HomeMy WebLinkAbout11012023 PACAB Meeting Packet Port & Commerce Advisory Board
Agenda Packet
Q. 1993
Regular Meeting
November 1 , 2023
City Council Chambers 12.00 p.m.
1
1963 1965 2005 The City of Seward,Alaska
An-AmF.�.e 3.i PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD
r MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers, 410 Adams Street
Please silence all cell phones and devices during the meeting
Chair Bruce Jaffa Board Member Dwayne Atwood Assistant City Manager Jason
Vice Chair Lynda Paquette Board Member Tom Miller Bickling
Board Member Benjamin Smith Board Member Melissa Schutter Harbormaster Norm Regis
Board Member Frederick Woelkers City Clerk Kris Peck
November 1,2023 at 12:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT (Those who have signed in will be given the first
opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.)
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA(Approval of Consent Agenda passes all
routine items listed under Item 7. Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a board member
requests. In the event ofsuch a request, the item is returned to the Regular Agenda. Marked with *.)
6. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS,AND REPORTS
A. Proclamations and Awards-None
B. City Administration Report..................................................................Pg, 4
C. Other Reports and Announcements
1) Alaska Railroad Report..................................................................Pg. 6
D. Presentations (Presentations are limited to ten minutes each, excluding Q&A, and are limited to two per
meeting unless increased by council.)
1) Presentation-None
7. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes of Preceding Meeting...............................................................Pg. 7
1)*Approve October 4, 2023 Port and Commerce Meeting Minutes
B. Resolutions
1)*Resolution 2023-004, Recommending The City Council Approval Of The 2023
Seward Boat Harbor
Plan.........................................................................................Pg. 10
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C. Other Items-None
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS-None
9. NEW BUSINESS
A. Resolutions-None
B. Other New Business
1) Discuss Work Session Topics for Council to Prioritize..............................Pg. 43
10. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required.)
A. Reminder of Meetings
1) Regular Meeting on December 6, 2023
B. Other Items-None
11. CITIZEN COMMENTS (There is no sign in for this comment period. Time is limited to five(5) minutes
per speaker.)
12. BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO CITIZEN
COMMENTS
13. ADJOURNMENT
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Assistant City Manager
Jason Bickling
Emergency Operations Plan: Chief Crites and I are developing and implementing a plan
to make sure the city staff are prepared for all potential types of emergencies and
fulfilling their roles in the NIMS/ICS Systems. It has been difficult to make sure
everyone is trained and proficient with regular turnover and many positions open. This
will include monthly meetings, training, tabletop exercises, and partner coordination
activities. We will include the council to be part of those as it makes sense. We are also
in the process of updating the City Facility Emergency Action plans for each city building
to make sure our staff have up to date protocols and procedures in place to keep
themselves and visitors safe for multiple types of emergencies, should they occur.
Public Safety Needs Assessment: The study team was here October 121" and 131" to
finalize their information gathering to make building and site determinations. That
finalized study will be coming before you in the coming months.
Legislative Priorities / Congressionally Designated Spending Brochure: Working on
collecting photos, creating narratives, and finalizing cost estimates to send to the
designer. We are hoping to have these printed in early November.
Library: Kat and I went and did a tour of the library to understand the ongoing issues
they are having with their HVAC system firsthand. We are working on getting the
engineering done so that we can put it out to RFP to be fixed next summer.
Public Works Facility: We are still working towards the 65% design on the Public Works
Facility.
Heat Loop Project: We had a number of kickoff meetings for the Heat Loop Project
Grant Award on October 12t" and 13t". We had a national one with about a dozen other
communities from around the US that were awarded the grant as well. We heard briefly
from each other about the overall projects and specific requirement criteria of
community engagement and work force development. We also had a meeting with
NREL, one of our partners, to schedule the data collection for the planning/design of the
project. They will be here from Nov 1 st — 3rd to place monitoring equipment in drill sites
and to do building walkthroughs. On this council agenda will be the acceptance of the
grant funds. Also on this agenda is the Heat Loop Ad hoc Committee as a discussion
item. They will be giving an update as well and this will be an opportunity to renew the
committee for the coming year.
KPEDD: Kat and I met with Tim Dillion and discussed some infrastructure projects that
may be eligible for grant opportunities for communities that were at one time in the coal
industry. There are some city projects that may be a good fit for the application and
would meet their requirements.
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PACAB
Harbor
Harbormaster Norm Regis
➢ The 50-ton and 330-ton Travelift have slowed down for winter storage; the SMIC yard is
starting to fill up.
➢ We are continuing to train several new harborworkers on the maintaining and operating the
Travelifts and harbor operations.
