Program on the Environment

Historically, urban waterfronts have been dominated by industry, damaging natural ecosystems and restricting public access to the waterfront. As we reimagine these spaces, we must consider who we are including. Too often access is limited by wealth, excluding many members of the community based on socioeconomic barriers. This project investigates Lake Union’s waterfront, examining what the public values about the existing floating campus at The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) and how they engage with the space. To gather spatial data on visitor behavior, I tracked people moving through the campus, noting patterns, flows, and gathering points. To complement the spatial data, I distributed a survey that assessed community demographics and perceptions of the South Lake Union waterfront. Findings point to inequitable access to the current facility. While survey responses revealed limited demographic diversity, respondents strongly valued access to the lake and the adjacent green space despite many being unaware of CWB’s free programming. Observations confirm the current dock functions as an effective pedestrian corridor, yet physical and social barriers continue to limit inclusive use of the space. The Float Our Future dock redesign project has the potential to show how environmental restoration and equitable access can reinforce each other, creating a feedback loop of ecosystem health and public engagement. By strategically investing in our urban waterfronts, we can reframe these spaces as essential public infrastructure built to include everyone.