wpa seed final

8/3/2019 Wpa Seed Final

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WEST PORT ARTHURWEST PORT ARTHURSEEDSEED



Project Team: Greg Estes, Eimile Gavagan, Jules Gianakos, Jennifer King, Reid Mulligan, and Jay TaylorCommunity Design Resource Center Team: Susan Rogers, Director and Maria Oran, Research Assistant

For More Information:Community Design Resource CenterGerald D. Hines College of Architecture122 Architecture Bldg.Houston, TX [email protected]

2010



CONTENTSWest Port Arthur: SEED

Introduction

Mobility ConnectionsLegs and WheelsArt on the Move

Open SpacesGrowing GreenGoing Green

Community OpportunitiesHand-In-GloveLive and Learn

Vision

10

29

49

71



C O

N N E

C T I O N

S



Over the course of the last year graduate students in the College of Architecture at the University of Houston, in partnership with the College’s

Community Design Resource Center, have been studying the existing conditions in the West Port Arthur community as well as developing

potential future strategies for community development and change, an idea we de ne as SEED.

The comprehensive project began with an analysis of the demographics, existing conditions, and opportunities in the community to identify both

the community assets and constraints and as a means to develop broad-based design, community development and economic strategies that

support and augment the existing social and cultural strengths of the community and its citizens. This report compiles the strategies developed

for the West Port Arthur community which are focused in three areas: Mobility Connections; Open Spaces; and Community Opportunities. The

strategies are all considered "SEEDS," programs that have the potential to begin small and grow into comprehensive and sustainable change in

the community. For us, to SEED, is to address the social, economic, and ecological development challenges in communities and provide both

pragmatic and visionary solutions.

This project is a partnership with the Community In-Power Development Association.

WEST PORT ARTHUR: SEEDWEST PORT ARTHUR: SEEDSocial, Economic, and Ecological DevelopmentSocial, Economic, and Ecological Development

O P E N

S P A

C E

S

O P P

O R T U N I T I E

S



S WO T

connect people toplaces of work

decreasing population

increasing land vacancy

need for community gathering space

solar farms/clean energy

soil reclamation

lack of personal transportation

few local amenities

need for reliable publictransportation

strong church communitywith resources

partnership with schoolsfor job training

low employment rates

low income levels

need for local amenities

movement for green jobs

STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES, and THREATS

The “West Port Arthur: Context” study highlighted the strengths,

weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the community. The

weaknesses and threats are the issues we have worked to mitigate,

and the strengths and opportunities are the characteristics of the

community that we have worked to build on. The strategies are divided

into three areas: Mobility Connections; Community Opportunities; and

Open Spaces. Mobility Connections work to link residents of West

Port Arthur to the greater resources of the city, including developing

alternative transportation systems, enhancing pedestrian comfort

and connection, and supporting the existing transit system in the

city. Community Opportunities focus on enhancing opportunities for

economic development and employment, including developing co-

operative models to serve the basic needs of residents, creative means

to re-use building materials and repair homes, and the development

of new jobs in the community. Finally, open spaces address the

need to nd new methods to mitigate the hazards of the surrounding

petrochemical industries, while looking forward to new forms of clean

energy, green jobs, and community sustainability such as community

gardens.

Each of the strategies are considered “seeds,” or projects that can

begin small but have the potential to grow into larger, more sustainable

systems, over time. In this study, “SEED” is de ned as building the

social, economic, and ecological development opportunities in the West

Port Arthur community, with the goal of attaining a truly sustainable

community in the future, where equity, economy, and ecology are

maintained in balance. The following pages detail the strategies for

change developed for the West Port Arthur community.



SOLAR FARM

COMMUNITY GARDENS

MURALS + PUBLIC ART

JOB TRAINING CENTER

SOIL RECLAMATION

CO-OPS

HOME REPAIR

REFINERY SUPPORT

CREDIT UNION

REUSE WAREHOUSE

CHURCH BUS ROUTES

STREET ART

NEW CITY BUS ROUTES

STOREFRONT ART

BUS STOP STRUCTURES

CLEAN ENERGY

PLANTS & PRODUCE

AIR/GROUND TOXIN REMOVAL

RECYCLED MATERIALS

INSPIRED CREATIVITY

SOFTENS HARDSCAPES

VACANCY AWARENESS

GREEN JOBS

SPECIALIZED TRAINING

SELF-RESPONSIBILITY

HOME REPAIR JOBS

RELIABLE INCOME

NEW BUS DRIVER JOBS

SUSTAINABILITY

PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHOOLS

LOT IMPROVEMENTS

DILAPIDATED HOME REMOVAL

EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS

EQUALITY

EMPOWERED COMMUNITY

VOLUNTARY SERVICE

ACCESS TO AMENITIES

O

P E N

S P A

C E

S

C O M M U N I T Y

O P P

O R T U N I T I E

S

M O B I L I T Y

C O N N E

C T I O N

S

C U L T U R E

E N V I R

O N M E N T

E M P L

O Y M E N T

E D U C A T I O N

D E V E L

O P M E N T

C O N N E

C T I V I T Y



MOBILITY CONNECTIONSMOBILITY CONNECTIONSSEEDSEED



church transit buses

street art

murals

low line

storefront art

new city bus routes

new bus stops

LONG TERM

(PERMANENT)

