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Home My WebLink AboutRes2017-028 2030 Comprehensive PlanSponsored by: Planning and Zoning Commission First Public Hearing: May 8, 2017 Second Public Hearing: May 22, 2017 Third Public Hearing: May 30, 2017 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-028 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, ADOPTING AND RECOMMENDING THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH APPROVE VOLUMES I AND II OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO INCLUDE THE FUTURE LAND USE PLAN MAP WHEREAS, the 2020 Seward Comprehensive Plan was approved by City Council on August 8, 2005; and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan is a document the Council uses to manage and facilitate the decisions made in the growth of our community; and WHEREAS, during the last twelve (12) years the community of Seward has experienced significant growth and change; and WHEREAS, in January 2015 the City applied for and received Kenai Peninsula grant funding to assist with the update of the 2020 Compressive Plan; and WHEREAS, through the RFP process the City selected PDC Engineers to gather public input, work with the Planning and Zoning Commission and City staff to complete the update of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, over the last two years the Planning and Zoning Commission has held thirteen (13) public work sessions and meetings working on the updates; and WHEREAS, PDC Engineers has completed the update and submitted the final draft of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan including the Future Land Use Map for approval by the City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough; and WHEREAS, all amendments to the City Comprehensive Plan must be approved by Ordinance of the Kenai Peninsula Borough, as per KPB Ordinance 21.01.025, A; and WHEREAS, having complied with the public notification process on April 18, 2017 the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and approved Resolution 2017-06, recommending the City Council adopt and recommend the Kenai Peninsula Borough approve volumes I and II of the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Future Land Use Plan Map. 1 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA RESOLUTION 2017-028 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA that: Section 1. The Seward City Council hereby approves the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, to include the Future Land Use Plan Map. Section 2. The Council further recommends the Kenai Peninsula Borough approve the 2030 Seward Comprehensive Plan. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption. PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 30"' day of May, 2017. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA an Bardarson, Mayor AYES: Keil, Altermatt, McClure, Bardarson NOES: None ABSENT: Slater, Casagranda, Squires ABSTAIN: None ATTEST: 1 Agenda Statement Meeting Date: May 8, 2017 To: City Council Through: Jim Hunt, City Manager Ron Long, Assistant City Manager From: Donna Glenz, Planner Agenda Item: Council approval of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan and recommendation to KPB for approval BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION: The Seward Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2005, and provides a guide for community development pertaining to land use, transportation facilities, economic development, public facilities and services. The 2030 Comprehensive Plan is a long range policy document adopted and amended by the City Council. The Plan establishes a vision for the City provides policy guidance for growth and development and contains action items directed at the City to implement the vision. During the last twelve (12) years the community of Seward has experienced growth and.clange. The community needs to have an accurate and current Comprehensive Plan that expresses the community's desire for future growth and development. In January 2015 the Council approved Resolution 2015-008 requesting grant funding from the Kenai Peninsula Borough for the purpose of updating the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The Kenai Peninsula Borough approved Ordinance 2014-19-47 which appropriated a $50,000.00 grant to the City of Seward for the Comprehensive Plan update. Through the Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the City hired PDC Engineers to gather public input, work with the Planning and Zoning Commission and City staff to complete the update of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. PDC Engineers has completed the update and submitted the final draft of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan including the Land Use Plan Map for approval by the City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough. Over the last two years the Planning and Zoning Commission held thirteen (13) public work sessions and meetings updating the 2030 Plan. Members of the public where notified and attended work sessions and meetings, providing comments and input through several sources including hard copy and digital surveys, using the City and Comprehensive Plan webpages, Facebook, local newspapers and media sources. Having complied with the public notification process on April 18, 2017 the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and approved Resolution 2017-06, recommending the City Council adopt volumes I and II of the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan Map. The Commission also recommended the Council forward the plan to the Kenai Peninsula Borough for approval. Two members of the public were present at the meeting and also voiced support for the approval of the plan. CONSISTENCY WITH CITY PLANS Yes No N/A Comprehensive Plan (2020, approved by Council August 8, 2005) 1. • Was written to provide a vision and guidance for growth and X development through the year 2020. Strategic Plan (Approved by Council Resolution 99-043): Pursue the community's vision through rigorous implementation of 2' the Comprehensive and Land Use Plans X • Ensure that all legislative and administrative decisions are consistent with the goals of the Strategic and Comprehensive Plans Page 10 & Bullet 3) Seward City Code 15.05.010. - Seward Comprehensive Plan. From time to time, upon recommendation of the city council, the Kenai Peninsula Borough assembly shall by ordinance modify, adopt and 3. implement the Seward Comprehensive Plan. The plan is a public X declaration of policies reflecting community goals as expressed by citizens, and is meant to guide the actions of elected officials in setting forth the goals, objectives, and policies governing the future development within the city. INTENT: Council to approve the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and recommend KPB approval. FISCAL NOTE: The Comprehensive Plan update has been financed by the Kenai Peninsula Borough grant P058308. Approved by Finance Department: 4DbA,r1&, ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes No N/A-X RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Council approve Resolution 2017-028 , adopting the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to include the Land Use Plan Map. qP COMPREHEN VE PLAN UP ATE K f �AS1�► VOLUME C: I Tl�f C) F S E10 IZL' i CAL low. dMkftn 46 Ar 4 , f�ll� _'=•..ter e.:Wa+: � �v..- � r_� �, J;b Y't�1�C•''�r�� ,;�'� -�'`rr�� fir*"--' _ .-.�„ • .,� t - 1 f "w' � _ - r- ' - .. ,,.,. - ��'_ t� - _ �. �'�•g�...;ice-` ,. "y'�r• Yam•" �� .. ' • �`'�,r+l� -oe - Kj~��ii��YJ ..-:-��$��- _'4,s,r_ �'1"!'r Sr • � 'f� R+,� s4.�w�L' Adopted: May30, 2017 prepared by: PDC Engineers 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 0 - 1 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................................2 1.1 A GUIDE TO THE USE OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN..........................................2 1.2 PURPOSE OF THE SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN.....................................................................2 1.3 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE SEWARD 2020 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN...........................................3 2 SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES................................................................................6 2.1 COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES FOR 2030..................................................................................6 2.2 COMMUNITY VALUES......................................................................................................................6 3 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS............................................12 3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT...........................................................................................................12 3.2 LAND USE........................................................................................................................................13 3.3 HOUSING..........................................................................................................................................14 3.4 TRANSPORTATION..........................................................................................................................15 3.5 PORT AND HARBOR DEVELOPMENT.............................................................................................15 3.6 RECREATION...................................................................................................................................16 3.7 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES...............................................................................................17 3.8 NATURAL HAZARDS.......................................................................................................................18 3.9 QUALITY OF LIFE............................................................................................................................19 APPENDICES -MAPS.........................................................................................................................................21 C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT INTRODUCTION 0 -2 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A GUIDE TO THE USE OF THE SEWARD 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IR ir etemm�ae�Y.� 1 - IF r, er [y I i � L The 2030 Seward ) ate U dCom rehensive Plan (2030Plan the 2030 Plan,the goals, objectives and implementation p p is organized into two volumes. Volume I identifies the action items are listed for the each of the plan elements. goals,objectives,and implementation action items,updat- Volume II briefly describes the history, setting, and de- ed and developed for each comprehensive plan element. mographlcs of Seward,and then presents the background Volume II presents background information and planning and analysis of each plan element identified in Volume issues identified for each of these elements. I. The Intent of this volume is to supply Important sup- The nine comprehensive plan elements include: economic plemental information to assist the City of Seward in development,land use,housing,transportation,port and attaining the goals and objectives set forth in Volume I. harbor development,recreation,public facilities and ser- vices, natural hazards, and quality of life. The planning 1.2 PURPOSE OF THE S E W A R D issues are community issues that have developed over COMPREHENSIVE PLAN time and are necessary to consider in implementing new projects that follow from the plan. The community of Seward has seen a significant amount of change since it was established as a port and selected The intent of Volume I is to provide a readily useable guide as the southern terminus for the Alaska Railroad in the to aid the City of Seward and its citizens in the prepara- earl 1900s. Over the past two decades the community Y p � Y tion,adoption,amendment,revision,and implementation has experienced the increases in the cruise ship industry, p pn Y, of specific plans, programs and regulations that derive increases in charter boat and railroad s bookin the opening g � p g from the vision embodied by the goals and objectives. of the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), and intermittent In this introduction, the accomplishments of the 2020 coal shipments to various locations primarily Korea. p � p Y Plan are listed as a baseline from which to proceed. The These changes have had significant nificant effects on the land overall community vision and values follow immediatety use economy, and character of the community. from h introduction. In h finl in h h r f Y o thethe a section, the eat o PD�C ENGINEERS � PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT -3 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 6The continuing challenge is to retain Seward's unique Guide the city on how to best use lands it owns through historic, small-town character, while pursuing modern municipal entitlement under the Alaska Statehood Act. economic development opportunities and accommodat- Develop priorities and justify funding requests to the ing changes in business services, public facilities, and local community, Alaska State Legislature, United affordable housing. The 2030 Plan is the community's States Congress, and public agencies for capital and guide for managing this process. transportation improvements. • Maintain the health and safety of residents and visitors. Seward is among the most active communities in Alas- • Coordinate and involve public agencies affecting the ka in planning projects using the public process. The economic and social life of Seward. 1998 community vision project,which culminated in the • Preserve and enhance the town's best features. development of the 1999 strategic plan, recommended • Foster participation of Seward residents in making revising the comprehensive plan in accordance with the public decisions, evaluating community progress, goal: "Maintain Comprehensive and Land Use Plans that and developing community consensus on the future reflect and achieve the community's vision."The city has of the city. utilized the information gathered in previous commu- nity surveys, plans, the Partnership 2000 process, and This plan has been prepared with the assistance of City p p p Y the strategic plan visioning process to revise the present Staff, community members, and representatives of rele- comprehensive plan. vant organizations through a series of public meetings. As dictated b the Seward City Code the 2030 Plan In the spirit of achieving long-term objectives for the Y Y contains both advisor and binding elements. The ad- greatest common benefit, the 2030 Plan addresses pri- Y g visor elements include strategies for improving public vate as well as public lands, facilities, and services. It Y g p g services and facilities promoting economic development, anticipates future needs and opportunities for the city. �p g and maintainingand enhancing the quality of life. The It is designed to ensure that Seward is a better place for g q Y bindingelement is the land use plan,which can be changed people to live and work. p � g only by amendment,upon petition by the land owners or at the initiation of the Planning and Zoning Commission. 1.3 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF T H E The land use plan forms the basis for updating land use S E W A R D 2020 COMPREHENSIVE regulations and policies. PLAN Title 29 of the Alaska State Statutes requires that zoning 1.3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT regulations be based on a current comprehensive plan. The updated 2030 Plan helps to evaluate discrepancies Goal: Strengthen and diversify the economy of Seward between existing land use and what the plan has identified by working with the private sector and other govern- as preferred land use; thereby dictating what changes mental units. should be made to the existing zoning ordinance. • Completion of Army and Air Force military recreation Additional purposes for updating a comprehensive plan camp enhancement projects. are that it will: Construction of a new cargo dock by Alaska Railroad • Anticipate trends in the community; forecast needs Corporation (ARRC). for land use,city infrastructure,public services, and Continued development of the Seward Marine In- economic development; and develop strategies to dustrial Center(SMIC). achieve community goals and objectives. Development of heritage tourism and other historic • Provide guidance on how land use and infrastruc- heritage opportunities. ture decisions can create opportunities for economic Replaced the University of Alaska Fairbanks(UAF)-op- development. erated UNOLS research vessel. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT INTRODUCTION 0 1 -4 1.3.2 LAND USE 1.3.4.1 Utilities Goal:Maintain Seward s Land Use Plan as the primary • Completed construction of an electric emergency local tool to ensue quality community land use arrange- generation plant and warehouse. ynents, growth, and development to the year 2010. • Continued placement of utility lines underground throughout the service area. • Constructed new Community Library and Museum. • Completed electric utility rates study. • Constructed North Forest Acres Levee and Transfer • Major upgrade of Third Avenue water main. Facility Road. • Construction of new 600,000 gallon water storage tank. • Adopted All Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2010. • Adoption of Floodplain Management Ordinance, 1.3.4.2 Waste Management Amended2013 and2016. • Reviewed and updated the Sign Code. • Major upgrade and dredging of sewer lagoons at • Consolidated, reviewed and updated all definitions Lowell Point and SMIC. in Title 15 of the city code. • Updated the Seward Marine Industrial Center(SMIC) 1.3.4.3 Health Care & Social Services Plan. • Adoption of Municipal Lands Management Plan in Completed new long-term care facility. 