HomeMy WebLinkAbout01082020 PACAB Packet Port Commerce Advisory Board
Agenda Packet
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Photo Credit:Kelley Wdey Late
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Council Chambers, City Hall
12: 00 p. m.
SEWARD PORT AND COMMERCE
ADVISORY BOARD
f +►�J
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
January 8, 2020 12:00 p.m. Council Chambers
Laura Schneider 1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair
Term Expires 2020 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Bruce Jaffa 3. ROLL CALL
Vice Chair
Term Expires 2021 4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT
Carl Hughes THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING
Board Member [Those who have signed in will he given the first opportunity to speak.
Term Expires 2020 Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this
agenda item.]
Colby Lawrence 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Board Member
Term Expires 2022 [Approvalof Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by
asterisk O. Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless
a council member so requests. In the event of such a request, the item is
Lynda Paquette returned to the Regular Agenda]
Board Member
Term Expires 2021 6. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS
Erin Lemas A. Alaska Railroad Report by Christy Terry
Board Member B. Chamber of Commerce Report by Jason Bickling...........Pg. 3
Term Expires 2021 C. Harbormaster Report by Norm Regis.................................Pg. 5
D. Administration Report
Benjamin Smith E. Other Reports & Presentations [Presentations are limited to ten
Board Member minutes each, excluding Q&A.]—None
Term Expires 2022
Scott Meszaros
City Manager
Norm Regis
Harbor Master
Jessica Stallard
Deputy City Clerk
City of Seward, Alaska PA CAB Agenda
January 8, 2020 Page I
1
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS—None
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Resolutions
1. Resolution 2020-001, Recommending Council Approval ofPACAB Priorities from
February 2020 to February 2021..............................................................................Pg. 6
B. Other New Business Items
*1. Approval of the December 4, 2019 PACAB Regular Meeting Minutes...........Pg. 10
2. Establish ad hoc committees for Seward Climate Action Plan, SMIC Development,
and Energy.
3. Discuss the Harbor Capital Improvement Plan for 2020-2021.........................Pg. 14
4. Discuss city ownership of the Seward Airport. (Jaffa).....................................Pg. 66
9. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No Action Required) —None
10. BOARD COMMENTS
11. CITIZEN COMMENTS
12. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS
13. ADJOURNMENT
City of Seward, Alaska PA CAB Agenda
January 8, 2020 Page 2
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Report to PACAB January 8, 2020
Seward Chamber of Commerce, Jason Bickling
I hope you all had a Happy Holidays!
Note: I apologize I will not be in attendance at the meeting. The Chamber is hosting
the Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District: Industry Outlook Forum at AVTEC
that day. If you are interested in attending, it is free but you do need to register— lunch,
snacks, and drinks are included. Registration is here: https://kpedd.org/2018/11/2020-
industry-outlook-forum/ or go to www.eventbrite.com and search on local events.
Here is the speaker schedule:
8:15 Registration & Continental Breakfast
8:45 Pledge of Allegiance & Safety Minute, Tim Dillon, Executive Director KPEDD
8:50 —Welcome & Update, Christy Terry, Mayor of Seward
9:00 — AVTEC, Cathy LeCompte, Director
9:20 — JAG Industrial & Marine Services, Tim Jagielski, Executive Vice President
9:50 — KPB - Agricultural Land Program, Marcus Mueller, Land Management Officer
10:10 — Break— Networking Opportunity
10:20 —Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Alyssa Shanks Rodrigues, PhD,
Director
10:40 —Alaska Ocean Cluster, Craig Fleener, Executive Director
11:00 —Alaska Travel Industry Association, Jillian Simpson, Vice President
11:20 — Chugachmiut, Nathan Lojewski, Forestry Manager
11:40 — Featured Speaker: 2019 Caring for the Kenai, Lindy Guernsey, Akilena Veach
& Tayten Barhaug
12:40 —Alaska Salmon Alliance, Nate Berga, President
1:00 — Hilcorp Alaska, Dave Wilkins, Senior Vice President
1:30 — Alaska Railroad, Elizabeth Greer, PE, Project Manager
1:50 — UAA Center for Economic Development, Nolan Klouda, Executive Director
2:10 — Break— Networking Opportunity
2:20 — 2020 Census & KPEDD Update, Tim Dillon, Executive Director KPEDD
2:40 — Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Casey Sullivan, Government & Public Affairs
Manager - Alaska
3:00 — Alaska Gasline Development Corp., Frank Richards, PE, Senior Vice President
3:20 — AVTEC Student Success Stories
3:40 — Closing Remarks, Tim Dillon
Recent Happenings:
As of the time of this writing on December 27, our Chamber Member Survey is currently
open. There is a weekly drawing for a gift certificate for 4 weeks for those who have
taken the survey. We are getting a good response rate thus far. When we compile the
results, we will be sharing those out. They will be used to make decisions about how
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we can best serve our members going forward. Later in the year, we will be putting out
a survey to non-member business as well.
Marketing:
The Visitor Guide is complete and off to the printers. They are doing press checks
today (December 27t"). We should have copies toward the end of January / early
February.
Upcoming Events:
We will be hosting a Forum/Conversation in regards to the creation of a Seward Marine
Industry Front to bring in new business as well as build a more robust capacity. It will
be on Tuesday January 21 st, 6-8pm at the Seward Community Library Museum — Lower
Conference Room.
In February, we will be hosting another Forum / Conversation to create a Tourism Best
Practices Group to address sustainable Tourism issues. Date and Time TBA.
If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at any
time.
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PACAB HARBOR
1. With the 50 ton lifts slowed down we are replacing all 4 of the tires.
2. The 330 ton lifts have slowed down but we are still pulling vessels out of the water.
3. All the water has been turned off for the winter,there are 4 year round water locations in the
harbor located at the F float trestle, at the end of F-float, the T-dock, on Z-float and fisherman's
float located at SMIC.
4. We are still working with ADF&G to replace the North East Boat Launch Ramp, funding is
currently available through the same grant, looks like the Governor approved the funding at this
point.
5. The harbor is currently fully staffed.
6. The harbor crew is continuing maintenance throughout the harbor.
7. The Harbor is preparing for the Polar Bearjump off on January 18'h around 12:30, there are
several days of events (17'"thru the 19' ) hope to see you out and about.
8. The Contractor has finished the install of the heat pump in the wash-down pad building
located at SMIC.
9. The City Manager, Harbormaster along with the some of the Council and some PACAB
board members are at the Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District Industry
Outlook Forum today.
10. The Contractor MacSwain and Associates has started the 2020 appraisal process to
reappraise 43 lots leased out by the City of Seward.
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Sponsored by: PACAB
CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD
RESOLUTION 2020-001
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY
BOARD, RECOMMENDING COUNCIL APPROVAL OF THE PORT
AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD PRIORITIES FROM
FEBRUARY 2020 TO FEBRUARY 2021
WHEREAS,PACAB's responsibilities are listed in SCC 2.30.325 Powers and Duties;and
WHEREAS,at its December 18,2019 work session,PACAB reviewed and refined their
Priorities and Goals list for 2020.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PORT AND COMMERCE
ADVISORY BOARD OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA that:
Section 1. The following list of Priorities and Goals from February 2020 through
February 2021 is hereby approved by the Board and recommended to Council for their
approval:
PRIORITIES
• Support harbor operations and harbor users
• Help lead Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) development
• Advise and support the Seward Chamber of Commerce in their marketing role for the
city
• Explore and promote energy alternatives and community sustainability practices
• Support and promote actions and legislative liability of all businesses
• Promote quality of life for Seward residents
SHORT TERM GOALS
• Review the vessel property tax and provide recommendation to Council
• Sponsor an Energy workshop for the community
• Evaluate options for a heat pump rebate program and present a proposal to
Council
• Hold another joint work session with the Planning&Zoning Commission about a
SMIC overlay
• Work towards developing a Climate Action Plan
• Discuss and review the January 2020 City Council work session with the electric
department
6
PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD
RESOLUTION 2020-001
• Determine action needed to address halibut by-catch and provide recommendation
to Council
• Support the work of the Airport Committee
• Create an ad hoc committee for SMIC Development and an ad hoc committee for
Energy
• Send a board member to the Alaska Municipal League Conference
• Prioritize City, State, and Federal Priorities for port and commerce initiatives
• Evaluate sewer facilities for future growth
• Participate in Joint Work Session with Historic Preservation committee on
Downtown Historic Overlay District
• Review the SMIC Development Plan
• Evaluate the Blue Pipeline Initiative and give recommendation to Council on the
city's continued investment
• Provide input on the Capital Improvement Plan (Target Completion 2021)
LONG TERM GOALS
• Review the Harbor Tariff(Target Completion 2021)
• Submit a Climate Action Plan to Council for adoption (Target Completion 2021)
• Update SMIC Development Plan (Target Completion 2022)
• Update Seward Boat Harbor Plan (Target Completion 2021)
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Port and Commerce Advisory Board of the City of
Seward, Alaska, this Sth day of January, 2020.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Laura Schneider, Chair
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Priorities
- Support harbor operations and harbor users
- Help lead Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) development
- Advise and support the Seward Chamber of Commerce in their marketing role for the
city
- Explore and promote energy alternatives and community sustainability practices
- Support and promote actions and legislative liability of all businesses
- Promote quality of life for Seward residents
Short Term Goals
- Review the vessel property tax and provide recommendation to Council
- Sponsor an Energy workshop for the community
- Evaluate options for a heat pump rebate program and present a proposal to Council
- Hold another joint work session with the Planning & Zoning Commission about a SMIC
overlay
- Work towards developing a Climate Action Plan
- Discuss and review the January 2020 City Council work session with the electric
department
- Determine action needed to address halibut by-catch and provide recommendation to
Council
- Support the work of the Airport Committee
- Create an ad hoc committee for SMIC Development and an ad hoc committee for Energy
- Send a board member to the Alaska Municipal League Conference
- Prioritize City, State, and Federal Priorities for port and commerce initiatives
- Evaluate sewer facilities for future growth
- Participate in Joint Work Session with Historic Preservation committee on Downtown
Historic Overlay District
- Review the SMIC Development Plan
- Evaluate the Blue Pipeline Initiative and give recommendation to Council on the city's
continued investment
- Provide input on the Capital Improvement Plan (2021)
Long Term Goals
- Review the Harbor Tariff (2021)
- Submit a Climate Action Plan to Council for adoption (2021)
- Update SMIC Development Plan (2022)
- Update Seward Boat Harbor Plan (2021).
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Port& Commerce Advisory Board
2020 GOALS CALENDAR
DATE SUGGESTED AGENDA ITEMS
January 8 Meeting 0 Set 2020 priorities.
0 Establish committees for Seward
Climate Action Plan, SMTC
Development, and Energy.
0 Provide input on Capital
Improvement Plan for 2020-2021.
January 15 Work Session • Discuss and review the January 20,
2020 Council work session on
electric rates and utilities.
February 5 Meeting • Discuss the halibut fishery.
February 19 Work Session • Review the January 20, 2020
Council work session on electric
rates and utilities.
March 4 Meeting • Determine and provide
recommendation to Council on
electric department matters.
March 9 Joint Work w/ Council 0 Joint Work Session w/ Council on
PACAB Priorities
March 18 Work Session • Review high vessel property tax.
April 1 Meeting • Provide recommendation to Council
on high vessel property tax.
April 15 Work Session • Evaluate the Blue Pipeline Initiative.
May 6 Meeting 0 Give summary of evaluation on Blue
Pipeline Initiative.
0 Set goals calendar for the second
half of year 2020.
0 Update from energy committee.
May 20 Work Session • Discuss Public Works utilties
June to end of August • HIATUS —MEET AS NEEDED
September 2 Meeting
September 16 Work Session
October 7 Meeting
October 21 Work Session
November 4 Meeting
November 18 Work Session
December 2 Meeting
December 16 Work Session
9
City of Seward,Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Regular Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2019 Volume 3,Page
CALL TO ORDER
The December 4, 2019 regular meeting of the Port and Commerce Advisory Board was
called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chair Laura Schneider.
OPENING CEREMONY
Vice Chair Bruce Jaffa led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Laura Schneider presiding, and
Bruce Jaffa E,-�as
Carl Hughes Colby Lawrence
Lynda Paquette Benjamin Smith
comprising a quorum of the board; and
Norm Regis, Harbormaster
Jessica Stallard, Deputy City Clerk
Excused—None
Absent Lemas
CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED
FOR PUBLIC HEARING—None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Motion (Paquette/Lawrence) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion Passed Unanimous
The city clerk read the following approved consent agenda items:
Approval of the November 6, 2019 PACAB Regular Meeting Minutes.
SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS
Alaska Railroad Report. Christy Terry said the Holiday Fair was December 6 and 7,
2019. She said the community was fortunate to have JAG bringing vessels in to SMIC. A foreign
vessel that would be bringing supplies to the North Slope was scheduled to visit Seward for six
days in December. The 2020 cruise ship schedule was available and would be provided in the
next packet. Terry said there would be two days in 2020 that three cruise ships would be in
Seward.
10
City of Seward,Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Regular Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2019 Volume 3,Page
In response to Paquette, Terry said there were no mega-ships scheduled to visit Seward in
2020. The cruise ships were the same ones that came to Seward last year.
In response to Jaffa, Terry said the repairs the railroad was planning to do on the freight
dock did not change the timeline for the development of the new dock. Seward did not receive
the Build America grant. They were moving forward with permitting and they were going to
continue to apply for grant opportunities. The railroad received multiple responses to their
request for proposals for the passenger dock, and they would be giving updates at the KPEDD
industrial fair on January 8, 2020 and the January Rotary Club meeting.
