west port arthur
DESCRIPTION
research and visioning for the west port arthur, texas communityTRANSCRIPT
westport arthur\\welcome.
\\reid mulligan, jennifer king, greg estes, eimile gavagan, jay taylor, jules gianakos
WPA
08. introduction
12. location & vicinity
KNOWING
16. time lines &
history
22. population
23. ethnicity
24. household types
26. housing tenure
28. education
29. income
27. amenities
30. worship centers
32. parks
index
SWOT
VISIONING
36. transportation
34. land vacancies
35. county vs.. city land
37. hazards
39. emissions
44. SWO
T analysis
45. the vision
46. open space opportunities
64. transportation revitalization
74. industry & job creation
84. conclusion
38. pipelines
knowing\\information, data, & maps.
WEST PORT ARTHURA LOOK INSIDE
WPA
\\DESERTED DOWNTOWN \\FORMER WORLD TRADE CENTER
Port Arthur is located in Southeast Texas near the Louisiana border; it is one part of the “Golden Triangle” that also includes Beaumont and Orange. The city of Port Arthur is divided into three geographic zones that are very different from one another. West Port Arthur is the historic African-American side of the city, East Port Arthur is predominantly white, and the abandoned and neglected core of the city, downtown, lies between these two areas.
On the map and in words, Port Arthur seems like a typical small city. Once explored, however, one quickly realizes there is something very unnerving about the city. West Port Arthur, in close proximity to the refi neries, has born the brunt of ongoing racism, disinvestment, population loss, and job scarcity. While we wish these issues were just beginning to brood on the horizon, they have instead been impacting the West side of the city for decades, far preceding the recent hurricanes that have exacerbated an already desperate situation. Downtown is a similar story. The majority of the buildings are boarded-up and abandoned. Kelley’s Kitchen is one of the only businesses thriving in the area. The restaurant brings patrons from the West side into downtown and is a beacon for the community.
Upon entering the West Side, it is diffi cult to fi nd a view in which the refi neries do not provide the backdrop. Pipelines weave along the edges of the community, smog and stench fi ll the air, and stacks billow out smoke. We observed many people walking and riding bikes and fewer cars than one would expect. The extreme lack of basic amenities in the area and limited access to transportation contribute to residents’ dependence on walking for groceries or other basic needs. The greatest gathering of people we found was at Carver Terrace – a publicly subsidized housing community that literally abuts the refi neries. >>
8
\\KELLEY’S KITCHEN \\BOARDED UP SHOP
The act of gathering data told us much about the community as well – little to no research has been done about West Port Arthur. Out of sight, out of mind, perhaps?
The major fi ndings of our demographic study uncovered extremely high rates of poverty, low educational attainment for women, major ethnic change, population loss, and transit dependency in an area where public transportation is unreliable and sporadic. In short, approximately half of West Port Arthur’s population falls below the poverty line, women (whose population numbers twenty-fi ve percent more than males) are far less educated, and African-Americans make up the ninety-seven percent of the West side’s population. All of these issues are dissected in greater detail in the report.
In all, our data led us to the conclusion that a web of systemic issues is oppressing the West Port Arthur community. However there are two issues that trump all others. Most obvious is the issue of disinvestment and abandonment, followed by the environmental issues that plague the area. Based on these fi ndings we narrowed our focus to three categories which we thought deserved the most attention to better West Port Arthur and tackle the two big issues mentioned above – vacant lot assignment, transportation revamp and job creation.
>>
KNOW
ING
9
WEST PORT ARTHURA LOOK INSIDE
WPA
\\BOARDWALK \\PUBLIC HOUSING
Vacant lots have an incredible amount of potential. Their greatest strength lies with the proximity to the community; these lots are surrounded by the West Side. Community gardens, horseshoe parks and the reuse of the tank farm near Carver Terrace are all part of our proposal for change.
Transportation is a key issue in the West Side. The community lacks key amenities and simultaneously lacks the ability to travel to amenities located outside of the community. Our proposals include a church-van transportation schedule and beautifi cation of existing bus stops to perhaps encourage the city government to keep an eye on the irregularity and unreliability of the current single bus line serving the West Side. Also included in this section is beautifi cation of downtown’s empty storefronts as well as street art to encourage more pedestrian traffi c throughout the area.
Job creation is key to the success of this community -- forty-eight percent of West Side residents reported no wage or salary income in the 2000 Census. Proposals include taking advantage of the success of the refi neries in the area by supplying support services for which they outsource, a co-op grocery store or credit union of which the community would claim ownership and a job training program to teach community members to safely and responsibly demolish homes and recycle materials by repairing or building homes for community members.
>>
10
TANK
FAR
M
\\PUBLIC HOUSING PARK
The severity and injustice of these issues cannot be overstated. The West Side of Port Arthur has been used in the worst sort of way. The numbers show that this community has been short-changed in education, transportation, job availability, and most cruelly, the opportunity to live a healthy life. Many residents have found a way to leave the community, but what of those who cannot? They are trapped in a place that has been left to suffer at the hands of looming refi neries that have managed to pollute their community while making billions of dollars. They have received all of the negative impacts of the proximity to the refi neries and somehow have been denied any of the positive fi nancial compensations.
The problems we are addressing in this project are considerable. Even though our approaches and solutions may seem small by comparison, solutions have been selected to impact the community in a way that potentially leads to growth. This growth is two-fold. First, these concepts should be thought of as a “step one” – merely the planting of seeds. Second, and most importantly, the community’s sense of ownership will grow. These seeds presented in this report could grow into larger facilities or programs that impact signifi cantly more people within the community. But the growth of the idea is dependent upon the growth of community involvement. It is from this growth that all subsequent change will be inspired.
KNOW
ING
11
PO
RT A
RTH
UR
LOCAL PARKS
LOCATIONWHERE IS PORT ARTHUR?
12
WEST SIDE
DOWNTOWN
EAST SIDE
VICINITYWHERE IS WEST PORT ARTHUR IN CONTEXT WITH THE REST OF THE CITY?