2014 Explored the feasibility of providing veterans care locally. • Established federally qualified health center clinic to 1.3.3 TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES provide more affordable access to primary health care. p p y Goal: Maintain Seward s Transportation Plan as the primary local tool to ensure safe and convenient trans- 1.3.4.4 Public Safety portation facilities that address the needs of Seward res- ADA public sidewalk improvements, ongoing. idents, businesses and visitors to the year 2010. Supported Alaska Department of Fish and Game's • Completed construction of a new road from the Seward Bear Safe Community Program. Highway to the transfer facility that bypasses the Purchased a ladder truck for the fire department. Forest Acres Subdivision. Relocated U.S. Coast Guard building a moorage to • Updated city code provisions for driveway widths. enhance response time and capability. • Constructed a new road to Seward Mountain Haven long-term care facility. 1.3.4.5 Governmental Services • Constructed a new SMIC breakwater to create a har- bor basin. • Continued review of sites to identify an alternative • Upgraded the electrical service to the SMIC north location for the city shop facility. dock. • Compiled,distributed, and posted on the City's web • Harbor expansion, including float replacement and site a City of Seward directory of information. electrical upgrades. 1.3.4.6 Parks and Recreation 1.3.4 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES 0 Platted,zoned,and dedicated for park purposes,Two Lakes Park,Waterfront Park,and Benny Benson Me- Goal: Continue to improve the quality of public facilities morial Park. and services made available to the residents of Seward. • Continued efforts to refurbish the Seward Community Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery. • Continual yearly beautification of Hoben Park and Kawabe Park. PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT -5 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I • Completed automation of campground pay stations. • Continued to work with ALPAR, the Kenai Penin- sula Borough and other agencies in the cleanup and reduction of trash and litter. 1.3.4.7 Cultural Facilities • Options studied on refurbishing the Jesse Lee Home with local advisory board and recommendations lined out in Historic Structure Report. 1.3.5 EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES Goal: Support efforts to continually improve the quality of educational facilities located in Seward and ensure that these facilities continue to enhance the community. • Adjoined campuses for the pre-K 12 schools complex with a new bike path. • Replaced middle school. • AVTEC construction of new dormitory, new culi- nary arts facility, new heavy equipment and diesel mechanic facility, marine fire training facility and maritime simulator facility. • Constructed a city-owned live fire structural simulator. 1.3.6 COMMUNITY APPEARANCE Goal: Improve the appearance of the entire community through increased landscaping, beautification and litter control efforts, through more attention to sign control and through promoting the preservation of Seward s historic architecture. (See Parks and Recreation for accomplish- ments meeting this goal concurrently) • Many private businesses and residences along the Seward Highway/Third Avenue corridor and in the entire community landscaped their properties. • Installation of three new community signs:Welcome to Seward, Small Boat Harbor, and Downtown signs along the Seward Highway/Third Avenue corridor. • Removal of numerous abandoned and dilapidated buildings by both city and private property owners. • Improved pedestrian pathway for access to and from schools. • Upgraded downtown decorative lights to LED. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 0 1 -6 2 SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 2.1 COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES FOR 2030 r q M. 0 p. i y Building on its impressive heritage and natural setting, the type and quantity of human activities in the area the community's vision for itself includes: as shown by economic indicators,vital statistics and population data, education and health statistics, and an attractive, healthy, vibrant other data; • the opinions and experiences that the community community; a strong diverse collectively embodies. economy with quality business, educational and recreational In order to maintain or improve the overall quality of opportunities; a process life,these underlying community values must be known for orderly growth; and an and respected. The following are key community values p g y y appreciation of local history, identified by the citizens of Seward with supporting di- culture and community. rections for the plan. 2.2.1 Small Town Feel and Atmosphere 2.2 COMMUNITY VALUES We value the "small town feel" The values of a community reflect and drive the quality and friendly atmosphere. of its life.This quality is also impacted by such factors as: • geographic, cultural and historic features that are unique to a community; PM E N G I N E411 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT -7 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 6The following items have been identified by citizens as 0Strive to meet or exceed standards and regulations contributing to Seward's small town atmosphere: for compliance with state and federal environmental regulations. • people are friendly and you know your neighbors 0 Develop a beach erosion and storm surge protection • a comfortable, relaxed attitude program. • a dynamic historic downtown and a thriving boat protect our ecosystem and public health. harbor Preserve and protect the scenic views of the mountains • a high level of citizen commitment to the community and Resurrection Bay. • convenient access throughout town; a pedestrian Seek ways to protect the watershed and mitigate de- friendly downtown velopment impacts on the slopes of Bear Mountain, • pride in our historic downtown district and historical Marathon Mountain, Mount Benson and the Mount surrounding areas Alice bench. • an attractive community appearance Encourage education and support our environment. 2.2.2 Natural Environment and Open Space 2.2.3 Community Appearance We value clean air, clean We value a clean, well- water and a healthy, natural maintained community, environment for people and beautification through wildlife. We value natural landscaping, and restoration open spaces and the scenic of our historic structures. views of the surrounding undeveloped mountains. We value quiet in our residential 0 Encourage citizens as well as the city to take an active role in beautifying the community. neighborhoods. We practice 0 Maintain a clean, litter-free community. environmental leadership and 0 Support an effective recycling program. act as environmental stewards. 0 Continue to require landscaping plans for conditional use permits as feasible. • Continue the enforcement method for violations of • Consider how to best design construction that can city codes affecting community appearance. be maintained over time without damaging the en- Support activities initiated by the Seward Historic vironment, balancing near-term interests with the preservation Commission(SHPC). protection of future generations. 0 Implement aesthetics when designing and maintain- Recognize the interdependence of environmental ing roadways. quality, economic growth and social justice. 0 Encourage historic conservation and preservation • Plan for the careful use of natural resources in order Within our city. to prevent depletion, prevent pollution and to do no harm to the environment. • Strive to reduce energy consumption,waste genera- 2.2.4 Recreation tion, our dependence on fossil fuels and production of greenhouse gases. We value diverse, year-round, • Work to clean up environmentally impacted lands indoor and outdoor recreational that impede a sustainable environment. opportunities and facilities for residents and visitors of all ages. E��7� SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 0 1 -8 • Update the 1993 City of Seward Parks Master Plan that incorporate community resources into education and encourage regular updating. programs. • Include a dog park in the Parks Master Plan. Support quality after-school education programs, • Support the development of indoor and outdoor rec- including the Boys & Girls Club. reational facilities. Support adequate funding for education, including 0 Explore development of a community center. intra-school district sports and art and music programs. 0 Complete construction of new restroom at Wil- 2.2.6 Health Care liams Park. 0 Expand utility sites in campgrounds, based on We value effective., accessible, demand. and affordable healthcare. 2.2.5 Education • Explore the feasibility of a borough health care ser- we value a community that vice area. • Support additional beds and short-term stay beds at will ensure that pre-K-12 and the hospital. post-secondary education • Support co-location of long-term care facility and institutions have the resources medical center. and programs to provide quality ' Explore the feasibility of providing veterans care locally. educational opportunities to • Support medical health care professionals to relocate our children and residents. to Seward. • Pursue affordable health care insurance through bor- ough, state and federal sources. • Support the return of a Community Schools concept Encourage cooperation between all health care pro- for adult education. viders. • Support a safer traffic route among the three schools Support educational,preventative and rehabilitation by supporting the development of adjoining campuses social services. for a pre-K 12 schools complex. Retain Seward as the hub for social services on the • Support a local Head Start program. Eastern Kenai Peninsula. • Support the development of local University of Alaska Continue to support Independent Living Center, campus(UAF-College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences), SeaView Community Services and Seward Senior the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA)-Kenai Center and other similar organizations. Peninsula College(KPQ Resurrection Bay Extension Explore the After Birth Services for families in Seward. Site, associated courses and degree programs. Pursue program for restoring ground ambulance ser- e Support infrastructure for the R/V Sikuliaq and their vice between Seward and Anchorage. research. Maintain status of federally qualified health center, • Support the mission and programs of the Alaska Vo- which provides federal funding and access to afford- cational Technical Center to develop the workforce. able health care for the uninsured and underinsured. • Support educational opportunities which are enhanced by Seward's physical geography and economic activities. • Support the efforts of all educational organizations and government agencies, including the Seward Community Library and Museum, Alaska SeaLife Center,National Park Service(NPS), and US Forest Service(USFS),to provide educational opportunities PM ENGINE Q1 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 00 1 -9 2.2.7 Community Partnerships Replace outdated technology to improve productivity and public service. We value the contributions of the various organizations 2.2.9 Public Safety and individuals who work to better our community. We value a safe community and a feeling of security. • Encourage all citizen participation in community organizations. Support adequate police services and equipment. • Continue support for active city/borough relationships Periodically review, evaluate, update, and conduct in areas of mutual interest that impact our community. simulations of all emergency plans, especially the • Continue supporting community organizations and Emergency Preparedness Plan,training core city staff their private grants that enhance our community. and community members. • Approve resolutions of support for endeavors and Support a safe house for victims of domestic violence. projects of various organizations and individuals Maintain an effective public safety communications which benefit the community. network in Seward,including an enhanced emergency • Continue community support for the collaboration 911 system and corrected street addresses. between the Seward Library&Museum and the Res- . Encourage annual reporting of crime statistics,analysis urrection Bay Historical Society (RBHS), and the of crime incidents,and recommendations for solutions. Seward Community Library Association. • Encourage marine safety activities. • Establish additional north-south routes throughout 2.2.8 City Government the community for emergency evacuations. • Identify & support an appropriate site for a new an- imal control shelter. We value an open, responsive city . Ensure a high level of fire protection within the com- g government based on a high level munity by periodic evaluation and update of the Fire of citizen input and community Master Plan. involvement. We value a • Continue support of Seward Volunteer Ambulance fiscally government rn m e n t sound o that Corps. Anticipate future demands for their services n h m h and ow to best meet those needs. provides high quality services. • Support the installation of ambulance warning lights at the intersection of Third and D Street. • Keep up-to-date the City of Seward directory of in- • Continuously plan for future police services to ensure formation on the City's web site. the highest level of public safety within the community. • Continue to review and update the city code. • Review, update and support the Hazard Mitigation • Develop practical enforcement procedures for code Plan. violations. • Continue to support Alaska Department of Fish and • Recommend the development of a policy and proce- Game's Bear Safe Community Program. dure manual for each department. • Continue support of the Seward/Bear Creek Flood • Explore the possibility of annexing surrounding areas, Service Area Board. studying economic and social effects. • Improve and increase the availability of public parking. Support for continued legislative services and lobbyists. Improve the safety of city-owned buildings. • Create a funding mechanism for the repair and re- • Improve pedestrian and street lighting. placement of city infrastructure. Support fire services, volunteer fire fighters and equipment. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT SEWARD COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES 0 - 10 • Support upgrading fire station,and addition of annex Promote infill development by encouraging and pro- station. moting construction on vacant sites in areas of the city which are already established • Explore incentives to attract more year-round private 2.2.10 Land Development sector industries to augment the tax base. • Support the promotion of sporting, cultural events, We value orderly growth conventions and other activities year-round. and balanced development Support an aggressive Chamber of Commerce mar- that is driven by community keting campaign highlighting the quality of life and consensus in conformance diverse resources that make Seward a desirable place with the land use plan. to live and establish a business. • Expand maritime trade for commercial fishing, in- cluding the addition of a crane and grid. • Develop a land use plan for the former Air Force Support Seward schools to attract and retain families. Recreation Camp property. Support expansion of the IMS UAF-CFOS-Seward • Ensure all adopted codes reflect community values. Marine Center and R/V Sikuliaq infrastructure. • Encourage home ownership opportunities. Improve and expand port facilities to attract more • Develop a land use plan for the east side of Resur- maritime trade. rection Bay. Continue development of SMIC as a revenue source • Enable a more viable property use at Fifth Avenue with year-round employment opportunities. and B Street by encouraging the relocation of the Encourage the prudent management of resources for State maintenance facility. healthy commercial and sports fishing industries. • Enable a more viable property use at the site of the Promote and protect wild salmon habitat to reduce existing public works facility by encouraging the dependency on hatchery-raised salmon smolt. valuation of the public works facility. Promote expansion and development of local marine entrepreneurial businesses. • Maintain haul out facilities for all vessels. 2.2.11 Economic Base Educate and encourage historic economic incentives. • Support expansion course and degree offerings in We value a stable economic Seward by the University of Alaska through either environment, economic UAF-CFOS or KPGRBE. diversity, year-round businesses, environmentally responsible 2.2.12 Transportation Facilities industry, and employment that promote a high standard of living. We value diverse transportation facilities including road, rail, air, • Support adoption and incorporation of the Chamber pedestrian, and water routes of Commerce Economic Growth Plan. that meet the needs of residents, • Provide modern communications infrastructure. businesses and visitors. • Explore ways to reduce energy costs. • Encourage the development of infrastructure expan- sion plans for currently undeveloped residential and 2,2,12.1 Traffic Management commercial property. • Develop a transportation plan for Seward. ENGINEERS - 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 0 11 • Designate truck and bus routes to minimize traffic • Support efforts to maintain integrity of the waterfront in residential neighborhoods. bike path. • Support enhanced public transportation throughout • Support efforts to extend the bike path out the Seward the community. Highway. • Extend boardwalk to the South harbor uplands. 2.2.12.2 Parking, Loading Areas, and • Support reconstruction of the Benny Benson Lagoon Transportation Facilities boardwalk. 2.2.12.5 Air traffic • Establish flight corridors to minimize intrusions on the community's quality of life. • Support commercial commuter service. _ - • Support the State's airport improvement plan. T hFs i_ i-mr�, 22126 Marine R Support establishment of Alaska Marine Highway System service. • Assure adequate public parking and loading areas for the harbor slip-holders. • Encourage safe on-site loading areas for service ve- hicles in commercial and institutional zones. 