Chamber of Commerce Report. Jason Bickling said new board members were elected
at the annual Chamber election. The Chamber would be sending out surveys asking for both
board members and non-board members' input on how the Chamber can better serve the
community. The Chamber will be facilitating a discussion on how to promote a united front
when it comes to Seward's marine industry in the near future. The Chamber staff was working
on the 2020 Seward Visitor's Guide. In response to Jaffa, Bickling said the new Chamber
website would be a stand-alone site, but it would be connected to the Chamber and the City.
Harbormaster Report. Harbormaster Norm Regis said he enjoyed the Fish Expo in
Seattle. The harbor had a teleconference for new software on December 5, 2019. He said the city
budgets were being worked on and would be presented to council at the December 9, 2019
council meeting.
Administration Report None
Other Reports, Announcements, and Presentations None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Items Postponed from Previous Agenda
Discuss annual review of the SMIC Development Plan.
The board completed their annual review of the SMIC Development Plan that they began at their
November 6, 2019 meeting.
Schneider suggested a committee be formed in the future to work on the SMIC
Development Plan.
NEW BUSINESS
Resolutions None
Other New Business Items
11
City of Seward,Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Regular Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2019 Volume 3,Page
Set the meeting and work session schedule for 2020.
Motion (Jaffa/Lawrence) Set meetings on I" Wednesday of every
month and work sessions on 3'd
Wednesday of every month.
The board changed the date for the January meeting from January 1, 2020 to January 8, 2020 and
scheduled a hiatus from June to the end of August. Paquette stated that she was not available to
attend the January 8, 2020 meeting.
Motion Passed Unanimous
Discuss PACAB priorities & goals for 2020.
Motion (Hughes/Jaffa) Postpone "Discuss PACAB priorities &
goals for 2020" to the December 18, 2019
work session.
Motion Passed Unanimous
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS
PACAB 2019 Goal Calendar.
PACAB Resolution 2019-01, PACAB Priorities from February, 2019 to February, 2020.
BOARD COMMENTS
Smith said Seward's growth and the lack of housing were both important aspects to
consider when looking at development plans.
Paquette welcomed Ben Smith. She thanked Jaffa for clarifying her objective regarding
the SMIC signage. She was looking forward to working on the Climate Action Plan.
Lawrence welcomed Ben Smith.
Hughes welcomed Ben Smith. He congratulated Laura Schneider on being appointed the
PACAB Chair. He congratulated Christy Terry on being elected Mayor.
Jaffa welcomed Ben Smith. He said the airport advisory board had a meeting on
December 5, 2019. He encouraged the city to utilize PACAB as a resource.
Schneider welcomed Ben Smith. She said the 3'd and 4`h quarter report to council was
provided as a laydown. She looked forward to working with the board in 2020.
12
City of Seward,Alaska Port and Commerce Advisory Board Regular Meeting Minutes
December 4, 2019 Volume 3,Page
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Christy Terry thanked the city employees who decorated the town for the holidays.
BOARD AND ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO CITIZEN COMMENTS
Regis said a heat pump would be installed at the new wash-down pad building. He said
all city leases would be reappraised in January 2020.
Paquette said she wanted either PACAB or council to take a closer look at the rebate
program for a heat pump that Phil Kaluza had previously mentioned.
ADJOURNMENT
This meeting was adjourned at 1:02 p.m.
Jessica Stallard Laura Schneider
Deputy City Clerk Chair
(City Seal)
13
From: Jessica Stallard
To: Brenda Ballou
Bcc: Benjamin Smith;Bruce Jaffa;Carl Hughes;Colby Lawrence; Erin Lemas;Laura Schneider;Lynda Paquette; Norm
Regis
Subject: South Harbor Uplands Plan,Small Boat Harbor Plan,Harbor CIP 2020-2021,and SMIC CIP 2020-2021
Date: Thursday,December 19,2019 11:01:26 AM
Attachments: The PLAN Draft.doc
FINAL 14-091 Small Boat Harbor Plan.odf
Harbor CIP 20 21.odf
SMIC CIP 20 21.odf
Good Morning, PACAB!
Attached are documents received from Harbormaster Regis with the South Harbor Uplands Plan,
Small Boat Harbor Plan, Harbor CIP 2020-2021, and SMIC CIP 2020-2021. These will also be included
in the January 8, 2020 meeting packet as an Informational Item.
Si,U�aq,
J e4, i"S-fa i&rol
DeV4f9 Gvf y GL�k,
No-f ar y P v4q-t,r✓
(90 7)224-404&
From: Norm Regis
Sent: Thursday, December 19, 2019 10:34 AM
To: Jessica Stallard
Cc: Brenda Ballou
Subject: PACAB
Jessica
Attached ae the documents that PACAB requested.
Let them know I totally forgot that we a Seward Boat Harbor Plan and worked on it a few years ago.
You can forward my e-mail if you like.
Thank You
Norm Regis
Harbormaster AMPE
Box 167
Seward,Alaska 99664
907-224-3138 ext. 2
n regis(@ cityofsewa rd.net<mai Ito:n regis(@cityofsewa rd.net>
Your work is going to fill a large part of your life,and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is
great work.And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."
Steve Jobs
14
City of Seward
Capital Improvement Plan
Harbor-Related Capital Projects
2020 and 2021
New or Project Funding Source
Project Description Replace Year Cost Rating(a) City Portion Other Source Source
NE Boat Launch Ramp R 2021 $2,000,000 C $500,000 $1,500,000 City/ADFG X
Replace K&L and remainder of G Float R 2022 $3,500,000 M $3,500,000 City/Grant X
Replace anodes on concrete floats R 2022 $200,000 M $200,000 City X
50 Ton wash down pad N 2022 $500,000 New $500,000 City x
Replace dumpsters R 2023 $80,000 M $80,000 City X
5 Ton crane I-dock N 2024 $400,000 New $400,000 City X
Total Harbor Fund Projects: $6,680,000 $5,180,000 $1,500,000
Total Harbor Fund Projects for 2020 and 2021: $2,000,000 $500,000 $1,500,000
Rating(a):
Critical Risk(C): Likely to fail within next 5 years
High Risk(H): Likely to fail in 5-10 years
Moderate Risk(M):continuous increasing cost to maintain and operate.
'New"reflects creation or purchase of a new asset;not replacing an existing asset
15
City of Seward
Capital Improvement Plan
SMIC- Related Capital Projects
2020 and 2021
New or Project Funding Source
Project Description Replace Year Cost Rating(a) City Portion Other Source Source
Additional water services N 2020 $10,000 N $10,000 City
Improve Drainage and Fence Storage Area N 2022 $1,500,000 N $1,500,000 City/Financing
Additional power stalls N 2023 $500,000 N $500,000 City
Additional restroom N 2024 $75,000 N $75,000 City
Pave City owned boat yard roads N 2024 $1,000,000 N $1,000,000 City/Financing
North dock paving N 2024 $1,000,000 N $1,000,000 City/Financing
Total SMIC Fund Projects: $4,085,000 $4,085,000 $0
Rating(a):
Critical Risk(C): Likely to fail within next 5 years
High Risk(H): Likely to fail in 5-10 years
Moderate Risk(M).continuous increasing cost to maintain and operate.
"New"reflects creation or purchase of a new asset;not replacing an existing asset
16
PREFACE
This document was prepared for the City of Seward as a guideline for future development
of the South Harbor Uplands.
City of Seward
P.O. Box 167
Seward, AK 99664
City Council
Clark Corbridge Mayor
Willard Dunham Vice Mayor
Jean Bardarson Council Member
Betsy Kellar Council Member
Bob Valdatta Council Member
Tom Smith Council Member
Marianna Keil Council Member
Planning and Zoning Commission
Sandie Roach' Chair
Margaret Anderson Vice Chair
Steven Heinrich Commission Member
Sue McClure Commission Member
Tena Morgan Commission Member
Port and Commerce Advisory Board
Ron Long Chair
Theresa Butts Vice Chair
Deborah Altermatt Board Member
Daniel Oliver Board Member
Darryl Schaefermeyer Board Member
Paul Tougas Board Member
City Administration
Phillip Oates City Manager
Karl Anderson Harbor Master
Christy Terry Community Development Director
Karin Sturdy Parks and Recreation Director
Donna Glenz Associate Planner
Anne Bailey Executive Liaison
Citizens of Seward
The involvement of many Seward residents in preparation of the South Harbor Uplands
Plan is gratefully acknowledged.
17
South Harbor Uplands Plan
Introduction
Under the June 2003 Project Cooperation Agreement between the Department of Army
(the "Corps") and the City of Seward (the "City") for Construction of the Harbor
Improvements (the "Agreement"), dredged and excavated material was deposited behind
the newly extended breakwater creating approximately 3.5 acres of filled land described
by the Corps as `BOD Disposal Area L" On February 12, 2007, the City authorized the
approval of the Department of Army Memorandum for record and accepting Disposal
Area 1.
The City of Seward has received inquires about leasing land and using the South Harbor
Uplands for parking. The Port and Commerce Advisory Board (per the City Manager's
request) has discussed possible development ideas for the area and have suggested that a
South Harbor Uplands Plan be created to maximize the use of the area and benefit the
Seward community.
The purpose of the South Harbor Uplands Plan is to achieve long-term objectives for the
area and provide guidance on how the land should be developed for economic and
recreational use. The South Harbor Upland Plan contains advisory elements, which
include strategies for improving public services and facilities, promoting economic
development and maintaining and enhancing the quality of life. The plan elements
include: Zoning, Land Use, Parking and Transportation Facilities, Public Facilities and
Services and Community Appearance. These planning issues need to be considered to
maintain a planned development of the area and retain Seward's unique histories, small-
town character, while pursuing modern economic development and maintain the natural
beauty for the community to enjoy.
This plan has been prepared with the assistance of the Port and Commerce Advisory
Board, the Planning and Zoning Commission, community members, and City of Seward
staff through a series of public meetings.
18
South Harbor Uplands Area Collection of Ideas
The Plan for the South Harbor Uplands Fill Area is to zone the area Harbor Commercial
District and Park District and to use the area for retail, a Mariners Memorial, a handicap
accessible fishing pier, scientific research and camping. The plan will also address
parking expansion, boardwalk/sidewalk extension, road access, drainage, utilities, public
safety and aesthetics.
ZONING
Goal: Zone the area Harbor Commercial District and Park District to accommodate
economic development and parks and recreation. (What is the City's stance?)
• Harbor Commercial District- The northern 1/3 portion' of the South Harbor
Upland area would be designated Harbor Commercial District to accommodate
retail and other forms of economic development.
• Park District- The southern 2/3 portion' of the South Harbor Upland area would
be designated Park District. This area will accommodate the Mariner's Memorial
and the handicap accessible fishing pier and would maintain the view of
Resurrection Bay.
Designating the area Harbor Commercial and Park District is consistent with the zoning
map but does not adhere to the land use map. The land use map designates the area as
Park district. The Port and Commerce Advisory Board recommended via PACAB
Resolution 2008-03 to designate the area Harbor Commercial.
LAND USE
Goal: The area would be used for economic development, parks and recreation,
parking and scientific research.
• Economic Development
o Retail areas will be available on the Harbor Commercial portion for lease
via a designated process.
o Plat areas to designated parcel size.
o Create a list of criteria for building on the fill area.
' The portions designated Park District and Harbor Commercial District will be determined by an
engineer.
19
o Lease the parcels at fait-market value.
o Leases of the parcels should be carefully drafted with "subject to"
language alerting grantee of dominant estates and Army Corps of
Engineers access rights, etc.
o All development must comply with the Seward City Code.
• Parks District
■ Mariners Memorial
o The Planning and Zoning Commission, the Historic Preservation
Commission, the Port and Commerce Advisory Board and City
Council supported the concept of the Mariners Memorial for the Small
Boat Harbor.
o In March 2004, a donation of$1,000.00 (one thousand dollars) by the
Kenai Fjords Yacht Club started a Mariners Memorial Fund through
the 2003 Seward Centennial non-profit account and additional
donations and grants to fund the design, construction and maintenance
of the Memorial will continue to be sought by local organizations and
individuals.
o A 100 foot by 100 foot piece of land located on a southeast portion of
the South Harbor Uplands Area has been designated for the Mariner's
Memorial.
o A conceptual design of the memorial has been completed. A small
scale model will be created and then the final project will be
constructed.
o The Harbor Department will help maintain the facility.
■ Handicap Accessible Fishing Pier
o Construct a handicap accessible fishing pier at the south side of the
South Harbor Upland Area.
o Grant money3 or capital project funds will be needed to accomplish
this project.
■ Restroom Facilities
2 City Council Resolution 2006-49;Planning and Zoning Resolution 2006-10;Historic Preservation
Resolution 2006-01 and Port and Commerce Advisory Board Resolution 2006-07
3 Project may be funded through"Dingell Johnson"money collected from sport-fishing licenses.
20
o The restroom facilities were completed September 2007.4
o The restroom facility has electric, water and sewage capabilities.
o The restroom facility is maintained by the Harbor Department.
