Port Washington planning commission recommends donor-funded 'I Love Port Washington' sculpture for Cold Dock Park

The Port Washington Planning Commission on May 20 voted to recommend that the common council approve an ‘I Love Port Washington’ public sculpture to be installed in Cold Dock Park.

Bob Harris, the staff presenter, told commissioners the city had received a $100,000 donation to fund creation and installation of the sculpture and that about $20,000 of the gift would be placed in a maintenance account. “The city has received a donation in the amount of $100,000, and that donation is for the creation and the installation of a sculpture,” Harris said, showing the commission a 2009 Cold Dock Park master plan that envisions public art in the teardrop island near the inner harbor.

Chair members described placement and timing: manufacturing is expected to begin immediately if the project receives final approval, with installation aimed for mid‑June and completion well before July 4 and Fish Day. The chair noted aesthetic details, saying “The heart will be painted red” and that the sign’s lettering will be painted to match the nearby lighthouse.

Commissioners asked about materials and upkeep. Harris said the sculpture will be fabricated from steel in the Fond du Lac area, will be lit for evening visibility, and will be set on a poured concrete platform with surrounding landscaping. He identified CD Smith as contributing fabrication work and an additional $10,000 for the maintenance fund; Friends of Park & Rec will hold the maintenance account. “So the money raised was to ensure that we could light it, landscape it, and then maintain it,” Harris said.

A motion to recommend approval was moved (mover: Mister Ehrlich) and seconded (second: Bob Harris), and the commission approved the recommendation by voice vote. Commissioners who spoke in favor emphasized public‑art benefits and potential to draw visitors: one member said the sculpture could become a focal point for homecoming photos and events and encourage other philanthropists to support public art.

Next steps: the commission’s recommendation will be transmitted to the common council for final approval. If council approves, staff said manufacturing would begin immediately and installation would be scheduled for mid‑June so the work is in place before summer events.