Port Angeles Vision

Thirty years ago a certain small city had a downtown core that was totally abandoned by suburban malls and big box stores that were being built on the outskirts. Main Street was an ugly 4-laned boulevard with old decaying stores on both sides. A visionary mayor decided to reduce the traffic down to 2 lanes, widen the sidewalks, plant trees, and install benches. A river also ran through the city and a small falls was totally hidden below a side street bridge. The traffic was detoured and the bridge was taken out. Today a pedestrian suspension bridge showcases these falls and is the major attraction in a river park that comes alive with families and friends at all hours of the day and night. Main Street buzzes with contented people walking or sitting under beautiful trees lined with revitalized old buildings which have been transformed into small boutique stores and restaurants. Complementary downtown condos are all the craze by retirees moving out of big cities for a piece of this paradise. People come from miles around to enjoy its new life and ambiance.

Take heart Port Angeles, you too have the beginnings of a great future. You are endowed with natural and historical beauty that is alive and well. Opportunity dozes and just needs to be awakened from its slumber. “Carpe Diem” …Seize the Day!

Videos:

A Downtown Makeover

A Transformed City