
We were assisted by an economist and an transportation planner to explore the feasibility of the new open space plan that includes new recreational amenities such as boardwalk, kayak slip dock, and wetlands; an amphitheater for concerts; a small hotel; and small shops and a cafe. The new open space, if realized, has the potential for becoming an unique destination for tourists and residents alike.
A focused charrette helps resolve a lot of issues at once.