HomeMy WebLinkAbout06042024 Planning & Zoning Work Session Packet
Work Session
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Council Chambers, City Hall
5:30 p.m.
Planning & Zoning Commission
Work Session Packet
The City of Seward, Alaska
SEWARD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
WORK SESSION AGENDA
June 4, 2024 5:30 p.m. Council Chambers
Carol Griswold
Chair
Term February, 2027
Brenan Hornseth
Vice Chair
Term February, 2025
Nathaniel Charbonneau
Commissioner
Term February, 2027
Vanessa Verhey
Commissioner
Term February, 2026
Sean Ulman
Commissioner
Term February, 2025
Rhonda Hubbard
Commissioner
Term February, 2025
Vacant
Commissioner
Term February, 2026
Daniel Meuninck
Community
Development Director
Courtney Bringhurst
City Planner
Clara Brown
Executive Planning
Assistant
Kris Peck
City Clerk
1)CALL TO ORDER
2)STAFF COMMENTS
3)DISCUSSION ITEMS
a.Fire Station site selection presentation…………………….….4
4)ADJOURNMENT
2
OUTCOME GOALS
FOR WORK SESSION
1)Informational presentation on the needs assessment and site selection report
for the future Fire Station.
BACKGROUND:
R&M Consultants, KPB Architects, and Integrus Architecture conducted a
needs assessment and site selection report for a Public Safety building for the
City of Seward. The report was completed in December of 2023.
This work session will only focus on the site selection for the future fire station.
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December 22, 2023
City of Seward: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Mayor: Sue McClure
Assistant City Manager / Community Development Director: Jason Bickling
PO Box 167, 410 Adams Street, Seward, AK, 99664
Project Directory
Client
City of Seward: Mayor’s Office
Project Manager: Taryn Oleson-Yelle
9101 Vanguard Drive, Anchorage, AK, 99507
Design Team
Planning: R&M Consultants
Architect: David Popiel
500 L Street - Suite 400, Anchorage, AK, 99501
Architecture: KPB Architects
Architect: Jeff Luedeman, Bob Estlund
117 S. Main St., Suite 100, Seattle, WA, 98104 :: 10 S. Cedar St., Spokane, WA, 99201
Public Safety Design: Integrus Architecture
Fire Chief: Clinton Crites
PO Box 167, 316 4th Avenue, Seward, AK, 99664
City of Seward: Fire Department
Chief of Police: Alan Nickell
Deputy Police Chief: Karl Schaefermeyer
PO Box 167, 410 Adams Street, Seward, AK, 99664
City of Seward: Police Department
Building Official: Jeremy Rogers
316 4th Avenue, Seward, AK, 99664
City of Seward: Building Departmnent
DMV Clerk: Regenia Huett
410 Adams Street, Seward, AK, 99664
City of Seward: Department of Motor Vehicles
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Funding Opportunities
Codes & Standards
Community and Growth Profile
Existing Conditions
Fire Department
Building Department
Police Department
Department of Motor Vehicles
Space Needs
Space Needs Matrix
Bubble Diagrams
Site Analysis
Appendices
Appendix A: Cost Estimate
Appendix B: Adjacency Diagrams
Appendix C: Space Plans
Appendix D: Room Data Sheets
Appendix E: Survey Questions & Responses
Appendix F: Site Visit Itinerary
Appendix G: Dept. Meeting Agendas
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Executive Summary
The City of Seward enlisted the services of R&M Consultants, with support from KPB
Architects and Integrus Architecture, to conduct a comprehensive Needs Assessment
and Site Selection Study for a new Public Safety Building(s). This initiative stems from the
inadequacy of current spaces housing Fire and Police services, both of which are struggling
with the challenges posed by the growing needs of their respective departments and aging of
their current facilities. The study also encompasses an evaluation of the Building Department,
Dispatch, EMS, and the Department of Motor Vehicles, considering their operational and
spatial connections to either the Police or Fire Department.
Facility needs were evaluated through extensive interviews, site visits, and a review of
national best practices and standards. A deficiencies analysis compared current operating
spaces to existing and anticipated future needs based on population growth. A space analysis
was conducted to illustrate the inadequacies of the current situation and provide reliable
estimates of current and projected space requirements as shown in the graphics below. The
results of this examination are encapsulated in the Needs Assessment portion of the report.
