Langley leaders seek funds to restore Burrier Building for artists

Langley Creates steering committee members told the Port of South Whidbey last week that they are moving quickly to secure funding to repair and revitalize the Burrier Building on the Whidbey Island Fairgrounds. The creative district was designated in 2020 by the Washington State Arts Commission, and following recertification earlier this year the committee is drafting a five year work plan that prioritizes updates to the historic structure.

Named for homesteader Warren Burrier, the building has hosted exhibits and community classes, including sewing, needlework and quilting during this year s Whidbey Island Fair. The steering committee envisions a multi use cultural space that would host gallery shows, lectures and performances, while continuing to offer community programming such as yoga, art classes and dance practice.

“The goal is to make the space affordable and accessible, especially to underrepresented and emerging creatives,” David Price, a local business owner and member of the steering committee, said. Committee members say modest investments such as fresh paint and improved lighting would immediately make the interior more welcoming, while uncovering windows and reconditioning wood floors would restore the building s historic character. Addressing ADA accessibility with a new side ramp is also a priority to ensure older residents and people with disabilities can participate.

Funding sources under consideration include grants from ArtsWA, matching funds, impact donations and partnerships with other arts organizations. Nicole Whittington Johnson, executive director of the Langley Chamber of Commerce and a steering committee member, said the group plans to apply for two potential grants, one this month and another in March, and estimates that initial work could begin with between forty thousand and fifty thousand dollars. A memorandum of understanding with the Port of South Whidbey, which owns the fairgrounds, would allow the committee to meet the upcoming grant deadlines.

Port officials expressed support, describing the effort as consistent with the port s mission of local economic development and noting that the creative district opens access to new sources of grant funding. Fairgrounds Director Amanda Ellis reported that the building has had one long term tenant in the last four years and that staff are working to build regular, non conflict uses that serve the wider community.

For Island County residents the proposed improvements represent more than aesthetics. Making the Burrier Building safe, accessible and affordable for underrepresented artists expands cultural participation, strengthens social connections that support mental health, and contributes to a local creative economy that benefits small businesses and visitors. If the steering committee secures the grants and finalizes an agreement with the port, work could begin in the coming year to reopen the building as a community centered cultural hub.