Submitted by Port of Olympia
The Port of Olympia Commission has approved a proposal to rename its East Bay Trail and NorthPoint Park in honor of the late Billy Frank Jr., in partnership with the Squaxin Island Tribe and the Frank Family. After receiving a petition to rename a portion of Marine Drive in honor of the local leader, Port staff consulted with the family and conducted a broader public review process to determine how best to proceed. This dialogue resulted in a modified proposal to celebrate the life and messages of Frank by directly linking them to the Puget Sound.
As currently envisioned, several educational kiosks and interpretive signs would be installed along the trail and in the park terminus, each highlighting a unique aspect of Frank, the Squaxin Island Tribe and the life-cycle of salmon. Signage would also be added to provide education about the native plants already lining the trail, and to commemorate two previous Canoe Landings (Squaxin, 2012 and Nisqually, 2016).
The full project is estimated to cost approximately $80,000. The Port Commission has agreed to provide up to $25,000 to support development and implementation costs, while the Squaxin Island Tribe and Salmon Defense will secure the remaining funds. A Dedication and Blessing Ceremony will take place on March 9 (Billy Frank Jr’s birthday) and project construction will begin shortly thereafter.
“This is a great opportunity to educate people on the History of Billy Frank Jr. He spent his life working to protect the environment and salmon. My Dad realized, after being arrested over 50 times for exercising his Treaty Right, that we all need to come together for the health of the salmon and Puget Sound,” stated Willie Frank.
Squaxin Island Tribe Chairman Arnold Cooper stated, “The Squaxin Island Tribe is honored to be working with the Port of Olympia and the Frank family on the dedication of the Billy Frank Jr. Trail and Park. This is a great opportunity to honor Billy’s legacy while educating the community on our history and culture.”
For information about the waterfront project including presentations, and information on project public outreach and participation, please visit the Port’s website at www.portolympia.com.
