On Thursday, Save Our Sausalito presented the City of Sausalito with a comprehensive Historic Resources Evaluation (HRE) for the proposed development at 605-613 Bridgeway. Prepared by Connor Turnbull Preservation Consulting, the evaluation underscores the historical and cultural significance of the property within Sausalito’s Downtown Historic District.
"Critical Historical Insights"
“The absence of a formal Historic Resources Evaluation for this property has compromised discussions about its impact on historic resources,” wrote Richard Toshiyuki Drury, an attorney representing Save Our Sausalito, in the letter accompanying the evaluation. “The property is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources and is a contributing resource to the Sausalito Historic District.”
Key Findings of the HRE:
- Individual Significance: The property is “individually significant” according to criteria 1 and 2 of Public Resources Code section 5024.1(c).
- Historical Associations: It is associated with early commercial development, transportation, and settlement of Asian-Americans in Sausalito.
- Family and Business Ties: The buildings are significant for their associations with the Yee Tock Chee/Yee family and the Hong Lee laundry.
Historical Figures and Businesses
Yee Tock Chee (also known as Willie Yee):
A prominent figure in Sausalito’s history, Yee Tock Chee managed the Marin Fruit Co. and was deeply involved in the community. The Sausalito City Council renamed Princess Park to Yee Tock Chee Park in his honor after his death in 1975.
Hong Lee Laundry:
Operated by the Lee family, the laundry was a staple of the community for over 100 years, moving to 607 Bridgeway after its original location was demolished.
"Mandated Preservation Efforts"
The HRE concludes that the property meets the criteria for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, thereby mandating preservation efforts. The evaluation highlights the architectural character, historical context, and cultural importance of the buildings at 605-613 Bridgeway.
Preservation Recommendations:
- Historic Resources Evaluation: The city must prepare a formal Historic Resources Evaluation.
- Historical Significance Consideration: Development proposals should consider the property’s historical significance and its impact on the district.
- Certificate of Appropriateness Requirement: Any changes to the property should require a certificate of appropriateness.
Yee Tock Chee played a significant role in the Sausalito community during the Great Depression. He extended credit and supported both individuals and neighboring businesses. Sausalito residents attended council meetings to support the Yee family and the Marin Fruit Co. during a time of redevelopment pressures.
Despite their efforts, the redevelopment pressures ultimately led to the closure of Marin Fruit Co. However, the Yee family’s contributions to the community continued to be recognized. When Yee died in 1975, Princess Park was renamed Yee Tock Chee Park in his honor.
Community Support for Preservation
Local residents have expressed strong support for preserving the historic character of the property. “This evaluation provides a critical perspective on the importance of these buildings to Sausalito’s heritage,” said a spokesperson for Save Our Sausalito. “We urge the city to take these findings seriously and ensure that any development respects the historical and cultural significance of the site.”
City Officials to Review Findings
City officials are expected to review the HRE and consider its implications for the proposed development. The evaluation adds a crucial layer of historical context to the ongoing debate over the future of 605-613 Bridgeway, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and informed decision-making that will respect the site’s significance.