➢ We are working on the SMIC yard drainage to keep water flowing into the ditches.
➢ We are working on the beach access parking lot located at the South end of SMIC.
➢ Some people like that we are still working with some COVID protocol in mind while
continuing to do boat lifts and public contact in the Seward Harbor office.
➢ We will continue the cleanup at the old Raibow dump area, just a few more items to deal
with and we can lease the property out again.
➢ The harbor office is closed on Sundays for the fall and winter schedule.
➢ The harbor has hired a new Harborworker II; he has started training on the travelift and
harbor operations.
➢ The harbor has hired a new harbor office staff, she has started and is currently being
trained.
➢ We are continuing to work with the Director from the Pacific Northwest &Alaska Maritime
Administration U.S.DOT on finding a suitable grant for the washdown pad project.
➢ We are waiting on funding for the 5-ton crane on I-Dock, Corp Permit has been approved
➢ We are working with a Kenai Peninsula title company on the land acquisition for the Coast
Guard land across the bay.
➢ Updated FRC timeline:
• Seward FRC Homeport(FY2019 MASI /$1.OM:Anticipated FY2024 MASI /$42M):
Scope: Acquire real property and complete NEPA for future FRC homeport.
Status: CEU Juneau obligated funds on 25 Aug 2023 to purchase a 1.5 acre parcel at the Seward
Marine Industrial Center(SMIC) for future waterfront improvements.
Schedule
Mar 2024: RFP package to contracting.
Apr 2024: Design/Build solicitation released.
Sep 2024: Contract award.
Protected Construction Completion Date (CCD):September 2026
Notes: Construction pends funds appropriation which is anticipated in FY2024.
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AL,A A
RAILROAD
Port Activity Update November 1, 2023
THE ALASKA RAILROAD'S MISSION -- Through excellent customer service and sound business
management practices, provide safe, efficient, and economical transportation and real estate
services that support and grow economic development opportunities for the State of Alaska.
Port Traffic
• The port is currently transitioning to winter barge / tug operations and off-season yard
storage. Vessel activity included 167 non-cruise dockings through October 18.
• Local longshore crews will offload five shipments of pipe and one 25 million pound
shipment of proppant (frac sand) between mid-October and mid-December. All of the
products are bound for the North Slope.
• The rail mainline will close January 15 for bridge projects at Trail River and Falls Creek.
• The cruise dock continues to undergo repairs, such as drainage grate replacement and
vegetation removal. Many piling are in need of service and work will begin this winter.
• An invitation to bid was released in September to remove derelict coal handling
equipment and conveyor belts from the coal dock. The dock loading arm will also be
removed, if funding allows.
• Public use of the terminal building is been arranged for the winter. Activities include
senior walking on Monday through Thursday, youth archery, and special events such as
the Halloween Carnival and Christmas Fair.
Other Items
• The Seward Passenger Dock project was recently put on hold as we continue to research
the best possible functionality of this important long-term investment. Market pressures
have necessitated a review and strategic pause, considered necessary to guarantee that
the cruise-critical passenger dock and terminal is successful in meeting the needs of the
railroad, anchor tenants, the community, and under conditions favorable for ARRC in
exercising its bonding authority as approved by the Alaska State Legislature.
Dwayne Atwood,Accredited Maritime Port Executive
Seward Port Manager
907-265-2696 office / 907-362-6038 mobile
mailing:PO Box 95, Seward,AK 99664
physical:913 Port Avenue
web:www.AlaskaRailrood.com
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CALL TO ORDER
The October 4, 2023, regular meeting of the Port and Commerce Advisory Board was
called to order at 12:00 p.m. by Chair Bruce Jaffa.
OPENING CEREMONY
Harbormaster Norm Regis led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Bruce Jaffa,presiding; and
Lynda Paquette
Benjamin Smith Fred Woelkers
Dwayne Atwood Tom Miller
comprising a quorum of the Board; and
Jason Bickling, Assistant City Manager
Norm Regis, Harbormaster
Jodi Kurtz, Deputy City Clerk
Excused—None
Absent—None
Vacant One
CITIZEN COMMENTS -None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Motion Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Paquette pointed out two typos on the agenda in regard to spelling and the meeting time.
Motion Passed Unanimous
The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items:
Approval of September 6, 2023 PACAB Regular Meeting Minutes
SPECIAL ORDERS,PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS
Administration Report
Assistant City Manager Jason Bickling summarized his written report in the packet
which included updates on the Heat Loop Ad Hoc Committee.
Jaffa noted that the Heat Loop Ad Hoc Committee would need to be renewed for 2024 by
city council.
PACAB discussed rescheduling their next regular work session to October 25, 2023 due to
the Alaska Day Holiday.
