Editor,

It’s time to rebuild Maylor’s Wharf in Oak Harbor.

The original structure built in 1893 and destroyed by fire in 1966 was the center of downtown business in the late 19th and early 20th century. Why can’t it be that way now? Coupeville has their wharf, bustling with tourists and an iconic place on their waterfront. Why not us?

I did not grow up in Oak Harbor, so I have no memory of the wharf. It was destroyed a few years before I was even born. But I did grow up in San Diego, where we have these amazing piers in Imperial, Pacific and Ocean Beaches. They are a draw for tourism, fishing and the local community for a sunset walk, or photo opportunity. Why not us?

I know this will not be cheap, Coupeville is investing over $1.4 million in its wharf because residents feel its that important to their town. Their vision is that the wharf is true to Coupeville’s history while also supporting its future potential and value as a local industry and recreational asset. Why can’t we have the same thing?

From recreation boating, visiting ships or maybe someday a foot traffic ferry to Camano Island or a high speed passenger ferry to Seattle? I can already imagine the schooner Suva or the tall ship Lady Washington tied along side for tours, drawing people towards the the city center and businesses.

The infrastructure is already there. The City of Oak Harbor’s Parks and Recreation Department is already tasked with the management and maintenance of the surrounding areas, as well as the adjacent marina.

This would only serve as a draw. We have invested in the Waterfront Trail, and more recently in Serendipity Lane, whose purpose is to pull people down from Pioneer Street to the waterfront, to what? A floating dock and a stone Flintstones Car? Why not an amazing opportunity to walk out on a historical pier, browse a gift shop, get a cup of coffee, go on a kayak ride, or boat tour, see the wildlife, the boats sailing in and out of the marine, and another beautiful view of this place we call home.

We may not have the money right now, but right now is the time to start planning, applying for grants, drafting levies, including the option in the city and county’s comprehensive plan for the required studies, planning and eventual reconstruction. They say, the best time to plant a tree was 40 years ago. The next best opportunity is right now. I call on the Oak Harbor Main Street Association, the Oak Harbor City Council and the Island County Board of Commissioners , to make this a priority! Why not us?

Scott D. Oram

Oak Harbor