2.2.12.3 Road construction • Support adequate funding to maintain safe roads year round. • Support forward funding for major road repairs and upgrades. • Enforce sight triangles at major intersections to im- prove traffic and pedestrian safety. • Work with the Alaska Railroad Corporation to im- prove local railroad crossings. 2.2.12.4 Sidewalks, Bike Paths and Rights of Way • Approve a sidewalk and pathway policy to enhance pedestrian mobility and safety. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 0 1 - 12 3 GOALS., OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Y = y. Cy e e e ie .L �e e � bdrJ+Sil.r�,e 4� � e � • k. u ' Y I 5 A E. a T��,- .. .-r-• 1. i - '- - - - - - _ - - - _ 1. - _.. _ 3.1.1 Attract new business and industry to 3.1.1.2 Update and expand infrastructure for the greater Seward area. commercial and industrial properties that are currently underdeveloped. 3.1.1.1 Develop an active marketing campaign that highlights the diverse resources Encourage development of S eward's Industrial Zone. and quality of life that makes Seward an attractive place in which to Support railroad expansion plans and extend utilities live and to establish a business or to Alaska Railroad lands. industry. Support and improve the airport. Support efforts of village and regional Alaska Native Improve roads within the industrial zone. pp g ex corporations to and business activities and services. Encourage and support downtown revitalization ef- p p • Encourage the enhancement of private businesses in forts on vacant and dilapidated buildings. g downtown Seward as the community's traditional Support development of modern communications retail core. infrastructure. Promote seasonal and g -round tourism, includin g Continue to support efforts to develop alternative Y heritage tourism. energy sources. Promote ear-rounds sporting events,cultural roduc- Improve and expand maritime facilities(see Port and Y p g p tions, conventions and other activities. Harbor Development). • Support Alaska Native cultural events and activities. PM E N G I N E�� PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT - 13 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 3.1.1.3 Enhance Seward's international role in 3.2 LAND USE trade and tourism. • Explore foreign trade zone. • Develop Heritage Tourism and other historic heritage opportunities. 3.1.1.4 Support private sector business, t:{t k_ employment, and programs. • Support home businesses. � - Support and encourage the growth of business. 3.1.1.5 Support public sector employment and programs. 3.1.1.6 Support existing public institutions in their effort to maintain, expand and 3.2.1 Promote residential and commercial develop. development within the city of • Continue to advocate on behalf of the University of Seward and its vicinity in accordance Alaska in their efforts to enhance research and in- with community values. structional activities in Seward. • Continue to advocate the Department of Corrections 3.2.1.1 Manage land use to facilitate p economic development while and Alaska State Legislature to expand the Spring maintaining the historic, small town Creek Correctional Center(SCCC). character of Seward. • Continue to advocate for the growth of the Alaska • Use city-owned land and tidelands to encourage feasible Vocational Technical Center(AVTEC). and sound economic development by setting devel- • Continue to support external funding for the Alaska opment standards and performance periods through SeaLlfe Center(ASLC). the leasing process. • Support existing public institutions in their efforts • Update, as needed, the Municipal Lands Manage- to maintain, expand and develop. ment Plan. • Develop infrastructure and utility expansion plans for 3.1.1.7 Encourage and assist in the all undeveloped residential and commercial property development of new public services within city limits. and facilities. • Ensure uniform and consistent enforcement of the • Support the construction of a courthouse/public safety zoning code, building code, subdivision ordinance, building in Seward. and city lease agreements,and evaluate potential code • Encourage additional military facilities that upgrade changes to make enforcement easier. Seward as a Morale Welfare and Recreation(MWR) • Raise public awareness of development requirements destination. in each zoning district. • Continue to explore economic renewable energy • Support the on-going dialogue with the Alaska Rail- proj ects. road Corporation and the State of Alaska regarding the status and disposition of their undeveloped lands. • Develop and adopt open space overlay district. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 0 1 - 14 3.2.1.2 Expand the opportunity for affordable, used in planning,code revisions,purchasing, selling, diverse, year-round housing through and development proposals. appropriate land use regulations. • Support mixed commercial and residential uses in the Seward downtown business district. 3.3 HOUSING Support apartments and other high density residential development, including seasonal worker housing. ,. 3.2.1.3 Establish an attractive highway - corridor from Mile 0 to 8. R • Coordinate with local residents and the Kenai Peninsula .. _ Borough Planning Department to develop a specific f W - land use plan for the corridor from Resurrection River to Mile 8 and areas adjacent to the city. : T: 3.2.2 Continue to support and improve the 3.3.1 Encourage development of new capacity of the office of Community housing in Seward. Development. 3.3.1.1 Support a range of housing choices 3.2.2.1 Maintain community vision through that meet the needs of people in rigorous implementation and update of various income and age groups. the Comprehensive and Land Use plans. • Develop a comprehensive housing plan to identify • Regularly review,update,and affirm the Comprehen- specific needs,to encourage residential development sive and Land Use plans through public participation within the city, and to provide a reasonable range of in meetings, r h i r g town outreach to community n u ty groups, housing options. and increased public relations. • Obtain information from comparative communities • Review and recommend administrative and legisla- throughout the nation concerning their housing pro- tive decisions for consistency with the goals of the cesses includingsubdivision development. p Strategic and Comprehensive plans. • Encourage the development of seasonal employee h z zoning in order implementh g p • Update the o g code ode to the housing. Comprehensive Plan and bring the zoning map into conformance with the Land Use Plan. 3.3.1.2 Create incentives to provide land for housing development within the City 3.2.2.2 Improve the capability of the office of of Seward. Community Development to develop land use and other maps in Seward. 3.3.1.3 Assess solutions to extend cost- Continue to support and fund in-house Geographic effective utilities to home sites Information System (GIS) capability by coordinat- on land zoned for residential in with other agencies to build on existing borough development. g g g g mapping that shows zoning, subdivisions, existing Set priorities for utility extension in a manner that uses, natural hazards, and other GIS data. encourages orderly residential development within • Obtain equipment, software and training necessary and outside city limits. to produce custom maps with overlays for presenting Authorize engineering studies to determine the costs land use information necessary for project exhibits of utility extensions to developable land within the city. PM E N G I N E E411 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT - 15 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0• Study forming Local Improvement Districts(LIDs)to 3.4.2 Expand and maintain existing sidewalks create an equitable method of paying for extensions and the multi-purpose trail system in by developers, buyers, and/or the city. order to provide safe, fully accessible, pedestrian pathways throughout the • Encourage energy efficiency. city. • Develop an improvement plan for safe pedestrian 3.4 TRANSPORTATION and vehicular traffic articulation,including sidewalk extensions and year-round maintenance of pedestrian 3.4.1 Provide safe and efficient vehicular pathways. transportation facilities that meet the Support the construction of sidewalks throughout the needs of the community. community. • Facilitate and develop the public right of way connec- Connect schools and residential areas through the tion of Benson Drive through to Dora Way. development of safe public rights of way, sidewalks • Complete the development of the existing Hemlock and trails. Avenue right of way east from Afognak through to Support the construction of a pedestrian and bike the Seward Highway. paths within the community. • Examine and implement the development of a round- about at the Hemlock Avenue and Dimond Boulevard 3.4.3 Improve the usability a b i l i t of the state Y intersection. owned airport. • Support enforcement/compliance of legal parking, storage and use of the public right of way. • Encourage the State to: • Improve public transportation between downtown 0 Complete and implement a flood mitigation project and the harbor. to protect the runways from flooding. • Enforce parking consistently in the downtown and 0 Upgrade navigational aids with the latest,Indus- harbor areas. • Examine and implement a range of public parking trial standard technology. solutions in the boat harbor area including: 0 Encourage day cruise and sport fishing charter 3.4.4 Support the return of the Alaska operations to provide offsite private parking for Marine Highway presence in Seward. their patrons. 0 Continue to provide information on parking lo- 3.5 PORT AND HARBOR cations and regulations. DEVELOPMENT • Explore and improve Industrial Zone traffic route. • Support the upgrade of Lowell Point Road. - - • Pave Oak Street route to Seward Mountain Haven care facility. �.y Pave Dieckgraeff Road to Dimond Blvd intersection. 1 .. PM E N G I N E�� PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 0 1 - 16 3.5.1 Maintain a thriving port of Seward 3.6 RECREATION through harbor improvements, infrastructure expansion, and �y¢ � implementation of management `` plans. 3.5.1.1 Encourage the growth and development of an efficient, functional - boat harbor that meets Seward's - - +P commercial and recreational needs. • Ensure sound development of private and public har- bor uplands with a plan that addresses the needs of harbor users and visitors by reviewing allowed uses in the harbor zoningdistrict including public parking = � gp p g and amenities. - • Continue to add public amenities and improve the look of the harbor area through landscaping, and 3.6.1 Improve, ex and and diversify rs if p y litter control. year-round parks and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. 3.5.1.2 Plan for adequate port infrastructure that will serve the needs of users in the main industrial/Alaska Railroad 3.6.1.1 Improve existing and develop area and at the Seward Marine additional recreational infrastructure. Industrial Center (SMIC). • Yg Improve playgrounds. p p • Support the Alaska Marine Highway System and • Maintain city campgrounds to include planting of Alaska Railroad to continue intermodal dock im- native trees and shrubs, and ensures protection of provements. the beach habitat. • Continue working with the Alaska Marine Highway • Develop a landscape plan for Waterfront Park that System (AMHS), Alaska Railroad, and cruise ship provides for additional green space. industries to develop convenient and well-publicized • Encourage and continue development of walking and local, state, and national transportation connections bike paths that connect residential areas to schools, from the port areas. parks and retail locations which are safe and as un- • Coordinate with Seward Terminal and the Alaska encumbered by vehicles as possible. Railroad in developing multiple uses of the coal load- • Sustain current zoning for city park lands. ing dock. • Identify,protect,and preserve scenic and natural areas • Support the SMIC Development Plan to include new for recreational enjoyment. market trends and modern technologies for ship repair • Continue to protect and preserve all city parks. and construction, shipping of natural resource prod- • Add additional park restrooms. ucts, boat storage, and other compatible industries, • Address coastal erosion impacting waterfront camp- soliciting support from Alaska Industrial Development ground and bike path. and Export Authority(AIDEA)and the US Economic Development Administration (EDA). • Support breakwater and harbor development that would accommodate large vessels. PM E N G I N E E411 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT - 17 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I 3.6.1.2 Update the 1993 Parks and Recreation 3.7.1 Support efforts to continuously Master Plan for improving and improve the quality of educational expanding recreational facilities, parks, facilities and services. playgrounds, day-use areas, camping areas, and trails, addressing the 3.7.1.1 Support development of infrastructure following items: pp p and acquisition of land that promotes • Maintain public access to beaches by continuing City educational activities. ownership of tidelands and upland access points. • Promote improved telecom capabilities for long dis- • Develop an acquisition strategy to identify and secure tance learning opportunities at the public schools, sufficient and suitable public lands for parks, sports Alaska Vocational Technical Center,Alaska SeaLife fields,greenbelts,open space,trails,trailhead parking Center,and other places of learning in the community. and other public facilities, including easements to . Continue to coordinate with the Kenai Peninsula Bor- access these public lands. ough,the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, • Ensure that Municipal land acquired for or converted and the community to provide limited, safe access to long-term or permanent-park or recreational uses between Seward Elementary and Seward Middle and are officially dedicated as park land. Seward High schools for emergency and bus transport purposes. 3.6.1.3 Develop and promote winter tourism Continue to identify and acquire land,working with by expanding opportunities, creating the Kenai Peninsula Borough to develop the pre-K 12 advertisements, and marketing public school campus fully with adequate playing incentives to visit Seward during winter fields,safe road access,and compatible trail systems. months. • Support visitor studies that eliminate the duplication provide ear-round visitor counts to 3.7.1.2 Support, strengthen and develop of counts and p Y diverse educational and research target marketing. programs at various public and non- Support and promote existing back--country activities profit institutions. in cooperation with state and federal park agencies, . Support continued development and dissemination Seward Parks and Recreation and Seward Chamber pp p ' of educational programs and research at the Alaska of Commerce, and plan for future opportunities. SeaLife Center. • Encourage the expansion of cross-country skiing and • Support the expansion of research and public infor- snow machining trails and the development of infra- mation capabilities of the Seward Marine Center, structure for alpine skiing and ice- skating/hockey. p ' p gUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks. • Continue working with the Kenai Peninsula College, 3.7 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES University of Alaska Anchorage to form a degree-grant- ing branch. • Support the life-long learning needs of community - residents through a variety of formal and informal f' educational opportunities. R Support the continued home porting of the research .i pp p g vessel Sikuliaq. _ Provide opportunities for integrating arts and culture 01 support programs in developments throughout the pp p g p g community. • Encourage the year-round use of public schools as neighborhood and community centers. .. �•-fir i 1!`.--.... ENGINE4Qq1j PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS ,�_�� I - 18 • Support the design, funding and construction of a 3.7.1.6 Maintain and actively enforce a new indoor recreation facility. hazardous material disposal program that coordinates with Borough, State, and Federal regulatory agencies. 3.7.1.3 Continue to improve the quality and efficiency of city governmental 3.7.1.7 Encourage the development of cost- services. efficient options for renewable energy • Continue to revise and update the Seward City Code. production in Seward. • Adopt a community impact review process for pro- posed retail developments over 15,000 square feet. 3.7.1.8 Support and develop opportunities for individual and community health improvement. 3.7.1.4 Continue to upgrade and expand utilities to meet existing needs and 3.8 NATURAL HAZARDS encourage future development. • Evaluate and implement ways to equitably extend f R utilities to areas that are priorities for residential de- - velopment(see Housing). • Continue to conduct rate studies on utilities as needed. ± t • Support efficient, economic alternative sources of {3. energy and feeding into the power grid. • Expand customer base within the Seward Electric Utility area as a means to reduce energy costs and - ; improve services. - . Ter e - 3.7.1.5 Plan to relocate and rebuild selected - . city facilities to improve compatibility - 4W with land uses and increase cost- 4 effectiveness of services. Relocate the cityshop to a more appropriate area. 3.8.1 Promote community safety from . p natural disasters through mitigation • Support the design and construction of a recreation measures and preparedness training. facility. • Relocate the animal shelter facility to a more appro- 3.8.1.1 Develop an open spaces overlay priate area. district. • Study the feasibility of a new city hall facility that consolidates city offices,separating out the state court- 3.8.1.2 Protect citizens from natural hazards house and other state, borough and federal offices. by using appropriate land use policies • Support expansion and modernization of health care and regulations. facilities. 