Harbormaster Norm Regis summarized his written report in the packet. He noted there
would be an upcoming presentation on trawling and the negative impacts of scraping the ocean
floor.
Police Chief Alan Nickell provided an update on the Seward Community Jail situation
and the new process of transporting detainees to other facilities.
Other Reports and Announcements
Alaska Railroad Report.
Port Operations Manager Dwayne Atwood summarized from his written report in the
packet. Atwood noted the first cruise ship next year would arrive on April 22, 2024.
Paquette wished the Chamber of Commerce would collaborate with local businesses to
accommodate the cruise ship schedule by being open during the shoulder seasons of April and
October.
Jaffa asked if a Chamber of Commerce representative could provide regular reports to
PACAB as they had done in the past.
NEW BUSINESS
Other New Business
Discuss Seward Boat Harbor Plan 2023
Regis reviewed the harbor plan and noted the plan was valuable at conferences and for
grants applicants.
PACAB discussed how the harbor tracks boat launch activity.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS—
Reminder of Meetings - Regular PACAB Meeting on November 1, 2023.
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BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN
COMMENTS
Miller said the harbor looked amazing and noted how much it has been improved.
Woelkers noted he was involved in litigation in regard to the election that just took place.
He wondered if it would affect his status as a PACAB member.
Atwood agreed that more could be done to accommodate visitors during the shoulder
seasons in April and October.
Smith agreed that the Seward had a first-rate boat harbor and congratulated the harbor staff
for their efforts.
Regis recalled his trip to Ketchikan last week and said the businesses there opened when
the cruise ships arrived and locked up as soon as they left. Regis noted the Seward Boat Harbor
had made a lot of progress over the years to become what it is today.
Paquette noted the Northeast Boat Launch Ramp was very nice. She was happy to see a
new PACAB applicant and hoped for a full board at the next meeting.
Jaffa said city harbor department had a great staff and complimented Regis on his
leadership. On another topic, Jaffa was disappointed by the overall disjointed operation of the road
construction this summer on the Seward Highway.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 12:54 p.m.
Jodi Kurtz Bruce Jaffa
Deputy City Clerk Chair
(City Seal)
9
Port and Commerce Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: November 1,2023
To: Port and Commerce Advisory Board
From: Norm Regis, Harbormaster
Subject: Resolution 2023-004 Recommending City Council Approval Of The 2023
Seward Boat Harbor Plan
Background and justification:
Since April 2013, the Port and Commerce Advisory Board(PACAB)has been working with city
staff to develop an updated plan for the Seward Small Boat Harbor. The most recent plan, the
Small Boat Harbor Area Planning and Development Guide, was approved by the Seward City
Council by City Council Resolution 2003-032 on April 28, 2003.
Since 2003, numerous improvements have been completed and the time is right to plan for more
changes and improvements to the harbor.
The new plan 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. Previous plans have not included upland commercial and
transportation interests or concerns; this plan proposed to adopt a more all-inclusive view
incorporating those elements as well.
As part of the development of the proposed new plan, the PACAB has conducted public
meetings that have been occasionally well-attended by interested citizens and harbor users.
There has also been media coverage on certain topics.
The new plan lists the projects that have been already accomplished. The plan incorporates
lessons learned during previous construction projects. With very little consultant assistance, the
plan describes possible future projects, both in the near-term and in the long-term. 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.
Comprehensive and Strategic Plan Consistency Information
This legislation is consistent with (citation listed):
Comprehensive Plan: 3.5.1 Maintain a thriving port of Seward through harbor
improvements, infrastructure expansion, and implementation of
management plans.
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Strategic Plan: We are a community that promotes economic diversity, encourage
growth of year-round businesses, desires environmentally responsible
industry, and seeks jobs that promote a higher standard of living.
Other:
Certification of Funds
Total amount of funds listed in this $ 0
legislation:
This legislation (✓):
Creates revenue in the amount of: $
Creates expenditure in amount of: $
Creates a savings in the amount of: $
✓ Has no fiscal impact
Funds are (✓):
Budgeted Line
item(s):
Not budgeted
✓ Not applicable
Fund Balance Information
Affected Fund (✓):
General SMIC Electric Wastewater
Boat Harbor Parking F1 Water F1 Healthcare
Motor Pool Other
Note: amounts are unaudited
Available Fund Balance $
Finance Director Signature:
Attorney Review
Yes Attorney
Signature:
✓ Not Comments:
applicable
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Administration Recommendation
✓ Adopt
Resolution
Other:
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Sponsored by: Regis
CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY BOARD
RESOLUTION 2023-004
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD PORT AND COMMERCE ADVISORY
BOARD (PACAB) RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF THE 2023 SEWARD BOAT HARBOR PLAN
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Seward approved the Seward Small Boat
Harbor Area Planning and Development Guide on April 28, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the Port and Commerce Advisory Board (PACAB) reviewed the plan at its
October 4, 2023 regular meeting; and
WHEREAS, the proposed new plan lists completed projects, projects that have not yet
been completed, and new projects; and
WHEREAS,public input has been solicited, received, and included in the proposed new
plan; and
NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED by the Port and Commerce Advisory Board
that:
Section 1. PACAB strongly recommends approval of the 2023 Seward Boat Harbor
Plan.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Port and Commerce Advisory Board this 1st day of
November, 2023.
THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA
Bruce Jaffa, Chair
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
VACANT:
ATTEST:
Kris Peck
City Clerk, CMC (City Seal)
14
Seward Boat Harbor
Plan
November 1, 2023
Prepared for
The Port and Commerce Advisory Board
of
The City of Seward, Alaska
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Seward 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 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, A, B, C, S, G, K and L-float has been replaced along with the North East
and South Launch Ramps. The Harbormaster Office public restrooms and showers have
been updated. The City Code Chapter addressing Harbor uses has been rewritten through
several public hearing at Port and Commerce Advisory Board and City Council meetings.
Capital projects awaiting funding further detailed within this plan include, a washdown pad
by the 50 ton boatlift, electric services on X-Float, slip build out along Z-float, and location
and construction of a 5 ton public crane on I-dock, a new harbormasters office and the
South Harbor uplands development.
Previous plans have not included upland commercial and transportation interests or
concerns; this plan proposed to adopt a more all-inclusive view incorporating those
elements as well.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 General...................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Plan Approach........................................................................................................... 5
2.0 Regional Description .................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Brief History ............................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Location .................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Climate...................................................................................................................... 7
2.4 Winds........................................................................................................................ 8
2.5 Tides.......................................................................................................................... 8
2.6 Waves........................................................................................................................ 8
2.7 Ice.............................................................................................................................. 9
2.8 Land Use and Ownership.......................................................................................... 9
3. 0 Existing Harbor Facilities............................................................................................ 9
3.1 The Boat Harbor ...................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Seward Marine Industrial Center(SMIC)............................................................... 12
4.0 The Development Plan................................................................................................ 12
4.1 Economic Evaluation and Harbor statistics............................................................ 12
4.2 Corps of Engineers Role......................................................................................... 15
4.3 Development Criteria ............................................................................................. 15
4.4 Float System Layout............................................................................................... 16
4.5 Float System Utilities........................................................................20
4.6 Gangways and Trestles........................................................................................... 21
4.7 Launch Ramps ........................................................................................................ 22
4.8 Parking Areas.......................................................................................................... 22
4.9 TraveLift® and Maintenance Area......................................................................... 23
4.10 Public Crane.............................................................................. 23
4.11 Wash Down Facility ........................................................................23
4.12 Drive Down Float................................................................................................. 23
4.13 Tidal Grid.............................................................................................................. 23
4.14 Fish Cleaning Facilities......................................................................................... 24
4.15 Restroom Facilities ............................................................................................... 24
4.16 ADA Accessible Fishing Pier............................................................................... 24
4.17 Harbormaster's Office and Shop .......................................................................... 24
5.0 Accessibility................................................................................................................ 25
5.1 Background........................................................................... ........25
5.2 Accessible Routes...........................................................................25
5.3 Boat Slips.....................................................................................25
5.4 Upland Facilities.............................................................................26
6.0 Plan Implementation...........................................................................26
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Appendices
Appendix A Drawings: Z Float Laterals J, U V, and W Floats)
Appendix B City of Seward, Alaska, Resolution 2022-008
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1.0 Introduction
1.1 General
The Seward Boat Harbor (see 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 onetime 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 December2021, approximately $1.8 Million in borrowed principal
remains to be repaid.
In 2006,the Alaska Legislature established a new 50150 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 II. 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 II 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 and was
completed in 2016, G, K and the remainder of G-float utilized the Tier II grant and was
completed in 2022.
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
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This updates and revises the 2018 Seward Boat Harbor Plan. 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.
2.0 Regional Description
SEWARD BOAT HARBOR
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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
2000's the harbor expanded to the east and south. Beginning in 1980, the City acquired
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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 4000 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 60107' N Latitude, 149126' W Longitude
(the harbor itself is within Section 3, Township 1 South, Range 1 West, Seward
Meridian). The area of the city encompasses 15 sq. miles of land and 7 sq. miles of
water. 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
Jan Feb [Mar][Apr][May] Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
Average Max.