SHORT TERM

(QUICK-FIX)

$

$$$$



The West Port Arthur community is disconnected from the greater city, isolated adjacent to the heavy industrial activity of major re neries. The

segregation of the community has led to disinvestment and abandonment, and the area has few amenities or resources. Many buildings have

been boarded up or abandoned in the wake of substantial population loss and nearly half of the population survives on incomes below poverty

level. Connections to employment, basic necessities, and resources is very limited in West Port Arthur. As a result, the Mobility Connections

strategies seek to re-connect the residents through transit and build the community through public art.

The strategies are divided into two categories: Legs and Wheels and Art on the Move. The Legs and Wheels strategies are pragmatic, working

to enhance transportation options to those who live in West Port Arthur, where nearly twenty-percent of the population depend on public

transit or walking as a means for mobility. This includes the addition of a new bus route that would connect Carver Terrace and greater West

Port Arthur to the basic services on the east side of town, including groceries, banking, and pharmacies. To support this proposal we also

recommend the construction of bus shelters to provide a place to wait for the bus. As an interim to the new city bus route proposal, we also

recommend that the faith-based community create a "transit coalition" to provide transportation via church buses to those with the most need

in the community. Finally, we developed a proposal for a new pedestrian corridor, which titled the "Low Line," that would be an extension of the

Thomas Boulevard trail west to connect with the former Lincoln High School and Carver Terrace, and south on the vacant land between Austin

and Ft. Worth Avenues to connect to downtown.

The Art on the Move strategies are intended to seed creativity and involvement in the improvement of the West Port Arthur community. The

proposed programs include murals, street art, and an "Art in Storefronts" program that would connect artists to vacant storefronts and provide

both studio space and exhibit space for the artists, while activating vacant buildings with new activities.

Similar to all the strategies developed, the Mobility Connections proposals have the potential to grow over time transforming life in the West Port

Arthur community by creating linkages and programs. All of the strategies build on the existing strengths of the West Port Arthur community as

well as providing enhanced opportunities for economic development, mobility, creativity, and community involvement.

MOBILITY CONNECTIONSIntroduction

econnecting people




few local amenities


strong church community withresources

connect people to places of work

} MOBILITY

CONNECTION

Improving transit and pedestrian amenities will improve mobility for

everyone.



{LEGS and WHEELSStrategies focus on improvingmobility for the residents of West Port Arthur through new transit routes, pedestrian connections,and transit amenities. Thestrategies are proposed tobe applied in the followinglocations:Thomas Avenue Low LineExisting Bus RoutesExisting Bus Stops

ART ON THE MOVEStrategies are focused onenhancing the pedestrianenvironment through publicart. The proposed interventionsinclude street art, murals, andstorefront art. The strategies areproposed to be applied in thefollowing locations:

Along Transit RoutesVacant BuildingsMajor Community Intersections

low line

new city bus routes

church transit buses

new bus stops

street art

storefront art

murals

MOBILITY CONNECTIONSConcept



LOW LINEThe Low Line is the proposed extension of the Thomas Boulevard trail so that it connects

residents of the West Port Arthur community.

NEW CITY BUS ROUTESA new city bus route to connect the residents of West Port Arthur to the jobs and amenities

the east side of town is proposed.

CHURCH TRANSIT BUSESThe Faith-Based community in West Port Arthur is very strong. We propose that the churc

work to provide transit services to both the elderly and youth, helping them to connect to need

resources.

NEW BUS STOPSIn conjunction with the proposed new city bus route is the addition of bus stops. The

shelters could be completed as community art projects.

MOBILITY CONNECTIONS: LEGS & WStrategies



N O T S U O H

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Sitting Area

Bike Path

Orchard Pavilion

Street Art

The Low Line is an extension of the Thomas Boulevard rail that creates a new edestrian spin



LOW LINE: The proposed Low Line creates a new pedestrian corridor connecting points throughout the west side of Port Arthur. It is

envisioned that the Line would not only provide a pedestrian and bicycle corridor but would also become a community gathering area, lined with

plants, gardens, trees for shade, and places for people to rest and gather. The Line is the extension of the Thomas Boulevard hike and bike trail

east to West Port Arthur. The Low Line also extends south to Downtown along the vacant land between Austin Avenue and Ft. Worth Avenue.