Police Dept. Needs Assessment Graphic Fire Dept. Needs Assessment Graphic
Once facility sizes and programming needs were identified, the next step was determining
the most suitable location for the recommended facility or facilities. Standalone Fire and
Police stations on separate or a shared site were considered as well as a combined facility.
In coordination with the City, R&M identified a range of potential sites and developed an
evaluation matrix to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each site. The project team met
in Seward and over 2 days, reviewed and evaluated each site, narrowing the options down
to sites that scored the highest and would best meet operational preferences. The privately
owned Griswold Property north of Seward Middle School (Site F), was the highest scoring
site and preferred option for the Police Station with an Emergency Operations Center only.
The city-owned Forest Acres Campground (Site C), was high scoring and the best performing
site for all public safety building development scenarios and is considered the preferred site
to continue with conceptual designs and cost estimations. On Site C, the team developed
a series of designs, coming up with three unique layouts that accommodated a variety of
project development methods. The site evaluation matrix and conceptual layouts are shown
in the Site Analysis portion of the report.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Executive Summary
With a preferred site identified and conceptual designs developed that included the full
program, R&M and the team coordinated with cost estimators to develop conceptual level
construction cost estimates for the project. Site development cost estimation for Site C
leveraged information from a recent geotechical report and survey. A project cost summary
is included below.
There is a pressing need for new facilities to meet the City’s current requirements.
Projections over the next 20 years, based on expected growth, underscore the imperative for
new facilities to serve the needs of the City’s residents.
Cost Estimations
Three development scenarios on Site C: Forest Acres Campground were carried forward
for conceptual cost estimations. Since standalone police and fire stations are under
consideration at the same site, those same building costs could be applied to a different site
in the event the privately owned Griswold site were to be pursued for a police station. Site
development costs were developed assuming both facilities were developed on the same site.
If only one facility were develped, the site costs would be reduced.
Appendix A details the site development cost estimates done by R&M Consultants, Inc.
and the building cost estimations done by HMS, Inc. These costs are conceptual, based on
the preliminary space and site layouts developed through this process, and include 30%
contingencies. Not included in the cost estimations are soft costs; project expenses not
directly related to the physical construction of the project. These would include design
services, permitting, furniture/fixtures/equipment (FF&E), owner project management, owner
contingency. A substantial portion of the project ‘soft costs’ for Site C have been completed
included survey, geotechnical, and a feasibility study. For cost estimating purposes, assuming
approximately 20-30% of the construction cost will be adequate to cover project soft costs.
Site Development Cost Estimate: $2,385,000 - $2,875,000
Building Cost Estimates:
Fire Department Facility (Standalone) $26,447,549
Police Department Facility (Standalone) $23,635,519
Combined Fire & Police Facility ~$48,000,000
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Funding Opportunities
Funding for significant capital projects can come from a variety of sources including bonds,
bank loans, cash reserves, funding from current revenues, and grants. Grants are typically the
most desirable opportunity as they bring in external funding and may or may not require a
percentage match from the recipient. Each grant opportunity has eligibility requirements that
must be met. Depending on the competitiveness of the grant, average award amounts, and
terms of the grant agreement, it may or may not be deemed worth the effort to apply.
Initial research into potentially applicable grant opportunities was conducted for capital
funding to construct a new public safety building, including a fire station and/or a police
station. While there are few opportunities that would fund the entirety of estimated amount,
grant pairing or funding source leveraging is a recommended strategy. Leveraging different
funding sources and grant matching means paring different sources of funding, which may
be allocated to specific scope items, together to address the entire project. This may include
using city funds as match for a state grant, and the state grant funds as match for a federal
grant where applicable.
The table on the following page identifies sources of federal funding the City of Seward
Public Safety Building project may be eligible for. Additional investigation into each potential
opportunity is recommended ahead of initiating any application efforts. Other State funding
sources should be explored and advocated for in addition to local funding sources.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Funding Opportunities
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Community Facilies Direct Loan &
Grant Program
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr US Department of Agriculture, Rural
Development
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee Not Specified MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh 25%-85%, depending on median
household income
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and/or improve essenal community facilies, to purchase
equipment, and to pay related project expenses. Priority of awards take into consideraon populaon
and median household income. Grants: Priority given to (1) small communies under 5K populaon, (2)
communies with median household income below 80% of State nonmetropolitan median household
income. Loans: Loan terms are the lesser of project useful life or 40 years.