Temperature 31.0 33.0 38.0 45.0 52.0 59.0 62.0 62.0 56.0 45.0 37.0 33.0 46.0
(F)
Average Min.
Temperature 21.0 22.0 HHH
46.0 50.0 50.0 44.0 35.0 26.0H
34.0
(F)
Average Total
Precipitation 7.20 5.83 4.13 4.72 4.76 2.32 2.24 5.47 10.35 9.8- 7.17 7.83 71.82
(in.)
Average Total 16.1 19.0 13.3 5.8 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.7 7.5 20.8 84.4
Snowfall (in.)
Source:Western Region Climate Center
2.4 Winds
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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 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 8.33 feet and a diurnal range of 10.62 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.
Table 2—Tidal Data, Seward,Alaska
Tide Elevation (feet)
Highest Observed Water Level +15.59
Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +10.58
Mean High Water(MHW) + 9.67
Mean Sea Level (MSL) + 5.54
Mean Tide Level (MTL) + 5.52
Mean Low Water(MLW) + 1.36
Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) 0.00
Lowest Observed Water Level —5.12
Source: NOAA, National Ocean Service Station# 9455090
2.6 Waves
Measured wave data is not available for the Seward area. As reported in the Corps of
Engineers boat harbor expansion feasibility report,the following general statements appear
applicable to the wave climate
a. Wave heights of 4 to 6 feet are the maximum observed by longtime local
residents (in the vicinity of the existing harbor).
b. "Typical" wave periods range from about 3 to 6 seconds.
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c. Local residents and recorded data indicate waves from the south-southeast
predominate.
d. Long-period swells from the open ocean do not impact the existing harbor area.
(Long period waves DO impact the marine industrial center on the east side of
the bay.)
The Corps 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 boat harbor are common with southerly
summer winds.
2.7 Ice
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.
2.8 Land Use and Ownership
In addition to the City owned land surrounding the boat harbor, the Alaska Railroad owns
significant private land that is leased to both commercial and industrial businesses. The
AKRR is currently pushing to enlarge their freight dock and also pursue further
development opportunities.
3. 0 Existing Harbor Facilities
3.1 The 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 1060 and 1750 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 Corps of Engineers.
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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 in 1966
through 1973 soon after the harbor 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 floats including S-
hoat were replaced in 2016, G, K and L-float were replaced in 2022
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 Corps of
Engineers quitclaim deeded the basin back to the City in November 1999.
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
• SE Harbor Floats (M, N, O, P, Q) completed 2007
• New restrooms at South Harbor 2007
• North Harbor Float Extension 2005
• East Harbor Expansion 2007
• Oil Collection Station Upgrades 2015
• A, B C & S-float 2017
• South Launch Ramp 2018
• North East launch ramp 2022
• G, K& L-float 2022
In 2012 portions of the north harbor, northeast harbor, and harbor entrance were dredged
by the Corps of Engineers contractor at a total cost of approximately $1.5 Million
consisting of $571,000 of local (primarily Commercial Passenger Vessel) funds 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, D-float was replaced in 2014, A, B, C and
S-float were replaced in 2017, the remainder of G, K & L-float were replaced in 2022.
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The South Launch ramp was replaced in 2018 and the Northeast Launch ramp was replaced
in 2022.
Table 3 -Harbor Vital Statistics, 9/13/23
Slip Number
Length Available
23' 29
32' 306
40' 134
50' 64
75' 8
90, 11
100, 6
150' 2
170' 1
573 total slips 22,223 ft.
Parallel Over 6,303Feet
Total Available Over 28,526 Feet
Table 4 -Moorage Available by Float
Float Number Length
A North 29 26
A South 434 feet
B 54 32
C 62 32
D 58 40
E, South 34 50
E, North 24 75, 90, 100
F, South 680 feet
F, South 2 75
F, North 30 50
F, T-Head 1 60
G, North 245 feet
H 64 40
H, T- Head 1 90
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I 405 feet
J 60 32
K South 29 32
K North 460 feet
L 390 feet
M 16 32
M parallel 264 feet
N 30 32
O 30 32
P, South 14 32
P, North 12 40
Q parallel 368 feet
R 485 feet
S, South 350 feet
S, North 350 feet
T 790 feet
X 6 slips 682 feet
Z 4 slips 400 feet
3.2 Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC)
The most recent Master Plan of the Seward Marine Industrial Center was reviewed and
approved in January 2018. As of November 2018 the construction of a new rubble
mound breakwater is complete.