■ Camping Facilities
o Create high end Recreation Vehicle (RV) camping facilities on the
southern strip of the South Harbor Uplands.
o Water, sewer, electric and cable capabilities available for campers, in
compliance with other existing camping regulations, such as 14-day
stay maximum limit.
o Set a rate for the high end camping sites.6
Scientific Research
■ Harbornet System
o The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and the Alaska Ocean
Observing System (AOOS) would set up a "Harbornet system" on the
South Harbor Uplands area to monitor wind, temperature,
precipitation, wave and tidal activity.
o The location of the tower/sensors will be installed on the South
Breakwater. The tower/sensors may be moved to the East Breakwater
once the Army Corps of Engineers completes the extension and
alterations.
o UAA and AOOS have funding for this project and would construct a
prototype in the winter of 2008 and install the system in January 2009.
o Responsibility and Maintenance of the Tower will not be a City
function.
4 A Building Permit was issued 4-17-2007.A Certificate of Occupancy was issued 8-31-2007 and Planning
and Zoning Resolution 2007-02 granted the City of Seward Harbor Department a Floodplain Variance for
the project.
'Threat of landslide tsunami damage may be such that overnight occupancy by any function should be
prohibited by intention and code.
6 Current fees are$30 a day for water/electricity.Proposed fee for new high end sites$50+per night.
'Currently Seward City Code does not permit antennas/towers/sensors in the Harbor Commercial or Park
District.
21
✓ Funding for Development and Installation-UAA and AOOS
✓ Management of Data, Archives and Website- AOOS
✓ Maintenance of the Tower- National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) or AOOS
✓ Cost-Sharing to Fund the Project in the Future
o Lease and Electrical issues need to be discussed with appropriate
departments before work begins.
PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Goal: Ensure safe and convenient parking and transportation services that address
the needs of Seward residents, businesses and visitors.
• Parking Facility
o Parking spaces are in high demand in the summer season for the harbor area.
Currently, the Paid Parking Department uses the South Harbor Uplands Area
for parking. There are a total of 189 parking sites; 20 of the sites are for 30
minute parking and 3 are ADA accessible. The other 166 sites are used for
non-ADA vehicles and trailers.
o A portion of the South Harbor Uplands Area would be used for parking.8
o The parking lot needs to comply with all Seward City Code requirements and
a storm water system needs to be installed.
o Lighting requirements need to be considered and comply with Seward City
Code.9
o Parking fees are consistent with the Seward City Code § 11.15.010. See
Attachment A for the Parking Fee Schedule.to
o Overnight camping, trailers and motor home parking is currently prohibited
on the South Harbor Uplands Area per City policy in deference to earthquake,
tsunami or other risks.
• Boardwalk/Bike Path"
o Extend the boardwalk and/or bike path connections around the northern edge
of the South Harbor Upland Area and extend the bike path around the
'The parking facility will be determined by an engineering study or a TNH design concept proposal.
9 Lighting considerations: -How much, type,height,quantity and size?
io Parking fees are amended by City Council resolution and generally discussed each fall during the
upcoming fiscal year budget.
11 Potential funding could come from the Division of Parks&Outdoor Recreation Trails Grant.
22
southern portion of the South Harbor Uplands Area per the Boardwalk
Plan/Bike Path requirements.12
o Extend the bike path from the Wellington (pavilion) picnic site along the
beach and Harborside Campgrounds to the South Harbor Uplands Area.13
o The Harbor Department will be responsible for the boardwalk maintenance,
and the Parks & Recreation Department will be responsible for the bike path
maintenance.14
• Road Access
o The road access is off of Fourth Avenue, through the harbor area "Permit
Only"parking lot.15
o The road will be a two way street with turn a round at the end of the uplands
to allow vehicles to turn around safely.16
o The road will provide access to S, M, N, O and P floats and access to parking
for the proposed handicap accessible fishing pier and allow access to slip
holder parking to load/unload their supplies and equipment.
o The road will comply with all fire and public safety requirements.
o The road will comply with the Seward City Code requirements.
o The road may need to be engineered.17
o The Public Works Department will maintain the road system.
• Drainage
o Drainage plans need to be created to meet the Storm Water Prevention Plan
Permit requirements.
o Engineered drawing will be needed.
12 Update the Harborside Concept.
"Grant money may be available from the Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and
Recreation-Recreational Trails Program.
14 The Public Works Department is seeking solution for the"fishing culverts"failure and proposals to
continue to allow pedestrian connection along the waterfront.
15 The access off of Fourth Avenue also serves Harborside Campground,behind the condos. With the
culvert failure, this is the only existing access.
16 Road design could change depending on the engineer study.
17 The storm drainage system may necessitate the need to engineer the road.Requirements may change if
the funding for the road is Federal, State or City money.As-builts are needed.
23
PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Goal: Provide quality public facilities and services to the residents, businesses and
visitors of Seward.
Utilities
o Utility use is directly correlated to development in the South Harbor
Uplands Area.
■ Electric
o The current electrical infrastructure is shown on Attachment B.
o Approval from the Electric Department is required before any
development occurs.
■ Water
o Water infrastructure availability is correlated with development in
the South Harbor Uplands Area.
o Currently, there is not water distribution system developed on the
South Harbor Uplands Area. Water is available."
o Approval from the Public Works Department is required before
any development occurs.
■ Sewage
o Sewage infrastructure availability is correlated with development
in the South Harbor Uplands Area.
o The sewage load can only handle boats and the restroom facility
located on the South Harbor Uplands Area.
o Currently, there is no wastewater collection system on-site. The lift
station that is on-site will accommodate some level of
development- although a wastewater collection system will need to
be developed.
o The South Harbor Uplands Area sewage system is not consistent
with the rest of the City of Seward. The Harbor Department is
responsible for the sewer system on the Uplands.19
18 A limiting factor is the size of the water main(8").
24
o Approval from the Public Works Department is required before
any development occurs.
Public Safety
■ Fire
o All development and activities on the South Harbor Uplands Area
must comply with all Fire requirements found in the Seward City
Code.
o Approval from the Fire Department is required before any
development occurs.
■ Flood
o The South Harbor Uplands area is in a Coastal High Hazard Area
(FIRM "V" Zones), which means it is in high velocity waters
(wind, tidal action, tsunami, etc.) creating waves of magnitude or
velocity to endanger property and lives.
o A Development Permit is required before beginning any structures,
fill, storage of materials, drainage facilities, etc
a) Construction materials and methods are regulated
■ Anchoring on piling or columns to prevent flotation
and lateral movement (100-year mean recurrence
level of wind and water); fill prohibited as structural
support
■ Materials and utilities resistant to flood damage
■ Space with breakaway panels required below (BFE)
b) All construction landward of mean high tide
o Floodplain management Variance Process and Procedures
a) Technical evaluations and 11 standards must be addressed
b) Showing of
i. Good and sufficient cause
ii. Exceptional hardship to the applicant
ill. Variance will not result in increased flood heights
c) Hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission
■ Natural Disaster
19 The sewer system on the South Harbor Uplands is a sewer service,which is the property owner's
responsibility.
25
o A Tsunami warning sign will be posted at the entrance of the South
Harbor Uplands Area.
o Evacuation signs from the float area and parking area will be
posted.
o Route directional signs will be posted.
o Buildings, roads and other infrastructure should follow
requirements in the Seward City Code.
o An emergency siren is located next to the Harbormaster's building.
It is designated to cover all of the harbor area including the
Railroad's freight dock and past the Department of Transportation
yard.
■ Building Code
o All commercial buildings built inside the City of Seward have to
meet all the related requirements in the 2006 IBS for the structural
related issues ETC and the amendments the City of Seward have
done to the code.
o An Alaska Stamped structural architectural engineered drawing is
mandatory for new construction.
COMMUNITY APPEARANCE
Goal: Improve the appearance of the community through increased landscaping,
beautification efforts and creating a user friendly environment.
• Aesthetics
o Greenery and landscaping fitting the harsh weather and non-organic
conditions should be used throughout the South Harbor Uplands Area and
be managed by the City.
o Landscaping should be a requirement in any private development.
o Installation of decorative or theme street lights.
o Have bike racks available.
o Create areas between all development that is ADA and public accessible.
26
OTHER IDEAS
• Eco-Education along the Boardwalk/Bike Path
o Interpretive panels located along the Boardwalk/Bike Path
o Ideas include:
■ Local Fish Species
■ Commercial Fishing,Kayak Fishing. Subsistence Fishing in Alaska
■ Sailing
■ Boat Types and Styles
■ Historical Boats (especially locals-resurrection,Alex Haley)
■ Local military history and boats including our role in WWII
■ 1964 Tsunami
■ Rockwell Kent's story
■ Sport Fishing Tips and Tricks
■ Local Sport Fishing success stories
■ Climate science and how it relates to Seward
o Fish Cleaning Station over by the bathrooms and the cast-most ramp.
*Last updated on January 29,2009.
27
NOT PART OF THE PLAN-Just my thoughts
Criteria for Building on the fill area... (Artists Row... or some other unified theme)
➢ Building size
➢ Building Height
➢ Mention Setback Regulations
➢ Facade theme (wood siding...)
➢ Leave an area for the public to walk through; green spaces
➢ Leave area for a Boardwalk, which the City will put in place (grant money?)
➢ Type of Businesses
❖ Exclude:
■ Auto Services/gas station
■ Boat Storage (competing with existing private businesses in the
area and additional regulations that would be required for this area)
■ Antenna, personal TV, satellite dish (block view)
■ Auto/RV sales and rentals
■ Boat sales
■ Boat work or storage of any kind
■ Car/boat wash
■ Dwellings (have different building code requirements)
■ Overnight camping (CUP)
■ Crematory(CUP)
■ Drive-in facility(CUP)
■ Seafood processing (CUP)
■ Shop (welding, wood signs etc...) (CUP)
■ Tanks, above ground associated with service station (CUP)
➢ Approval from the Electric Department, Public Works and the Building
Department
➢ Landscaping
28
Theresa Butts' Idea per September 8, 2008 Email:
These key features are:
• NW quadrant remains unobstructive of view into and out of the harbor (max 6'
height on eco/education displays, lots of open space in the layout, max 6 height
on greenery in this area).
• Include the NE corner of the employee parking lot as part of the NW quadrant of
the S harbor uplands (this helps keep the view clear and gives continuity to the
connection between the boardwalks and offers a good place to watch the boat
ramp --which can be quite amusing).
• Eco/education displays interspersed and/or bordered by attractive (though simple)
landscaping.
• Retail opportunities encouraged cast from displays to restrooms -- I suggest max 1
story(12')height (visualize these buildings from the existing boardwalk
businesses, try to preserve that value).
• Continuity and the natural people flow is critical and should not be sacrificed for
budget restrictions (it's a baby/bathwater thing)
• Boardwalk connects to memorial.
• Lead people via signage and landscaping continuity from existing developed area
to display area, new retail, fish station, memorial.
• Much of the uplands is left undeveloped and largely unrestricted pending success
of and lessons learned from new ventures.
• All construction and landscaping designed to last forever and be extremely low
maintenance (concrete, stainless steel, plastic (recycled, like the Trex at the new
playground -- although I favor real timbers for the boardwalk of course) ).
• An overall effect that is simple and pleasant.
Secondary features are:
• In line with the idea of keeping the west end open to prevent view obstruction:
create a secondary boardwalk with an attached green space (picnic tables, mini-
amphitheater-style stone terracing recessed into ground for seating out of the
wind, perhaps even a pavilion ....).
• Install a fishing pier(fixed, not floating) on the south side of the uplands,
connected to that (new)boardwalk.
• Encourage a view oriented destination retail (ie restaurant) to locate between this
green space/fishing pier and the memorial (leave room for future boardwalk
connection).
• Plan to eventually connect the two boardwalks.
29
Seward Small Boat Harbor
Plan
y
December S, 2014
Prepared by
The Port and Commerce Advisory Board
of
The City of Seward, Alaska
30
Seward Small Boat Harbor
Plan
Summary
This document is intended to serve policy makers and advisers as a general information source
and as a tool for prioritization and funding justification for the development and upgrade of the
Seward Small Boat Harbor. In its final adopted form, the plan will have been through the public
process at different steps, including meetings before the Port and Commerce Advisory Board and
the Seward City Council. After adoption, the plan will from time to time need revision and
updates as needs and opportunities appear, and as projects identified as priorities are completed.
In the decade since the previous plan was adopted, much has been accomplished in the Harbor.
The eastward expansion added slips to help meet demand for users on the wait list, and added
developable uplands south of the harbor. The improvements at I and T Docks provided needed
structural improvements. The Boat Lift has been replaced, a new Dock constructed, and the
adjacent uplands improved. The fuel Dock and X Float have been redone, and a new Z Float
constructed along the relocated eastern breakwater. D Float has been replaced. The Harbormaster
Office public restrooms and showers have been updated. The City Code Chapter addressing
Harbor uses has been rewritten through several public hearings at Port and Commerce Advisory
Board and City Council meetings. Capital projects awaiting funding further detailed within this
plan include replacement of floats, Docks and utilities in the south portion of the harbor, slip
build out along Z Float, and location and construction of a public crane(s).
Previous plans have not included upland commercial and transportation interests or concerns;
this plan proposes to adopt a more all-inclusive view incorporating those elements as well.