If completed the Low Line would connect all the major amenities in this area of Port Arthur including the park and community center, middle

school, Lincoln High School, Carver Terrace, and Downtown, and provide an alternative means of transportation throughout the city.

The Low Line is modelled on the precedent of the High Line in New York City, where an abandoned elevated rail line has been transformed into

a rich and varied community amenity that is planted with native grasses and wild owers.

MOBILITY CONNECTIONS: LEGS & WStrategies



N O T S U O H

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Church

Proposed Church Transit Stops

The faith-based community can come together to

rovide transportation to eeded services



N O T S U O H

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ART ON THE MOVE: Concept Map

Street Art

Storefront Art

Murals



STREET ARTInnovative Street Art is proposed for West Port Arthur's sidewalks and intersections. The a

seen as a cata lyst to unite the community, inspire local development, and create a unique ident

to the area.

STOREFRONT ARTThe Storefront Art program is proposed to provide a venue for local artists and commu

organizations, for example working in partnership with the local school district, Lamar Univerlocal artists. The program would build community pride, support local merchants, and improv

streetscape. The project is a celebration of the role of the arts in community-buildin

MURALSThe proposed Mural program is a tool to help to revitalize the appearance of vacant buildi

throughout the city. The murals should be developed in partnership with local youth acommunity organizations, and should inspire the community to take an active role creat

positive change.

MOBILITY CONNECTIONS: ART ON THStrategies



The arts build communities

Portland's "City Repair" project is a program to enhance the publicareas of the City through volunteer and civic action. Each year the

program improves an intersection or public area, often painting the

streets with bright colors, as illustrated in the images at the bottom of

this page. The program is organized and implemented by community

leaders and volunteers. We believe that a similar program could be

developed by leaders in the West Port Arthur community and could be

a rst step in representing the vibrant and rich community.



The proposed "Art in Storefronts" program could potentially be supported by the City and would select artists through an application process.

Local artists should have priority over artists from other communities, and partnerships with local schools, Lamar University, community and

youth organizations, churches and local artists would be encouraged. The program would provide both work space and exhibit space to the

participating artists. The program aims to instill community pride, support local merchants, improve streetscape conditions and safety, revitalize

the appearance of vacant properties, increase foot traf c, and support local artists. The project would also celebrate and support the role that

the arts play in community-building and economic growth.

Cities across the U.S. have embarked in "Art in Storefronts" programs to support local artists and provide avenue for them to both create and exhibit their work.

MOBILITY CONNECTIONS: ART ON THStrategies



OPEN SPACESOPEN SPACESSEEDSEED



growing bags

horseshoes

recycling nodes

raised beds

food carts

demonstration planting

soil remediation

native planting

tree planting

orchards

environmental resource center

public art + murals

bike racks

solar field/parking lot

community gardens

LONG TERM

(PERMANENT)

SHORT TERM

(QUICK-FIX)

$

$$$$



decreasing population

increasing land vacancy

need for communitygathering space

clean and renewable energy

soil remediation

} OPEN SPACES

with new gardens and native plants and new “green” opportunities



{GROWING GREENStrategies focus on developingurban agriculture, gardens, andnative planting to provide accessto healthy food, improve the airquality, and remediate the soil.The strategies are proposedto be applied in the followinglocations:Vacant LotsWestside Brownfields

Along Houston Avenue

GOING GREENStrategies are environmental,educational, and communityamenities that build opportunitiesfor environmental awarenessand renewable energy, andlink the West Port Arthurcommunity to these resources.The strategies are proposedto be applied in the followinglocations:Former Tank FarmThomas AvenueTexaco Park

community gardens

orchards

native planting

soil remediation

solar field/parking lot

environmentalresource center

green bridges

OPEN SPACESConcept



Community Gardens

Orchards

Native Plants

Vacant Lots

N O T S U O H

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ROWING GREEN: Concept Map



OPEN SPACES: GROWING GREENStrategies

COMMUNITY GARDENSCommunity Gardens are proposed as a primary st rategy for the adaptive of re-use of vaca

property in West Port Arthur. The gardens have the potential to become catalysts for commuengagement and change.

VACANT LOTSStrategies for the adaptive re-use of vacant lots throughout the City of Port Arthur are focusedproviding family recreation areas, pocket parks, games and sports, community gardens, and oth

amenities.