3.8.1.3 Create sound public uses of potentially hazardous lands. • Continue to identify areas subject to natural haz- ards with appropriate state and federal agencies and understand the nature of these hazards particularly earthquakes and tsunamis,flooding, avalanches and landslides, and saturated soils. PM E N G I N E E411 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT - 19 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume I • Use potentially hazardous public lands for low risk 3.9 QUALITY OF LIFE uses such as open space, wildlife and bird habitat protection, and recreation activities. 3.8.1.4 Mitigate flood hazards. • Secure funding to implement a comprehensive flood - . z m mitigation plan for Resurrection River and Japanese y Creek. _IAW • Maintain the Fourth of July Creek dike system and :r keep channel clear of debris. Continue support of the Bear Creek/Seward Flood Service Area in planning,developing and implement- ing flood mitigation measures in adjacent areas that impact the safety and functioning of the city. • Continue planning with USACE and Federal Delegation for replacement of the Lowell Creek diversion tunnel. 3.8.1.5 Control development on lands subject - to risks from seismic activity, floods, steep slopes prone to erosion, avalanches, landslides, and saturated soils. _ - • Support building codes and practices that allow safe utilization of potentially hazardous lands and conform 3.9.1 Enhance the "sense of community" to state and federal regulations. including its economic and historic 0 Investigate land trades and other mechanisms for significance among residents of t h e acquisition of potentially hazardous lands. greater Seward area. • Advocate building standards and planning in areas 3.9.1.1 Maintain Seward's small town, family- outside the city working with the Bear Creek/Seward oriented character throughout t h e Flood Service Area to avoid inappropriate development. growth process. • Secure funding to continually and adequately clear • Encourage citizen participation in local organizations river channels of gravel and debris. and task forces. • Develop and implement a beach restoration program. • Support community engagement programs that promote positive adult-youth relationships and cross genera- 3.8.2 Plan and prepare for disasters. tional activities that enhance health and well-being. • Continue to participate in the National Flood Insur- • Encourage community appreciation of local history ance .Pro ram and support the continuation of traditions such as the Pr ogram. • Coordinate with the Kenai Peninsula Borough to an- Mount Marathon Race and other historical events. nually review and update all disaster emergency plans. • Coordinate community wide disaster preparedness training and public education efforts. • Strengthen the capacity of Seward Mountain Haven commons to serve as an alternate emergency operation center in the event of a declared disaster. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTION ITEMS 0 -20 3.9.1.2 Encourage the recognition, Support creation of a sustainable, comprehensive rehabilitation and preservation recycling program. of prehistoric and historic sites, Support the Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Re- transportation routes, trails, cycling (ALPAR). buildings, objects and artifacts. • Support Parks and Recreation Volunteer Community • Support the Seward Historic Preservation Commission's Clean Ups. (SHPQ efforts to raise public awareness regarding the Support Christmas Tree Recycling for wood chips. inventory of local historic properties; as well as those Evaluate citywide curbside pickup of recyclables. properties listed on local,state and national registers; Support community gardens. and benefits of placing properties on these registers. • Evaluate incentives, procedures, and regulations to encourage continued identification,inventory,acqui- 3.9.2.2 Preserve and protect the scenic views sition,preservation, and restoration of buildings and of the mountains and Resurrection Bay. sites. • Seek ways to minimize development impacts on the • Develop with SHPC appropriate information,guide- slopes of Bear Mountain,Mt.Marathon,Mt.Benson, lines and incentives for owners to incorporate historic and the Mt. Alice bench utilizing watershed protec- preservation using the Secretary of Interior's Stan- tion measures. dards for Historic Preservation or locally determined • Ensure zoning that maximizes park purposes along standards. the waterfront and waterway buffer areas, in partic- • Add a voluntary historic resources survey as part ular dedicating Waterfront Park for open space in of the application for city building and conditional perpetuity. use permits. • Promote ways to increase public awareness of historic • Encourage planning and adaptive use of historic prop- significance along Waterfront Park. erties to promote residential, cultural, commercial, and heritage tourism purposes: . • Clarifyroles of SHPC Planning and Zoning Com- 3.9.2.3 Preserve the quiet of residential � g g neighborhoods. mission,and the City of Seward in regulating historic preservation and integrating it into the planning process. Support the ordinance on quiet hours. • Encourage preservation of historic landscaping,sup- Promote soundproofing of generators,air quality con- port the Seward Historic Preservation Commission's trol units, and other sources of noise in commercial Historic Plant and Tree Register. or institutional zones adjacent to residential zones. 3.9.2 Improve the appearance of and reduce unnecessary noise in the entire community. 3.9.2.1 Encourage citizens, as well as the city, to take an active role in beautifying the community. • Encourage the landscaping of developed property. • Increase recycling efforts to reduce litter and impact on landfill. • Evaluate measures to control improper signage and community "eyesores." • Support and encourage solid waste management"3R's Reduce, Reuse, Recycle". PM ENGINEERS11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT -21 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume 1 0Appendices - Maps PDC E N G I N E�� PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT ■ , uto Com al, ■ ` to Commercial MEN 1111. • 1�'•_•:111■ini 1 i■ ®111111: I , 1�. Single 9 /I ' Family ��•��' Residential ■I�' ■ ■�•�■ Uri, esidential I= ■■ , •'' !0 ■ ■ ■ ■■l0- ■No■"MEMO■� Single -�'i v-■ � ■■ Family ■■�� --.`. Residential ■�1 Mm �_■_ �■ • =:■C1=:fit=■ .:. ��■_r.q' Industrial ■-■-■��■ ■■■ --■ Urban Residential ■■■■•- =1 ■■ �..C■- ■-■ ■■ �a■.,, source Mana ■ to Resource Management • ■ , uto Com aSingle Fa ilp Residential ` to Commercial INI ■■■ ■■� ME ■ ■■ qr , Industrial .��■111■INI ��;■ �®111111� - i Harbor Commercial ■,��:: _ ; SMALL family ■i Residential ■ Two ■ 1 Family ■,■� Residential Institutional ' ■ II Park ■��■ _��■1 Single .■._ .■ ■r Family �■_� ■ " Residential M= ■■�■■ Institutiona ,-n1 ■_�' Z�■■ Industrial ME ��■1:_ Industrial Lai Official Futum City of Seward Future Land Use Map Res ou rce Management This Land Use Map replaces all previous official Land Use Tlegraphics on thismap!"ced from the Adoptedby maps and is intended to incorporate 03O and contain a 11 revisions as enacted best available sources.ne City otSmard assumes dbythe SmardCry Council Resolution by ordinances as ofthis date. no msponsibihtyfor my omissions,maccurmas,or �": ,May 30,2017 and by Kermi Peninsula boundaries were updated to match The cument parcel BormghOrdinmce2XXX-XX,XXXX,2017 Attest Johanna Kinney,City Clerk � 1 � SMIC L q L p � 1 L 1 p 0 0.0750.15 0.3 Miles N / W E I 1 s L I � 1 � 1 ® II III T T I Map Components ® Sanitary Sewer Manholes © Lift Station PS- Pump Station 1 Sewer Pressurized Mains Sewer Gravity Mains 1 Water Parcels City of Seward, Sewer System Miles F0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 V.L -, T V�T • 1 -------------r--_-- - 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 Miles : : - • ' ,! 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" ,`�.'� ..ir•T ,•i i f v Oft- Ado ted: May30, 2017 prepared by: a PDC Engineers 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6 II - 1 Table of Contents 1 HISTORY OF SEWARD................................4 9.1 Seward Marine Industrial Center.............23 2 NATURAL SETTING....................................5 9.2 Seward Boat Harbor...............................23 3 GEOLOGICAL SETTING.............................6 9.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...23 4 DEMOGRAPHICS.........................................7 10 RECREATION..............................................24 4.1 Population...............................................7 10.1 Campgrounds.........................................24 4.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends.....9 10.2 Parks,Ball Fields,and Picnic Areas..........24 5 ECONOMY....................................................10 10.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...24 5.1 Employment...........................................10 11 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES...25 5.2 Income...................................................11 11.1 Education...............................................25 5.3 Tourism.................................................13 11.2 Health Care& Social Services..................25 5.4 Factors Affecting Seward's Economy........13 11.3 City Government&Finances...................25 5.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...14 11.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...26 6 LAND USE.....................................................15 12 PUBLIC SAFETY.........................................28 6.1 Land Ownership.....................................15 12.1 Emergency Medical Services....................28 6.2 Land Use Patterns...................................15 12.2 Emergency Preparedness.........................28 6.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances..........17 12.3 Library Museum.....................................29 7 HOUSING......................................................19 12.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...29 7.1 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...20 13 UTILITIES....................................................30 8 TRANSPORTATION...................................21 13.1 Water....................................................30 8.1 Parking and Traffic.................................21 13.2 Wastewater............................................30 8.2 Transit..................................................21 13.3 Electricity..............................................30 8.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...22 13.4 Solid Waste&Recycling..........................31 13.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...31 9 PORT AND HARBOR................................23 C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT 0 II -2 14 NATURAL HAZARDS................................32 14.1 Tsunamis................................................32 14.2 Flooding and Floodplain Development......32 14.3 Avalanches and Landslides.......................33 14.4 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...33 15 QUALITY OF LIFE.....................................34 16 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND COM- MUNITY APPEARANCE...........................35 16.1 Historic Preservation..............................35 16.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends...36 PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -3 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Background This section of the Comprehensive Plan presents back- ground information about the city that is needed to identify trends,understand patterns,and set the stage for Seward's future.It is a snapshot of current conditions that includes historical data and forecasts to illustrate changes over time,as well as possible future conditions.Understanding these items is important to ensure that the comprehensive plan is a realistic and responsive document. At the end of each section is a summary of planning issues and trends. These summaries are a result of research, stakeholder interviews, and public outreach. The issues and trends are used to help inform and determine the long-term goals and objectives of the community. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT History of Seward II -4 History of Seward 'IN .7. W,6 r A " wN - 1_%K_ -0 Ir In " N r �a y S 4 -i • �' n + , . a FA IL ibis T ku d , � ! `IF FPr ' - f p n • --ye ML Ap Seward, founded in 1903 as the ocean terminus of a Seward's small-town scale and historic character has fledgling railway to Interior Alaska, was incorporated been retained through the years. It has kept its original as a city in 1912. Congress purchased the private line town site as a vital residential and commercial center. in 1915 and completed the rail linkages that now consti- The town site,which was established in 1903 by the Bal- tute the Alaska Railroad. The Anchorage rail link was laine brothers while they were working for the Railway, completed by the year 1918; the rail to Fairbanks was features well-kept older homes that line paved streets, completed by 1923. The ice-free port facilitated export and downtown stores concentrated within easy walking of the state's agricultural,mineral,and timber resources. distance of each other.Larger commercial and industrial Seward's population gradually rose to about 1,000 people development is isolated from residential areas. The city until World War II, when it grew rapidly as a military shows less of the growing pains of haphazard development post.By the early 1950s,when the Seward Highway was found elsewhere in Alaska. completed, the town had reached a population of 2,100. The number of residents fell substantially after the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake,but grew again in the 1970s in response to the construction of the Alyeska Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline and diversification of the economy. PM ENGINEERS � PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 5 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Natural Setting 40 Y 1 a r — 1 d + • z_ 1 1 . ' c law a _ _ 1 Seward is situated at the northern end of Resurrection Average winter temperatures range from 17'to 38'Fahr- Bay on the southeast coast of the Kenai Peninsula, 126 enheit(F), and the summer averages from 49' to 63' F. highway miles south of Anchorage. The depth and width Annual precipitation averages 66 inches of rain and 80 of Resurrection Bay create moderate tides with slight inches of snowfall. variations in extent.There are no overhead or navigational obstructions,and the bay's waters and shores are ice-free Resurrection Bay,framed by mountains covered by snow year round.Fair winds,inconsequential tide ranges,weak in the winter and wildflowers below remnants of glaciers currents,and a north-south orientation make for relatively in the summer, gives the town a spectacular setting. Mt. calm water in the bay. Marathon provides the western backdrop;its westernmost peak reaches 4,866 feet, while the nearer peak is 3,022 Seward is located at 60' 07' N Latitude, 149' 26' W feet. A glacial fjord itself, Resurrection Bay serves as Longitude (Sec. 10, T001S, R001W, Seward Meridian). the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Other enti- Its maritime climate zone with cool summers and rela- ties that preserve and manage the natural setting of the tively warm winters is due to the moderating influence surrounding area include the Chugach National Forest of the coastal currents flowing through the nearby Gulf of 890,000 acres,the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife of Alaska. Refuge, and Caines Head State Park. PM ENGINEE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Geological Setting 0 II -6 3 Geological Setting Alm The glacial fjord of Resurrection Bay, approximately 18 Jno ma Although major fault lines have been identified in the g miles long and 2 to 5 miles wide, extends southward Seward area the topography of the region suggests the from the mouth of the Resurrection River. The sides and valley Y g system extending north to Kenai Lake and south bottom of the bay are generally quite steep, with near to Resurrection Bayis partially fault controlled. Surveys p Y Y shore depths increasing quickly to a maximum depth of made after the 1964 earthquake identified numerous small nearly 1,000 ft. The depth of the fjord in the vicinity of shear zones and small faults in the Seward area. Seward is approximately 500 ft. Most of the downtown portion of the City of Seward is built on the alluvial fan of Lowell Creek, which extends into the northwest corner of Resurrection Bay. This fan is approximately 1.25 miles long and 0.5 miles wide. Its maximum elevation of 130 feet is found at the mouth of the Lowell Creek canyon. Drilling performed after the 1964 earthquake suggests that Lowell Creek deposits average about 100 feet thick, with considerably thicker segments exceeding 300 feet found near the Seward end of the tongue. PM ENGINE Q1 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 7 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Ad Demographics 4.1 Population The sections below provide further information on the The population of Seward has fluctuated from decade to composition of Seward's population over the years. decade, but has seen an overall pattern of growth over the last 100 years. Seward saw its greatest periods of 4.1.1 Race and Ethnicity growth in the 1940's and 1980's,corresponding with the post-world war II boom and opening of the Spring Creek The city of Seward has a racial composition similar to Correctional Center in 1988 (capacity,412 inmates). The Alaska's statewide racial composition.A majority of the population has remained stable in recent years. It was population(69%)is white,with American Indian/Alaska measured at 2,693 people in the 2010 Census, and was Native as the second largest racial group (17%), and 8% estimated at 2,740 people in 2015. of the population comprised of two or more races (see 3000 Figure 3). 