1
31
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 Introduction
1.1 General 3
1.2 Plan Approach 3
2.0 Regional Description
2.1 Brief History 5
2.2 Location 5
2.3 Climate 6
2.4 Winds 6
2.5 Tides 6
2.6 Waves 7
2.7 Ice 7
2.8 Land Use and Ownership 8
3. 0 Existing Harbor Facilities
3.1 The Small Boat Harbor 8
3.2 Seward Marine Industrial Center(SMIC) 10
4.0 The Development Plan
4.1 Economic Evaluation and Harbor Statistics 11
4.2 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Role 14
4.3 Development Criteria 14
4.4 Float System Layout 15
4.5 Float System Utilities 19
4.6 Gangways and Trestles 20
4.7 Launch Ramps 20
4.8 Parking Areas 21
4.9 Travelift and Maintenance Area 21
4.10 Public Crane 21
4.11 Wash Down Facility 22
4.12 Drive Down Float 22
4.13 Tidal Grid 22
4.14 Fish Cleaning Facilities 22
4.15 Restroom Facilities 23
4.16 ADA Accessible Fishing Pier 23
4.17 Harbormaster's Office and Shop 23
5.0 Accessibility
5.1 Background 23
5.2 Accessible Routes 23
5.3 Boat Slips 23
5.4 Upland Facilities 24
6.0 Plan Implementation 25
Appendix A-Drawings and Cost Estimates
Northeast Fish Cleaning Station 26
B, C, S, and a Portion of G Float Replacement 27
South Harbor Launch Ramp Improvements 29
Z Float Laterals (T,U V, and W Floats) 31
Appendix B -Commercial Fishing Vessels Homeported in Seward 32
Appendix C -City of Seward,Alaska, Resolution 2014-091 33
2
32
1.0 Introduction
1.1 General
The Seward Small Boat Harbor (see map on next page) is a significant aspect of the overall
commercial and economic picture of the City of Seward. The existing harbor was constructed
immediately 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 Manager to negotiate a transfer of the harbor and all of the
associated improvements from the State of Alaska to the City of Seward. The deal was approved
by the City Council on February 8, 1999, including a $3.1 million payment to the city for
maintenance. This was a one-time payment associated with the transfer of the facility and not
part of the Harbor Facility Grant Program.
At the time the deal was made, the city knew that the $3.1 million payment was insufficient to
make necessary improvements. The city has used various ways to fund harbor improvements:
bond borrowing, special user fees (such as the Capital Repair and Replacement Fee and
Passenger Facility Fee), federal appropriations, and state grants.
During the years 2005-2007 the city sold approximately $8 million in bonds to fund harbor
improvements. As of November 2014, approximately $6 million in borrowed principal remains
to be repaid.
In 2006, the Alaska Legislature established a new 50/50 matching grant program called the
Harbor Facility Grant Program (Reference Alaska Statute AS 29.60.800) handled by the State of
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. The grant program was established in
order to provide financial assistance to municipal or regional housing authority owned harbor
facilities. This grant program is funded on an annual basis at the discretion of the Alaska
Legislature and consists of two tiers: Tier I and Tier I1. The first tier has priority and consists of
major maintenance and repair of a harbor facility that was previously owned by the state and
now is locally owned. The second tier consists of all other harbor facilities and those harbor
facilities which have already received a Tier I grant. A harbor facility may only receive one Tier
I grant but is eligible for multiple Tier 11 grants. Seward used the Tier 1I approach to replace D
Float in 2013-2014. The B, C, S, and a portion of G Float Replacement grant application was
submitted as a Tier I project.
The development plan provides the present view for the future harbor. Most features will be
implemented at some time in the future as need, priority, and funding dictate.
1.2 Plan Approach
This plan updates and revises the Seward Small Boat Harbor Planning and Development Guide
(June 2003). The Port and Commerce Advisory Board(PACAB) worked with city staff to revise
and update this new plan. Discussion of the plan by PACAB was advertised in the local media.
Public comment was solicited at the PACAB meetings.
3
33
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34
2.0 Regional Description
2.1 Brief History
Russian fur trader and explorer Alexander Baranof named Resurrection Bay in 1792. While
sailing from Kodiak to Yakutat, he found unexpected shelter in this bay from a storm. He named
the bay "Resurrection" because it was the Russian Sunday of the Resurrection. The City of
Seward was named for U.S. Secretary of State William Seward, 1861-69, who negotiated the
purchase of Alaska from Russia during the Lincoln administration. In the 1890s, Capt. Frank
Lowell arrived with his family. In 1903, John and Frank Ballaine and a group of settlers arrived
to begin construction of a railroad. Seward became an incorporated city in 1912. The Alaska
Railroad was constructed between 1915 and 1923, and Seward developed as an ocean terminus
and supply center. By 1960, Seward was the largest community on the Kenai Peninsula.
Tsunamis generated during the 1964 earthquake destroyed the railroad terminal and killed
several residents. After the earthquake, Sewardites rebuilt, and the harbor was moved to its
current location. During the 2000s the harbor expanded to the east and south. Beginning in 1980,
the city acquired and developed the Seward Marine Industrial Center. Kenai Fjords National
Park was also designated at that time. The development of the cruise ship industry and
improvements to the Seward Highway have brought thousands of additional tourists to Seward.
And, as an ice-free harbor, Seward has become an important supply center for Interior Alaska.
With the threat of global climate change it is expected that Seward's role as a gateway to the
Arctic will continue to grow.
2.2 Location
The City of Seward is situated in the northwest corner of Resurrection Bay, a north-south fjord
19 miles long and 3 miles wide opening to the Gulf of Alaska, and on the southeast coast of the
Kenai Peninsula, 125 highway miles south of Anchorage. Resurrection Bay depths exceed 150
fathoms (900 feet) and the mountains on either side rise to elevations more than 4,000 feet above
sea level.
The city lies at the foot of Mount Marathon and is the gateway to the Kenai Fjords National
Park. It lays at approximately 60' 07' N Latitude, 149' 26' W Longitude (the harbor itself is
within Section 3, Township 1 South, Range 1 West, Seward Meridian). The area of the city
encompasses 15 square miles of land and 7 square miles of water.
5
35
2.3 Climate
The sub-arctic maritime climate at Seward is characterized by relatively mild winters and
summers. The average temperature is 25' F in winter and 62' F in the summer. A monthly
climatic summary is shown in Table 1:
Table 1
Monthly Climate Summary- Seward, Alaska
Fian Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul AugFs e P Oct Nov Dec Annual
Average Max.
Temperature 30.3 HHHHHHHS
44.5 HH
45.5
(Degrees F)
Average Min.
Temperature 20.5 HHHHHHHHHHH
34.1
(Degrees F)
�Averapge Tota( ) 6.23 5.45 3.78 3.89 4.05 2.28 2.59 5.22 10119.607.047.41Precistation Inches
Average Total 15.0 19.0 12.8 5.6 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.8 7.4 20.4 82.3
Snowfall(Inches)
Source: Western Region Climate Center
2.4 Winds
Winds at Seward are effectively aligned north-south with the topography of Resurrection Bay.
Winds are predominately northerly from October to March shifting to southerly in June and July
and back to northerly by October. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Harbor Expansion
Feasibility Report indicates a 50-year recurrence interval design wind for wave analysis of 63
miles per hour. This data was similar to that found by R&M Engineers (2012) 50-year sustained
winds 59 miles per hour (51.5 knots). The ocean swell enters Resurrection Bay and builds up
from the south. Winds over 35 knots from the north are common during the winter months with
southerly winds of 6 to 15 knots, occasionally higher, during the summer months. Strong winds
can occur from either the north or south at any time of the year.
2.5 Tides
Tides at Seward have a mean range of 8.3 feet and a diurnal range of 10.6 feet, causing tidal
currents of 1 (flood) to 1.7 (ebb) knots. Tide levels, referenced to Mean Lower Low Water
(MLLW), are shown in Table 2. Extreme high tide levels result from the combination of
astronomic tides and rise in local water levels due to atmospheric and wave conditions.
6
36
Table 2
Tidal Data— Seward,Alaska
Tide Elevation (Feet)
Highest Observed Water Level +15.70
Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +10.63
Mean High Water(MHW) + 9.71
Mean Sea Level (MSL) + 5.56
Mean Tide Level (MTL) + 5.55
Mean Low Water(MLW) + 1.38
Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) 0.00
Lowest Observed Water Level —5.00
Source:NOAA,National Ocean Service Station#9455090
2.6 Waves
Measured wave data is not available for the Seward area. As reported in the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers Harbor Expansion Feasibility Report, the following general statements appear
applicable to the wave climate:
• Wave heights of 4 to 6 feet are the maximum observed by longtime local residents (in
the vicinity of the existing harbor);
• "Typical"wave periods range from about 3 to 6 seconds;
• Local residents and recorded data indicate waves from the south-southeast
predominate; and,
• Long-period swells from the open ocean do not impact the existing harbor area.
(Long period waves DO impact the Seward Marine Industrial Center on the east side
of the bay).
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Harbor Expansion Feasibility Report wave analysis
completed in 1998 found that a 6.2-foot wave height and a 4.6 second period design wave should
be used for breakwater structure design. Waves of approximately 3 feet in the vicinity of the
small boat harbor are common with southerly summer winds.
2.7 Iee
Resurrection Bay is ice-free throughout the year. The existing harbor does not freeze up,
although skim ice does form occasionally around the perimeter of the harbor during the coldest
winter months.
7
37
2.8 Land Use and Ownership
In addition to the city-owned land surrounding the Small Boat Harbor, the Alaska Railroad
(AKRR) owns significant private land that is leased to both commercial and industrial
businesses. AKRR is currently pushing to enlarge their freight dock and also pursue further
development opportunities.
3.0 Existing Harbor Facilities
3.1 The Small Boat Harbor
The original harbor was authorized by Congress in 1930 and later modified by Congress in 1935.
The authorization provided for a 4.75-acre basin at a —12.5 MLLW depth protected by a south
breakwater 580 feet long and a north breakwater 950 feet long. Construction began in 1931. The
authorization was modified in 1954 to raise the elevation of the south breakwater and add tow
pile breakwaters at the entrance to the basin. This project was completely destroyed by the 1964
earthquake.
The Rivers and Harbors Act, 19 August 1964, provided for the relocation and reconstruction of a
12.45-acre harbor with entrance channel at —15 feet MLLW protected by two rock mound
breakwaters of 1,060 and 1,750 feet, with future provision for expansion. Reconstruction began
in August 1964 incrementally as other waterfront projects were constructed. The project was
completed in November 1965. The northwest corner of the present basin (from approximately F
Float northward on the west side of the basin) is a locally-constructed basin expansion. The
harbor was expanded to the east when the breakwater was relocated approximately 400 feet to
the east by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Several floods have affected the harbor since construction. The event with the most impact was
the fall flood in 1995 when approximately 23,000 cubic yards of material entered the harbor,
primarily in the northeast corner, covering the tidal grid. Approximately 20,000 cubic yards were
dredged in 1996. The grid was left covered with sediment and abandoned.
Many of the existing floats were constructed and installed by the State of Alaska from 1966
through 1973 soon after the basin was completed. X Float was originally constructed in 1978 and
rebuilt in 1996 following its catastrophic failure. A, B and C Floats had utility upgrades and were
re-decked and re-billeted in 1996. These older timber floats are in relatively poor condition with
a limited life expectancy. S Float is in the poorest condition and in need of immediate attention.
The City of Seward signed the Transfer of Responsibility Agreement turning the ownership of
the float system over to the city (from the state) in February 1999. The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers quitclaim deeded the basin back to the city in November 1999.
8
38
RECENT EXPANSION PROJECTS
• D Float Replaced(2014)
• Harbormaster Office Restroom Remodel (2013-2014)
• Z Float Completed(2011)
• East I And T Dock Renovations (2008)
• 50 Ton Lift Pit Relocation (2008)
• Southeast Harbor Floats (M,N, O,P, Q) Completed (2007)
• New restrooms at South Harbor(2007)
• North Harbor Float Extension (2005)
• East Harbor Expansion
• Parking and Oil Collection Station Upgrades
In 2012 portions of the north harbor, northeast harbor, and harbor entrance were dredged by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractor at a total cost of approximately $1.5 million consisting
of $571,000 of local funds (primarily Commercial Passenger Vessel) and $929,000 in federal
funds. In 2013 D Float was designed at cost of$100,000 funded by a Denali Commission Grant.
D Float was rebuilt at a cost of$2,138,838 (or approximately$38,000 per slip) with the cost split
between the city and a State of Alaska Department of Transportation Harbor Facility Grant.
Also, in 2013 the harbor restrooms were remodeled at a total cost of $130,000 from a state
legislative grant.
Portions of the North Harbor, E, F, H, J and G Floats were replaced with new concrete floats in
2001. An engineer's inspection report dated January 2011 looked at the southwest quadrant of
the harbor and found A, D and S Floats in serious or critical condition. Floats B, C, and G were
found to be in poor condition. On those docks the hinge connections to the finger floats were
found to be in serious condition. The south launch ramp boarding floats were found to be in
serious condition. Statistics for the existing harbor are shown in Table 3 and Table 4:
Table 3
Harbor Vital Statistics (7/16/2013)
Slip Length(Feet) Number of Slips Available
17' 66
23' 57
32' 312
40' 76
42' 58
50' 62
75' 16
90, 10
100, 6
150' 2
170' 1
Total: 666 Slips Available
Slip Length 22,931 Feet + Parallel 4,374 Feet= 27,305 Total Feet Available
9
39
Table 4
Moorage Available by Float
Float Number Length
A 57 23
B 54 32
C 62 32
D 58 40
E (South) 34 50
E (North) 23 75, 90, 100
F (South) 680'
F (South) 2 75
F (North) 30 50
F (T-Head) 1 60
G (South) 22 17
H 64 40
H (T-Head) 1 90
I 405'
J 60 32
K 46 32
L 300'
M 16 32
M (Parallel) 264'
N 30 32
O 30 32
P (South) 14 32
P (North) 12 40
Q (Parallel) 368'
R 485'
S (South) 24 17
S (North) 20 17
T 790'
X 6 Slips 682'
Z 4 Slips 400'
3.2 Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC)
The most recent Master Plan of the Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) was reviewed (but
never approved) in April 2011. As of November 2014, the construction of a new rubble mound
breakwater is about to get underway at a total estimated cost of$27 million.