NATIVE PLANTINGNative planting is proposed for the former tank farm adjacent to Carver Terrace and in other va

land throughout the community. The planting can include grasses and wild flowers, and wiused to the clean soil, mitigate erosion, and reduce the need for irrigation

ORCHARDSOrchards are proposed for the former railroad right-of-way just north of Houston Avenue.

trees will provide shade and be a source of community gathering and connectednes



r b an a r i c u l t u ommu g ar de n s c e

o p p o d i r o v c m m u n i ty r s




The West Port Arthur community can be dened as a "food desert,"

an area where residents have little access to fresh fruit and vegetables,

especially those without transportation. It is also a city with many

vacant lots and under-utilized properties. Community gardens can

work towards addressing these issues, providing accessibility to fresh

produce while at the same time resulting in community engagement,

neighborhood improvement, and sustainability. We believe that

the gardens can start small in "grow bags" and small raised beds,

and over time transform into a major urban agriculture project with

large scale gardening and greenhouses. The gardens also have the

potential to spark economic development in the community, and be

the rst step in establishing a community co-operative market.

In addition to community gardens, vacant land can also be used to

provide community amenities. One primary focus of this effort is to

re-establish Texaco Park as a hub for recreation and play in the West

Port Arthur community. We propose to provide a trail around the park,

play areas for children, an interactive water fountain and new trees

surrounded by benches for shaded seating.



The quality of our environment, including the air, soil and water, can be improved with trees and vegetation. Trees help create rain as they

expel moisture into the atmosphere, and their canopies draw carbon monoxide from the air and return oxygen, cleaning the air that we breath.

Roots help hold soil in place, preventing erosion, which also helps to keep our waterways clean. As a result, we propose that a large orchard

be planted on the former railroad right-of-way north of Houston Avenue utilizing fruit and nut trees that are appropriate for the climate, which

includes varieties of peach, g, apricot, nectarine, plum, jujube, pear, loquat, and apple trees. The trees will not only work to improve the

environment and provide shade, but will also bear fruit that can help support the creation of a fresh fruit and vegetable co-operative market in

the community.



IT STARTS WITH ONET STARTS WITH ONE




Kelley’s Kitchen is quickly growing into a central community

gathering space. Its location is crucial to the revitalization of West

Port Arthur. This plan takes advantage of the adjoining vacant lot

and proposes to expand to an outdoor recreational, social, and park

area. The space would not only serve as an extension of Kelley’s

Kitchen, but also as an informal meeting space for the community

to unwind and socialize. The horseshoe pits in the vacant lot next

to Kelley’s Kitchen has already shown an increase in community

involvement and activities. If this plan was implemented throughout

the westside by using vacant lots as pocket parks, tot-lots, gardens,

and other amenities the community can begin to re-build West Port

Arthur together.




N O T S U O H

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Environmental Resource Center

Solar Field and Parking Lot

Green Bridges

OING GREEN: Concept Map



ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE CENTERThe Environmental Resource Center is a proposed educational center that would provide hands

environmental classes and programs for youth from West Port Arthur and the greater city, wi

focus on developing interest in,and sk ills for, the 21st century “green economy.” The centeproposed to be located in the existing Texaco Park.

OPEN SPACES: GOING GREENStrategies

SOLAR FIELD and PARKING LOTThe Solar Parking Lot and Field is proposed to be located on the southwest side of the form

tank farm, adjacent to Carver Terrace. The exisitng park lot will become a field of solar “trees”have the potential to provide opportunities to plug-in electric cars as well as provide renewa

and affordable power to the West Port Arthur community

GREEN BRIDGESThe Green Bridges connect the residents of Carver Terrace to Lincoln High School and ot

amenities in West Port Arthur, including the proposed Environmental Resource Center. The bridare decks built over the former tank farm, that is proposed to be planted with vegetation that h

the potential to remediate the soil. The bridges turn a liability into a potential as



The Carkeek’s Park Environmental Learning Center

Seattle, Washington

The Carkeek Park Environmental Learning Center provides

educational programs for residents in sustainability, including

showcasing green building techniques. The learning center is a

model for resource ef ciency and protection of human health and the

environment. There are classrooms, activity rooms, and community

meeting spaces.

PARK AREA + SOIL REMEDATION

(ENVIRONMENTAL)

ENVIRONMENTAL + ECONOMICEnergy Efficiency

SubsidiesOff the Grid

ENVIROMENTAL + SOCIALEnviromental Justice

Social Awareness

ENVIRONMENTALRESOURCE CENTER

(ECONOMIC)

COMMUNITYINVOLVEMENT

(SOCIAL)

SOLAR PARKINGLOT

(SUSTAINABILITY)



The Environmental Resource Center is a proposed learning and training center for people of all ages in the community. The Center will provide

classes and programs focused on sustainability, including green building materials, energy saving, and adaptive re-use strategies. The Center

will also actively engage residents in air quality monitoring, soil testing, and understanding other hazards in their environment. Green job

training, urban gardening, education, and other skill building courses are also proposed to be offered at the center.