KNOW
ING
13
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
GU
LFW
AY
MLK
SAVANNAH
KELLY
’S K
ITCH
EN
PUBLIC HOUSING
FUTURE GROWTH
*
NODESWHERE ARE THE EXISTING AMENITIES TO BUILD ON?
GU
LFW
AYThis map shows the possible nodes that can behis map shows ddd becancan behis
WAY
WAY
linked within Port Arthur that can start to be the focuslinked within Po r sushe cuslinke
LFW
LFW
point for economic growth. Kelley’s Kitchen is oneoint for eco henpo
GU
LG
UL
of the few amenities in downtown Port Arthur thatthe few a P AroG
is active and a local landmark. Kelly’s Kitchen cantive a y s Klink future growth on 7th street and public housingre ppuoff terminal road to re-activate the west side andin e wconnect it with the rest of Port Arthur.ct hur
14
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
GU
LFW
AY
MLK
SAVANNAH
KELLY
’S K
ITCH
EN
GNISUOH CILBUP
CORRIDORSWHERE ARE THE MAIN ARTERIES THAT CONNECT THE COMMUNITY?
KNOW
ING
15
TIME LINE1895-1909
1904
1900
1897
1896
1895
1908
1911
1901
1909
1906
1899
Arthur E. Stillwell acquired land to start Port Arthur and began platting land. Stillwell wanted Port Arthur to be the Southern Terminus for his Kansas City Southern Railroad.
Port Arthur Channel and Dock Co. is established.
Began cutting canal. Port Arthur has 860 residents. Category 1 hurricane kills 13 people and leaves Port Arthur homes in shambles.
Port Arthur becomes a port. Pleasure Island and Pier are constructed from the deposits of the dredge of Port Arthur Canal.
John W. gates builds Rice Mill and it becomes a major exportof Port Arthur. A number of hotels are built around downtown and on Procter Street. Procter Street is the main street through downtown Port Arthur, and becomes the scene of many parades, nightlife and family fun for Port Arthur residents throughout the years.
After ‘The Spindle top Boom’ in Beaumont,Texaco and Gulf built major refineries at Port Arthur. Population of 900 residents.
John W. Gates becomes chief financial backer of Port Arthur.
Port Arthur is the official port of entry.
Sabine-Neches canal is deepened and extents to Beaumont and Orange.
Port Arthur becomes the 12th largest port in United States in
value of exports. Port Arthur College is established,
a business and radio school. The collegebecame Port Arthur
Collegiate Institute in 1911, when the school was presented to
the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal Church North,
a forerunner of the present United Methodist Temple. The church operated thegrowing campus
until 1918, when it was turned over to a non-profit Texas corporation.
Population of 7,663 residents.
Babe Didrickson was born. Later to become a multiple Olympic
medal winner, one of the founders of the LPGA and became its leader for
several years on and off the links.
16
TIME LINE1913-1948
1914
1915
1913
1948
1940
1943
1932
1931
1930
1922
Pleasure Pier dance halland roller coaster are built, and Pleasure Pier, is a family attraction for Port Arthur residents.
Port Arthur is the 2nd largest oil-refining point in the nation.
A major flood hits the city of Port Arthur.
Abraham Lincoln High School and Thomas Jefferson High School were established. Lincoln being the African American high school and Jefferson being the white. They had rivaling mascots being the Lincoln Bumblebees and the Jefferson Yellow Jackets.
St. Mary’s Hospital was constructed. Transferring the patients of Mary Gates Hospital, named after the late wife of John W. Gates, to the new St. Mary’s facilities.
The Neches River Rainbow Bridge is completed crossing over the Neches River on State Highway 87. The bridge is still one of the tallest bridges in the South.
A city-manager-commission system is implemented replacing the mayor-council government
An influx of middle class African Americans results in a period of white flight. Many white residents moved to neighboring towns such as Port Acres, Nederland, Port Neches, and Groves. The AfricanAmericans were forced to the West side of town because Port Arthur was segregated.
Janis Joplin is born in Port Arthur. Later she will become one of the
most recognized singers from Port Arthurs. NFL coach, Jimmy Johnson, was also born this year. Johnson was the head coach for
the Dallas Cowboys when they won the Super Bowl in consecutive years 1992 & 1993.
Unionization. The Congress of Industrial Organization’s Oil Workers International
had around 8,000 Port Arthur members. Various craft unions of the American Federation
of Labor had around 5,000 members.
KNOW
ING
17
TIME LINE1950-1985
1950
1957
1966
1960
1973
1975
1974
1978
1979
1984
1985
Port Arthur was home to 5 refineries and employs approximately 12,000 workers, whose salaries accounted for 50% of the money spent in Port Arthur. Carver Terrace, a housing unit, was built on the West side to house low income African Americans.
Two, category 3 & 4, Tornadoes rip through Port Arthur killing one person, injuring 82 and causing millions in damages. Hurricane Audrey hits just east of Port Arthur with 150mph winds. 17,000 residents homeless.
Gulf gate Bridge was built over the Sabine-Neches waterway to connect Port Arthur to Pleasure Island and offered access into Louisiana. Later to be named Martin Luther King, Jr. Bridge. Population hits an all time high of
69,000 residents.
Port Arthur Levee System begins construction.
Port Arthur was integrated. Wealthy African Americans move out of the West side of town and into Groves, a neighboring white town to the area.
Lamar University Center at Port Arthur opens with 200students.
Port Arthur annexes Sabine Pass, historic marker of Texas history.
Tropical Storm Claudette dumped 40 inches of rain on Port Arthur streets.
Port Arthur Levee System is completed after 18 years
of construction.
Port Arthur Refinery was streamlined and crude oil
running reduced dramatically.
Port Arthur College and Lamar University merge to become Lamar University Center at Port Arthur.
18
TIME LINE1986-2010
1986
1989
1995
2000
1998
2002
2005
2007
2008
2010
Saudi Refining, Inc. purchased 50% of Port Arthur Refinery as a port of a joint venture with Texaco known as Star Enterprise.
Denny Larson of GlobalCommunity Monitor, a non-profit out of San Francisco, trains residents to do rudimentary air monitoring.