10
40
4.0 The Development Plan
This plan was developed by using the outline of the 2003 Small Boat Harbor Planning and
Development Guide. The changes and updates were prepared by city staff and reviewed by the
Port and Commerce Advisory Board, and recommended for approval by the City Council. The
plan was discussed during a series of public meetings.
4.1 Economic Evaluation and Harbor Statistics
General— Seward has transitioned from an economic dependence on resource-based markets to a
visitor- and recreation-based economy. Most economic growth since 1990 has been driven by the
visitor industry, with employment in trade, services and transportation growing at a 5.9 percent
annual rate, until the recession that began in late 2008. The community has capitalized on its
road and railroad connections to Anchorage; its cruise ship terminal (approximately 50 vessels
call each summer); and its location as the major access point for visits to the Kenai Fjords
National Park and the Chiswell Islands (the most visited part of the Alaska Maritime National
Wildlife Refuge). Seward's Alaska SeaLife Center is another major visitor attraction.
Seward competes for visitors with other South Central Alaska communities: Homer, Kenai, and
Whittier. Each town has its own sets of attractions.
Commercial fishing remains a significant part of the Seward economy. 2013 proved to be a
record breaking year for salmon production in Alaska. The city hopes to be able to bring back
some of the commercial fishing vessel activity that has moved away from Seward.
The state prison located nearby and other government facilities, including the national park
headquarters, are also important year-round employers. Although a major sawmill was opened in
1993, it never became competitive, and has remained closed since 1994.
In 2012 the State Labor Department reported 973 jobs held by Seward residents, but this total
does not reflect seasonal jobs and other Seward jobs that are held by non-residents. The job
sectors, in declining order of importance are: trade, transportation and utilities 25.5%; public
sector 22.2%; leisure and hospitality 16.5%; education and health services 11.8%; professional,
business, financial, and information services 10.3%; manufacturing 4.0%; and construction
3.5%.
In recent years, population growth in Seward has been flat. The 2010 population of Seward was
2,693 and the 1990 population was 2,699.
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Seward gains a portion of its total municipal revenues from its sales tax (4%) and its
accommodation tax (4%). The community depends on these revenues to provide services to both
residents and visitors. Taxable sales in Seward have trended upward in recent years, from $45
million in 1992 to $75 million in 2002 to $108 million in 2012. The largest share of sales is
within the retail and service sector. Visitor sales, supported by Seward harbor and marine-related
activities, contribute substantially to overall municipal revenues.
HARBOR REVENUE STREAMS
WOO 00
S700,000.00
S6 0 —— ---— —--—
5600,000.00 —— _. _—_ _--- ._ __ _ _ -_ _. S5fl,451.00
I;iO3.00
$500.000.00 -----
w
i
000,000M —___—
z
$300,000.00 S320,000.00
$200,000.W
S100.000.DO
$ 2004 2005 2006 1 2007 2008 1 2009 1 2010 1 2011 2012
—Psmizer Fee S257,889.00 S271,045.00 S625,535.00 S691,600.00 S651,?Ifl.00 S503,282.00 S541,957.00 S557,421,00 01,103.00
Raw F'nh Tar SM451.00 $320,000.00
The harbor collects Passenger Fees from charter and tour boat operators at the rate of$3.50 per
passenger carried. Prior to 2006 the Passenger Fee was $1.50 per passenger. All boats in the
harbor pay a Capital Repair and Replacement Fee depending upon the length of the vessel.
Beginning in 2010 the harbor has received some of the Raw Fish Tax. The following graph and
table shows the amount of passenger fees collected between 2003 and 2012 along with the
harbor's portion (50%) of the Raw Fish Tax in 2011 and 2012:
Table 5
Passenger Fee & Raw Fish Tax (Dollars)
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Passenger Fee 257,889 271,045 625,535 691,600 657,248 503,282 544,947 557,421 551,103
Raw Fish Tax 599,451 320,000
Tourism, recreation and commercial fishing provide substantial support to the community
through the small boat harbor. Replacement and modernization of the harbor facilities will
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enhance the user- experience and increase the harbor's ability to generate support for the
community.
Current Harbor Use — The 2013 use of the Seward Harbor by vessel owners with a reserved slip
is shown in the following summary:
Charter boat vessels moored in Seward Harbor
There are 124 charter boats paying passenger fees in the Seward harbor.
These vessels range in length from 23 feet to 115 feet, with an average of 43 feet.
Commercial fishing boats
There are 19 commercial fishing vessels moored in Seward harbor.
These vessels range in length from 27 feet to 59 feet, with an average of 42.5 feet.
Motor vessels moored in Seward Harbor
There are 536 motorboats moored in the Seward harbor.
These vessels range in length is from 19 feet to 110 feet, with an average of 36.5 feet.
Sailboats moored in Seward Harbor
There are 145 sailboats moored in the Seward harbor.
These vessels range in length is from 23 feet to 54 feet, with an average of 35.3 feet.
Tugboats moored in Seward Harbor
There are 2 tugs moored in the Seward harbor.
The vessels range in length is from 60 to 105 feet, with an average of 82.5 feet.
During the winter season a number of tugboats come to Seward for moorage. In 2013-
2014 there are 6 more tugs tied up for the winter.
For the purpose of this plan, the category motor vessels do not include sailboats.
Due to the harbor expansion and recession that began in 2008, the level of unmet demand for
moorage in the Seward Harbor is not as great as past years. Table 6 shows the current waiting list
for permanent slips in the Seward Harbor and includes 169 people. Since there is an annual fee
for remaining on the waiting list, it best represents those people with a commitment to moor in
the Seward Harbor. However, since the wait for a slip can be several years, many prospective
vessel owners are forced to shop for other moorage alternatives.
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Table 6
Wait List by Slip Length
Vessel/Slip Length (Feet) Number of Vessels
17 0
23 2
32 34
40 86
50 37
60 8
75 11
90 1
100 2
>105 2
4.2 U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Role
Following the 1964 Earthquake, federal legislation was adopted that required that the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers be primarily responsible for harbor dredging. For example, in 2012 the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers was the lead agency for maintenance dredging in the harbor and the
harbor paid for dredging the portions of the harbor that were not federally mandated. Another
critical Corps-related issue is called Navigational Servitude. In 2014 the Water Resources
Development Act (WRDA) included new legislative language in Section 6004 that will allow the
construction of improvements on the South Harbor Uplands.
4.3 Development Criteria
The current layout of the harbor was completed with the east harbor expansion in 2011. The
harbor's top challenges are maximizing the use of available moorage slips, replacing aging
docks, and providing new services.
Environmental and Permit Aspects - Permits will be needed through the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers to replace and add floats, trestles and bulkheads and to do any in-water work. Items
such as a new grid, fill, and dredging and disposal will be the most challenging, because they are
considered the most environmentally sensitive.
Land Use and Zoning — The city-owned land at the harbor is zoned Harbor Commercial.
Adjacent lands are zoned Park, Industrial, and Auto Commercial.
Alaska Railroad— The Alaska Railroad (AKRR) owns land north of the Small Boat Harbor. The
city and AKRR completed a land swap in October 2014 in order to facilitate re-development of
the land formerly occupied by the U.S. Coast Guard Shore facility, and solidify the city's
possession of the easterly breakwater.
Boat Storage and Boat Work Yards—There are several privately owned yards at the north end of
the Small Boat Harbor. Maintaining additional vessel storage within proximity of the boat lift is
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a continuing challenge. In mid-2013 the largest boatyard neat- the harbor closed its operations.
There are additional private boat yards in the area, with the largest of those located at Lowell
Point.
Parking — During the summer the harbor area is one of the most heavily used areas in Seward
with regard to the availability of parking spaces. There is just enough parking available,
especially during summer weekends, holidays and Silver Salmon Derby time. There is limited
adjacent space available to make into parking space. Day parking, in addition to long-term
parking, was identified as critical. The tour boat companies have developed remote parking lots
with shuttle buses that bring customers to the harbor.
Public Restrooms and Showers — In 2013 the harbor used $130,000 in state grant funds to
remodel the restrooms at the Harbormaster's Office. Additional funds to complete the project
were received from the State of Alaska Commercial Passenger Vessel funds. Public restroom
facilities are limited, especially for the influx of summer visitors in the harbor area. The primary
restroom location is in the Harbormaster's Office building, which also includes a few showers.
Other restroom locations include the Park Service Headquarters and Kenai Fjords Tours
facilities. These facilities are near the Harbormaster's Office. Additional public restrooms are
located in the south parking area and northeast parking area. The harbor needs another set of
restrooms in the northwesterly quadrant of the harbor. From that corner of the harbor it is
approximately 1,200 feet to the nearest public restroom.
Launch Ramp Improvements — There are now two existing launch ramps in the small boat
harbor, one at the northeast corner and one at the southwest corner of the basin. The harbor staff
have made significant repairs, including float decks and pilings, to both launch ramps during
2012 and 2013.
One planned improvement is to lengthen the launch ramps in order to make them safer to use at
very low tide levels.
Slip Sizes — In the past, boats were smaller and correspondingly the harbor included more 17-
and 24-foot slips. The current harbor expansion added mostly 32-foot slips, some 24-foot slips,
and some linear moorage on Z Float.
Leased Properties —All harbor leases, upon renewal or change of lease, should be considered by
administration for easement and right-of-way access.
4.4 Float System Layout
Fleet — The number of vessels seeking moorage in the harbor was determined from the wait list
shown in Table 6. Until the 2008 recession there had been a national trend in the marine
industry, both in sales and manufacturing, toward larger and wider boats. The results of a
questionnaire in 2003 showed that 75 percent of those responding agreed that some smaller slips
could be eliminated if"other" arrangements could be made for the smaller boats. Therefore, the
minimum new slip size was recommended to be 32 feet with increased emphasis on 40 foot and
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larger slips. Space for transient vessels will be included to the greatest extent possible for the
transient commercial fishing fleet in addition to recreational vessels.
Slips in the 60-foot to 100-foot range have been included that will accommodate large yachts,
commercial fishing vessels, and tour boats. Also, linear moorage is provided for even larger
vessels up to 90 and 120 feet.
Large commercial fishers include about 30 vessels between 37 to 125 feet long with a beam 15
to 35 feet and draft 7 to 13 feet, approaching 15 feet when fully loaded. Only about 10 are
presently in reserved slips. Barges, tugs, ferries and research vessels occasionally use the harbor,
most often wintering over.
Main Interior Channels — The main channel running diagonally north-south in the central part of
the harbor will be a minimum of 150 to 200 feet wide to accommodate the tour boats and larger
commercial fishing vessels accessing the processing docks and T Dock. A common standard is
five times the largest beam width for two-way traffic, (5 x 35 = 175 feet). Other access channels
to the floats and launch ramps will be a minimum 100 feet, which would accommodate vessels
with beams up to 20 feet.
Fairways — The actual dimension of the fairway (the distance between the ends of slip finger
floats on adjacent docks) should consider several factors:
• Environmental (wind, waves and currents)
• Vessel maneuverability
• Boat handler experience
Wind is the most important environmental factor affecting moorage in Seward. Waves and
currents are not significant factors at the Seward Harbor. Currents during tidal exchange are
present, but are not considered significant. It is well known, due to the shape of Resurrection
Bay, that the winds blow either northerly or southerly and seldom from the east or west. The
slips are laid out in the north-south direction for this reason. The effect of the wind on a boat will
depend on the "sail" area presented to the wind, which will usually be the greatest with the wind
on the beam. The fairways are east-west, beam to the winds. Vessels vary in their
maneuverability. Twin-screw vessels and those with bow thrusters can maneuver quite well in
tight situations. Single screw vessels and most sailboats are quite maneuverable moving forward,
but can be notoriously bad when backing and can be significantly affected by winds. Boat
handling skills also vary considerably. The Seward Harbor has visitors from all skill levels from
novice to expert boat handlers.
The current practice in the harbor is to allow boats to extend up to four feet beyond the slip
finger, which is presently included in the Seward City Code for the harbor. The common
engineering standard for fairway sizing is to make the clear distance between the boat extremities
no less than 1.5 times the longest boat length using that fairway. it is often increased to 1.75
times the boat length if maneuvering conditions warrant. Larger vessels 50 feet and longer
sometimes have fairway widths up to two times the vessel length. This distance is needed to
allow vessels to safely enter their slip and make turning movements. The American Society of
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Civil Engineers' Planning and Design Guidelines for Small Craft Harbors recommends a
minimum fairway width of 1.5 times the longest slip.
The minimum fairway widths for the Seward Harbor are set at 1.5 times the slip length with no
overhang. The new D Float that completed in April 2014 was designed with the same dimensions
(number of slips, size of slips, and width of fairway) as the dock that it replaced.
With no vessel overhang from the slip fingers, the minimum fairway dimensions would be:
Table 7
Minimum Fairway Dimension
Slip Length (Feet) 1.5 x L Fairway (Feet)
60 90
50 75
40 60
32 48
Access channels to launch ramps will be a minimum 100 feet.
