Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor | Masonic Lodge is a significant historical building
The Parks Committee is clearly well intentioned in its efforts; however, a more thorough and in-depth study is needed to fully explore the opportunities surrounding the Masonic Lodge. Many residents consider the Lodge to be a historical building of significant value, and as such, its future deserves careful consideration.
The Gig Harbor Peninsula is notable in that it has relatively few buildings over 100 years old. Most of the enduring structures located within local parks were constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the 1930’s Great Depression. Fortunately, these buildings — primarily serving as community halls — have been preserved and maintained by Pen Met Parks.
The City of Gig Harbor has consistently had the ultimate foresight to acquire historic properties, including the Skansie Netshed, Eddon Boatyard, the Maritime Pier, the Wilkinson Farm, and the Ancich Netshed. This should be no different.
A recent post in the city’s Gig-A-Byte newsletter included several significant errors related to the restoration costs for the Masonic Lodge. Specifically, the newsletter cited an estimate of $6.5 million, which is substantially higher than the actual projected costs. This figure does not accurately represent the financial requirements involved in restoring the Masonic Lodge.
Our preferred approach is to maintain the Lodge as a single-story structure. The design should include a commercial kitchen and restrooms that are accessible from both the interior and exterior of the building, better serving the needs of users.
While not a commercial contractor, personal experience in moving a couple houses makes us believe that an experienced contractor could install steel beams under the main floor of the building and raise it while site development and foundation work are completed. The building would then be secured to the new foundation and retrofitted to meet current code requirements. Occupancy would be designed for 150 persons.
We encourage the consideration of studies beyond those conducted by the Parks Committee. To our knowledge, the Historic and Preservation Committee has not yet had the opportunity to provide input on the Masonic Lodge. It is important to consult with historic building experts to ensure all aspects of restoration and preservation are properly addressed.
John W. and Carole Holmaas
Gig Harbor