Motiva Enterprises LLC was created by a joint venture with Star Enterprise and Shell Oil Co.
Community In-Power and Development Association (CIDA) is founded by Hilton Kelley. A non-profit organization that empowers residents of the low-income Port Arthur communities to take action against the neighboring chemical manufacturers, refineries and incinerators to keep them from polluting the air, land and water.
Shell buys out Texaco-Chevron’s interest in Motiva. Port Arthur Refinery is operated as Motiva and jointly owned by Shell andSaudi refining. The Environmental Integrity Project issues report calculation that in the first seven months of 2002, heavy industrial facilities surrounding Port Arthur released almost 725 tons of toxins into the air. These toxins include Xylene, Toulene, Hexane, benzene, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide; all of which cause major problems to a person’s body, ranging from memory loss, kidney failure, numbness, leukemia, asthma, and more.
Hurricane Rita hits the Procter Street seawall and damages many downtown businesses. Port Arthur sustained major wind damage and some flooding. Winds reached 116mph.
Hurricane Humberto comes through killing 1 person and leaving 120,000without power.
Tropical Storm Edouard and Hurricane Ike hit Port Arthur in
the same year, both causing majorwind damage, and Ike causing
several areas to experience major flooding. Storm surge was 11 ft. high.
A towboat pushing two barges collide with an 800-foot tanker carrying
462,000 gallons of light crude oil causing the worst Texas oil spill in more than 15 years. Port Arthur residents were
forced to evacuate their homes for several hours while officials tested the
air quality after the collision. Motiva $3.5 billion expansion proposed
completion.
A group of UH graduate students and professor come to West Port Arthur
to begin planning a better future.
Hurricane hits with 80mphwinds killing 3 people. Moderate wine damage is sustained.
KNOW
ING
19
DOWNTOWN1897-1915
1915
1902
19071897
1900
1900
1897
1897
1899
Sabine Hotel
Procter Street
Downtown’s First JailHardware Store
Fourth of July Parade
Downtown Pool
Downtown Post Office
Crystal Saloon
Victory Parade
20
DOWNTOWN1917-1950
1917
1920
1940
1950
1947
1945
1930
Flood Procter Street
Downtown Procter St.
Downtown
Downtown Nightlife
Winter Snow
Victory Parade
Town Parade
1940
Procter Street
Procter Street
KNOW
ING
21
POPULATIONHOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE?
-15
-10
-5
0
5
10
15
20
25TEXAS (+22.8% )
HOUSTON (+19.8%)
U.S. (+13.2%)
PORT ARTHUR (-1.6%)
DETROIT (-7.5%)W. PORT ARTHUR (-9.4%)
POPU
LATI
ON
CHA
NG
E: 1
990
TO 2
000
(%)
INFLUX OF AFRICAN AMERICANSCITY FOUNDATION WHITE FLIGHTCITY FOUNDATION
19201900 1910 1930 19501940 1960 19801970 1990 20102000
0
70
10
20
30
40
50
60
PORT
ART
HUR
POPU
LATO
N (T
HOUS
AND
S)
+130%
+16%
-14% -3%
From the late 19th century to the early 1930s Port Arthur’s population quickly increased as the city was laying its foundation, specifi cally during the 1920s when the oil refi neries were established. The population steadily rose and peaked between 1940-1970 as a large infl ux of African Americans moved to Port Arthur from surrounding cities. However, since 1980 the population has drastically decreased. Population has decreased by 7.7% since 1980 and by 3.2% over the last decade. The fl eeing population has hit West Port Arthur harder than any other community. West Port Arthur accounts for only 7% of the cities total population yet 40% of the fl eeing population was from this community.
22
ETHNICITYWHAT IS THE RACIAL COMPOSITION?
WHITE BLACKASIA
N
HISP
ANIC
WHITE ASIA
N
HISP
ANIC
BLACK
BLACKWHI
TE
PORT ARTHUR - 1990
PORT ARTHUR - 2000
WEST PORT ARTHUR - 2000
128%
31%
WHITE POPULATION
HISPANIC POPULATION
DIVERSE CITY SEGREGATEDCOMMUNITIES
From 1990 to 2000 there has been a drastic shift in the racial composition. The white population has decreased by 31% and the Hispanic population has increased by 128% during this time. We believe this “white fl ight” happened as African Americans were integrated into schools and communities during the 1980s. As a whole, Port Arthur seems to be a diverse city, but when analyzed more closely there is an obvious segregation within the communities. West Port Arthur is one of the most extreme, with nearly a 95% African American population.
KNOW
ING
23
HOUSEHOLD TYPESWHAT IS THE COMPOSITION OF HOUSEHOLDS?
0 20 40 60 80 100
PORT ARTHUR
SINGLE
MARRIED, NO CHILDREN
MARRIED, WITH CHILDREN
MALE SINGLE PARENT
FEMALE SINGLE PARENT
WEST PORT ARTHUR
SINGLE
MARRIED, NO CHILDREN
MARRIED, WITH CHILDREN
MALE SINGLE PARENT
FEMALE SINGLE PARENT
PORT ARTHUR
WEST PORT ARTHUR
0 20 40 60 80 100
One of the biggest strengths for West Port Arthur is its increase in marriage rate over the past 20 years, which is not the case for either greater Port Arthur or the rest of the United States as a whole. One of the biggest strengths for West Port Arthur is its increase in marriage rate over the past 20 years, which is not the case for either greater Port Arthur or the rest of the United States as a whole.
24
HOUSEHOLD TYPESWHAT IS THE COMPOSITION OF HOUSEHOLDS?
464
7,77
5
2,60
6
6,72
3
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
2,25
1
338
5,17
9
4,28
1
6,05
2
4,88
5
0
38%
26%
21%
2%
13%
9,000
SING
LE
MAR
RIED
, WIT
H CH
ILDR
EN
MAL
E SI
NGLE
PAR
ENT
FEM
ALE
SING
LE P
AREN
T
MAR
RIED
, NO
CHI
LDRE
N
2000 CENSUS
1990 CENSUS
KNOW
ING
25
HOUSING TENURERENTERS OR OWNERS?