2500 Diversity in the City of Seward increased markedly be- 0 2000 tween 1990 and 2010.In 1990,racial minorities comprised ro 1500 21%of Seward's population. By 2010,that figure rose to Fi ure 4 .It is im ortant to note however that O 1000 32%(See g ) p > > 500 non-white persons are over represented in the institution- 0 _L J alized population. Excluding institutionalized persons, 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015 the non-white population is 24% of the total. Year Figure 1-Seward Population Growth, 1910-2015 2 10/0 Two or more races 8% 0 Source:Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- Other ment, Research and Analysis 1 7% 0 Asian 69% Q American Indian/AK Native 3 ° ® Black 3000 Q White Figure 3 -Seward Racial Composition,2010 O M 2500 Q O 3000 Two or more races 2000 2500 � Other 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 � - Yea r O 2000 Asian 1500 American Indian/AK Native Figure 2 -Seward Population,2010-2015 0 1000 a- 500 Black Source:Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- 0 1990 2000 2010 White ment, Research and Analysis Year Figure 4-Changes in Seward's diversity, 1990-2010 C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Demographics 0 II -8 4.1.2 Age and Gender Distribution This is an indication of changing age demographics in the institutionalized population rather than a change in Over the 20-year period from 1990 to 2010, the median the general noninstitutionalized population. age of Seward's population increased steadily from 32 Fi ure 5 . Sixty-two percent of Seward's population is male,which to 38 (see g ) is higher than the statewide average of fifty-two percent. 40 The median age of males in Seward is 36.6, and the 35 median age of females in Seward is 41.3 (see Figure 7). 30 Both of these figures are skewed by the all-male Spring M 25 20 Creek Correctional Center. Excluding institutionalized ru 15 persons, male population is 52.5% of the total noninsti- 10 tutionalized population. 5 0 � 1990 2000 2010 0-4 Year 5-9 10-14 Figure 5-Seward Median Age, 1990-2010 15-10 20-24 25-29 0 30-34 350 ra 35-39 - 40-44 0 45-49 50-54 km 300 55-59 60-64 65-69 250 70-74 75-79 -E= 80-84 200 85+ 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 150 Year Female Male 100 Figure 7-Seward population by age and gender,2010 50 Source:Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Develop- 0 L LL I-ill ment, Research and AnalysisMigration Patterns 1990 2000 2010 Year Over the past 15 years, in-migration and out-migration ❑20 to 24 years ■45 to 49 years ■75 years and over patterns have largely kept pace with each other.There has ■15 to 19 years ■40 to 44 years 65 to 74 years been an overall slight decrease in people moving away 10 to 14 years 35 to 39 years 60 to 64 years from Seward, and a slight increase in people moving in. ❑5 to 9 years ❑30 to 34 years 55 to 59 years Figure illustrates h annual pattern f in-migration n gu e 8 ust ates the a ua patte oand ❑Under 5 years ■25 to 29 years ■50 to 54 years out-migration from the city of Seward from 2000—2014. Please note that in-migration figures include births, and Figure 6-Age Breakdown of Seward Residents out-migration figures include deaths. Although the median age for Seward continues to rise,there is currently a larger portion of the population between the ages of 20 and 29 than at any point in the past 20 years. PM ENGINEERS11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -9 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 0600 4.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends 0 500 ° Population decreased slightly between 2000 and 2010, ° but seems to be on an upward trend again. 400 ° ° Population has grown faster outside city limits. ° ° The Seward population is aging — the median age 300 has increased from 32 to 38 since 1990. 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year ° Moved away from Seward - Moved into Seward Figure 8-Migration patterns,2000-2014 Source:Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce The population has continued to grow faster outside of Seward's city limits. Total population in the Census area surrounding Seward increased by 2%between 2000 and 2010,while the population within city limits declined by 5% over this same period. 4.1.3 Population Projections Projections for the population within the City of Seward are provided in Table 1 and below. These estimates rep- resent a steady growth rate of 0.3%per year. The Kenai Peninsula and the entire state of Alaska are projected to grow at about 0.7%per year over the same period(Depart- ment of Labor and Workforce Development, 5/11/2016). Please note that these figures only represent the population within Seward's city limits.Any changes to city services and infrastructure should consider the total population of the areas adjacent to city limits. Table 1-Seward Population Projections 2015 2,740 2025 21834* 2035 21928* Source:Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development *Numbers extrapolated using least squares regression C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Economy II - 10 5 Economy 300 For a community of its size, Seward has a diverse local economy. This is due in part to its historic role in the 250 growth of the state of Alaska; its location on a scenic, deep-water, ice-free bay; and the actions of its leaders o 200 and citizens. In the past, it long served as the southern 150 (U terminus of the Alaska Railroad connecting passengers and cargo coming by sea with the rest of Alaska. More z 100 recently, it has served as a port for various cruise line itineraries,using highway and rail connections.Marketing 50 the local scenery and proximity to Prince William Sound 0 and to national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges has 2001 2010 2014 Year contributed to a growing tourism sector. Professional and Business Services Trade,Transportation,and Utilities Salmon, halibut and other fishery resources in nearby 0 Manufacturing Leisure and Hospitality waters support both commercial and charter fishing op- 0 Construction Educational and Health Services erations. Community leaders have actively lobbied for 0 Other -Local Government economic development, resulting in the development of 0 Financial Activities State Government thriving institutions such as the Alaska Vocational Techni- Natural Resources and Mining cal Center(AVTEC),the Alaska SeaLife Center(ASLC), Information the Institute of Marine Science (IMS) of the University Figure 9-Employment Trends b Industry of Alaska Fairbanks and the Spring Creek Correctional gy y p g Center (SCCC). Seward has also used municipal lands Table 2 compares employment by industry gains and and resources to support the development of the Seward losses between 2000 and 2014. Overall employment Marine Industrial Center (SMIC), and construction of has decreased in construction State government, man- the Providence Seward Medical Center. ufacturin information and leisure and hospitality. The g> greatest growth in employment over this period was seen 5.1 Employment in professional and businesses services.Educational and health services, and local government, also saw a slight In 2014, 983 (61%) of Seward's working-age residents increase in employment over this period. were employed, a majority of whom were employed year p round(67%). n Most workers were employed i the private Table 2 -Seward Employment by Industry,2000 to 2014 0 sector(78%), 11/o were employed by State government, Gains and(Losses) and another 11%were employed by local government. Of those employed in 2014, 65.4% were private wage and salary workers, 25%were on the payroll of federal, Information (1%) state, or local government, and 9% were self-employed Natural Resources and Mining 0 (U.S. Census 2016). Employment in the city of Seward generated $35,913,820 in wages in 2014 (Alaska De- Financial Activities 0 partment of Labor and Workforce Development 2016). Figure 9 shows the changes in employment in Seward Construction (2%) by industry between 2001 and 2014. Total employment Manufacturing (10/0) during this period decreased from 1,135 jobs In 2001 to 983 jobs in 2014. PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II II - 11 80000 70000 `J 0 2014 Professional and Business 6% E 60000 Services 0 2000 50000 State Government (2%) a 40000 Local Government 1% 30000 20000 Educational and Health 2% Services 10000 0 Leisure and Hospitality (10/0) Per Capita Households Families Trade Transportation and 0 Figure 10-Measurements of Income in Seward Utilities 600 The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the 5-year average 500 0 2014 unemployment rate (2010-2014) for Seward to be 8.2%. 0 0 2000 The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Devel- 400 opment estimated that the March 2016 unemployment 0 0 300 rate for the Kenai Peninsula Borough was 9.7%. They estimated the average unemployment rate for the entire EQ 200 state of Alaska that month to be 6.6%. z 100 5.2 Income 0 Less than$50 K $50-$75 K Above$75 K Measurements of income in Seward show increases between Figure 11-Household Income in Seward p 2000 and 2014. Per capita income in 2014 was $30 076• g the median household income was $49,432; and median family income was$69,158.Household income includes 5.2.1 Business the income of the householder and all other individuals 15 and older in the household,whether they are related to The predominant industries in Seward by total sales are the householder or not. Family income is the incomes of Construction, Guiding (water), Retail, and Wholesale all members 15 years and older related to the household- Trade. er, and are summed and treated as a single amount (US Census Bureau). The largest percent of household and Table 3 summarizes the gross business sales in Seward, family income remained within the $50,000 to $74,999 according to industry. income bracket over this period (19% and 20% respec- tively). An estimated 5.5% of the population was listed as below the poverty level in 2014. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Economy 0 II - 12 Table 3 -City of Seward Gross Business Sales,in thousands,2009-2013 ,Businessp• 2013 2012I I I 2009 Admin,Waste Mgmt $2,514 $2,077 $1,772 $1,575 $1,306 Ag, Forestry, Fishing,Hunting $27 $10 $0 Arts &Entertainment $58 $252 $616 $534 $93 Construction Contracting $26,040 $29,769 $23,956 $22/290 $33,687 Educational Svs $39 $56 $57 $40 $17 Finance&Insurance $47 $144 $446 $118 $86 Guiding Land $604 $151 $149 $195 $80 Guiding Water $23,936 $20,968 $21,080 $19,769 $17,258 Health Care, Social Asst $1,310 $1,165 $1,225 $1,495 $1,694 Hotel/Motel/B&B $13,892 $12,604 $11,601 $10,207 $9,401 Information $3,705 $3,644 $3,845 $3,915 $3,967 Manufacturing $16,941 $20,175 $16,136 $13,979 $14,522 Mining/Quarrying $0 $0 $0 $0 $72 Prof,Scientific&Technical Svs $8,624 $10,257 $11,314 $9,942 $7,062 Public Admin $7,399 $7,366 $7,076 $6,793 $6,987 Remediation Svs $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Rental Commercial Prop $1,845 $1,973 $1,516 $1,739 $1,705 Rental Non-Residential Prop $426 $348 $262 $298 $352 Rental Self-storage & Miniwarehouses Rental Personal Prop $133 $160 $149 $140 $125 Rental Residential Prop $7,865 $5,257 $5,397 $4,369 $5,506 Restaurant/Bar $13,192 $12,005 $11/132 $10,052 $9,197 Retail Trade $54/276 $52/178 $51/417 $49,972 $46,894 Services $14,361 $17,973 $10,434 $1,886 $2,420 Telecommunications $396 $480 $493 $610 $405 PM ENGINEE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 13 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Businessp• 2013 2012I I I 2009 Transportation,Warehousing $9,722 $7,127 $4,631 $4,277 $4,592 Utilities Wholesale Trade $31,627 $31,537 $26,292 $22,343 $18,426 GRAND TOTAL $238,980 $237,677 $210,994 $186,539 $185,854 Annual % change 0.5% 12.6% 13.1% 0.4% -11.6% Source:Kenai Peninsula Borough Finance Dept 'confidential The trend in gross business sales from 2009 to 2013 1 1 shows overall growth. Some industries have seen greater growth,such as wholesale trade and services,while some January 26 33 industries felt the impact of the great recession more than February 63 74 others. One industry, Construction Contracting,has not recovered to pre-recession levels. March 103 461 5.3 Tourism April 185 205 May 772 11338 Tourism is a major economic engine for the City of Seward. The months of June, July, and August are the primary June 31581 41320 months for tourism, with approximately 80-90% of all July 51260 51188 visitors arriving during that time.Winter tourism has seen an increase, with events such as the Polar Bear Plunge. August 51134 31207 Cruise ships bring a substantial number of visitors to September 200 11014 Seward.Over 90,000 cruise ship passengers passed through the community in 2016. However, there is insufficient October 34 126 data on the economic impact of tourists in Seward. November 3 45 Table 4-Seward Chamber of Commerce visitor counts,2014- 2015 December 2 15 Source:Seward Chamber of Commerce 5.4 Factors Affecting Sewa rd's Economy 5.4.1 National Economic Trends Anything that impacts tourism will have a significant impact on Seward's economy. For example, the "great recession"in the contiguous United States impacted tour- ism traffic in Seward. The data in Table 3 shows that PM ENGINEE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Economy 0 II - 14 services in the tourism industry saw reduced revenue between 2008 and 2009, and took some time to climb back up to 2009 levels. 5.4.2 State Spending Reduced state budgets can mean less money available to communities such as Seward. Grants and other funding programs for local government are often cut or elimi- nated when state revenue declines. This can mean less money available for staff positions or capital improvement projects that would employ locals. Fiscal year 2017 state budget cuts eliminated nearly $500,000 for the City of Seward(approximately 5%of the City's annual budget). 5.4.3 Transportation Infrastructure Closures of the Seward Highway due to avalanche,flood- ing, or other natural events could impact the local econ- omy. As the only overland route between Seward and Anchorage, the Seward Highway is vital to the flow of goods into and out of Seward. 5.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends The Service sector has grown considerably since 2010 Most industries have rebounded to pre-recession levels The local economy has diversified since the last com- prehensive plan update State budget cuts have reduced local government funding PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 15 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6 Land Use � Work to obtain rights of way within the Clearview The City of Seward completed the Municipal Lands In- Subdivision. ventory and Management Plan in December 2014. That document addresses the City's land asset holdings and 6.1 Land Ownership needs. It provides an action guide specifically for the management of city-owned lands. The primary recom- Seward's developed area is primarily composed of pri- mendations of the plan are: vately owned property.Much of the public land within the Budget time and attention to applying for the remain- city limits has been developed and is owned by the City ing municipal entitlements. of Seward, Kenai Peninsula Borough, State of Alaska, Budget time and attention to applying for the remainder and Alaska Railroad Corporation(ARRC). The city and of state tidelands and replatting as needed. ARRC also own substantial undeveloped lands within Establish a land bank where funds acquired from the city limits. sale of surplus property accrue to a special account Undeveloped city land is concentrated in the southwest for acquisition of other needed lands. part of town and along the northeastern side of Resur- Reaffirm the comprehensive plan by continuing to rection Bay. Large blocks of state land are located along lease commercial and industrial lands rather than sell. the Resurrection River and the western boundary of city Consider using different rental percentage rates to land.The ARRC owns blocks in the harbor and industrial reflect supply and demand on various city land areas parts of town. These are strategic locations, which can (i.e.the Seward Marine Industrial Center where land influence the type of development that occurs in Seward. is available and development is encouraged, and the Boat Harbor where land is in short supply and high The borough owns lands developed for the schools and demand). the waste transfer facility while the state has parcels Vacate otherwise undevelopable Rights of Way to developed throughout town for AVTEC,the airport, and enlarge and/or consolidate adjacent lands.(Note: This road maintenance facilities. is generally accomplished when adjacent lands are replatted) 6.2 Land Use Patterns Plan rights of way acquisitions to: 0 Develop Hemlock Avenue and Olympia Road to 6.2.1 Residential the Seward Highway. Residential uses are zoned into single-family, two-fam- 0 Extend Chamberlain Road above the horse pasture ily, multi-family, and rural residential. In some areas of to Phoenix Road to provide an alternate parallel Seward these uses are concentrated, such as along First route to relieve pressure on the Seward Hwy. and Second Avenues and in various subdivisions like 0 Extend Benson Drive from Swetmann Drive to Clear View, Gateway, and Forest Acres in the northwest Phoenix Road to provide a safer alternate egress portion of town. In other areas, they are mixed in with from Gateway Subdivision. (Note: Two private commercial development such as along portions of Fourth, parcels stand between the end of Benson Drive Fifth, Sixth Avenues, and Ballaine Boulevard (office/ ROW and Phoenix Road) residential and urban residential zones). • Modify and enforce the City code to discourage the use of rights of way for the storage of personal prop- Multi-family residential use is scattered throughout parts erty such as trailers, inoperable /unlicensed motor of downtown and along First and Second Avenues.Large vehicles, and commercial equipment. lot residences not hooked up to city water and sewer • Continue to keep an accurate and complete inventory occur in Forest Acres, and in scattered areas on the east data base of all easements. side of Resurrection Bay. