SURVEY PLANNED FOR SW OLYMPIA TO IDENTIFY ‘HISTORIC’ HOMES FROM 1945-65
SURVEY PLANNED FOR SW OLYMPIA TO IDENTIFY ‘HISTORIC’ HOMES FROM 1945-65
The City of Olympia is contracting with Peter Meijer Architect to conduct a survey of historical properties in certain parts of Olympia – including the area of SWONA closest to Black Lake Blvd., as shown on the attached map.
Interested persons are encouraged to attend a kick-off meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. Lee Creighton Justice Center (former City Hall), 900 Plum Street SE. Bring pictures and stories about the history of the ‘hood.
Purpose of the Survey
The Heritage Commission periodically initiates professional surveys of Olympia’s properties that are 50 years old or older to gather information on our community’s historic places. Over 2,500 buildings have turned 50 since the last survey was completed in the 1990s. This new survey will focus on houses built between 1945 and 1965 and will identify buildings of historical significance to the community. This information will help Heritage Commissioners work with members of the public who live in these residences who may want to add their homes to the Heritage Register or form a historic district.
How the Survey will be Conducted
Our consultants, Peter Meijer Architect, will photograph the exterior of homes built between 1945 and 1965 in the designated areas. All work will be conducted from public sidewalks and streets; the consultants will not enter private property unless invited by the resident. Fieldwork for the project will begin October 6th. In addition, project staff will meet with interested community members and conduct research to learn more about how these neighborhoods developed.
Working Together
It’s important that we work with community members to help build a picture of our historic neighborhoods. The City is currently preparing a letter to mail to each property within 300’ of the project area to help fill residents in on the survey and how to get involved.
The City is holding a kick-off meeting to explain the project and answer questions. The project team encourages residents of the identified neighborhoods to bring photos and stories about your homes and community.
Michelle Sadlier | Historic Preservation Officer Phone: (360) 753-8031
Email: msadlier@ci.olympia.wa.us