4.0 The Development Plan
This plan was developed by using the outline of the 2003 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 (roughly 80 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
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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 2020 the American Community Survey by the US Census Bureau estimated there were
1,108 jobs held by Seward residents, and 1,918 employed residents in the 99664 ZIP code,
but this total does not reflect seasonal jobs and other Seward jobs that are held by non-
residents. Approximately 20% of these jobs are in recreation and hospitality, 20% in the
public sector, and another 20% in education, healthcare, and social assistance. The
remaining 20% is divided between resource extraction (forestry, fishing, mining),
transportation and warehousing, real estate and financial management, and construction,
with small percentages of professional/scientific and manufacturing.
In recent years,population growth in Seward has been flat. The 2022 population of Seward
was 2,625 and the 2012 population was 2,692.
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 $1.08 million in 2012 to to$9.1 million in 2020. 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.
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
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Passenger 613,974 607,286 668,182 637,541 570,984 565,302 590,747 163,858 609,435
Fee
Tourism, recreation and commercial fishing provide substantial support to the community
through the boat harbor. Replacement and modernization of the harbor facilities will
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enhance the users experience and increase the harbor's ability to generate support for the
community.
Current Harbor Use—The 2022 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 129 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 13 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 540 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 150 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
2021-2022 there were 8 tugs tied up for the winter.
For the purpose of this plan, the category motor vessels do not include sailboats.
Table 6 shows the current waiting list for permanent slips in the Seward harbor and includes
265people. As a result of the pandemic, the last few years have seen an increased interest
in outdoor recreation, which has resulted in substantial growth to the harbor wait lists.
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.
Table 6, Wait List by Slip Length
Vessel/ Slip Length (ft.) Number of Vessels
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23 4
32 78
40 61
50 46
75 8
90 7
100 0
>105 0
4.2 U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Role
Following the 1964 Earthquake federal legislation was adopted that requires that the Corps
be primarily responsible for harbor dredging. For example,in 2012,the Corps 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.
The CORP did an underwater survey in 2020 the Seward Harbor does not need to be
dredged at this time.
Waiting for the next CORP maintenance dredge cycle.
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
ageing docks (COMPLETED); and providing new services.
Environmental and Permit Aspects-Permits will be needed through the 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 owns land north of the Boat Harbor. The City and
Railroad completed a land swap in October 2014 in order to facilitate re-development of
the land formerly occupied by the US Coast Guard Shore facility, we also completed a
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railroad contract (8670) for the easterly breakwater that reside on railroad tidelands into
Lease 03-102 to 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 Boat Harbor. Maintaining additional vessel storage within proximity of the boat
lift is a continuing challenge. In mid- 2013 the largest boatyard near the harbor closed its
operations. Another boat yard closed this summer (2023) which is hindering vessel haul
outs. 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 uplands 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 1200 feet to the nearest
public restroom.
Launch Ramp Improvements - There are two existing launch ramps in the boat harbor, one
at the NE corner and one at the SW corner of the basin. The Harbor has made use of grant
funds to replace both of the launch ramps the South ramp in 2018 and the Northeast ramp
in 2022.
One planned improvement was to lengthen the launch ramps in order to make them safer
to use at very low tide levels, this has been completed with the replacement of both ramps.
Slip Sizes —In the past, boats were smaller and correspondingly the harbor included more
17 and 24-foot slips, the smaller 17ft slips were removed with the completion of A, B C
and S-float project. The current harbor expansion added mostly 32-foot slips, some 23-
foot slips, and some linear moorage on K, S and Z-float.
Leased Properties — All harbor leases, upon renewal or change of lease, should be
considered by administration for easement and rights of way access along with CPI
adjustments.
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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 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 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 5 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
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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 4 feet beyond the slip
finger, which is presently included in the 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 2 times the vessel length. This
distance is needed to allow vessels to safely enter their slip and make turning movements.
The American Society of 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(ft) 1.5 x L Fairway (ft)
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 (ft) Slip Clear Spacing (ft, double)
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75 49.0
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 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 La, o�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 1200 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
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and the privately owned fuel dock was attached. The result was re-named 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. The State funded half of the cost of
the A, B, C, S, and a portion of G float replacement in 2017 and the remaining portion of
G, K and L-float were replaced in 2022
Float System Construction- The 2003 plan recommended concrete floats. However, the
floats that were installed during the period 2006-2022 have all been timber construction on
floatation tubs. The wooden docks are easier to repair and much better for snow removal.
The concrete floats E through J should be scheduled for replacement 2023
4.5 Float System Utilities
Potable Water
The Harbor staff is pleased with the design and
operation of the potable water system that were
installed on D, G, K, L, M, N, O,P and Q Floats. .