55%
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
0
33%
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
0
OWNER OCCUPIED
RENTER OCCUPIED
14,515
13,574
8,260
7,811
VACANT 2,879
2000 CENSUS
1990 CENSUS
Since 1990, the amount of individuals owning their households in all of Port Arthur has steadily decreased. While the vacancy rate in households is generally the same between Port Arthur and West Port Arthur, the vacancy rate in commercial properties is much higher in West Port Arthur.
26
AMENITIESDOES THE COMMUNITY HAVE ADEQUATE ACCESS TO AMENITIES?
**** *
*
*
*
*
*
RESTAURANTS
FOOD MART/GROCERY
MAJOR RETAIL
PHARMACY
LODGING
This map shows the amenities that are provided inThis mTT ammmmmmamapapp memeenenitnititieieses s ttthhahatat t aararere e pprprorovovovidviddededed d iininnmap shows the ameWest Port Arthur versus East Port Arthur. The mapWesW rssst st Pt PPest PPPo uusus s Es EEaEasastst t PPoPoortrt t AArArtrththuhurur. r. . T TThThehe e mmmamapappPort Arthur versuclearly shows the need for amenities on the west side. l neeeaearararllyclearly eedd d fo fofor or ar amammemeenenitnittieieeses os oonon tn ththehe e we wwewesestst st sisididedee. eeedThe west side does not have a grocery store only aw ide doeTTTTThheeeTThheeThe w ess nnootot hhaavavevee aaa ggggrroocceceeryryy sststotororeree ooonnlylyy aaaess nnoot hhaavee aa ggrrooccery store onnly aaesgas station food mart. Due to the lack of consistency s ation food mgggagasasss mmamaartart.rt. . D DDuDueue e toto o to ththehe e lalaacackck k oof of cf cococononsnsisisiststetenencncycycymin public transportation, some residences must walkubblic transpinnnn pub cc t ppooortortatatatiotioonon,n, s, ssosomommeme e rereresesssidsiddedenencncnceceses s mmmumusustst t wwawaalkalkkc transpoup to three miles to the nearest pharmacy or groceryup to hree moo to tthup to thhrreeeeee leeeses ts toto o t ththehe e nneneaeaareareresest st pt pphhhhahararmrmmamacacycycy oy oor or ggrgrorococcecereryryyhree milestore or borrow a car from a friend, because of thestor orore oe ooore ooor or br bborrroowow w aw aa a ccacarar r frfroromomm m aa a fa frfrierieenndnd,d, , bbebeeccacauausussese e oofof tf ththeheeor borrolow ownership of vehicles.low owwwnneersersrshshihipip p oof of vf vevevehehichiciclecleeses.swne
KNOW
ING
27
EDUCATIONGRADUATION RATES
US
TEXAS
PORT ARTHUR
W PORT ARTHUR
100%50%
90%
80%
70%
60%
40%
30%
20%
10%
MALE
FEMALE
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION RATES
Upon fi rst glance, education seems to be a non-issue in West Port Arthur as the level of male education surpasses that of both Port Arthur and the state of Texas. However, the concern stems from the gap between male and female education. At a 10% spread, West Port Arthur’s educational comparison when it comes to gender is an issue specifi c only to this community as the country, state and city levels show an equal level of education between the two genders. The issue in West Port Arthur is compounded when one takes into consideration that there are almost twice as many females as males living in poverty in West Port Arthur. These numbers lead one to the conclusion that there are underlying issues keeping females (a) in West Port Arthur and (b) out of educational facilities. Since this issue does not seem to be affecting males, childbearing at an early age seems the likely culprit.
28
INCOMEHOUSEHOLD INCOME & POVERTY RATES
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
WES
T PO
RT A
RTHU
R
UNIT
ED S
TATE
S
TEXA
S
PORT
ART
HUR
PERCENTAGE OF POULATION FALLING BELOW THE POVERTY LINE*UNITED STATES 12%TEXAS 15%PORT ARTHUR 25%WEST PORT ARTHUR 46%
These graphs tell a sad, yet not completely surprising story. With our visit to West Port Arthur we were aware that poverty was pervasive within the community. However, the numbers we collected from the 2000 Census were still severe and staggering, despite our expectations. Approximately half of West Port Arthur’s population falls beneath the poverty line. The median household income is approximately $13,000 -- one-third the average median income in the state of Texas.
KNOW
ING
29
WORSHIP CENTERSRELIGIOUS CONGREGATIONS
39%
17%
35%
9%
65% OF PORT ARTHUR’S POPULATION BELONGS TO A RELIGIOUS CONGREGATION WHICH IS HIGHER THAN THE NATION AVERAGE OF 50%
9 OF THE 12 FOUNDING CHURCHES ARE STILL IN EXISTENCE
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
CATHOLIC
OTHER
West Port Arthur has a very strong religious following. There are twelve churches that have been around since Port Arthur was founded. There are over twenty different congregations that meet weekly in West Port Arthur. This is when the community can gather but having such a large amount of congregations divides the community into parts. Looking at how the congregations can come together will help the community to come together.
30
WORSHIP CENTERSWHERE ARE THE WORSHIP CENTERS?
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
GULF
WAY
MLK
SAVANNAH
KNOW
ING
31
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
GULF
WAY
MLK
SAVANNAH
LOCAL PARKS
REGIONAL PARKS
PARKSWHERE IS THE GREEN SPACE?
GULF
WAYTo a community, neighborhood parks can establishmmunity, kkk shtastablishTo a co
WAY
WAY
d sustain pride within that community. Theseustain p m seeesey. T eseand
LFW
LFW
arks allow for a place to gather and users toarks allow r uspar
GULF
GUL
connect. Studying the conditions and locationsonnect. S d coG
can begin to predict a communities’ pride by theirbegin s pridconnection to their parks. The map illustrates thetio pp illlack of recommended park space within the “local”re witcommunity. West Port Arthur offers a large amountun nters of park space but majority is outside the communityark nitytsidlimit. This contributes to the lack of pride andt. limit. This contributes to the lack of pride ande lownership within the community.ownown nity
32
14.4 ACRES
89.8 ACRES
REGI
ONA
L PA
RKS
NATI
ONA
L PA
RKS
LOCA
L PA
RKS
18.8 ACRES PER 1,000 RESIDENTS
PARKSHOW MUCH GREEN SPACE IS THERE?