The proposed ENVIRONMENTALESOURCE CENTER would serve as a

community hub for education, training,and information on sustainability and he environment.



SOLAR FIELD and PARKING LOT: The proposed Solar Parking Lot provides an opportunity for Port Arthur to transform the image of the

city, from that of a traditional re nery town, to a new city focused on the future of green, renewable sources of energy. The existing parking

lot, just south of the former tank farm, is proposed to be retro tted with solar trees that will generate energy, provide shade for the parked

cars, incorporate plugs for electric vehicles, as well as providing a demonstration site for renewable energy opportunities. As the potential for

renewable energy sources are demonstrated additional solar elds can be created throughout Port Arthur, reducing the city’s dependence on

fossil fuels and transforming the image of the city.

SOLAR FIELDS have the potential to rovide a new future for the city.




GREEN BRIDGES: The Green Bridges strategy works to achieve two

goals: rst to connect the residents of Carver Terrace to the surrounding

community amenities, such as Lincoln High School, and the larger West Port

Arthur community, and the second is to provide remediation for the soil of

the former tank farm. To accomplish these goals the site will be planted with

native vegetation and other plants that have the ability to cleanse the soil,

across this planting area decks, or bridges, will be constructed to provide a

safe means of travel over and across the site. Trees can also be planted to

establish shade on the paths and assist with cleaning the air. Additional ly,

we have proposed a bee colony area. Bees will help pollinate the proposed

vegetation and potentially build a home-grown business in honey.

REEN BRIDGES, elevated on decks

over the former tank farm, will provide ew connectivity for the residents

of West Port Arthur and the ground surface will be planted for soil emediation.



COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIESCOMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIESSEEDSEED



LONG TERM

(PERMANENT)

SHORT TERM

(QUICK-FIX)

$

$$$$

communitygardens

basketball courts

soccer elds

book donation

raised box gardens

library

recreationcenter building

charter school

re-use donationcenter

home repair andconstruction

reading roomsor benches

credit union



Over the last several decades the West Port Arthur community has experienced signi cant population decline as well as a shift in economic and

employment opportunities. These changes have led to widespread disinvestment in the community as well as a lack of community resources

and opportunities. Unemployment in the area is signi cant, educational attainment is below the city average, and poverty is widespread. To

combat these issues the Community Opportunities strategies seek to seed change, creating local employment and business opportunities,

places of gathering, and places of learning and fun, transforming West Port Arthur into a place of opportunity.

The strategies are divided into two categories: Hand-In-Glove and Live and Learn. The Hand-In-Glove strategies are focused on enhancing

economic and employment opportunit ies in the community. The strategies include proposals for a new community food co-operative that

would begin from the bounty of the proposed community gardens and grow over time into a full-service grocery, a community credit union,

and a Re-Use Warehouse for the recycling of building materials, job training, and home repair assistance. Similar to other strategies, the

Re-Use Warehouse for example, begins small as simply a place to donate surplus materials from construction sites or salvaged materials from

demolition projects. Over time the Warehouse will expand its offerings, providing job-training and educational programs.

The Live and Learn strategies are focused on creating educational and community resources for West Port Arthur. The proposals include a

library, recreation and community center, and a charter high school. The proposals began small, as seeds, such as creating a book donation

program, and grow into permanent facilities, such as a community library.

All of the strategies build on the existing strengths of the West Port Arthur community as well as providing enhanced opportunities for economic

development, employment, entrepreneurship, and community involvement.

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIESIntroduction

Opportunities for Change




few local amenities


lack of local educational facilities

need for community gatheringspace

} COMMUNIT

OPPORTUNITIE

Opportunities are seeded across the West Port Arthur community


movement for green jobs

low employment rates

low income levels

connect people to places of work



COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIESConcept

{HAND-IN-GLOVEStrategies focus on buildingbasic amenities in the West Port

Arthur community, includingbanking services, fresh foodsand groceries, and affordablebuilding supplies. New formsof economic development, suchas co-operatives and com-munity kitchens are also beingproposed to help the communitymeet its basic needs.

LIVE and LEARNStrategies are focused onbuilding the educationalresources in the West Port

Arthur community, including alibrary and charter school. Inaddition, a recreation center,where the community can cometogether is also being proposed.

grocery co-operative

credit union

re-use warehouse

home repair workshops

library

recreation center

charter/vocational school



AND-IN-GLOVE: Concept Map

N O T S U O H

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Community Resources Focus Area



OPPORTUNITIES: HAND-IN-GLOVEStrategies

FOOD CO-OPERATIVEA community food co-ooperative, nurtured by residents, could grow over time, providing acc

to fresh food, healthy nutrition and job opportunities

CREDIT UNIONA credit union can provide a full-range of financial services to residents of West Port Ar

who currently do not have access to banking services.