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Land Use 05 II - 16 As indicated previously,there has been residential growth 6.2.5 Public/institutional north of city limits adjacent to the Seward Highway and Nash Road and in subdivisions. These residences use Seward has a significant amount of land devoted to pub- on-site wells and septic sy stems. lic and institutional use. This includes facilities owned, leased,or operated by the City of Seward; state facilities 6.2.2 Commercial such as AVTEC,SCCC,the airport,and road maintenance facilities; the Institute of Marine Science; the ASLC; General commercial activity in Seward is concentrated Kenai Fjords National Park Service Visitor Center, and into three areas. The downtown business district,which US Forest Service Seward District Ranger Station.Most extends along Third,Fourth,and Fifth Avenues between of these facilities are scattered throughout the city. Jefferson Avenue and the bay,is the largest area of activity. The second general commercial area includes fishing,ma- Public and institutional uses cluster on the southern part rine recreational and tourism-oriented businesses located of downtown along or up from the waterfront,in the busi- in the small boat harbor and its immediate vicinity. The ness district along Fourth and Fifth Avenues,in midtown third area extends along the Seward Highway from Port blocks along First, Second, Third, and Fourth Avenues, Avenue to the northern city limits. As with residential in the boat harbor on the eastern side of Fourth Avenue, growth, commercial growth north of city limits relies in the industrial area bounded by the highway and Port on highway access. Avenue, and near SMIC. Availability of land not subject to City sales and property In 2014,the city updated the Municipal Lands Manage- taxes may encourage continued development outside the ment Plan. city, although limited or lack of services such as sewer, water, fire protection, and emergency service could be 6.2.6 Resource Management a deterrent. The City of Seward and the State of Alaska own a large 6.2.3 Marine Industrial amount of undeveloped land and tidelands within city Marine industrial use is associated with fish processing, limits. These lands are concentrated on the east side of boat repair and storage, marine fuel storage, transship- Resurrection Bay, along the Resurrection River, and the ment,commodity and passenger transfer,and staging for steep slopes on the western city limits. Much of this land marine research vessels and projects. These uses occur is zoned under Resource Management, which allows a in four general areas: on the south edge of downtown wide variety of uses. It may be more appropriate to use Seward, partway out to Lowell Point; in the vicinity of the district as a holding zone that requires rezoning before the boat harbor; in the area at the head of Resurrection development or sale. Bay between the boat harbor and the mouth of the Resur- rection River;and at SMIC. There is currently additional 6.2.7 Open Space/Recreation land available for this type of use at SMIC. Additional A certain amount of land in Seward functions as open railroad-owned lands may also be available. space and recreational use land, including much of the area zoned as Resource Management. Waterfront Park, 6.2.4 Upland Industrial a shore side park with developed campsites for both RVs and tents, stretches from the south of the boat harbor to Upland industrial uses are located adjacent to marine the ASLC on the west side of Resurrection Bay. There industrial uses, and generally have some relationship to are also small municipal parks at various locations. marine access. The same areas described in marine in- dustrial apply to upland industrial use. FM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 17 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 6.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances Provide for water-dependent or water-re- 6.3.1 Zoning Districts lated uses with particular emphasis on mercial Harbor Com- transportation,tourist,recreational,com- Table 5 presents the existing zoning districts. The num- mercial or industrial enterprises that derive ber and specific intent of zoning districts need to be major economic or social benefit from a p g reviewed and revised. The current zones do not reflect harbor location. existing land uses in many areas, leading to requests Provide areas to accommodate high- forconditional n variances before h g o co d t o al uses, and va ances be o e the way-oriented commercial activities such Planning and Zoning Commission when owners wish to Auto Com- as offices,certain institutional uses,and improve their property. As a result, some districts have mercial limited personal services and retail uses a broad range of uses. requiring substantial outdoor activity, Table 5-Zoning Districts traffic and parking. Public and private educational, admin- istrative, government and health care Institutional uses, including public land reserved for Rural Resi- Provide stable,quiet,low-density detached District future public development.The develop- ment single-family residential development. p p g Y p standards are high to assure that Single-family Provide stable and quiet,low to medium the activities provide visual amenity to Residential density detached single-family residential the surrounding area. development. Designate park,recreation and commem- Provide medium density traditional Parks District orative property owned by the city,state Two-family housing area with a mix of single and or federal governments for recreation and residential two-family units. other compatible public purposes. Provide opportunities for a higher density residential setting with a mix of housing Lands that are generally undeveloped and Multi-family units,which are predominantly multi-fam- cannot be precisely zoned due to inadequate Residential it housing units close to concentrations Resource information on the extension of public Y g Management of public services, employment, and/or g services and utilities; the suitability of recreation. the land to support commercial,residen- tial, industrial or public uses; and other Allow an area of higher density mixed possible environmental consideration. residential uses from detached single-fam- Urban Resi- ily housing to multi-family apartments in Established as a district in which the dential conjunction with compatible low impact principal use of land is business,manu- professional office uses in the surrounding facturing,processing,fabricating,repair, Industrial assembl stora e wholesalin and dis- downtown business district. District Y' g ' g tributing operations; which may create Provide for a medium density residential, some nuisance and are neither properly commercial and office development de- associated nor compatible with residential Office/Resi- signed to act as a transition zone between land uses. dential the high density central business district and surrounding medium-high density residential districts. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Land Use 0 II - 18 6.3.2 Subdivision Ordinance Responsibility for platting is shared by the City of SewardAMML JELL SMIC and the Kenai Peninsula Borough; each has a subdivi- via sion ordinance. The party subdividing a parcel of land ■■ 104 40 r within city limits must conform to the city ordinance ��► - :l 1 and requirements. Preliminary plats are first submitted to the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission. Once approved,the city prepares and submits written comments Iwo `4 with the plat to the Borough Planning Department.Final plats submitted to the Borough Planning Commission j that deviate from the preliminary plat, in a manner not _ at1 approved by the city, are sent back to the city for review. 6.3.3 Road Standards ti The City of Seward currently has no adopted road stan- dards,which becomes an issue when land is subdivided. The developer builds roads within a subdivision, and !- those roads are turned over to the city for maintenance. Roads that are not built to proper standards can create safety and maintenance problems.In some cases,the city may elect not to take responsibility for road maintenance, which leaves that responsibility to homeowners.The city should evaluate and adopt road construction standards as part of the subdivision ordinances. _ ■'- 6.3.4 Infill Development ■-- There is a need to concentrate and enhance existing devel- opment in conformance with the Land Use Plan. There is also a need to limit unguided expansion of land uses throughout the community. 6.3.5 Vacant Residential Land Vacant,developable,privately-owned residential land in the City of Seward is limited to about 120 acres. Seven- ty-three acres are in parcels less than 5 acres in area. In total, there are over 301 vacant, developable residential parcels in the city. Together, these parcels equal over $11.5 million in taxable land value. Figure 12 -Map with vacant private residential parcels valued over$10,000 per acre. PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II - 19 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 7 Housing III A OccupancyA& • Table 6 and Table 7 present Seward housing characteristics for the years 2000 and 2010. Over this period, the total Married Couples 409 $1,500 or more 5 number of housing units increased by 6%.The portion of o Male House- housing units that were vacant increased 4/o.The portion o holder of single detached housing units increased by 11/o. The number of renter occupied units remained roughly equal Female House- I I I to the number of owner occupied housing units over this holder entire period. Median rental rates went up by approxi- o Non-Family 361 mately 5/o. The largest change during this period was in housing values,which increased significantly. The num- Persons per 2.4 ber of houses in the $200,000 and over range increased Household from roughly 50 to 250 over this period. Between 2000 and 2010 the number of homes with a reported value of Persons Living in ' p 628 y under $100,000 decreased b half, while median home Group Quarters values increased from $138,400 to $191,900. Table 6-Seward Housing Characteristics for the Year 2000 III Table 7-Seward Housing Characteristics for the Year 2010 Occupied Hous- 917 Less than $50,000 8 6& 2010 • ing Units Occupied Housing 928 Less than$50,000 0 Owner Occupied 461 $501000 to$991999 90 Units Renter-occupied 456 $100,000 to$149,999 137 Owner Occupied 459 $50,000 to$99,999 44 Vacant housing 141 $150,000to$199,999 87 Renter-occupied 469 $1001000 to 149 units $1491999 UNITS IN STRUCTURE $200,000 to$299,999 38 Vacant housing units 196 $15 0,0 0 0 to 147 1 Unit Detached 585 $300,000 or more 13 $1991999 UNITS IN STRUCTURE $2001000 to 38 1 Unit Attached 30 RENTAL RATES $2991999 2 - 4 Units 165 Less than $200 32 1 Unit Detached 873 $300,000 or more 81 5 - 9 Units 123 $200 to $299 47 1 Unit Attached 30 RENTAL RATES 10 or more Units 142 $300 to $499 87 2 - 4 Units 128 Less than $200 0 Mobile Home, 5 $500 to $749 113 5 - 9 Units 111 $200 to $299 0 Trailer 10 or more Units 166 $300 to $499 92 HOUSEHOLD BY TYPE $750 to $999 83 Mobile Home,Trailer 0 $500 to $749 138 Families 556 $11000 to $11499 50 CENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Housing II -20 7.1 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends HOUSEHOLD BY TYPE $750 to $999 83 � Home values increased significantly between the years Families 474 $11000 to $11499 91 2000 and 2010. � The portion of single unit detached housing increased Married Couples 364 $1,500 or more 0 markedly between the years 2000 and 2010.The num- Male Householder 32 ber of structures with 2 or more units fell from 41% to 31% of the total housing stock. Female Householder 78 The rate of housing developed outside city limits continues to outpace development within Seward. Non-Family 454 This trend could have long m term implications, such p Persons per 2.14 as increased cost of services,the development of nat- ural amenities and a change in the "character" of Persons Living in 709 Seward. The city can continue to explore incentives Group Quarters to develop reasonably priced housing within Seward, such as zoning changes or tax increment financing. It is also important to point out the change in rental rates between the years 2000 and 2010. In 2010 there are no rentals available below $300 per month, and the distri- bution of rental rates has shifted significantly higher. What this information does not show is the number or rate of housing units developed outside the city limits,but still connected to the services and opportunities provided by Seward.Population and housing continue to grow at a faster rate outside of Seward's city limits.Between 2000 and 2010,Seward`s total housing stock grew by 6%.Over that same period, the total housing stock in the Census area surrounding Seward grew by 16% (see Figure 12). 2500 -� 2000 0 2010 2000 1500 0 L9 0) .N 1000 0 500 0 Surrounding Area Seward Figure 13 -Housing growth within City of Seward versus surrounding area,2000-2010 PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -21 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 8 Transportation 8.2 Transit Seward has several modes of transportation available for traveling to and from the community. The Seward There is a city-operated seasonal shuttle bus that provides Highway remains the primary access route to and from service between the railroad depot,cruise ship terminal, Seward to the rest of Alaska. The Alaska Railroad's and downtown. The shuttle is funded with cruise ship southern terminus is at Seward and provides scheduled taxes. service to Anchorage. There is no regularly scheduled bus service within Seward 8.1 Parking n and the surrounding area. Seward Bus Lines provide ser- vice between Seward and Anchorage,with connections to other Kenai Peninsula destinations on a daily basis. 8.1.1 Traffic A Senior Center van currently serves the older residents. Traffic on the Seward Highway and within Seward's city limits peaks during the summer with the influx of The Seward Public Transit Human Services Coordina- tourists. Traffic speeds throughout the community are tion Plan (2015) (not adopted) analyzed demographics, appropriate for the urban setting. There are no traffic services,and geographies in Seward and the surrounding signals within the city. area. The purpose was to understand the current needs and provide high quality access to the city and region's 8.1.2 Parking human services. Based on this analysis,it was estimated that between 20 and 400 trips per day were being unmet The City of Seward has six parking lots in the boat harbor. in Seward and the surroundingand that additional area The North Lot and South Lot provide parking for those public transportation ortation services were needed in order to p interested in going out on a fishing or wildlife tour. The provide a desired level of access. The plan recommended p Center Lot is located In the heart of the boat harbor and a combination of checkp Dint and route deviation services. is strictly atwo-hour maximum lot. The South Harbor Makin this combination of transit available will require g q Uplands Lot and Northeast Lot accommodate vehicles the coordination and coo erative efforts of the Cit the p y� with trailers. These lots contain 50 foot stalls and are Central Area Rural Transit System, (CARTS), hu- The Permit Lot is strictly for permit holders and is alsoy � Inc. located near the west boat ramp and northeast boat ramp. man service organizations, and a number of other local entities LSC Trans ortation Consultants Inc. 2015 . the location for the Parking Department office. Parking ( p ) fees are now collected via automated pay stations in the 8.2.1 Railroad harbor area. Daily rail service between Anchorage and Seward is pro- vided from May through September. The Alaska Rail- road owns a 350.E-acre reserve in Seward that is used - - for train operations, as well as a passenger depot and terminal facilities. These lands include the docks and adjacent uplands,which support intermodal operations. Portions of the land used to support railroad operations, _ r or those not set aside for future capital and expansion opportunities, are made available for lease or permitted On-street parallel parking is available throughout the city use (Alaska Railroad Corporation, 2014). with angled on-street parking available along sections of Fourth and Fifth Avenues. On-street parking is free. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Transportation 0 II -22 ARRC acquired the Seward Coal Loading Facility(SCLF) in 2003 and has made subsequent repairs and improve- ments to the facility. As of 2014, the SCLF is the only facility available in Alaska to export coal. 8.2.2 Airport The State of Alaska maintains paved airstrips at the north end of Resurrection Bay. The main runway is 4,240 feet long and 100 feet wide.The second,short runway is 2,200 feet long and 75 feet wide. The airport has flooded a number of times over the last 10 years, including multiple occurrences in 2013. The State is currently overseeing an Airport Improvement and Design project to develop engineering alternatives to protect the airport facilities from further recurrent flooding damage. Although charter flights to nearby destinations are avail- able, no scheduled commercial service is available at the airport. 8.2.3 Alaska Marine Highway The State-run ferry service discontinued service to Seward in 2005. 8.