Since parks can represent so much to a community, it is essential to understand the amount of communal space denoted to public use. Within walk-able distances in West Port Arthur, there is a lack of community space. Allowing people to have places of gathering promotes unity and allows members of the community to socialize. However, within the region of West Port Arthur, there is an abundance of park space. This appears to skew the number for Port Arthur because it is not used by the majority of the community because of its lack of accessibility.
KNOW
ING
33
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
GULF
WAY
MLK
SAVANNAH
LAND VACANCIESWHERE ARE THE LAND VACANCIES?
GULF
WAYWest Port Arthur is struggling with land use ande rt Arthur hthh ndse se andWest P
WAY
WAY
cant land in their community. As the city boomedboomedland in t edddedboomedvaca
LFW
LFW
the past, businesses moved in on the laand. Nowthe past, b n lann th
GUL
GUL
that business has left the land, many of thand, many of the lots areat busines y thethGG
abandoned and left polluted. This caolluted. This causes manydone cauissues for the environment but alsonment but also leaves thefo sso community with large voids. These voids becomevoids. These voids becomeni e vproblem areas because the community ignoresse the community ignoresem somthem.m.
34
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
MLK
SAVANNAH
COUNTY VS. CITY LANDURBAN VS... RURAL
Billions of dollars cycle through Port Arthur eacholllalaarsars s s ccycyyc ththhuhurur r eeaeaacachchhollars cycle through Port Arthons oons leBB eBByear. Much of this money is not taxed or representedofof f thththishis s ms mmmo eepepprepreresesesenentntentedededdof this money is not taxed or rer. Mar. ne ntwithin the city because big corporations have beenccitcityty y bbebebececc nss s hs hhahavaveve e b bbebeeeenenncity because big corporationshinwit us eedistricted to the county instead of the city. Thisic d ttoo o tththhe tthhehe e ccitcityty.y. TTThhisissyicted to the county instead of ttdist co isdistequates to billions of lost tax revenue for Port Arthur,ess es ttoto o bbibillillli uee e fofoor or Pr PoPoPorort rt AAArtArththuhuur,ur,res to billions of lost tax revenue eq s equatewhile residents live within close proximity to the esesidsiddedenennt e e pprproroxoxximximmimityity y y tototo o tththeheee residents live within close w le resrefi neries’ pollution.fi finnenererierieies popoolefi neries’ polluties’ po
KNOW
ING
35
TRANSPORTATIONHOW DO THE PEOPLE GET AROUND?
UNITED STATES
PORT ARTHUR
TEXAS
WEST PORT ARTHUR
CAR, TRUCK, OR VAN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION WALKED WORK AT HOME OTHER
The transportation in West Port Arthur shows that many people must fi nd other means of transportation than the traditional means of a car, truck or van. The numbers indicate that the large portion of West Port Arthur that is unemployed or working but below the poverty line cannot afford to own cars or perhaps own cars that may or may not be in working order. They have compensated by walking and using public forms of transportation. While these means of transportation are more environmentally friendly, it can be assumed that it is out of necessity and not necessarily ecological concern that these transitions have taken place. With the public bus routes in their current condition (i.e. erratic and unreliable), one would assume that this would not be the chosen means of getting to work.
36
HAZARDSWHAT IS THE CITY BREATHING?
JEFFERSON COUNTY VS. ALL US COUNTIES
The are 3,141 counties and county equivalentsin the United States.
JEFFERSON COUNTY RANKS:
5TH for releases of carcinogensinto the air & water
8TH for releases of brain-damagingneurotoxicants into the air & water.
8TH for releases developmenttoxicants into the air & water
8TH for releases of reproductivetoxicants into the air & water
29TH for releases of respiratorytoxicants into the air & water
1ST in Texas for chemical releases
The risk is 865 TIMES greater than EPA’s
acceptable cancer level of 1 IN 1 MILLION.
source: american lung association 2007 state of the air report (jefferson county)
On April 14, 2003, Motiva Refinery emitted 107,692 LBS
of hexane in only 18 MINUTES. Totaling 54% of the
annual hexane emissions for routine operations.
The average lifetime diesel soot cancer risk for a resident of
Jefferson County is 1 IN 1,157 which is approximately
every 250TH PERSON in the county.
KNOW
ING
37
PIPELINESWHAT IS THE CITY BREATHING?
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
PRO
CTE
R
MLK
SAVANNAH
PUBLIC HOUSING
NON HIGH VOLATILE LIQUID
HIGH VOLATILE LIQUID
GAS TRANSMISSION
CRUDE TRANSMISSION
GULF
WAYWest Port Arthur is struggling with land use andrt Arthur t ndse se andWest P
WAY
WAY th ususe
cant land in their community. As the city boomedland in edddedbo medvaca
LFW
LFW the oom
the past, businesses moved in on the land. Nowthe past, b lann th
GUL
GUL on t No
that business has left the land, many of the lots areat busines thethGG ny o ts abandoned and left polluted. This causes manydone caus c missues for the environment but also leaves thefo oalso es community with large voids. These voids becomeni e vo omeproblem areas because the community ignoresem sommuthem.m.
38
HIGH
MEDIUM
LOW
WEST SIDE
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
HUNTSMAN
**
ASTHMA
BRONCHITIS
SINUS
URI
EMISSIONS - HUNTSMANWHAT IS THE CITY BREATHING?
KNOW
ING
39
HIGH
MEDIUM
LOW**
ASTHMA
BRONCHITIS
SINUS
URI
*
*
**
*WEST SIDE
MOTIVA
EMISSIONS - MOTIVAWHAT IS THE CITY BREATHING?
