Title
Rebecca Howard Master Plan Update
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update on the Rebecca Howard Master Plan process.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on the Rebecca Howard Master Plan process.
Staff Contact:
Sarah Giannobile; Associate Planner; Parks, Arts and Recreation; 360.753.8020
Presenter(s):
Paul Simmons, Director of Parks, Arts and Recreation
Background and Analysis:
In 2018, the City of Olympia purchased 0.34 acres in downtown Olympia for potential economic development purposes. In the summer of 2020, with City Council direction the focus for the site shifted from economic development to peace and healing. The hope was to provide a safe place for community members to find peace, connection, and belonging. In 2021, the property was transferred over to the Olympia Parks Department to develop into a park. The primary focus of this park will be to honor and celebrate the lives of Black and African American members in this community, both past and present, to help bring their stories of perseverance and light to the forefront.
Five park purpose and goal statements were identified to help assist with preliminary design concepts for the site, they included:
* To celebrate, honor, and recognize the local history and contributions of our African American and Black community members.
* To provide a safe place for peace and healing, that honors representation and fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion.
* To promote equity, respect, and learning as we build community together.
* To find common ground with each other through storytelling, performance and art - especially stories, performances, art from, or promoted by and led by our African American and/or Black community members.
* To build strong connections with the surrounding neighbors and organizations.
In 2022, the park was named after Rebecca Howard, an accomplished and respected black business...
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