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • Investigate the viability of year-round public transit services. • Conduct an inventory of non-ADA compliant side- walks and bring them into compliance. • Ensure connectivity between the harbor and downtown. PM ENGINE Q1 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -23 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 9 Port and Harbor 9.1 Seward Marine Industrial Center 9.3 Summary of Planning Issues and The City of Seward has expanded the Seward Marine Trends Industrial Center(SMIC)considerably since the last com- The Seward Marine Industrial Center's recent and prehensive plan update. Most recently, construction of ongoing upgrades will potentially stimulate additional the much-anticipated breakwater began in 2016. This marine industry economic activity. improvement project will allow vessels to dock at the Seward's marine facilities may see increased use with SMIC without fear of damage from waves, a concern the opening of the Northwest Passage and additional prevalent in the past. Plans include adding new linear arctic marine traffic. floats, upgrades to existing docks, and installation of a crane.A vessel washdown pad was installed which allows for containment and proper disposal of washdown water. A new 330-ton boat lift was added in 2015. Vigor Industrial operates a full-service shipyard at the SMIC, including a 5,000-ton lift that can handle vessels up to 300 feet long. 9.2 Seward Boat Harbor The Seward Boat Harbor is a significant aspect of the overall commercial and economic picture of the City of Seward. The existing harbor was constructed immedi- ately following the 1964 earthquake and had minimal upgrades until 1998.At that time,the harbor was owned by the State of Alaska,but operated by the City. In June 1998 the Seward City Council authorized the City Man- ager to negotiate a transfer of the harbor and all of the associated improvements from the State of Alaska to the City of Seward. The 2014 Seward Boat Harbor Plan provides in-depth analysis of the current and planned facilities, operating costs, and physical characteristics. Recent harbor up- grades include the replacement of floats, construction of fish cleaning stations, the installation of a new boat lift dock, creation of the south harbor uplands and an expanded breakwater. The Alaska Railroad is also moving forward with harbor improvements that include additional moorage/wharf ca- pacity, new roads, and increased industrial space. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Recreation 6 II -24 10 Recreation � Continued increases in tourist numbers may impact The City of Seward is surrounded by many opportunities recreation facilities. for outdoor recreation. This includes hiking, boating, fishing, flight-seeing, birding, hunting, and camping. 10.1 Campgrounds The City of Seward operates seven separate campgrounds, six of which are within Waterfront Park. All sites are on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations for caravan groups of 10 units or more can be made. The City will begin testing a pilot program in 2017/2018 to allow pre- paid reservations. Ninety-nine sites have electrical and water hook ups for RVs. These sites cost $40 per night. Tents can camp in designated`tent camping' areas along Ballaine Boulevard and in Forest Acres campground. There is no tent camping during the winter,due to lack of water/sewer and restroom facilities.Winter camping is available at times to self-contained RVs.All camping fees are collected via automated self-serve kiosks.Waterfront Park offers free Wi-Fi,and a self-pay sewer dump station is located on Ballaine Boulevard. Approximately 10 miles from Seward,the National Park Service operates a walk-in, 12-site, tent campground at Exit Glacier. There are also five private campgrounds/RV parks in the Seward area,and one military recreation area that offers camping and RV sites. 10.2 Parks, Ball Fields, and Picnic Areas The City of Seward maintains nine public parks,three ball fields,and five picnic areas or pavilions.Pavilions can be reserved through the Parks and Recreation department. 10.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends Outdoor recreation is a major attraction for visitors and residents of Seward. PM ENGINEERS11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -25 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II Public Facilities and Services 11.1 Education and illnesses requiring specialized care are sent by air The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District operates or ground medivac to Anchorage. three schools in Seward covering grades K 12. Seward Elementar Y School Seward Middle School and Seward Chugachmiut North Star Health Clinic is available to High School are located near each other on the north members of the Chugachmiut tribe. It provides primary g end of town. care services with a focus on preventative patient education and screening. Services include acute and chronic illness Enrollment has remained steady over the past four school care, emergency care, illness prevention education,rou- years,with minor fluctuations.Beginning with the 2014/15 tine screening exams,well childcare and immunizations, school year, sixth grade was moved from the elementary prenatal care, and behavioral health. school to the middle school. The Seward CommunityHealth Center is a federall - ual- Yq Table 8-Seward K-12 School Enrollment ified health center that provides non-emergency services such as wellness visits, family medicine,labs,well child care, physical examinations, and health education and counseling. SeaView is a mental/behavioral health care provider that Elementary 296 282 338 336 services individuals with disabilities through residential Meddle 123 118 81 83 and support services such as assisted living,community prevention programs, family development services, and High 164 182 175 182 substance abuse and recovery services. Source:Kenai Peninsula School District Department of Finance 11.3 City Government & Finances The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) maintains facilities in the City of Seward and offers nu- Seward is a home-rule city located within the Kenai Pen- merous courses,including maritime trades,information insula Borough.An elected seven-member council directs technology, building technology and culinary arts. The the city manager(see Figure 13).City services are funded Alaska Maritime Training Center provides a variety of through taxes and service charges. Taxes include a four US Coast Guard approved courses, and is distinguished percent sales tax, a four percent bed tax, and a property for its state-of-the-art radar navigation and ship's pilot tax of 3.12 mils. training programs. The bulk of Seward s sales tax(47%)is generated during the summer (June-August) with the influx of summer 11.2 Health Care & Social Services visitors. Seward offers a broad range of health care services,which also contribute significantly to the local economy. The City's taxpayers have become more diverse over the last several years,but still lean toward an over-dependence Providence Medical Center is city-owned and managed on tourism-related businesses and the visitor industry. ProvidenceH l h r i n includes 24-h r Y by eat Services,ces, and c udes a ou emergency department; laboratory and radiology ser- vices; physical, speech, and occupational therapies; and a long term care facility. Those with serious injuries C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Public Facilities and Services II -26 Figure 14-City of Seward organizational chart Citizens of Seward Mayor Et Cou nrA L Boards ft City Clerk City Manager City attorney Commissions Planning k Zoning Part&Commerce Historic Preservation Par ft Recreation Development Community Li b ra r y E YYS��i s-�i m Fi n-a rice Public Works Harbor At SMIC Electric UnhLy P.blic Safety Fire, Bu Ad 1 rtig poti r-e p jails Inspection n Animal Control 11.3.1 Kenai Peninsula Borough serves as the chief administrator and works with an elected The Kenai Peninsula Borough functions similarly to counties nine-member legislative assembly. The borough delegates g Y g g In other states.Incorporated In January 1964 as a second-class education responsibilities to the Kenai Peninsula Borough p g borough under the authority of the State of Alaska,the bor- School District which is b managed superintendent hired Y a ough is responsible for area wide education, solid-waste b an elected nine-member school board.S u m m a r of Y Y management,planning,platting,taxation,and assessment. Planning Issues and Trends In January1990, g g the borough delegated zoningpowers to the city along with the ability to make land use plan amendments Identify a mechanism for prioritizing and funding city to the comprehensive plan of the city.The borough has also infrastructure improvements and major maintenance delegated planning and platting advisory authority to the of existing assets. city. Locally authorized service areas provide fire, flood- State fiscal issues are resulting in less state funding ing,emergency,and recreation services.An elected mayor assistance to local governments. PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -27 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 2 Public Safety with tanks(three 1,500-gpm),two rescue units,and three The city police department consists often officers and six support vehicles. Other equipment includes the fire boat sworn volunteers that assist in times when the population John Foster.The satellite station houses a 1,500 gpm quint swells for special events. The department also provides (ladder truck) and a rescue unit. There are two hydrant a Safe Kids program, drug awareness instruction, an systems, one on the west side of the bay and a separate officer in the schools,motor vehicle registrations,drivers one for SMIC. The department is staffed by a full-time licensing, a 12-bed jail, and 24-hour dispatch and radio chief and deputy, administrative assistant and building communications for all emergency services on the eastern inspector,with 30 volunteers,and provides fire services peninsula. Vehicles include ten (10)police cars. within the city. Services include fire suppression, search and rescue,vehicle extrication,inspections,plan reviews, The Seward Animal Shelter, operated by the police de- and public training and education.The City of Seward has partment, provides animal licensing and control. mutual aid agreements with the Bear Creek Fire Service The p police department maintains the 911 service locally area, the Moose Pass Volunteer Fire Company, United with monitors that display incoming caller information, States Forest Service, and the State of Alaska Division hones for the hearing impaired,marine VHF emer p g m p en- of Forestry.g cy Citizens Band radios, and civil defense phones. This Emergency Medical Services service is integrated with the Kenai Peninsula Borough system. The Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps(SVAC)covers a service area to Mile 38 on the Seward Highway, and also provide ground transportation to Anchorage. They y ' provide emergency medical services using 18 trained volunteers and three Type 4 Advance Life Support Ambu- lances.Due to fewer volunteers,SVAC no longer provides _ round transportation to Anchorage. This has resulted in g p g a significant increase in fixed wing and helicopter medical flights and an increase in medical costs. Seward must consider how to reestablish ground ambulance service between Seward and Anchorage.The city and Providence Figure 15-City of Seward Police Station are conducting a feasibility study to determine the costs of adding the ambulance service. The State Troopers service most of the eastern peninsula (up to Mile 52 on the Seward Highway and up to Mile The Seward Fire Service and the Bear Creek Fire Service 62 on the Sterling Highway), with one sergeant and two Area both have search and rescue response capability and troopers based in Seward. The State Troopers have a automatically respond with SVAC calls. mutual aid agreement with the city to assist each other with law enforcement. All search and rescue operations 12.1 Emergency Preparedness are coordinated by the troopers,and include the US Coast Guard and Civil Air Patrol as necessar . One wildlife The City of Seward operates under an Emergency Op- y er ti ns Plan that provides direction and controldurin during officer serves the same area. periods of emergency.It gives emergency instructions for Seward maintains two fire stations. The main fire sta- use with the public,and directs coordination with outside tion is located on Fourth Avenue with a satellite station assistance from private, state, federal and national relief located in SMIC. The main station houses three engines organizations. The plan includes check lists to provide C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Public Safety 0 II -28 for maximum protection of life and property, as well as recovery efforts after an emergency. This plan is updated and maintained by the Seward Fire Department,and can be viewed at the fire department, the library, and at all city departments. It was last updated in 2015. 12.2 Library Museum The Seward Community Library&Museum is a unique combined public library, museum, archives and com- munity center serving Seward and the surrounding area providing opportunities for equal access to information, technology, lifelong learning, community enrichment, and the preservation of Seward's heritage. The museum is a partnership between the City of Seward and the Resurrection Bay Historical Society,whose col- lection of objects, photographs, and archives is housed and exhibited in the museum spaces. f . .ram= 12.3 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends • The main fire station is over 50 years old and needs to be updated. • Diminishing state funding for State Troopers and community jails may increase responsibilities of local law enforcement. PM ENGINEERS � PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -29 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 13 Utilities 13.1 Water area is treated at SMIC.The two main components of the wastewater system are the two sewer treatment ponds at The City of Seward provides water to its residents from Lowell Point and SMIC. Both are dredged and repaired groundwater sources at 3 800 gallons per minute(gpm). g pg g p to include new oxygenation system upgrades in 2016. Total reserves equal 000 gallons.Water consumption Yg Y pg q � g p has averaged 1.2 million gallons per day (gpd). Much The sewers stem consists of a network of collector sew- of h existing r min r it h Y o the e st g water system Seward was built by ers that serve residential and commercial customers and USAGE prior to the construction of the Seward Highway. then discharge into the main line interceptor sewer at g p Originally designed as a conventional loop system,it has various points along its length. The interceptor stem p g g p Y subsequently developed in a linear fashion due to the consists of a combination of gravity sta- g Y sewers, pump topography of the area. tions and force mains that e transport sewage,beginning p g � g g from the Forest Acres Subdivision in the north. It then The City of Seward 2010 Comprehensive Plan identified collects sewage along the Seward Highway,Fourth Ave- that water capacity was adequate in 1990,but stated that nue Ballaine Boulevard and Railway Avenue and finally > Y � Y "the infrastructure is old and will eventually be in need discharges it to the sewage treatment lagoon located off �� g g g of replacement. A recent water and sewer plan produced Lowell Point Road. detailed recommendations for system improvements.Major improvements have been made in recent years. 13.3 Electricity In recent years the city has taken several significant mea- sures regarding water service, including the restriction The Seward Electric System(SES) operated by the City of development in the Lowell Creek watershed area to of Seward purchases its electrical power from Chugach protect the city's potable water supply,and the extension of Electric Association. Several improvements have been water service to SMIC,and the upgrade of the water main made to the city's electrical system in recent years. The from Mile 0 to 1 of the Seward Highway.In addition,two power system was upgraded to include the 115 KV line new wells have been installed at Fort Raymond,one well from Mile 44 to Mile 25. The power line from mile 18 to was upgraded, one water storage was refurbished and a mile 3 was also upgraded to 115 KV in capacity,although new 600,000 gallon water storage tank was constructed that segment is energized only to 69 KV. Two additional in the northern part of the city. plans call for the upgrading of electrical distribution and underground burial of electrical corridors where possi- 13.2 Wastewater ble. A new 5,000 square foot electric utility warehouse and storage building was constructed at Fort Raymond The Seward wastewater system serves the immediate city allowing four (4) of the current six (6) generators to be relocated in the building and offering indoor storage of and the Fourth of July Creek area, which is a separate Addition,system. Some areas,such as the airport and Cliff Inventory and upgraded electronic control systems for the generators. Two replacement generators were purchased are not currently served.Usage is approximately 700,000 2008. In 2016 the utility operated 2,800 meters,including gpd through the sewer main and pump station.It is rated 70 miles of distribution lines, 48 miles of transmission at 880,000 gpd. The system has a capacity of twice that lines and three (3) substations. The average annual load volume. Wastewater for the city proper is treated at the was 8 megawatts,with sales of approximately 53,000,000 Lowell Point Wastewater Treatment Plant by a series of four lift stations. The treatment plant is located approx- KWH. imately one mile south of the central business district, Electric rates change seasonally to offer rate relief to outside city limits. Wastewater for the Fourth of July year-round residential and general service customers. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Utilities 0 II -30 That is, the rate paid by customers during the winter is limits on the west side of the bay, to SMIC, and the lower than that paid by customers during the summer. airport continues to be a need. People value the quality of city water. Replacement 13.4 Solid Waste & Recycling of aging infrastructure for water distribution, and protecting the city's potable water supply in the Lowell Solid waste generated in Seward is collected by Alaska Canyon watershed, continues to be a concern. Waste under contract with the city. The Seward landfill, Providing sufficient power to attract industry is an located on the north edge of town,was closed in 1992 and ongoing concern;energizing the transmission line to replaced by a solid waste transfer facility. The transfer a higher voltage into Seward remains a possibility. facility is contracted by the Kenai Peninsula Borough The city is also interested in bringing liquid natural to Alaska Waste. gas as a fuel, if a viable distribution system can be established and gas can be shipped into Seward at a Annually,the Seward Transfer and Recycle Center sends feasible rate. Such an effort may be more likely with over 5,000 tons of solid waste to the Central Peninsula the development of a natural gas line. Landfill,and over 30 tons of aluminum,glass,newspaper, Area wide animal control is an issue.The Kenai Pen- corrugated cardboard,and office paper to the Anchorage insula Borough does not provide this function,but the Recycle Center. In 1997, an inert waste land fill was city does and is called on to handle problems.Animal opened to accept land clearings, metal scraps, and con- control services, in cooperation with the borough in struction materials up to a given limit annually. Excess areas beyond the city, should be continued. Reloca- inert material is transferred out. tion of the animal shelter to a more suitable location should be addressed. 