40
HIGH
MEDIUM
LOW
*
*WEST SIDE
CHEVRON
**
ASTHMA
BRONCHITIS
SINUS
URI
*
**
EMISSIONS - CHEVRONWHAT IS THE CITY BREATHING?
KNOW
ING
41
visioning\\concepts, programs, and strategies.
SWOTSTRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS
SWOT
connect people toplaces of work
decreasing population
increasing land vacancy
need for community gathering space
solar farms/clean energy
soil reclamation
} OPEN SPACEOPPORTUNITIES
} TRANSITREVITALIZATION
lack of personal transportation
few local amenities
need for reliable publictransportation
strong church communitywith resources
partnership with schoolsfor job training
} INDUSTRY &JOB CREATION
low employment rates
low income levels
need for local amenities
movement for green jobs
44
OPEN SPACEOPPORTUNITIES
TRANSITREVITALIZATION
INDUSTRY &JOB CREATION
FUTUREWPA
GREENJOBS
COMMUNITYGATHERING
CONNECTHOMES
TO WORK
THE VISIONWHAT IS THE FUTURE OF WEST PORT ARTHUR?
VISIONING
45
open space opportunities\\turning vacancy into opportunity.
CONCEPTOPEN SPACE OPPORTUNITIES
decreasing population
increasing land vacancy
need for communitygathering space
soil reclamation
solar farms/clean energy } OPEN SPACEOPPORTUNITIES
01 ANALYSIS 02 CONCEPT
48
RECREATION ACTIVITIES
SOLAR FARM
SOIL RECLAMATION
COMMUNITY GARDENS
MURALS+PUBLIC ART
JOB TRAINING
PUBLIC HOUSING
}03 STRATEGIES 04 SITES
BLOCKVacant LotsWithin West Side Neighborhoods
COMMUNITYKelly’s Kitchen7th Street & Austin Ave
Public Housing Relocation7th Street & Grannis Ave
CITYOld Tanks FarmsW Thomas Blvd & Levee Rd
VISIONING
49
PROGRAMOPEN SPACE OPPORTUNITIES MAP
GULFWAY
MLK
THOMAS
7TH ST.
INTERCOASTAL
4
2
1 3
1
1 OLD TANKS FARMS TO SOLAR FARM
2 PUBLIC HOUSING
3 JOB TRAINING+EDUCATION CENTER
4 LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL
5 SATELLITE SOLAR FARMS
6 KELLY’S KITCHEN - VACANT LOT
7 PUBLIC HOUSING RELOCATION
7
50
SAVA
NN
AH
HO
US
TO
N
PROCTER
WATERWAY
5 5
6
VISIONING
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BLOCK STRATEGY VACANT LOTS
flower planters
recycling node
food carts
horseshoes
grow bags
demonstration garden
bike racks
public art/muralsSHORT-TERM(QUICK FIX)
LONG TERM(PERMANENT)
EDGE TREATMENT
SURFACE TREATMENT
soil reclamation
community gardens
basketball courts
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VISIONING
53
COMMUNITY STRATEGYKELLEY’S KITCHEN (VISIONED)
54
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VISIONING
55
COMMUNITY STRATEGYKELLEY’S KITCHEN (IMPLEMENTED)
Kelley’s Kitchen is quickly growing into a central community gathering space. Its location is crucial to the revitalization of downtown and West Port Arthur. This plan takes advantage of the adjoining vacant lot and proposes to expand to an outdoor recreational, social, and dining space. The space would not only serve as an extension of Kelley’s Kitchen, but also as an informal meeting space for the community to unwind and socialize.
56
VISIONING
57
COMMUNITY STRATEGYCARVER TERRACE & PARK RELOCATION
NATURE
STABILITY
NEW CARVER TERRACECOMPLEX
COMMUNITY
HEALTH
SUSTAINABLE
WATER
HOME
FUTURE
On a community scale, we are proposing to move Carver Terrace away from the industry and closer into West Port Arthur; they have been on the outskirts for too long. The new site will provide healthy, sustainable housing. The west Port Arthur residents of Carver Terrace deserve to have a healthy home to live in. The sustainable house will again begin to show how Port Arthur can be moved from being an industry city to a renewable city. The housing will include a park and neighborhood garden where the residents can begin to grow their own plants, and vegetables. The New Carver Terrace will provide much needed housing for the current residents of Carver Terrace and provide more space for tenants to move in.
58
HOUSTON
THO
MAS
7TH S
T.
GULF
WAY
MLK
NEW SITE
EXISTING SITE
VISIONING
59
CITY STRATEGYSOLAR FARM & SOIL RECLAMATION
MLK
THOMAS
SOIL RECLAMATION GARDENS SOLAR FARM PARKS JOB TRAINING CENTER EDUCATION CENTER
On the city scale, vacant lots allow the opportunity for West Port Arthur to gain a new icon for the city. An icon that establishes Port Arthur as a staple for renewable futures as it transitions its economy from a fossil fuel to a renewable energy source. One of the largest plots of land is what used to be a tank farm used by the refi neries. This abandon lot is directly north-west of Memorial 9th grade center, and is considered to be a contaminated site. Proposing that the entire site is covered in a deck allowing the site to be reclaimed by the residents. The north portion would be a social park embracing the renewable energy source and engaging the residents in this technology. Designed into the deck space would be a learning center that would have job placement for the residents while allowing students to tour the facility to gauge energy production.
60
SOLAR FARM
PARKS+SOIL RECLAMATION
EDUCATION CENTER JOB TRAINING CENTER
VISIONING
61
CITY STRATEGYSOLAR FARM & SOIL RECLAMATION
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VISIONING
63
transit revitalization\\reconnecting people with the places they need to go.
CONCEPTTRANSIT REVITALIZATION
} TRANSITREVITALIZATION
01 ANALYSIS 02 CONCEPT
connect people toplaces of work
lack of personaltransportation
few local amenities
need for reliable publictransportation
strong church communitywith resources
66
CHURCH BUS ROUTES
STREET ART
NEW CITY BUS ROUTES
STOREFRONT ART
BUS STOP STRUCTURES
}03 STRATEGIES 04 SITES
BLOCKConnecting West Side NeighborhoodsProcter St.