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 Potable water Riser
Fire Code (IFC) and associated State amendments
as the model code for fire protection standards. The IFC
essentially requires a standpipe type 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
On Float Fire Valve
The existing replacement floats followed the above codes and standards. The fire
protection system for new or replaced floats and 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
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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. The
harbor currently has 3 sewer pump out systems located on Q and Z-float, E and F have
several location located on the floats.
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.
3
All power will be served from utility transformers on shore, near
the pedestrian approaches to the harbor. Power distribution cables
will be routed beneath the approaches,down the gangways,and into
the float distribution panels.
All shore power pedestals are new. The Harbor staff is pleased with
the power pedestals that were installed on M,N, O,P, and Q Floats.
On A, B, C, D, K and L Float the water faucets were incorporated Power Pedestal with
into the power pedestals. Both duplex style units, intended to be Light
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 SE 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 4-feet above the deck. All the luminaries were
switched from metal halide lamps to LED bulbs with good life expectancy qualities.
Additional LED luminaries have been installed 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.
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At a minimum, 80-foot gangways, similar to those installed at B, D, E, F, J, Q, S, X, Z-
Floats and the fish cleaning station located at the Northeast launch ramp., will be provided
at pedestrian access points to the float system. Timber trestles have been designed to
accept the new gangways.
The new gangways are in place at
B S and the new fish cleaning float
at the Northeast Launch Ramp only
R-dock gangway will not meet
ADA requirements.
L
4.7 Launch Ramps
New Aluminum Gangway-J Dock at Extreme The North East launch ramp was
High Tide completed in 2022. With the
completion of the new launch ramp
the North East Fish Cleaning Station was located adj acent to the launch ramp to leave better
access for vessels to load and unload off of the trailers. Meanwhile the sewage pump-out
at that location was disassembled and abandoned. At the other end of the harbor,the South
West launch ramp was replaced in 2018.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game used federal Sport Fish Restoration funds to re-
build both boat ramps. ADF&G paid 100%for the design cost for both boat ramps. The
construction costs was 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, which was integrated into the design.
4.8 Parking Areas
South Harbor Uplands-A set of restrooms (2007) and a new Mariner's Memorial (2012-
2014) were built in the South Harbor uplands. The City's recycling bin is also located in
the area. In 2014, the parking department installed a paved road surface that leads up to
the parking area. With the 2014 WRDA bill the Navigational Servitude, issue has been
federally resolved and so the 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 office. It will be important to strive for the proper balance between
commercial development and parking.
There are 80 truck&trailer stalls and 60 single car stalls in the South Harbor Uplands. The
Uplands is the City's default parking area for the truck&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.
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Northeast Parking Area - In 2012 the new Coast Guard Station and Army Resort
Dispatch building were built in this area. In 2022,new pavement was added. The Northeast
parking area has 93 truck&trailer stalls and 54 stalls for single cars (180 Total).
The restrooms in this area are the most primitive in the harbor and should be scheduled for
upgrade within the next 5 years.
4.9 Travelift® and Maintenance Area
The northwesterly quadrant of the harbor was re-built in 2008. This included moving the
location of the travel lift 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 5 ton crane located
on the old Travel Lift Dock I-dock. The purpose of either of these projects would be for
mariners to load and unload fish and gear. The city has hired Moffatt and Nichol to design
a five ton crane on I-dock,it is currently at 95%design waiting on finding a funding source
to have it installed.
4.11 Wash Down Facility
A new wash down facility in the area of the Travelift has been design by PND engineers
the city has currently applied for a grant through the 2022 Port Infrastructure Development
program(PIDP)this 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 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 NE 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 NE parking area. The float and bridge would be similar to
the drive down dock in Sitka, Alaska, which is heavily used by boats.
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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 NW 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 North East corner of the harbor area between the east side of the T dock
and the NE Boat Ramp/Fish Cleaning Station.
4.14 Fish Cleaning Facilities
The harbor has replaced the fish cleaning station in the NE corner of the harbor. The new
fish cleaning station is located off of the trestle north of the boat launch. This will improve
these facilities for this quadrant of the harbor.
4.15 Restroom Facilities
The harbormaster office 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 women's side of the restrooms and the restrooms are fully ADA compliant.
A new restroom facility should be located somewhere in the North Harbor area, possibly
by Napa in the Northeast corner of the parking lot.
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 Scheffler 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 a1 e
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. Locate a new Harbormasters office on the
South Harbor Uplands. It is currently one of our Legislative Priorities.
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4.18 Develop the South Harbor uplands
Look at prioritizing in moving the electric into the utility right of way and have the entire
area re-platted to accommodate retail shops/offices and a new Harbormasters Office.
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: B, D, E, F, J, M-Q, S, X, and Z. The only gangway:
that is not compliant is R-float..
