Testimony regarding the purchase of Picture Point at a recent assembly meeting made me realize that more public information is needed. The major concern was that borough funds should not be used. If all goes as planned, Federal Scenic Highway funds will be used to purchase one or both of the pullouts. The borough manager is working to secure the funding.
The planning commission has long seen Picture Point as a key piece in the overall waterfront development plan, started by the city before consolidation. In the plan, a continuous sidewalk from the Portage Cove Campground around to Picture Point would provide a beautiful waterfront walkway for residents and tourists alike. Borough property along the way would provide beach access, and the parks, Portage Cove, Lookout and Picture Point, would be great places to sit and admire the view or to eat lunch.
The sign committee has identified Picture Point as the preferred place for a large, carved “Welcome to Haines” sign. A small interpretive display, a picnic table and a bit of landscaping would make this a popular spot.
The view from Picture Point has been marketed to the world through our ads in the Milepost, the ferry schedule, and now the cover of the phone book. This is the view we’re using to attract people to come here. The best promotion we can get is to have people come, take photos next to the “Welcome to Haines” sign, and take them home to show their friends.
Rob Goldberg