HOME REPAIR WORKSHOPSIn association with Re-Use Warehouse, Home Repair Workshops would be provided to as

residents with minor repairs, provide a tool lending library, and classes on weatherizat

RE-USE WAREHOUSEThe proposed Re-Use Warehouse would be a non-profit organization dedicated t

providing job-training programs, recycling building materials, and providing home repair cla



The West Port Arthur community can be de ned as a "food desert."

The nearest grocery store is nearly four miles away and many

residents do not have access to transportation. The health and

nutrition of children and families in West Port Arthur depends onhaving access to fresh food. As a result, we have proposed that a

community food co-operative be developed.

A cooperative is a business organization owned and operated

by a group of individuals for their mutual bene t. It is owned and

controlled equally by the people who use its services or by the

people who work there. The cooperative movement has been fueled

globally by ideas of economic democracy. Economic democracy is a

socioeconomic philosophy that suggests an expansion of decision-making power from a small minority of corporate shareholders to a

larger majority of public stakeholders. Cooperatives are based on the

values of "self-help, self-responsibility, democracy and equality, equity

and solidarity" and the seven cooperative principles: (1) Voluntary

and Open Membership; (2) Democratic Member Control; (3)

Member Economic Participation; (4) Autonomy and Independence;

A community food co-operative,urtured by residents, could grow

over time, providing access to resh food and job opportunities.

(5) Education, Training and Information; (6) Cooperation among

Cooperatives; and (7) Concern for Community.

In the tradition of their founders, cooperative members believe in theethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring

for others. A West Port Arthur community food co-operative is ideal

for nurturing community development and change in an effective and

inexpensive way.




Steps for Creating a Community Food Co-Op

Step 1: Raised-Box Gardening

Starting with raised-box gardening takes little effort, cost or space, but can quickly become a great source

of pride for everyone involved. Not only is gardening therapeutic as a collective effort, it can create an

agricultural center for the community and provide fresh produce for individuals and families.

Step 2: Farmers Market

A large gardening effort can give way to the possibility for regular farmer’s markets, where the bounties of

the soil can be shared across the city. By developing a community co-operative system, revenue can be

put back into the group’s efforts, and has the potential to be invested in a permanent location to establish

a grocery store.

Step 3: Co-operative Grocery

A grocery store with fresh produce would be a much needed addition to West Port Arthur, providing

options for healthy food, but also creating jobs and generating community improvement.



Steps for Creating a Re-Use Warehouse

Step 1: Collecting Building Materials

Throughout Port Arthur there are buildings in need of demolition. A job-training program that would

provide education on building deconstruction, preserving valuable materials for re-use, could provide both

opportunities and economic resources in the community.

Step 2: Establishing the Re-Use Warehouse

Similar to the Habitat for Humanity "Re-Store" program, which sells salvaged building materials, a "Re-

Use Warehouse" in West Port Arthur could become a resource for small home repairs and even new

construction, while at the same time preserving our limited resources. The Warehouse will also provide

employment and job training services for residents.

Step 3: Providing Home Repair Classes and Tools

It is proposed that the Re-Use Warehouse also become an educational workshop that would provide

classes in minor home repairs or weatherizing techniques. The Warehouse could also provide a tool

lending library to assist homeowners in completing repairs. Over time, the program could help provide

affordable housing in the neighborhood.




Port Arthur's population has dispersed and declined over recent decades creating an abundance of vacant and dilapidated buildings in the

center of the city. Unemployment and poverty are also pervasive in the city. It is proposed that a program to teach deconstruction skills,

recycle and re-use building materials, and provide home repair and weatherization classes be developed. The program would be focused in

the proposed Re-Use Warehouse, a non-pro t organization, that would collect reusable building materials. The Re-Use Warehouse would

collect these materials from new construction sites as well as collect salvaged materials from demolition sites. The materials would be available

for community uses and home repairs, rather than continuing to allow these potential resources to clutter the streets and land lls. People and

businesses would be encouraged to donate materials to the program.

The Re-Use Warehouse would also provide a job-training program focused on deconstruction skills, and provide classes to community

residents on minor home repair and weatherization. A small tool lending library would support the do-it-yourself program and help residents

access the equipment they need.

uilding materials can generate jobs.




In low-income communities across the United States access to

banking services is a signi cant constraint. It is often the case that

residents must rely on check-cashing establishments, money orders,

or expensive convenient store ATMs, which greatly increase the costsof banking services, this is the case in West Port Arthur. As a result,

it is proposed that a West Port Arthur Credit Union be developed to

provide a full range of nancial services to residents.