5.3 Boat Slips
Only the new and rebuilt portions of the harbor are required to meet ADA standards. All
the floats in the harbor have ADA compliant slips.
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, B, C, D-float, M-1, and N-2 and two locations on K and L-float and 1 on
Z-float. Apparently these slips have been designated due to the proximity to parking and
the boat ramp,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 578 slips of various sizes and almost 6303 linear feet of side-tie
moorage. According to the rules, the 6303 linear feet is the equivalent of 157 slips. Thus
Seward has a total slip equivalent of 735 =578 + 157. 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 10 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
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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. NOTE: The words in the bold font above are directly quoted from the
Access Board's guide booklet, "Accessible Boating Facilities".
5.4 Upland Facilities
In 2014 newly remodeled restrooms and water fountains at the Seward Boat Harbor meet
all ADA requirements.
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,
❑ 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.
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APPENDIX A
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1H33A38ro0tm Immi Z _
II
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APPENDIX B
PURI ANDt_'[] 'IP IF,It1_:F,ADN'Ik.)'0Rl IMAI?II
RESOLl.1 ION 2177_=-101b4
A RFSOI,U'TTON 01. TIIF. SF.'4 "ARD PORT %ND {.[}ittIF;RC'F.
ADVISORY BOARD (PAC.AB), kF.Cf}M't1t-NIING CITY COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF THE SE YARD I OAT BARB{}R PLAN
►irrHERFAS, rl,c S;w,%Tkl City Cou77cil approval the Smartt Boat Harbor Plan un
Deeemhgr�,20 14;4md
V4'llll?RFAfi,the Putt and C:onum me Advisory Board(FACAB)ltas been working since
Deccanber�, 2014 witli city staff to of ntinue updating and i rprovii7g the Seward Boat Harlxx
Plan: and
WITFRFA , the ni ti-w Plan is irLw:,,.Icd to scrx policy rnakcrs and advi rs as a gcmral
Iiiin and fundinglusti:ication for the doveloprncnt
z_IA d17L'.A6Luk1l 17CNuti%:jTd ko.i[ 4nd
' �4'11EREAS,Pre4 ibu5 plans hs�ve o�c�t includcxl u lan;l comm�r ial antl tr mg)ortatitm
interests or concern-;this pl-an psrop4m�ed ur udr)pil a rmwte all-inuluziivo vi4Tw; and
WHEREAS, the plan dtmcrlhe; ps3.q;ihle. Fulurcprri)icc.tw,he)th in thG m4r-term and in
the.long-term_ After adoption,the plan will Iporn time to time need revision and updcttt as
mods and opp>orturiitics appear,and as pr,�joct identifice as priorities are curnpleted.
NOW,THERFFORF,, BE IT RESOLVL01A THE 11014:1 !tSD COMNIER'uE
ADV ISORY BOARD OF TIIF CITY OF SEA' ARD AIL'kSK,1k that,
Section I. FAC'AD rr-ommcnil:i City Council aprpmval of the updated Seward lio.nt
1421-hnr plan.
Section 2. ThiN remflutinn%ha11 raks efficct immaiately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROV P..D ny th;: Port and Commerce Advisory Board of the City,of Seward-.
Ala l.a,Lhis 21"J dL v ni'Nuwesnhcr. 2033.
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Worksession Topics for Council to Prioritize
Alternative Energy Sources: Hydro and Tidal
Comprehensive Plan, Strategic Plan
South Harbor Uplands Development including Harbormaster Building
Housing Issues
Paving and Sidewalk Improvements - replacement and extension
Grant pass-through policy
Soliciting Community Groups / Clearinghouse for Community Improvement ideas
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PACAB
Meeting Date Meeting Topic
REGULAR 1/4/2023 Harbor Tariff
SPECIAL 1/18/2023
REGULAR 2/1/2023 Chamber Marketing
SPECIAL 2/15/2023 2.30 Draft Ordinance
REGULAR 3/1/2023 SMIC Development Plan
SPECIAL 3/22/203 HEA Heat Pump/Res 2023-001
REGULAR 4/5/2023 Utility Infrastructure
WS 4/26/2023 Legislative Priorities
REGULAR 5/3/2023 Legislative Priorities Resolution
WS 5/17/2023 Heat Loop Update
REGULAR 9/6/2023 Vessel and Property Tax and AML Attendance
WS 9/20/2023 Emergency Services
REGULAR 10/4/2023 Harbor Plan
WS 10/25/2023 Developing Worksession Topics for Council to Prioritize
REGULAR 11/1/2023 Boat Harbor Plan/Discussion Topics for Council Prioritze
WS 11/15/2023
REGURLAR 12/6/2023 Fisheries Issues
WS 12/20/2023
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