13.4.1 Communications Most communication transmissions to and from Seward go through a limited number of main trunks, which The local telephone system has a capacity of 15,000 lines, are a limited slow speed. Although much improved, with over 3,300 lines currently in service. The local util- continued updating of telephone and telecommuni- ity provides long-distance service through several other cations equipment and lines is necessary to provide communications providers, including internet services fast, reliable service so agencies and businesses can through the local TV cable system, and a recently laid be efficient and up-to-date in their practices. fiber optic cable. Seward facilities currently has limited access to the two fiber optic cables running through town, although AVTEC, Providence Seward Medical Center and ASLC are equipped and can use videoconferencing in their operations. Cellular service is available through a provider.Upgrading and expanding connections to modern telecommunications networks need to be continued to support business and government operations. 13.5 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends Generally, the city needs to have public utilities and services which are not out-of-date in order to maintain and attract new businesses, industry, and residents. Some development within city limits is stymied by lack of sufficient water and sewer service. The ex- tension of the sewer system to properties within city PM ENGINEERS 11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -31 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 14 Natural Hazards 14.2 Flooding and Floodplain The City of Seward is particularly susceptible to earth- Development quakes, tsunamis, and stream flooding which may be aggravated by heavy rains, melt runoff, heightened tid- All flat land along the southcentral Alaskan coast is al action, and severe wends. During winter, deep snow floodplaln, as a result flooding of streams and rivers has and avalanches occasionally hamper transportation and historically occurred In Seward and the outlying areas. emergency response In the community, which is poten- The most recent flooding occurred in 2012. Seward par- tially a mayor factor during a disaster.Natural hazards are ticlpates In the National Flood Insurance Program, and something the City of Seward is all too familiar, and the last revised its floodplam maps in 2016. Seward voted community has taken a variety of steps to mitigate their In the 2003 Kenai Peninsula Borough electron to form affects. In addition to controlled development, land use a flood service area with Bear Creek. The Seward/Bear may be subject to requirements of other programs such Creek Flood Service Area well address the most persistent, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA), regularly occurring problem areas. and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE). 14.2.1 Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel and 14.1 Tsunamis Canyon The 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake had a devastating Much of Seward is built on the alluvial fan created by effect on Seward with loss of life,destroyed livelihoods, Lowell Creek, prior to the tunnel being built to divert property damage,and a changed landscape.The waterfront Lowell Creek away from Jefferson Street and the down- area along the west side of Resurrection Bay suffered the town area. The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel drains most lasting damage due to the loss of the Port of Seward Lowell Creek and Lowell Canyon streams through Bear and Alaska Railroad facilities.Development should con- Mountain to Resurrection Bay.The tunnel is constructed tinue to be controlled in this area of high seismic risk, through rock, and is grouted and lined with rails on the with zoning restricted to Parks. bottom designed to help prevent damage from heavy rocks and debris that flow through the tunnel.These rocks In response to the 1964 earthquake, Seward became the cause extensive damage and erosion,which requires pe- first tsunami ready community in Alaska. The USAGE riodic rebuilding and repair to the interior of the tunnel. conducted a study that located hazardous zones. Seward There is potential for catastrophic damage as the tunnel has placed warning signs in those areas and has restrict- is susceptible to clogging up;the rock above the portal is ed development, keeping the beachfront as a park and unstable.If this occurred,floodwaters can come straight camping area. In order to protect property owners and down the canyon to Jefferson Street and downtown.There insurance companies from undue financial hardship re- are several homes in the canyon with only one way out, lated to natural hazards,the City of Seward participates which could be a life threatening situation. in the national Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating system and programs. This allows for the reduction of 14.2.2 Lowell Point insurance liability and rates,and provides incentives for more safety measures. The stream at Lowell Point,which had a landslide during the flood of 2012, needs to be kept as clear as possible. This will give an unobstructed straight flow to the ocean and avoid impacting the sewage lagoon that is directly in its course. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Natural Hazards 6 II -32 14.2.3 Japanese Creek 14.3 Avalanches and Landslides During the 1986 flood,Japanese Creek breached the dike Steep slopes, which may be susceptible to avalanches next to the water tank. The Creek is at high velocity at and landslides, occur on the edge of town west of First all times, but particularly during flood events. It shoots Avenue,on the west side of Resurrection Bay along Low- straight out of a narrow steep canyon and then makes a ell Point Road, and the eastern section of Nash Road as left turn heading toward the transfer facility.If Japanese it goes up the hill toward the Fourth of July Creek area. Creek breaks through near this corner it will head directly The potential for avalanche/landslide hazards to develop for the two schools,possibly the Forest Acres Recreation in areas of steep slopes should be analyzed. Camp, and many homes below. There is also a potential for avalanches to close the Seward Highway. A 1982 avalanche study by the Alaska Divi- sion of Geological and Geophysical Y sical Surveys identified g p The Resurrection River channels have flooded the airport 60 avalanche paths along the Seward Highway. several times in the last decade.Protection of the airport from erosion and flooding is currently being assessed 14.4 Summary of Planning Issues a n d by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Trends Facilities. The following g flood dangers exist: 14.2.5 Clear Creek 0 The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel could in times of high water clog up or collapse, resulting in The small stream at Mile 2 Seward Highway is exca- flooding public and privateproperty, includin g p p g vated each year. Clear Creek should be channeled every couple years to avoid coming out of its banks as it did the hospital. during the 1986 flood. This is private property. If the 0 The stream at Lowell Point is susceptible to land- lower reaches are not constantly cleared,the road In this slides and can lead to road closures and flooding. area is susceptible to being destroyed. 0 The dike next to the water tank could breach from high velocities of water from Japanese Creek, 14.2.6 Fourth of July Creek flooding Seward Resort and public and private property in Forest Acres subdivision. Fourth of July Creek is powerful when it reaches flood 0 Resurrection River channel problems can lead stage.During past years it has exceeded its limits.During to airport erosion and potential flood problems the 1986 flood,the river took out the rip-rap wall and posed for roads and structures in the industrial area, as the potential threat of heading directly for the ship lift. occurred in the 2012 flood. If the short breakwater on the northern side of the valley 0 Clear Creak streams can clog up and flood roads, behind the Spring Creek Correctional Center (SCCC) causing damage. were to break, it could enter the Correctional Center. It could also destroythe sawmill and chi pile. A flash 0 Potential for a flash flood from the breaching of p flood would threaten to breach the dike. the dike at Fourth of July Creek could endanger lives at Spring Creek Correctional Center and/or 14.2.7 Subdivision Flooding community security. 0 Some subdivisions,because of the way buildings As a result of city floodplain delineation, planning, and are sited and spaced, are vulnerable to flooding. flood control projects,most flooding during high rainfall events occurs outside of municipal boundaries. The Old Mill Subdivision and the Questa Woods area are very vulnerable to flooding. PM ENGINEER�S� PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -33 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 15 Quality of life As a community, Seward has taken many deliberate steps to retain and improve the quality of life enjoyed by residents and visitors.Investments in city services and infrastructure,educational and economic opportunities, health and social services,housing,recreation,and historic assets have been discussed throughout this plan. Many of these efforts are the results of previous comprehensive planning by the citizens and officials of Seward, and are ongoing today.Previous plans and surveys reveal positive factors as expressed by its residents: Pristine natural resources Recreational opportunities Low crime rates No traffic lights or parking meters Slow pace of life High quality public services Cultural variety Highway and boat accessibility Small town community atmosphere Less congestion than other towns Good place to raise children Business and job opportunities Heritage and history Factors that negatively impact the quality of life ac- cording to residents include the following: Poor climate Drug and alcohol abuse Lack of shopping options Lack of cultural activities Need for beautification of public and private property Shortage of full-time, year-round employment Isolation from other towns High cost of living Influx of tourists and crowding Lack of housing options These values and concerns will be explored in more depth during the comprehensive planning process. C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT Natural Environment and Community Appearance 0 II -34 16 Natural Environment and Community Appearance Ray Building, the Brown and Hawkins store, and new Seward is surrounded by a dynamic ecosystem of mown- signage at Urbachs clothing store. In 2016,rehabilitation tams,ice and ocean.The natural environment supports a of the Osbo building on 4th Street began. The City of vast array of wildlife,including sea otters,orcas,whales, Seward has in addition to historical structures on the sea lions, sea birds, eagles and bears. Boat and plane National Historic Register, a local Register of Historical tours,as well as kayaking and hiking bring people closer places. In 2016, the Eide-Stotko house (built 1905-10) to these natural assets. located at 420 Third Ave was added to the local register The Kenai Peninsula has an impressive trails stem that and the 1905 Government Cable Office(Telegraph house) p Y is constantly developing. on 6th Avenue began its restoration. This also includes World War Two Army installations In addition to increased restoration of historic buildings, scattered within and outside the city of Seward. In the Seward has improved its landscaping and beautification Kenai Fjords National Park, one can view calving gla- (Seward Historic Preservation Commission — Historic ciers by boat or hike to the Harding Icefield from the Plant & Tree Register provides an inroad to increase Exit Glacier entrance. The ASLC offers a close up view public awareness of Seward's significant plants and trees), of Alaska's marine ecosystem through its aquariums. given more attention to sign control(Planning&Zoning Commission—Seward Community Development Depart- There are many different areas in Seward to view dif- ment enhanced litter control with recycling collection )� Y g ferent types of birds. In Kenai Fjords National Park one bins established around town assist in the increased can see a variety of sea birds. At Exit Glacier, one can communitycleanup efforts. These events include the an- area p view owls and watch for nesting dippers. In the marsh nual Super Saturday cleanups hosted b the Parks and p Y p Y area at the end of the Seward airport, one can find many Department in May, painted dum sters at city p Y� p p wetland species, and in the boat harbor, different types Recreation Derounds and the annual coastal clean-ups hosted pg p of gulls and loons. campgrounds, RBCA(Resurrection Ba Conservation Alliance and Y Y ) Sometimes the natural environment is shaped by political the ASLC. Some of the beautification efforts include the and natural events.The Caines Head State Recreation Area painting of more than a dozen murals reflecting important is the scenic site of abandoned World War II structures Seward themes on different wall expanses around town. including Fort McGilvray and the South Beach Garrison. The 1964 earthquake has left some visible history be- 16.1 Historic Preservation hind, although it may not be immediately recognizable. The Seward Community Library and Museum offers a The designation of Seward as a Certified Local Govern- variety of displays depicting Seward's history as well as ment (CLG) affords the city the opportunity to request historical videos for viewing by residents and visitors. assistance from state and federal experts in a wide variety of preservation disciplines. As a requirement of CLG Accepted as a great asset by its citizens,the eclectic nature status, the city created the SHPC in 1992. This body of the local architecture reflects the history and diver- of appointed citizen volunteers was tasked to look into sity of Seward. Seward's tremendous community pride Seward's historic assets including historic buildings, ar- is evident in the showcase of its historic structures and chaeological sites,and documents.They were charged with museum collections. The Seward Historic Preservation the development of a historic preservation plan. (Seward Commission in assistance with the city's Community Historical Preservation Plan 1996 currently in process of Development and Library—Museum Departments have revision, will be titled, Seward Historical Preservation inventoried many of its historic properties, providing Plan—2017),identification and inventory of local historic research and working closely with local citizens. Down- and prehistoric resources,making recommendations for town has seen restoration of the Railroad Depot, L. V. properties eligible for the National Register,and acting as FM ENGINEERS11 PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT II -35 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, Volume II 00an advisory body to the city council,city administration, additional local regulations and zoning requirements and other boards and commissions. as a strategy to implement historic preservation.Com- munity opinion may be shaped by a lack of awareness In 1974, the State of Alaska passed the Alaska Historic of historic preservation goals, lack of explicit incen- Preservation Act.The commissioner of the Alaska Depart- tives, and unclear procedures to follow. ment of Natural Resources was given overall responsibility for historic preservation duties.To assist the commissioner are the Alaska Historic Commission and the State Historic Preservation Officer(SHPO). The SHPO administers the Federal Historic Preservation Fund Program.It serves as a"clearinghouse" of information on the state's historic, prehistoric and archaeological resources;and encourages and assists local governments in historic preservation activities through the CLG program. The National Historic Preservation Act(NHPA)was en- acted in 1966 requiring that historic and prehistoric prop- erties be taken into consideration during implementation of all federally funded projects. The NHPA established several programs to encourage historic preservation. These include the National Register of Historic Places and matching grant funds administered through state historic preservation offices. 16.2 Summary of Planning Issues and Trends The Historic Preservation Plan, Phase II (1996) has set forth community goals for historic preservation in Seward along with the historical perspective and background for the political and economic framework within which these goals will be achieved. The Seward Historic Preservation Plan(1996) is currently in re- vision process by the Seward Historic Preservation Commission and be eliminated when the updated plan is finalized. Current responsibility for historic preservation over- sight is administrated in cooperation with the staff of the Seward Library and Museum, Seward city administration, and the Community Development Department. Resources used by the volunteer com- mission is the state SHPO office and other state and federal agencies committed to historic preservation efforts. Actively working with the public and regulatory com- missions, city council and city administration can assist to strengthen any uncertainty about enacting C�ENGINE PLAN DESIGN CONSTRUCT