A Credit Union is a co-operative nancial institution that is owned and

controlled by its members and operates for the purpose of promoting

thrift, providing credit at reasonable rates, and providing other nancial

services to its members. Credit Unions contribute to community

development on a local level and are typically smaller than banks butprovide the same basic services. Worldwide, credit union systems vary

signicantly in terms of total size, ranging from volunteer operations

with a handful of members, to institutions with several billion dollars in

assets and hundreds of thousands of members. A credit union owned

and operated by its members provides needed banking services,

creates jobs, provides affordable and local loan agreements, and

reduces nancial dependency on outside investors.

A credit union can provide a full-range of nancial services to

esidents.



N O T S U O H

S A M O H T

. T S H T 7

R E T C O R P

K L M

H A N N A V A

Y A W

F L U G

Community Resources Focus Area

IVE and LEARN: Concept Map



LIBRARY A Library provides valuable educational services for a community. The closest library to the W

Port Arthur neighborhood is six miles, and many residents do not have access to transportati

As a result, we propose a new library to serve the residents that would be created f rom donatbooks and materials, but that would also provide internet service

RECREATION CENTERThe proposed recreation center is intended to serve a multitude of uses and events, includin

meetings, banquets, dances, and dining. The Center would be equipped with a full kitchen cooking classes, open multi-purpose spaces for large gatherings, and fields and courts for sporti

activities, this center would become a hub for the community in West Port Arth

CHARTER SCHOOLA Charter High School is proposed to serve West Port Arthur students. Currently stude

travel to Nederland for classes and the closing of Lincoln High School has had a negative efon the community. Providing community-based education can strengthen the neighborhoo

commitment to lifelong learning.

OPPORTUNITIES: LIVE and LEARNStrategies



Stories of Success: Community Library

The Community Library began in 1977 with 3,000 books and a

dedicated band of volunteers. Housed in one room at Salem Grade

School, the library was open 28 hours a week. In 1980, a joint

agreement was signed by Salem and Paddock Lake establishing the

Community Library as a municipal library funded by local taxes. The

Library then joined with Kenosha Public Library to form the Kenosha

County Federated Library System; residents of Kenosha County now

pay either a municipal or a county tax for library services. The Library

moved to Silver Lake in 1981, and Silver Lake became a member of

the library district in 1987. Twin Lakes and Randall joined the district

in 1993 with the opening of a facility in Twin Lakes. In 1993 Paddock

Lake, Silver Lake, and Salem agreed to build a much needed newfacility. Construction began in June of 1994 and the new building

opened in May of 1995.

To date, the Library has issued more than 25,000 cards and has a

collection of more than 60,000 items. There are 8 full-time and 21

part-time employees, but volunteers continue to play a vital role in

the day-to-day operations. The Library also has the cooperation and

loyal support of the Friends of the Community Library.

Steps for Creating a Community Library

Step 1: Book Collection The initial step to building a library is clear, collect books. All that is

necessary for this step is an indoor space that is air-conditioned tokeep the books in good condition and a few volunteers to organize the

books.

Step 2: Reading RoomOnce books are available, the next step would be to create a reading

environment. This can take many forms, including benches along a

nice walkway, such as Thomas Boulevard, or a small outdoor covered

structure.

Step 3: Community Library Establish a permanent community library.




Citizens can play an active role in creating a community library,it can be as easy as beginning a

ook donation program.

A Library provides valuable educational services for a community. The closest library to the West Port Arthur neighborhood is six miles, andmany residents do not have access to transportation. As a result, we propose a new library to serve the residents that would be created from

donated books and materials, but that would also provide internet service. The most important facet of the library and book drop’s location is

proximity to Carver Terrace. In this regard, we propose that the library be located near Washington Park, adjacent to Washington Elementary

School. As in uential as young minds can be, it would be encouraging and potentially contagious for them to see their older brothers and

sisters as well as their parents nearby either dropping off books, choosing books to read or volunteering at the book drop. Similar to the

food co-op it is proposed that the library be built one step at a time, beginning with book donation and collection, to the development of a

community reading room, to a permanent structure.



Stories of Success: Dennilton Center

The Dennilton Center is a project sponsored by Architecture for

Humanity for NextAid, a South African non-pro t organization that

runs several programs to engage community members of all ages

in addressing the problems that affect their community. NextAid

is working with ecological architect Joseph Kennedy, and a team

of international volunteer designers and natural builders, to design

and build an earth-friendly center for teenagers and a home for an

additional 50 children orphaned by AIDS. It will be a community

resource center and a beacon of hope. The Dennilton Center will

serve as a model for sustainable centers and small scale projects

that NextAid plans to develop throughout the African continent.