COMMUNITYConnect West Side to DowntownGulfway St.
CITYConnect West Side to East SideGulfway St.
VISIONING
67
BLOCK STRATEGYART IN STOREFRONTS & BUS STOPS
The bus stops will provide bike racks at some locations. We want to promote other forms of transportation, so that Port Arthur residents stay healthy in an unhealthy environment.
Some bus stops will be painted. These stop will work with local artists, Port Arthur ISD and Lamar University to provide space to feature community art.
The new bus stops will provide space to post information about community events and ways to bring the community together.
68
STOREF
RONT ART
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ininininininni d ddddowowowowowowwwowwwwowowntntntntntntntntowowowoooo nn n PoPoP rtrt AAAAAAAAAAAAArtrttrrrthuhuhuuhuhuuhuuhurrr.r.rrrrrr.r.nn
VISIONING
69
COMMUNITY STRATEGYCHURCH BUS ROUTES
West Port Arthur Passenger VanRoute Information
first pick-up 9amlast drop off 2pmvan arrives every 30 min.fare: $1.50
Monday: 6th St. baptistTuesday: Mt. SinaiWednesday: St. Mary’sThursday: Trinity LutheranFriday: New HopeSaturday: First Methodist
Please leave donations in van, if possible
ROUTE INFORMATION
first pick-up 9amlast drop off 2pmvan arrives every 30 min.fare: $1.50
Monday: 6th St. baptistTuesday: Mt. SinaiWednesday: St. Mary’sThursday: Trinity LutheranFriday: New HopeSaturday: First Methodist
Please leave donations in van, if possible.
On the community scale, we would like to implement a van route taking West Port Arthur residents to HEB grocery and pharmacy, downtown and city hall, and Kelley’s Kitchen. This route would be run by the community’s churches. These churches have their own passenger vans that they use to bring their congregation to church on Sunday. These churches can use these vans throughout the week to run this new route. The route would run from 9am to 2pm. The fare would be small to cover the gas prices for the churches and the van would have a donation box in the bus to provide a little more help with all the churches. The community van route will help provide a connection between the west side, east side, and downtown of Port Arthur. The community van route will show that a need of more amenities and consistent city bus transportation is needed in the west side.
70
DOWNTOWN
GROCERY/PHARMACY
WEST SIDE
NEW CHURCH BUS STOPS
VISIONING
71
CITY STRATEGYREACTIVATING CITY BUS ROUTES
New street art incorporated into West Port Arthur can be used as a catalyst to untie the community at a local scale. Integrating innovative art can inspire local development and provide a unique identity to the west side.
72
NEW ROUTE
OLD ROUTE
VISIONING
73
industry & job creation\\creating reliable jobs that empower the community.
CONCEPTINDUSTRY & JOB CREATION
partnership with schoolsfor job training
low employment rates
low income levels
need for local amenities
movement for green jobs } INDUSTRY &JOB CREATION
01 ANALYSIS 02 CONCEPT
76
HOME REPAIR
CREDIT UNIONS
REFINERY SUPPORTSERVICES
COOPERATIVES
REUSE WAREHOUSE
}03 STRATEGIES 04 SITES
BLOCKHome RepairDilapidated houses throughout WPA
COMMUNITYCo-opsCapitalizing on vacant land
CITYRefinery Support ServicesOil Refineries
VISIONING
77
BLOCK STRATEGYHOME REPAIR
With pervasive poverty and unemployment in West Port Arthur, it is no surprise that there are a large number of homes that are in a state of dilapidation. In addition, there are many buildings downtown and in West Port Arthur that need to be demolished. We propose a job-training center to focus on carpentry and the study of materials -- specifi cally their recyclability.
Once trained, community members could repair neighbors’ homes. More specifi cally, buildings could be demolished and the materials that make up that building could be used for the community repairs.
Lamar Port Arthur would be a resource for welders and concrete workers as they offer both certifi cate and non-certifi cate courses in these trades.
78
The Re-Use Warehouse will be a non-profi t organization that will except reusable items that are taken out of houses, rather for demolition or for a remodel. This warehouse will be open for anyone in Port Arthur to donate these items. The warehouse will only be open to a family incomes that are below the average level as a place to pick up items for renovating their own homes. These warehouses not only provide an outline for residents in west Port Arthur that can not afford to buy supplies to remodel their homes, but will also provide a place to advert unused or reusable construction materials from a landfi ll. This concept is used in Houston, TX and in the fi rst year the organization diverted 200,00 lbs. from landfi lls.
VISIONING
79
COMMUNITY STRATEGYCOOPERATIVES
A Cooperative is a legal entity owned and democratically controlled by its members. Members often have a close association with the enterprise as producers or consumers of its products or services, or as its employees.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership 2. Democratic Member Control 3. Member Economic Participation 4. • Autonomy and Independence 5. Education, Training and Information 6. Cooperation among Cooperatives 7. Concern for CommunityCooperatives are based on the cooperative values of “self-help, self-responsibility, democracy and equality, • equity and solidarity” and the seven cooperative principles. Types of Cooperatives - Housing cooperative - Building cooperative - Utility cooperative - Agricultural • cooperative - Credit unions and cooperative banking - Federal or secondary cooperatives. Cooperatives begin and end with the Community; and since that is a vital and lacking aspect of rejuvenation • for WPA, a Cooperative would be a positive addition that would bring pride, job opportunities, and positive ideals to the Community.