Slip Width — Boat sizes have changed over the past 20 plus years, with the principle change
being the beam width. Slips in the Seward Harbor are doublewide to accommodate two vessels
between slip finger floats. The width depends on the vessels to be served, environmental
conditions, and operator skills, plus the judgment of the design engineer. Generally, the
minimum distance between slip finger floats has been taken as roughly 2.3 times the width of the
vessel for double occupancy. Vessel beam width varies greatly; however, correlations to boat
length have been made by others based on statistical research of boat manufacturer's data and
inventory of Alaskan harbor users. The following table provides guidelines for the stall spacing
assuming the vessel is equal to the slip length:
Table 8
Stall Spacing Guidelines
Slip Length (Feet) Slip Clear Spacing (Feet, Double)
75 49.0
60 43.0
50 40.0
40 34.0
32 30.0
The clear spacing above exceeds the minimum values. However, they are considered prudent due
to the winds, vessel maneuverability, operator experience, presumption of commercial use
(especially in the larger slips), variability in vessel beam, and minimum width fairways.
Interior Access Channel—The main channel running diagonally north-south in the central part of
the harbor is a minimum of 150 feet wide between X Float and E Float and 200 feet wide in
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other areas to accommodate the larger commercial fishing vessels accessing the fish processing
docks and T Dock. Access to launch ramps will be a minimum 100 feet, which would
accommodate vessels with beams up to 20 feet. Widths would be larger if possible. In this case,
limited space makes the access width narrower than desired.
East Harbor Float Lam—A new marginal float, Z Float, was built as close to the breakwater as
possible and extends to and beyond the angle point in the breakwater. It has been proposed that Z
Float have five main floats with slips as shown in the following table:
Table 9
East Harbor Float System
(See proposed layout at the end of Appendix A)
Slip Size Number of Slips
32 36
40 22
50 18
60 8
100 5
120 1
Total Slips = 90
Total Transient= 1,200 feet
A 600-foot section of the existing X Float was relocated to the East Harbor also. It parallels the Z
Float and provides linear moorage for the larger commercial fishing vessels that are not
accommodated in the new slips. The remaining 150 feet of X Float was left in place and the
privately owned fuel dock was attached. The result was renamed R float. Neither X Float nor R
Float offer shore power for moored vessels.
Float Replacement Program — In 2010-2011 the harbor's contract engineer, URS, completed an
inspection of the docks in the southwest area of the harbor. The docks included were A, B, C, D,
G, and S, and the South Launch Ramp. In 2014, D Float was replaced at a total cost of
approximately $2.2 million. It is hoped that the state will fund half of the cost of the B, C, S, and
a portion of G Float replacement in early 2015 and those docks will be replaced during 2015-
2016 at a total estimated cost of approximately$6 million.
Float System Construction — The 2003 plan recommended concrete floats. However, the floats
that have been installed during the period 2006-2014 have all been timber construction on
floatation tubs. The wooden docks are easier to repair and much better for snow removal.
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4.5 Float System Utilities
Potable Water—The harbor staff is pleased with the design
and operation of the potable water system that was p
installed on M, N, O, P and Q Floats. The same design was g
used for D Float. Plan review and certification to operate
the public water system is required from the State
Department of Environmental Conservation.
Fire Protection — The City of Seward has adopted the
International Fire Code (IFC) and associated State
amendments as the model code for fire protection
standards. The IFC essentially requires a standpipe type Potable Water Riser
fire protection system. In addition to the IFC, the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) has several standards that must be
considered. The following NFPA standards apply:
• NFPA 303, Marinas and Boat Yards
• NFPA 307, Construction and Fire Protection of Marine
Terminals, Piers and Wharves
• NFPA 14, Standpipe and Hose Systems
The existing replacement floats followed the above codes and
standards. The fire protection system for new or replaced floats and On Float Fire Valve
refurbished Docks will also follow these same codes and standards.
The codes and standards will again be reviewed along with experience with the existing new
system during the final design stage. A dry standpipe system is recommended.
Sewer System — The harbor is taking steps to make the boat pump-out
stations more user friendly. Specifically, the use of tokens is being
eliminated, so that customers won't need to go to the office before using
the pump-out stations. The State of Alaska has federal grant funds that
can be used on a 75% matching basis in order to improve pump-out
facilities.
Power and Lighting — Most new boat slips will be configured with
shore power. Power configurations will vary with 120 volt, 30 ampere,
single phase; 208 volt, 30 ampere, single phase; and 208/120 volt, 50
ampere, three phase. Special configurations have been installed for large
vessels. There are a number of shore power pedestals that supply more
than one voltage configuration.
All power will be served from utility transformers on shore near the
pedestrian approaches to the harbor. Power distribution cables will be Power Pedestal With
routed beneath the approaches, down the gangways, and into the float Light
distribution panels.
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All shore power pedestals will be new. The harbor staff is pleased with the power pedestals that
were installed on M, N, O, P, and Q Floats. On D Float the water faucets were incorporated into
the power pedestals. Both duplex style units, intended to be located midway between slip floats,
and single style units will be considered. Energy consumption is monitored at each pedestal and
billed to the customer, accordingly. The pedestals will be configured with digital style meters.
The receptacles specified for the pedestals will be conventional locking style as stipulated by the
National Electrical Code. Circuit breakers will be "bolt-on" style to minimize corrosion at their
connection to the terminals.
During 2014 several harbors in Southeast Alaska experienced problems with the implementation
of the new Electric Code requirements for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) on docks.
These new systems will trip with a very slight amount of stray current. Some vessels owners at
these southeast harbors installed new isolation transformers to eliminate stray current.
Lighting will be integrated into the shore-tie pedestal to maintain consistency with the North
Harbor installation. This design has proven to be cost-effective and efficient. The luminaries are
mounted at a height of about four feet above the deck. The luminaries will utilize metal halide
lamps with good life expectancy qualities. Additional luminaries will be required on the
approaches and gangways.
4.6 Gangways and Trestles
New or newly-remodeled inner harbor facilities are required to be compliant with the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) rules and guidance published in September 2002. At a minimum,
80-foot gangways, similar to those installed at D, E, F, J, Q, X, Z Floats, will be provided at
pedestrian access points to the float system. Timber trestles will be designed or existing trestles
modified to accept the new gangways.
A new gangway and trestle will be
constructed for S Float leading to the
parking area. The B Dock trestle will be
reconstructed and a new 80-foot covered
gangway installed. The B Float gangway
design will need to consider how the gut
barge can be moved beneath it. When new
gangways are in place at B and S Floats,
New Aluminum Gangway-J Dock at Extreme only R Dock gangway will not meet ADA
High Tide requirements.
4.7 Launch Ramps
The existing northeast launch ramp will remain as is with maintenance and upgrades, as
necessary. It is planned that the new Northeast Fish Cleaning Station will be located at the
bottom of the northerly boarding float. Meanwhile the sewage pump-out at that location will be
disassembled and abandoned. At the other end of the harbor, the southwest launch ramp is
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becoming a top priority project, due to customer demand, age of the structure, and the potential
eligibility of the boat ramp for grant funds.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) uses federal Sport Fish Restoration funds
to build and re-build boat ramps. ADF&G estimates that the design cost for this new boat ramp
will total $325,000, with 25% of that amount ($87,500) expected from the City of Seward.
Similarly, construction costs will be shared at a ratio of 75% to 25%. One consideration is that
the grant agency requires a minimum number of boat/trailer parking stalls in order to qualify for
grant funding.
4.8 Parking Areas
South Harbor Uplands —A set of restrooms (2007) and a new Mariner's Memorial (2012-2014)
have been built in the South Harbor Uplands. The city's recycling bin is also located in the area,
at least temporarily. In 2014, the parking department installed a new paved road surface that
leads up to the parking area. With the 2014 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) bill, the
Navigational Servitude issue has been federally resolved and so the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers will no longer restrict commercial development in this area. This area also may be
ideal for a new convention center or Harbormaster's Office. It will be important to strive for the
proper balance between commercial development and parking.
There are 80 truck and trailer stalls and 60 single car stalls in the South Harbor Uplands. The
Uplands is the city's default parking area for the trucks and trailers, although they are allowed to
park across the street in the South Lot. The parking fee is different in the two locations: $20
oversize rate in the South Lot compared to $10 flat rate on the Uplands.
Northeast Parking Area— In 2012, the new U.S. Coast Guard Station and Army Resort Dispatch
building were built in this area. In 2013 new pavement was added. The northeast parking area
has 130 truck and trailer stalls and 50 stalls for single cars (180 total).
The restrooms in this area are the most primitive in the harbor and should be scheduled for
replacement.
4.9 Travelift and Maintenance Area
The northwesterly quadrant of the harbor was rebuilt in 2008. This included moving the location
of the Travelift and strengthening both I and T Docks. New pavement was placed in this area in
2013.
4.10 Public Crane
A preliminary design report looked at two possible location and two sizes of cranes. Further
discussion, along with public testimony, resulted in a unanimously passed PACAB Resolution
2014-01, approving design and construction of an 8 ton crane to be located at the end of I Dock.
The alternative suggested by the administration was a 1.5 ton crane located on the Travelift
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Dock. The purpose of either of these projects would be for mariners to load and unload fish and
gear.
4.11 Wash Down Facility
A new wash down facility in the area of the Travelift would benefit harbor users by offering a
convenient way to clean their boats. And since potential contaminants would be captured for
proper disposal, the facility would also be good for the environment. A wash down facility was
built at SMIC in 2013 and the harbor staff is refining operational techniques. The pressure
washing equipment is mounted on a trailer and it could be used at both SMIC and the Small Boat
Harbor if a slab with containment was built.
4.12 Drive Down Float
A new drive down float is proposed for the northeast corner of the harbor,just to the north of the
northeast launch ramps. The drive down float would provide access for boats to load and unload
supplies and equipment or do minor maintenance. Only temporary short-term mooring would be
permitted and no overnight mooring. The float would be 60 feet wide by 100 feet long, held in
place by steel piling, and have an approximately 100-foot steel bridge/gangway accessing the
northeast parking area. The float and bridge would be similar to the drive down dock in Sitka,
Alaska which is heavily used by boats.
4.13 Tidal Grid
The harbor did have a tidal grid in the northeast corner until the flood in the fall of 1995. At that
time, the grid was buried by sediment washed into the basin by the flood. The grid was never
uncovered, primarily because of the high cost of potential contaminated soil disposal. It is
possible that state matching grant funds may be used to construct a new grid.
A tidal grid is proposed to be installed between I Dock and the Travelift in the northwest
quadrant of the harbor. Accessibility from both land and water exist at this site, and similar
working infrastructure already exists on both sides. An alternative location with more room is the
currently unused northeast corner of the harbor area between the east side of the T Dock and the
Northeast Boat Ramp/Fish Cleaning Station.
4.14 Fish Cleaning Facilities
The harbor has a grant to replace the fish cleaning station in the northeast corner of the harbor.
The new fish cleaning station will be built at the bottom of the northeast launch ramp. This will
improve these facilities for this quadrant of the harbor. in 2007 a similar floating fish cleaning
facility was built in the southeast corner of the harbor.
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4.15 Restroom Facilities
The Harbormaster Office public restrooms were remodeled during the winter of 2013-2014 using
monies from the State Commercial Passenger Vessel (CPV) funds. A second shower was added
to the womens' side of the restrooms, and the restrooms are fully ADA compliant.
4.16 ADA Accessible Fishing Pier
An ADA accessible fishing pier is planned for the south side of the south parking fill in the
vicinity of the creek flowing into the bay from the lagoon. The rocky slope configuration of the
beach restricts the handicapped from fishing in this area. Specific plans have not been developed,
but the pier is envisioned as a "T" shape end with railings designed to allow wheelchair bound
people the opportunity to fish. The pier will provide an observation location for the public to
watch the fishing action and boats entering and leaving the harbor. The design will also require
special considerations for its location within the heavy wave zone.
4.17 Harbormaster's Office and Shop
The existing Harbormaster's Office and Shop is located in the center of the harbor tourist and
business area. The building is still functional, but could use significant remodeling and code and
safety upgrades. In 2014 a new paint job was applied to the roof of the building which was
starting to rust all over.
5.0 Accessibility
5.1 Background
The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) rules for marinas were established in 2002 and
revised in 2010. The rules are administered by the United States Access Board in Section 1003
Recreational Boating Facilities.
5.2 Accessible Routes
Surrounding the Seward Harbor are parking lots with many designated ADA parking stalls in
close proximity to the docks.
The Seward Harbor has replaced most of its gangways to meet ADA standards. Those standards
require gangways that are at least 80 feet long and 5 feet wide. The following seven gangways
are fully compliant: D, E, F, J, M-Q, X, and Z. Three gangways: B, R, and S are not compliant.
The gangways at B and S are scheduled for replacement in 2015-2016.
5.3 Boat Slips
Only the new and rebuilt portions of the harbor are required to meet ADA standards. The ten
newer docks in the harbor have ADA compliant slips: D, E, F, H, J, M, N, O, P, and Q. It is
required to adopt a plan to bring the marina into full compliance. At this date, eight older Docks
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are non-compliant: A, B, C, G, K, L, R, and S. Several of those docks — B, C, S and a portion of
G Docks—are scheduled for replacement in 2015-2016.
Accessible boat slips must have a surface five feet wide without any barriers that limit access. In
Seward the newer docks listed above have five foot wide fingers that provide the necessary
access in order to meet this requirement. On the other hand, linear moorage in Seward generally
has bull rails that disqualify linear moorage for ADA consideration. For example, the harbor has
at least three designated ADA slips, with signs, located at: the first space on A Float, M-1, and
N-2. Apparently these slips have been designated due to the proximity to parking and the boat
ramp (A Float), but in each slip the existing bull rails disqualify those ADA slips. The rules do
allow that a five-foot wide opening every ten feet of linear Dock qualifies as ADA moorage.
