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Contact: Alex Patterson, Facility Manager, 360-816-6221
The National Park Service is scheduled to begin a parkwide project to address the external envelope of multiple buildings at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. National Park Service staff will oversee the repainting of seven buildings, including the McLoughlin House in Oregon City, the historic Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Shoppette in the East Vancouver Barracks, and the Band Stand on the Parade Ground. Work is anticipated to begin as soon as next week. "This project is a good mix of cyclic painting, addressing the maintenance backlog, and resource stewardship. The majority of the work will be on historic buildings that are known to have lead-based paint, which we will be addressing through an abatement process. In addition, we will be proactively assessing the historic fabric of these structures and addressing any repairs that may be needed," said Facility Manager Alex Patterson. "Ultimately, this work will help put the buildings' exteriors in good condition as well as place these structures on the National Park Service's predictive maintenance schedule." Superintendent Tracy Fortmann added, "We are very excited to begin this significant painting and treatment project. First up is the painting of the McLoughlin House, which is one of the oldest and most significant homes in the Pacific Northwest. We will also be painting the iconic Band Stand on the Parade Ground. The Band Stand, a highly popular venue within the national park, is a central gathering place for numerous community and special events as well as educational programs throughout the year. We also look forward to repainting the AAFES Shoppette, which continues their long history of serving our community's active and retired military personnel and their families here. Ultimately, the work accomplished through this project will make critically important improvements to nationally significant structures within this national park." During this project, the immediate work areas will be closed off to allow the painting contractor a safe and secure work area. However, efforts will be made, where possible, to keep building serving the public open for visitors to enjoy. The park asks visitors and the community to work with them as this very important work occurs in a safe and effective manner in the weeks and months ahead. The work is contracted to Saybr Contractors from Tacoma, Washington, and is expected to last approximately two months, but will be weather dependent. |
Last updated: September 19, 2016