Architecture for Humanity (AFH), the sponsor of this project, provides

an incredible example of success. Starting with a few hundred dollarsand an idea, Cameron Sinclair decided to hold a design competition

in response to the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo. Since then AFH

has grown into a model nonpro t inspiring and helping communities

around the world. Through the power of professional design, AFH

builds safer, more sustainable and highly innovative structures that

become assets to their communities and ongoing symbols of the

ability of people to come together to envision a better future.

A center for the West Port Arthur community to gather will build civic engagement and

participation.




The proposed recreation center is intended to serve a multitude of uses and events, including meetings, banquets, dances, and dining. The

Center would be equipped with a full community kitchen for cooking classes, open multi-purpose spaces for large gatherings, and elds and

courts for sporting activities, this center would become a hub for the community in West Port Arthur. We propose that the Recreation Center

be located centrally in West Port Arthur, adjacent to Washington Park and Washington Elementary School, as well as the proposed "Low Line."

The Recreation Center has the potential to become a community gathering space and the center of civic engagement.



Stories of Success: KIPP

KIPP, a charter school, stands for the Knowledge is Power Program.

Charter schools have become increasingly popular throughout

the U.S. as traditional school districts, particularly urban ones,

are not succeeding. Charter Schools receive federal funding for

students but provide their own facilities. Charter Schools also have

greater exibility in selecting both curriculum and staff. Because

of this, teachers cater to students’ needs more easily, and KIPP

is an example of the success a charter school can achieve. With

schools in approximately 30 cities, KIPP focuses on and recruits

students who are zoned to consistently unsuccessful schools at the

elementary, middle and high school levels. Of those 30 cities, several

are similar to West Port Arthur in both size and nancial need.

Steps for Establishing a Charter High School

Step 1: Community Action TeamThe rst step is to create a Community Action Team that is charged

with lobbying for a Charter School.

Step 2: Temporary Facility The second step is to locate a temporary facility for the school within

the West Port Arthur community. Modular buildings, because of their

affordability, are often used for charter schools.

Step 3: New SchoolEstablish a permanent charter school.




Create a "learning community" in est Port Arthur.

A Charter High School is proposed to serve West Port Arthur students. Currently students travel to Nederland for classes and the closing of Lincoln High School has had a negative effect on the community. Providing community-based education can strengthen the neighborhood's

commitment to lifelong learning. We recommend that the school be located adjacent or close to the former Lincoln High School, which is now

serving as a middle school. The proximity between the schools has the potential to create a “learning community campus” where students

of all ages come together. In addition, Charter Schools are a means to access very high quality education for students that traditional school

settings and districts have failed, and would be a substantial asset to the West Port Arthur community.



Solar Field and Parking Lot

Green Bridges

nvironmenta l Resourc e Cent er

Park

The vision for West Port Arthur is ocused on creating connections,

developing open spaces, and uilding opportunities—while orking to seed and grow a

ustainable community y ocusing on social, econom ,cological development.



VISION VISIONSEEDSEED

Credit Union

Sports Fields

Community Food Co-op

Community GardensNew Hous ing

Re-Use Wareho use

Low Line

Orchard




Connections are created through he development of a green

edestrian corridor, the "Low ine," and mobility is enhanced hrough the activation of streets

and sidewalks.

The West Port Arthur community is disconnected from the greater city, isolated adjacent to the heavy industrial activity of major reneries. The

segregation of the community has led to disinvestment and abandonment, and the area has few amenities or resources. Many buildings have

been boarded up or abandoned in the wake of substantial population loss and nearly half of the population survives on incomes below poverty

level. Connections to employment, basic necessities, and resources is very limited in West Port Arthur. As a result, the strategies to seek to

seed comprehensive and sustainable community transformation in West Port Arthur.

LEFT: Persp ective Rendering ofthe green pedestrian corridor, the"Low Line"ABOVE: Perspective Rendering ofthe "Art in Storefronts" proposal



Open Spaces strategies seek to turn vacancy

into opportunity by proposing new uses and

landscapes that together will provide job

opportunities, improve access to healthy food,

and mitigate soil and air quality hazards, while

enhancing the spaces for community gathering.

These spaces include community gardens and

new solar energy elds.




Community Opportunities strategies seek to seed change, creating local employment and business

opportunities, spaces to gather, and places of

earning and fun, transforming West Port Arthur

nto a place of opportunity.

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT:Perspective rendering of the new

community gardensTHIS PAGE, TOP: Perspecti verendering of the proposed solar

eldsTHIS PAGE, BOTTOM: Perspect ive

rendering of the new recreationcenter

wpa seed final

Documents