The Seward Harbor has 660 slips of various sizes and almost 4,400 linear feet of side-tie
moorage. According to the rules, the 4,400 linear feet is the equivalent of 110 slips. Thus Seward
has a total slip equivalent of 770 = 660 + 110. The ADA rules prescribe how many accessible
slips are required based on the total number of slips in the marina. Marinas having between 701
and 800 slips are required to have a minimum of ten accessible slips.
The accessible slips should be of various sizes and dispersed throughout the accessible portions
of the marina:
A marina does not have to provide more accessible slips than required.
Accessible slips do not need to be marked and are not reserved in the same way
as vehicle parking spaces.
Facilities should hold the accessible slips open for persons with disabilities until
all other slips are filled. At that point, the slip may be made available for general
use. For seasonal slip holders, accessible slips should be held until the expiration
period for slip contracts has expired. Marina operators may choose to make
information regarding accessible boat slips available in promotional material or
a facility guide. Ensuring that accessible slips are available to persons with
disabilities is an operational issue and operators should contact the Department
of Justice for further information.
Source: The Access Board's guide booklet,"Accessible Boating Facilities"
5.4 Upland Facilities
The newly remodeled restrooms and water fountains at the Seward Small Boat Harbor meet all
ADA requirements.
24
54
6.0 Plan Implementation
Future projects will be completed incrementally in phases. Implementation of each phase will
include the following normal operating procedure:
• A phase will be identified by the Harbormaster and his staff;
• The Port and Commerce Advisory Board (PACAB) will review and approve the
phase, recommending it to the City Council; and,
• The City Council will review and approve the phase and funding.
Public input will be a part of the process during public meetings at both the PACAB and City
Council stages prior to final approval for construction.
25
55
APPENDIX A
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26
56
City of Seward Small Boat Harbor
SOUTHWEST HARBOR RENOVATION PHASE 2: B, C, AND S FLOATS
Base Sid Items: Budgetary Estimate
Description Quantity Unit Unit Price Extended Price
i Mobilization/Demobilization 1 LS $ 250,000 $ 250,000
2 Construction Survey 1 LS $ 25,000 $ 25,000
3 Demolition and Salvage 1 LS $ 270,000 $ 270,000
4 Wildlife Observer 1 LS $ 65,000 $ 65,000
5 B Float Gangway Abutment 1 LS $ 120,000 $ 120,000
6 S Float Gangway Abutment 1 LS $ 40,000 $ 40,000
7 Refurbish B Float,Install as new S Float 1 LS $ 30,000 $ 30,000
8 F&I 10'Wide Headwalk Floats 2800 SF $ 75 $ 210,000
9 F&I 10"Wide Main Floats 9360 SF $ 75 $ 702,000
10 F&I 4'X 32'Stall Floats 56 EA $ 12,000 $ 672,000
11 Float Transition Assemblies 2 EA $ 5,000 $ 10,000
12 F&I 20x40 Gangway Landing Float at G Float 1 EA $ 73,000 $ 73,000
13 F&I 16x20 Gangway Landing Float at S Float 1 EA $ 29,000 $ 29,000
14 Leveling Flotation Furnished 50 EA $ 100 $ 5,000
15 Leveling Flotation Installed 50 EA $ 300 $ 15,000
16 Install Owner Supplied 100-ft Gangway at B Float 1 LS $ 20,000 $ 20,000
17 F&I 6x80 Gangway at 5 Float 1 LS $ 70,000 $ 70,000
18 16"Dia Galv Steel Piles,Furnished 6480 LF $ 75 $ 486,000
19 16"Dia Galv Steel Piles Driven 108 EA $ 3,000 $ 324,000
20 F&I Potable Water System(B&C Floats) 1 LS $ 123,700 $ 123,700
21 F&I Dry Fire Suppression System(B&C Floats) 1 LS $ 111,330 $ 111,330
22 F&I Potable Water System(S Floats) 1 LS $ 43,000 $ 43,000
23 F&I Dry Fire Suppression System(S Float) 1 LS $ 38,700 $ 38,700
24 Upland waterline service to S Float 1 LS $ 22,500 $ 22,500
25 New Backf low Preventer at S Float 1 LS $ 35,000 $ 35,000
26 F&I Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets 11 EA $ 1,200 $ 13,200
27 F&I Life Ring and Cabinet 11 EA $ 1,200 $ 13,200
28 F&I Safety Ladders(upNout) 55 EA $ 550 $ 30,250
29 F&l Anodes 108 EA $ 1,100 $ 118,800
30 Power and Lighting Systems(B&C Float only) 1 LS $ 397,950 $ 397,950
Subtotal Base Bid Items: $ 4,363,630
Summary
Construction Total $ 4,363,630
Estimate Contingency(concept level) 20% $ 872,726
Owner's/Construction Contingency 3% $ 130,909
Engineering&Construction Administration 12% $ 644,072
Project Total(2014 U.S.Dollars): $ 6,011,337
Page 1 of 1 6/20/2014
27
57
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20
58
South Launch Ramp
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29
59
Mack Funk
From: Price, Richard A(OFG) <richard.price@alaska.gov>
Sent: Sunday,August 31, 2014 11:49 AM
To: Mack Funk
Cc: Breakfield,Jeffery A(DFG)
Subject RE:South Harbor Boat Launch Ramp
Mack,
Received you voice mail message and thought 1 would first update you on our Capital Improvement Projects(CIA)
procedures vid ernail and then answer any questions you may have concerning the process.
Let me present you with a brief explanation on how our boating access program works concerning project proposal
request such as yours.The information in the Project Data Sheet that Jeff completed for your proposa I will be utilized to
score/rank the project based on a set criteria.Once scored the project proposal will be submitted along with other
boating access projects from Region It for FY16 CIP requests.The CIP requests are then submitted to headquarters and
reviewed by the state-wide access coordinator.Please note all regional CIP boating access project request will compete
state-wide with other regions project request in the state. If Seward(The City)CIP request makes the state-wide final
list it is then submitted to the legislature for their approval(we need their consent in order to pursue the funding),The
CIP requests that are approved are usually posted around the end of the legislative session which would be the end of
the present fiscal,i.e.June 30,2015.Once the CIP request is approved we the Alaska Department of Fish and Game
(ADF&G)write a project proposal for the CIP requesting funding for the project,and then send the proposal to the
United States Fish and Wildlife Service(USF&W)our federal funding agency.The next step if the CIP request is approved
by the USF&WS is receiving the appropriations for the request.At that juncture you are approximately a year down the
road from the time you made the initial FY16 request.
Please note that a project of this stature would be a multi-year funded cooperative project between The City and
ADF&G.The FY16 CIP funding request for the"Seward South Boat Launch Ramp and Mooring Float Renovation Project,"
would be for Phase I activities(preliminary design and cost estimate).This would be approximately in the$350K range,
ADF&G 75%contribution would be$262.5K and The City's 25%match at that stage would be$87.SK.(Next step is to hire
an engineering consulting firm to complete preliminary design plans and establish cost estimates for construction.The
remaining requests for the total cost of the project would be realized in the next two or three fiscal year CIP requests,
depending on the overatl cost of the project.This is because Alaska has to compete with other lower forty-eight boating
access projects funding request and only so much USF&WS monies are distributed/available"Nation-wide"on a yearly
basis for these project requests.
As you can see it is an involved process which takes time and effort,hopefully this is not to confusing.That said,I do
intend on submitting a request for the"Seward South Boat Launch Ramp and Mooring Float Renovation Project" in my
FY16 CIP request.
Hope this helps: I will be on personal leave next week so if you have any questions we can talk when I get back.
Thanks,
Rich
Richard A.Price
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Access Program Project Manager
30
60
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31
61
APPENDIX B
CONMMRCIALFISHING'%'ESSELSHOI%IEPORTED IN SEWARD
1990 2012
I
it
140
120
100 101
80
z �`' 65
60
F,
40
20
.Jlaska Commercial Fuheries Fats
Coamisisoa O
1990 199c _UUO :006 2012
\,usher of Commercial Fish ing\'f-;sell 1'8 101 3: 49 6;
32
62
APPENDIX C
33
63
Sponsored by: Port and Commerce Advisory Board
CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2014-091
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,
ALASKA, APPROVING THE SEWARD SMALL BOAT HARBOR PLAN
WHEREAS, the City Council originally approved the Seward Small Boat Harbor Area
Planning and Development Guide on April 28, 2003;and
WHEREAS, the Port and Commerce Advisory Board (PACAB) began working to revise
and rework the plan, in cooperation with City staff in April of 2013; and
WHEREAS, public input has been solicited, received, and included in the proposed new
plan; and
WHEREAS, the proposed revised plan lists completed projects, includes incomplete
projects, and proposes new projects; and
WHEREAS, the Port and Commerce Advisory Board adopted Resolution 2014-004,
recommending that the City Council approve the Seward Small Boat Harbor Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
irrr CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,that:
Section 1, The Seward Small Boat Harbor Plan as presented in substantial form at this
meeting is hereby approved.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 8`h day of
December, 2014.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
J
an Bardarson, Mayor
64
CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2014-091
AYES: Keil, Casagranda, Squires, Butts, Darling, Bardarson
NOES: None
ABSENT: Terry
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST:
lkG� a sc
tyihanna Ki CM Clerk
{City Seal}
• p 4 dyJ,'.
t`4`a..�.�..ley♦
65
'f7
i�
i
f Sponsored bN: \leszaros
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2019-064
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY O1� SE:NN ARU,
AI,ASKA, REQUESTING THAT GON'ERNOR MIKE DUNLEAN'1' AND
HIS ADMINISTRATION INTERVENE IN THE STATE OF ALASKA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SEWARD AIRPORT PRO.1 E CT
f
AND DIRECT THAT PROJECT ALTERNATIVE 1.1 BE SELECTED .AND
CONSTRICTED
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) owns and operates
the Seward Airport located in Seward, Alaska; and
WHEREAS, \arious flooding events and human intervention to manage events in the
Resurrection River hay c caused the river to change course; and
WHEREAS, the river is now redirected towards the existing long runway and has
undermined it, causing the runway to be inoperable to its full capacity; and
WHEREAS, DOT has been in the process of addressing this issue through alarge-scale
project and has determined to move forward with Project Alternative number 2.2;
WHEREAS, Project Alternative 2.2 is detrimental to the community of Seward because
it will hinder economic dcvelopment, emergency preparedness and response, and will cause
significant environmental concerns; and
,r
r WHEREAS, the community, Council and administration were heavily involved in the
project process and feel that the input and feedback that was given to DOT was not considered in
ry
the decision to select Alternative 2.2, and
WHEREAS, Project and Alternative 2.2 does not meet the existing or future needs of the
City of Seward; and
WHEREAS, the Seward City Council and the Port and Commerce Advisory Board held
a joint work session on July 1, 2019 to discuss the Airport Project and determined that Project
r Alternative 1.1 is the project that best reflects the desires and needs of the community of Seward.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SENVARD, ALASKA that:
Section 1. The Seward Cite Council urges Honorable Gov crnor \11kc lhmlcavy and his
administration to inter%,cnc in the Alaska Department of Transportation SCvv�u-d Airport Project
and direct the department to select and construct Project Alternate\c 1 . I .
ss
:i
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2019-064
Section 2. Further, the Seward City Council requcst, that all c\pcnciiturcx associatc(l ��ith
Project Alternative 2.2 immediately cease so that funds can be appnynr Itcly utiliiccl.
Section 3. This resolution shall take et'tect imme(IMtely upon a(loption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Sew arcl. :\laska, this 8"'
clav of July, 2019.
THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
David Squires,May
;1)'FS: Horn, Osenga, McClure, Towsley, Seese, Squires
NO1:S: None
ABSI NT: Lane
ABSTAIN: None
renda J. Ballo MMC
City Clerk
aaaaaa Ilk$a#ff'p
(City Se�►)��`l OF szi "�,
!� c
SEA, o
�'• QF ra P
67
Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: July 8, 2019
a
:M
To: City Council
From: Scott Mesraros, City Manager
Agenda Item: Urging Governor Mike Dunleavy and his administration to intervene in the
State of Alaska Department of Transportation Seward Airport Project and
recommending that Alternative 1.1 be selected and constructed
BACKGROUND & JuSTI 'ICATION:
The State of Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) owns and operates the Seward Airport
located in Seward, Alaska. Through various flooding events and human intervention to manage
flooding in the Resurrection River, the river has changed course and is now redirected towards the
existing long runway at the Seward. Airport. Due to this redirection, the long runway has been
Undennined and has caused the runway to be inoperable at its full capacity,
Over a number of years,DOT has been in the process of addressing this issue through a large-scale
project and have determined to move forward with Project,Alternative number 2.2.Alternative 2.2 is
a project:that is abandoning the long runway and constructing a new,shorter 3,300'runway,parallel
to the existing short runway.
Though the community and administration were heavily involved in the
project process and participated in community-wide meetings, administrative meetings and public
hearings,the DOT selected plan Alternative 2.2 does not reflect public input and does not meet the
existing or future needs of the City of Seward.
The Seward.City Council and the Port and.Commerce Advisory hoard held a,joint work session on
July
interveneu� i�pxc�j project colas not tc�rl�indcr economicdc�velopment and strong
effort
must lac made to
sti discuss Project determined
emergency response efforts.
'the City of`Seward is also very concerned about Alternative 2.2 due to the significant environmental.
impacts of the proposed project.
The Community,City Council and Administration feel that DOT is ignoring the desires and needs of
the community and have made no effort to implement or utilize any of the feedback or input they
have received throughout project development.
