They say a picture says a thousand words...

That's why I posted the renderings contained in the various responses from the architects.  I hope you find it helpful in getting an idea of the approaches contemplated by them in accomplishing the goal.  It is good to see that most were not hamstrung by only looking at a "historic wrap-around" project that seems to be suggested by the RFQ.  In fact, the least creative proposals stuck to that formula, ignoring other opportunities.  You can also see how important the building's relationship to the overall site is.  I maintain that to design the site first, as was done here, and then back the principal building in at the last moment, is really doing a disservice to the community.  At a time when we have the opportunity to re-do the beach, it is worthwhile asking the question if the current building location is the best one.  I don't necessarily think it is in the best location.

If you have time, I encourage you to read all of the responses.  They can be a bit dry, given all the boilerplate qualification forms of the architectural firms, their personnel, representative projects and sub-contractors.  But they do a good job showing that we were able to get a well-qualified group to respond.  It's also important to realize that, given the fact that this is a RFQ rather than a RFP, price is not discussed.  In fact, my concern about this process is that it raises expectations that the project is actually financially feasible - which to this point in time no one has really proven that it is.  I am also concerned that, again, the beach may be used as a distraction from the city's real problems and become window dressing for the two campaigns that will follow later this year.

With financing in mind, it would be good to concentrate our efforts on an approach that lends itself to grant funding from either a historic preservation or a green building perspective.  There are some approaches that I think would be fundable, given the parameters of a grant program.  The ones that provide a 1920s-esque facade only fall short of that mark.

Don't forget that the City Commission will be hearing presentations from all the respondents this coming Saturday at CITY HALL.  It's an all day affair.  Given the importance of this project, I hope the city is making some effort to videotape the entire proceeding so that those who cannot attend can view what went on at a later time.  I think we have the technology for this.

I hope that you agree with me that whatever is done at the beach should be an expression of the "best" that Lake Worth can offer.  It is our flagship property and to do something half-way or inconsistent with the historical importance of the site, would be a long-term mistake.