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This map shows potential cooperative locations asowwwsws s ppopooteotete cacaatatiotiononnsns s aasassows potential cooperative locas mapm ntiTT nsTTreferring to vacant land map. Credit Unions are thevvavacacacacanantnt t lla oononsns s as aarearere te ththheheevacant land map. Credit Uniorrinerr nd e tmost famous form of cooperative. With the potentialuusus s ffoforormrmmm tththehehe e ppopototetenentntintiaialallous form of cooperative. With tst mo f c tiainvolvement of the EPA through making West Portggv eenennt t ooof f tt kinnngg g WWWeWesesst t PPPoorortrtvement of the EPA through makinoinvo e rtinvoArthur one of its showcase cities, and through theooononene e oe oof off i aaanandnd d td ththrhroroouougughgh h th ththeheheer one of its showcase cities, anA sArthur city’s interest shown in donating land or otherwisentetereereresest st t g lalananandnd d ooor or o oothothhehererwrwiwiswisesees interest shown in donating lho’s inteinvesting in positive ideas for the community, a creditveveesststintingng n ppp e e ccocomommmmmmumuununitnityty,y, a, a a ca crcrecredededitdittvesting in positive ideas for the sitng in punion would be an ideal cooperative that would putununnioniononon wn wwowoououul eereraraatativtiveveve te ththhahat at wt wwowououulduld d pd ppupututtunion would be an ideal coopebeuld benew-found power in the hands of the communitynnnneneweww-w-fo-fofouoununnd ndnddsds s oofof of tththehe e e ccocomomommmmmumuununitnityityynd power in the hanpopowermembers themselves. mmmmmeememmbmbebeeer he selv
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CITY STRATEGYREFINERY SUPPORT
Comfort Cooling/ HvacProcess RefrigerationBuilding -- NewBuilding -- RemodelingIndustrial CleaningEnvironmental CleaningJanitorial CleaningConcreteExcavation/gradingPaving (Asphalt, Concrete)Demolition Of BuildingDismantling Of TanksElectrical -- GeneralElectrical -- High Voltage, High LineElectrical -- Heat TracingElectrical -- Cathodic ProtectionElectrical -- Grounding SystemsInspection -- General NdtInspection -- Infrared ScanningInspection -- Eddy Current TestingInspection -- Acoustic EmissionInspection -- ElectricalInspection -- Column ScanningInspection -- Civil/soilsInspection -- High Voltage ElectricalInspection -- Electrical GroundInspection -- Fiberglass
Metal/Concrete Linings/CoatingsField Maintenance -- Valves
Field Maintenance -- Cooling TowerField Maintenance -- Leak Sealing (Online)Field Maintenance -- Exchanger RetubingField Maintenance -- Rotating EquipmentField Maintenance -- High Alloy Welding
Field Maintenance -- Lead LininField Maintenance -- Glass Lining
Field Maintenance -- Heat TreatingField Maintenance -- Non-metallic Materials
Field Maintenance -- Pipe FittingField Maintenance -- Mobile Equipment Repair
PaintingRefrac/acid Brick
Rigging/equipment ErectionScaffolding
Scale MaintenanceStructural Steel Fabrication
Structural Steel ErectionTanks -- Field ErectionConsulting -- Chemical
Consulting -- MetallurgicalConsulting -- ControlsDcs Control SystemsAsbestos Abatement
General Insulation
These services will create jobs. However, there are some disadvantages to choosing these support services. One, each of the above (except perhaps janitorial services) requires job training so jobs would not be instantly available. In this vein, we have recommended that a large job-training program accompanies this facility. Welding, forklift training and other physical skills could be taught in addition to general classroom sessions dedicated to learning about the inner-workings of the refi nery. This would be the fi rst step toward inspector training. The trainings taught would depend on both the choices of services to pursue as well as the availability of experts within or outside the community to train the community members.
While, in many aspects, the refi neries are seen as the “enemy” of West Port Arthur, they are currently the only reliable source of income in the area. Some might say that supporting the industries that are poisoning the community might be a cop-out of sorts, a “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ’em” attitude. Of course, the opposite view could be taken -- if the industries are going to be right on the periphery of West Port Arthur regardless, perhaps we should be taking advantage of them instead of the inverse.
MOTIVA OUT SOURCES THE INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT SERVICES LISTED BELOW.
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One company that could be indicative of the potential for the refi nery support services industry is Ventech. Ventech is a company located in Pasadena, Texas and was founded in 1967. They placed themselves in the center of the oil capitol of the country -- there are refi neries processing more than 2 million barrels per day within a 10 mile radius of Ventech’s headquarters. When the big four oil companies of Port Arthur are combined, they process approximately 1.5 million barrels per day. This includes the refi nery expansions. Ventech provide appraisals, engineering, procurement, construction and manufacturing services. They have a 120,000 sq ft corporate offi ce and a 100,000 sq ft fabrication and manufacturing facility. All total, their facilities cover 32 acres in Pasadena. They specialize in dismantling process units, relocating plants and building new modular refi neries. The new Port Arthur facility and job training center could follow this model and attempt to cover many services the refi neries need. However, we would recommend choosing a few key services to train for initially and expanding to become similar to Ventech in the future if desired.
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conclusion\\coming together.
CONCLUSIONCOMING TOGETHER
SOLAR FARM
COMMUNITY GARDENS
MURALS+PUBLIC ART
JOB TRAINING CENTER
SOIL RECLAMATION
CO-OPS
HOME REPAIR
REFINERY SUPPORT
CREDIT UNIONS
REUSE WAREHOUSE
CHURCH BUS ROUTES
STREET ART
NEW CITY BUS ROUTES
STOREFRONT ART
BUS STOP STRUCTURES
CLEAN ENERGY
PLANTS & PRODUCE
AIR/GROUND TOXIN REMOVAL
RECYCLED MATERIALS
INSPIRED CREATIVITY
SOFTENS HARDSCAPES
VACANCY AWARENESS
GREEN JOBS
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
SELF-RESPONSIBILITY
HOME REPAIR JOBS
RELIABLE INCOME
NEW BUS DRIVER JOBS
SUSTAINABILITY
PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHOOLS
LOT IMPROVEMENTS
DILAPIDATED HOME REMOVAL
EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS
EQUALITY
EMPOWERED COMMUNITY
VOLUNTARY SERVICE
ACCESS TO AMENITIES
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STRATEGIES OPPORTUNITIES
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kelley’s kitchen
horseshoe pit
downtown street art
downtown window murals
refinery support services
community gardens and co-op
tank farm park
home-building job center
church bus routes
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WPA