This Resolution is a request that the Governor of Alaska intervene and direct DOT to select; and
construct Seward Airport Project Alternative 1.1.
INTENT: Urge the Governor and his administration to intervene in the Seward Airport project,
and support the selection and construction of Alternative 1.1.
CONSISTENCY CHECKLIST: _._.. �.� ._m,.M.M_. .__.. ....._..._ _...__ .. Yes No _�...N/A
....� _ ...__�
68
Comprehensive Plan:
2.2.9—PublicS'afely
2.2.11 E'conomic Base
L 2.2.12 Transportation Facilities x
2.2.12.5-- Air Traffic
3.1 -Economic Development
3.4
Strategic Plan:
Page 3 —Economic Base
Page 4— Transportation Facilities
2. x
Page 5--Attract neiv industry
Pa,ge 11 —Plan and prepare .for natural disasters
ajty 16--LLm. rave Sta
3. Other (list): x
FISCAL NOTE: There are no financial impacts associated with this Resolution.
Approved by Finance Department: JY�1,21111
ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes No N/A X
RECOMMENDATION: Seward City Council approve Resolution 2019- _ 064, urging the
Governor and his administration to intervene in the Seward Airport Project".- —
69
Seward Airport
ALTERNATIVE EVALUATION
ALTERNATIVE DESCRIPTIONS
Alternative 1.1 Alternative 2.2
Main Runway Disposition Raise the main runway;maintain existing length and Allow main runway to be overtopped by floodwaters.
embankment width;protect from overtopping and protect
from erosion.
Crosswind Runway(C)AI)Disposition Raise crosswind runway on north to match raised main Offset CW runway from apron to allow Design Group TT
runway. aircraft;shift threshold north to avoid VE impact;widen
to 75'(150'safety area)and lengthen to 3,300'(3,900'
safety area).
Hydraulic Analysis Use Q100 with 2-foot freeboard on main runway;this Use Q100 with 2-foot freeboard on CW;raise CW
option is within the floodway.Consider impacts to elevation;provide erosion protection.
properties due to change in the floodway.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Cost
Alternative 1.1 Alternative 2.2
Advantage Disadvantage Advantage Disadvantage
Construction/Earthwork Cost $13 million $11 million
(fbr comparison only—not
total project costs)
Maintenance&Operations Acts as a Icvcc to protect the More snow removal and M&O costs will be less; Maintain closed runway
(M&O) apron from 100-year flood. pavement surface to maintain pavement and lighting for markings;assumes the
than others;assumes the only one runway;new stabilization is permanent and
erosion protection is stable/ runway embankment acts as a no additional costs for M&O
permanent and no additional Icvcc to protect the apron within the design life.
costs for M&O within the from flooding.
design life.More lighting and
pavement markings to
maintain.
Right of Way(ROW) $1,300,000 $950,000
(preliminary costs only)
FAA Funding Eligibility Generally easier to get Two runways may be seen as Should be eligible. None
approval of work on existing unwarranted;environmental
facility. impacts could trigger scrutiny
of funding.
52
70
Seward Airport
ALTERNATIVE EVALUATION
Ability to Serve the Community's Needs
Alternative 1.1 Alternative 2.2
Advantage Disadvantage Advantage Disadvantage
Medevac Longest runway,best forjets; Serves the King Air 200; Too short for jets.
also see wind coverage. provides for basic medevac
Allows C-130 access in case service.
of a mass casualty event(very
infrequent need).
Meets General Aviation Improves runway.Exceeds Improves runway most often
the forecasted aviation needs. used and adds length.
Wider/longer runway
accommodates operational
tolerance during occasional
strong winds.
Search&Rescue Improves runway. Better apron access. Eliminates longer runway.
Economic Development Longest runway,supports No change to apron area, Runway offset provides for Runway too short for Beech
occasional use by Learjets, which limits use of large larger aircraft(DG 11)on the 1900 commuter service.
tourism opportunities,larger aircraft on the apron,thus apron taxi lane;provides
cargo and passenger planes; limits business development. more areas for use by larger
improves reliability(runway aircraft and thus could
open under a greater range of provide FBOs with greater
conditions)and potential for operational area.
aviation-related business
development at the airport,
including Learjets and
commuter operations.
Safety,Engineering&User Considerations (Items not covered by Covis)
Alternative 1.1 Alternative 2.2
Advantage Disadvantage Advantage Disadvantage
Wind Two runways provide slightly Longer runway(13/31) Provides longer/wider Slightly reduced coverage
better wind coverage for orientation is not as good as runway for best wind due to single runway,but
small aircraft.Combined the crosswind runway.RW coverage orientation.DG II= meets FAA guidelines for a
coverage DG II=99.93,DG I 13/31 coverage DG 11= 99.53%,DG I=98.6% single runway.
=99.64 96.0%,DG I=91.1% A number ofpilots seem to
favor improving the
crosswind versus the main
runway.
Airspace/Runway Protection Airspace:higher runway, RPZ:Main runway has Approach:horizontal shift of RPZ:ARRC development for
Zone(RPZ)/Approach slightly less penetration of undesirable use in the RPZ runway moves the RW 34 barge operations(jetty,access
53
71
Seward Airport
ALTERNATIVE EVALUATION
Obstructions airspace. (public road,railroad). approach away from the road)may occur in RPZ.
Approach:existing proposed ARRC
obstructions in the RW 13 development.Closing the
approach(road,railroad) main runway significantly
would remain.ARRC is reduces RW 13 RPZ
planning barge obstruction.
loading/unloading facilities
under the approach of RW
34.
User Function,Runway Uses existing VASI approach Long taxi path;requires Lengthens runway along the Large,infrequent aircraft
Reliability,Level of Service aids.Higher(above the flood) displaced threshold to meet orientation for prevailing such as Coast Guard C-130
(LOS) runway will improve the RSA requirement. winds;meets the needs of the will be unable to use,as well
reliability of the airport. based aircraft;improves as some larger commuter
Level of Service is slightly apron expansion aircraft.
higher because capacity is opportunities;reduces
increased. congestion;provides full
safety area.Higher(above the
flood)runway will improve
the reliability of the airport.
Shorter taxi path.
Long-Term Stability&Risks On existing embankments, Greater risk of flood damage RW provides flood protection Potential risk to downstream
which are stable,except for since the river is next to the for apron.Runway is sited (ARRC)facilities if the river
erosion. runway and the"model'has further from the river,less moves.
variables.Climate change potential for flood impacts.
could affect river flow;
additional sediment
deposition unpredictable.
Requires reconstruction of
runway to meet bearing
capacity requirement.
Conshuction Considerations Riprap installation below No riprap placement into Construction phasing wiII be
water,in river channel,more river channel.Results in most challenging.Tf
difficult.Construction likely easier installation. evacuation from abandoned
delayed(as much as two runway is used for fill,both
years)by a runways will be under
CLOMAR/LOMAR process construction concurrently.
with public hearings.
54
72
Seward Airport
ALTERNATIVE EVALUATION
Environmental Concerns
Alternative 1.1 Alternative 2.2
Advantage Disadvantage Advantage Disadvantage
Floodplain&Floodway Provides flood protection for In the floodway;increases the Provides flood protection for Greater chance for channel
Impacts apron since runway acts as a flood elevation by up to 4'. apron since runway acts as a movement into the floodplain
levee.Raises main RW two Impacts additional private levee.Does not impact the when flood waters breach the
feet above 100-year flood properties.Permitting will floodway;no change to the main runway.In floodplain,
level. face more obstacles due to FIRM map needed.Eventual increases the flood elevation
public process,and floodway breach of main runway would by<I foot(with coastal
impacts=expensive and time partially remove an flooding considered).
delays.Impacts the floodway; obstruction in the However,based on previous
requires revision to the FIRM floodplain/floodway. discussions by DOT with
map.Process includes public FEMA and city, I'rise is
involvement. okay.
Fish Habitat Impacts Least impact to Intertidal Requires in water work to Fewer impacts to Intertidal More impacts to Intertidal
(coastal)EFH area for salmon place erosion protection;most EFH than Alt.3;no impacts EFH than Alt. 1.1
and marine fish species. impacts to Resurrection River to Resurrection River than
mainstream,which is EFH for Alt.1.1
salmon species.
Wetlands Impacts No wetlands fill associated Most impacts to wetlands Most permutable;fewer acres Similar wetland impacts to
With RW 16-34. from fill in river to raise RW of impacts than Alt.1.1 Alt.3,but less due to shorter
13-31.May be difficult to runway.
permit because Clean Water
Act requires selection of
practicable alternative with
least impacts.
Endangered Species Act Farthest fi-om Resurrection Possible bald eagle nest Similar distance from Fill in or near Resurrection
(ESA)—Bald Eagle Bay where sea lions,otters, impacts(based upon 2004 Resurrection Bay as Alt.3; Bay,and possible bald eagle
and harbor seals are known to nest sites);more so than with less fill near or in the bay nest impacts.
be located.Most acceptable other alternatives. than Alt.3
under ESA and MMPA.
Human Impacts Greater reliability of main Floodplain impacts would Flooding affects reduced, Loss of main RW and short
(Socioeconomic,ROW, RW,and keeping both impact more private therefore,less property length of RW 16-34 less
Compatible Land Use) runways provides increased properties adjacent to river, impacts during Q 100.Longer favorable to the city from
capacity,higher LOS.This and may affect their property RW 16-34,but not as long as economic development
option would provide values.Portions of the in Alt.3 standpoint.Restricts access to
additional protection for the impacted property are floatplane takeout area.
ARRC facilities. underdeveloped and the
properties lack access.
55
73
Sponsored by: Schaefermeyer
• CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION NO. 92-146
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SEWARD, ALASKA, QUITCLAIMING ALL CITY INTEREST
IN LOT 14, SECTION 35, TOWNSHIP 1 NORTH, RANGE 1
WEST, SEWARD MERIDIAN, TO THE ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
WHEREAS, according to a patent recorded in Book 2P, Page 19, in 1955 the
territory of Alaska received 1.73 acres known as Lot 14, Section 35, T1N, R1W, Seward
Meridian, for use in development of an airport; and
WHEREAS, the airport was developed with the runway extending directly across
this parcel of land; and
WHEREAS, according to a patent recorded in Book 3P, Page 89, in 1968, the
Alaska Department of Natural Resources inadvertently included this parcel within Alaska
Tideland Survey 174 which was patented to the city of Seward; and
WHEREAS,the current Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
Airport Property Plan continues to show this land in state ownership; and
WHEREAS, the city of Seward has no interest in retaining a land ownership
interest in the airport and recognizes that a communications error may have been
committed by the two state agencies involved;
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SEWARD, ALASKA, that:
Section 1. The City Manager is hereby authorized to execute a quitclaim deed, a
copy of which is attached and incorporated herein by reference, transferring all city
interest in Lot 14, Section 35, Township 1 North, Range 1 West, Seward Meridian, to the
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.
Section 2. This resolution shall take thirty days following passage and posting as
required by law.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the city of Seward,Alaska,this
28th day of September, 1992.
•
74
•
QMCLA.IM DEED
THE GRANTOR, the CITY OF SEWARD, a home rule Alaskan municipal
corporation located within the Kenai Peninsula Borough, State of
Alaska, for and in consideration of MUTUAL BENEFITS, conveys and
quitclaims to THE GRANTEE, the STATE OF ALASKA# DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES, P.O. Box 196900, Anchorage,
Alaska 99519-6900, all interest which it has in the following
described real estate located in the State of Alaska to wit:
Lot Fourteen (14) , Section thirty-five (35) , Township One
North (T1X) , Range One West (RiW) , Seward Meridian, records of
the Seward Recording District, Third Judicial District, State
of Alaska.
which lies with the airport boundary of the Seward Airport, and is
depicted as Tract I Parcel A of the Seward Airport on the Airport
Property Plan revised through October 24, 199o, on file with the
Grantee, said parcel containing 1.73 acres, more or less.
Dated this 28th day of October, 1992 .
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
By: DARRYL SCHAEFERMEYER
Its: City Manager
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Perkins Coie, Attorneys for the
City of Seward, Alaska
Linda S. Murphy, CMC/AAE Fred B. Arvidson
City Clerk City Attorney
(City Seal)
•
75
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION NO. 92-146
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Jame g or
AYES: Bencardino, Crane, Krasnansky, White
NOES: None
ABSENT: Dunham, Swartz
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Perkins Coie, Attorneys for the city of
Seward, Alaska
�,7 7"�
/�—
in
( d 'hy,a S. ur MG E Fred B. Arvidson
City Clerk City Attorney
(City Seal)
76
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5:30pm CC 7:OOpm P&Z Mtg 12:OOpm PACAB 6:OOpm HPC
Special (Council Mtg(Council Work Session
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Session Work Session
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5:30pm CC Work 6:OOpm P&Z
Session Work Session
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7:OOpm CC Mtg
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7:OOpm P&Z Mtg 12:OOpm PACAB
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Chambers)
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7:OOpm CC Mtg 6:OOpm HPC
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Meeting
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President's Day 6:OOpm P&Z 12:0Opm PACAB
Holiday Work Session Work Session
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March 2020 March 2020 April
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29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30
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Mar 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7:OOpm P&Z Mtg 12:OOpm PACAB
(Council Mtg
Chambers
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----------------------
7:OOpm CC Mtg 6:OOpm HPC
(Council Work Session
Chambers) (Council
Chambers
7:30pm HPC
Regular Mtg
(Council
Chambers
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Work Session Work Session
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Holiday
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