Planning for the new Bainbridge Island Senior/Community Center is really emphasizing community.
“It’s inviting for people who think they aren’t seniors, but they really are,” Reid Price, director of the center, said smiling.
Price talked about outdoor spaces that will not be scheduled for use so drop-ins can use it or anyone “who might wander through the door.”
Architect Charlie Wenzlau talked about the “town to water” connection, including one route that goes right through the building. “We want to be a good neighbor to the Waterfront Park.” He added they want to be welcoming for people to visit and appreciate and take advantage of “this incredible location.”
Deputy mayor Ashley Mathews said this is just the type of facility they’ve seen in other communities that “cause people to love their city. It’s exciting to see this come to life right in front of us. Good luck raising money.”
The project has 3 1/2 years to raise the funds. The hope is to start building in 2027. A campaign committee is reaching out to donors. While that effort has just started, “I’ll be glad when the flywheel starts to move a little quicker,” Reid said.
Councilmember Clarence Moriwaki said as the city’s liaison for the project he can vouch for “the enthusiasm of the site” with its “view over Waterfront Park.”
Price was asked about showers, and he said they are available across the street at the new rowing center. He did say they are looking at some type of laundry facility as that is lacking in the area.
Price reminded the council that in July he told them the building would not affect the nearby playground, and that there is “adequate acreage” to make affordable housing possible in the future. This meeting was required by the city since the design is 30% complete. Other updates will be given when it’s 60% and 90% complete.
The project has received the summary letter that defines the zoning requirements, anticipated submittals required for approval (traffic study, tree retention, stormwater), and the approvals process. The project meets zoning requirements including required parking, which includes 20 more spots.
Parking will be “under the building, essentially invisible, tucked into the slope,” Wenzlau said.
The site plan identifies key outdoor spaces, circulation and initial planting concepts. The floor plans illustrate the intended building functions and overall organization. The later stages of Design Review will focus on the exterior design and building materials.
The Senior/Community Center is meeting with numerous island-based organizations for input and to ensure the building is supportive of multiple needs. The groups include: Island Volunteer Caregivers, Helpline House, BI Metro Parks & Recreation, the Suquamish Tribe, the Chamber of Commerce and others. The team is also meeting with people with lived experience in disability, including the Visually Impaired Persons group and Bainbridge Prepares, and others.
During public comments, Debra Purcell said she’s happy to see the city working toward more affordable housing. She’d like to see “your kids and my kids be able to live here on the island, or anywhere in Kitsap, as it’s awfully hard. Housing builds community. We need more housing. It’s an acute problem here on Bainbridge.”
