Update and Call to Action

"Historically we have a very vocal and passionate group of people who frustrate things that a silent majority probably think should happen."
Councilman Chris Snow, Bainbridge Review 6/2/07


This is one Councilperson's characterization of the rising opposition to the Winslow Tomorrow plans for our downtown. We think he's wrong. The "silent majority" is all of you and thousands of other Bainbridge Island residents who, although not present or expressing their concerns at every Council and Planning Commission meeting, are firmly committed to preserving Winslow's sense of place.


Where Things Stand

The increased height and density proposed by the Winslow Tomorrow plan is still before the Planning Commission. There will be additional opportunities for the public to comment on the proposals before the Commission over the next month or two. The proposals will then go before the City Council which will make the ultimate decision on whether they become law.

The City has launched the Winslow Tomorrow Streetscape design project. It is important that the community not confuse the Streetscape project, and the campaign surrounding it, with the many other elements of the Winslow Tomorrow plan for our downtown, including the increased heights and density. The Save Winslow Way Coalition has always supported the replacement of deteriorated utilities on Winslow Way, and is glad to see that the City appears to be moving forward with that project. With regards to the Streetscape Improvements that are being developed to coincide with the excavation of Winslow Way, many questions remain unanswered. Check this blog over the next couple of weeks for more details.


The Island Needs You

The Save Winslow Way Coalition needs your help in making all of our voices heard. Our strength lies in our numbers, and in our ability to get the word out. We need help informing the entire community about what is at risk.

If we all talk to our friends about our concerns and each of them talks to other friends, together we can create a chorus of voices that cannot be ignored. To date we have over 350 signatures on our petition. We know we can get to 500, but what about 1000? If every one of you finds two people to sign the petition we will surpass that goal. That will help us to save Winslow Way and its small town character and scale.

Action Opportunities

• Talk about the proposed changes with three friends, colleagues or neighbors. Give them the address for the petition website: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/SaveWinslowWay For the latest flyer: SaveWinslowWay@gmail.com
• Write a letter to the editor.
• Contact your council members about your concerns at Council@ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us
• Attend and/or comment at a hearing.
• Help gather petition signatures.
• Participate in an event (see announcement above right in green)
• Contribute $15 or more to help cover costs, newspaper ads (the Review and/or Islander), etc.*
  

*Checks payable to ABC, P.O. Box 10999, with notation"for SWWC" at bottom


For further information, write to: SaveWinslowWay@gmail.com

The Save Winslow Way Coalition is also looking for volunteer professional help, in addition to contributions. Please let us know if you can help with any of the following:


-Urban design and rendering.
-Accounting and financial analysis.
-Writing and editing.
-Event production.
-Marketing strategy.


It's our Island. It's our money.
Speak out!