A seasoned consulting firm will help the Port of Vancouver revitalize 13 acres of waterfront property along the Columbia River.
During its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, the port’s Board of Commissioners selected Seattle-based consultant NBBJ to head up a master planning effort to transform the port property known as Terminal 1. Today, the property is home to the Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay, The Quay Restaurant, a small office building, public amphitheater and public docks.
Founded in 1943, NBBJ offers a range of planning, design and consulting services. Clients and partners have included Amazon, Google, Microsoft, the ports of Olympia, San Diego and Seattle, Portland Community College, Southwest Washington Medical Center and Washington State University.
“NBBJ brings extensive expertise to the table,” said Katy Brooks, port director of economic development, in a written statement. “We’re particularly impressed with their collaborative approach and experience with urban centers, ports and waterfront districts. We look forward to working with them as we create a new legacy on Vancouver’s waterfront.”
Several community leaders spoke in support of the selection and project on Tuesday, including Vancouver City Councilman Jack Burkman; City of Vancouver Economic Development Manager Teresa Brum; Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce CEO Kelly Love; and Vancouver’s Downtown Association Executive Director Lee Rafferty.
NBBJ plans to use market data, current city plans and discussions with key stakeholders and citizens to create an overarching master plan for Terminal 1. Initial plans for redevelopment could include a mixed-use building, a new hotel and public attractions.
The master planning process should be complete late this year.
