Friends of the Harriet bandshell:

Here's an update.  We're making an impact! Our petition requesting that the Harriet bandshell and associated buildings be restored to their original blue color was formally transmitted last evening to the Park Board with 1,151 signatures as of the submission date.  Since then, the total number of signers has shot up to 1409 as of this morning.

I'm optimistic that we'll get some shade of blue returned to the bandshell once it is renovated next year. The exact shade still is being determined, and will likely involved public consultation, but it's clear from my conversation with Clif Swenson of the Park Board, who is managing this project, that staff is taking the public's desire to go blue seriously and is looking hard at a variety of shades. 

The new shingles will be hand-dipped in an oil-based paint to enhance their ability to resist moisture. A plan to maintain the shingles as needed every three to five years also is being developed to keep the structure looking good. They're also planning the install cladded copper flashing at the intersection of surfaces to improve durability. 

Clif anticipates that there will be some display of color alternatives at the bandshell area around the Thanksgiving period so that the public may register its preference.  I'll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, feel free to share our petition on your social media at: https://www.change.org/p/paint-the-harriet-bandshell-blue 

Steve