Sandra White: November 2009

Uptown Neighborhood

By far the most popular place to call home in Port Townsend due to its great location close to everything, and it's Victorian architecture, preserved since the early 1880's.  Chance and circumstances have saved this wonderful little town from the remodel and tear down of these historic homes and buildings.  From the earliest recession in the 1890's when the planned railroad went to Seattle instead, this shipping port saw many downturns and setbacks which led to unemployment and isolation.

 Today, we still have those issues, but people who can manage to live here enjoy the tradeoff for small town atmosphere, lack of crime and traffic, clean air, charming ambience, and breathtaking scenic beauty.

Uptown is the area on the bluff above the waterfront, a neighborhood preferred by the early families moving to the area to get away from saloons, busy wharf activity, and unsavory characters.  Not much thought was given to ocean views by those building the magnificent Victorians, but I suspect a respite from ocean winds and easy access to stores and shops. 

Homes in the Uptown area have charm in common, and range from small bungalows to large Victorian Mansions and of 4000+ square feet.  Lot sizes range from 5000 to 10000 sq. ft.  Prices range from $239,000 to $1,000,000 +.

The uptown retail area is anchored by the Aldrich's market and has restaurants, shops, theater, and medical offices.  There is a stairway that will take you right down to the main street of town.  This photo was taken at 3:00 in the afternoon on a winter day.                         

Port Townsend Neighborhoods

 Port Townsend is a small town, geographically as well as density of  population.  Situated on the Quimper Peninsula, there is water on three sides, with Admiralty Bay to the East, the Strait of Juan De Fuca to the Nortrh, and Discovery Bay on the west side.  No room for urban sprawl here! There are only 6 or 7 areas that are thought of as distinct neighborhoods, each with it's own abience and characteristics....

•  Bell Neighborhood
• Cape George
• Fort Worden
• Kala Point
• Morgan Hill
• North Beach
• Uptown

Kala Point 

 Just 10 minutes outside of Port Townsend, this lovely planned community has it all...incredible open spaces of tall trees and natural fauna, walking trails, pristine beaches, clubhouse with pool and hot tub, meeting rooms, RV and boat parking area. 

 There is a Home Owners Association with C C & R's and minimal monthly dues.  Kala Point has it's own community well, which serves all homes. 

The 600+ homes have been custom built over the years since the subdivision of the area in the late 70's on 1/3 acre lots, with generous open spaces and common areas in between.  Homes are for the most part Northwest style with natural wood siding and trim, display  a great deal of variety, and are beautifully maintained.  Homes range in size from 1500 sq. feet to 3000+ and range in price from the low $200'000 to an occasional $700,000+ for a special water view property.  You will find some very good values in Kala Point at this time.

There is also an area of condominiums which range in price from low $200's to the high $300's. 

Port Townsend Boating Mishap

High winds and unusual sea conditions prevailed in Port Townsend on Friday morning,  causing this craft to end up  on the beach.  Those aboard were rescued by the Coast Guard as onlookers watched. 

In the far distance is Point Wilson Lighthouse and the Straits of San Juan De Fuca.  Normally a very quiet inlet with no waves, and the biggest threat is usually floating logs.