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Alaska Community Development
Block Grants (CDBG)
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr State of Alaska, Division of Community and
Regional Affairs as the local administrator
for HUD
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee Max $850,000 MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh N/A
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
The goals of the Alaska CDBG are to provide financial resources to Alaskan communies for public
facilies and planning acvies which address issues detrimental to the health and safety of local
residents and to reduce the costs of essenal community services.
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Community Assistance Program
(CAP)
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr State of Alaska, Division of Community and
Regional Affairs
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee Approx. $300,000 or less MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh N/A
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
CAP funds can be used for any public purpose that have been determined as a priority of the funding
recipient. Development phase acvies are eligible for funding.
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Building Resilient Infrastructure and
Communies (BRIC) & Hazard
Migaon Grant Program (HMGP)
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr Department of Homeland Security, Federal
Emergency Management Agency
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee No stated award ceiling or floor MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh 25% (10% for Economically Disadvantaged
Rural Communies)
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
BRIC funds may be used for Migaon Projects; depending on the site and public safety facility
component being funded, consider applying for funds for Tsunami Vercal Evacuaon (unlikely to qualify
for other eligible acvies). Note there are restricons/specific on eligible scopes of work. Benefit Cost
Analysis is required.
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Emergency Operaons Center (EOC)
Grant Program
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr US Department of Homeland Security,
Federal Emergency Management Agency
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee No stated award ceiling or floor MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh 25%
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
The EOC Grant Program is intended to improve emergency management and preparedness capabilies by
supporng flexible, sustainable, secure, strategically located, and fully interoperable EOC’s with a focus
on addressing idenfied deficiencies and needs. EOC Program will provide funding for equipping,
upgrading, or construcng the EOC Projects. Only State Administrave Agencies on behalf of state and
local units of government with idenfied projects are eligible to apply. The State of Alaska would need to
select and list Seward’s project as their eligible project for future Fiscal Years to be eligible for funding.
GGrraanntt // LLooaann
PPrrooggrraamm
Public Works and Economic
Adjustment Assistance (PWEAA)
Program
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr US Economic Development Administraon
FFuunnddiinngg RRaannggee $100,000 to $30,000,000 MMiinniimmuumm MMaattcchh 20-50% dependent on unemployment
rates and/or per capita income thresholds
DDeessccrriippoonn //
NNootteess::
EDS intends to advance general economic development in accordance with EDA’s investment priories,
but also to pursue projects that incorporate specific priories related to equity, workforce development,
and climate change resiliency so that investments can benefit everyone for decades to come. Includes
funding for design and engineering, construcon, rehabilitaon, alteraon, expansion or improvement of
public works, public services, or related department facilies. Applicaons are accepted on a rolling basis
(there are no applicaon submission deadlines).
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
The findings in the report have been developed in accordance with the following standards
and best practices.
NFPA 1201 – Standard for Providing Fire and Emergency Services to the Public. This standard
from the National Fire Protection Association provides guidance on service levels of fire
and emergency service of organizations as well as its organizational structure. Utilizing this
standard in the design of a new facility ensures a comprehensive approach to planning.
NFPA 1710 – Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations,
Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Career Fire
Departments
NFPA 1720 – Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations,
Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Volunteer Fire
Departments
NFPA for Miscellaneous Components – In addition to the NFPA standards mentioned above
a number additional NFPA standards are utilized in the planning of specific areas within the
station such as:
• NFPA 1851 for the decon room
• NFPA 1402 for training components
• NFPA 1583 for health and fitness programs
• NFPA 1500 for health and safety
ISO – Insurance Services Offices Fire Score ratings are used to assess how well a department
is equipped to protect its community. Seward Fire Department currently has a 3/3Y rating and
components of the new facility are designed to improve this rating.
IAPC – Police Facility Planning Guidelines. This standard from the Internation Association of
Police Cheifs provides guidance on developing a comprehensive planning approach beginning
with needs assessments and Predesign documentation all the way through construction
completion and occupation of a new facility.
Evidence management Institute – Evidence Management Institute standards and best
practices designed to provide a strong foundation for evidence management
American Correctional Association – Performance based standards for Adult Local Detention
Facilities
International Building Code 2021 – Model building code adopted by the City of Seward for
commercial construction.
Codes & Standards
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Community & Growth Profile
COMMUNITY PROFILE
The City of Seward is situated at the northern end of Resurrection Bay on the southeast coast
of the Kenai Peninsula. The city is an ocean terminus of the Seward Hwy and Alaska Railroad,
the two land connections to Southcentral and Interior Alaska. Resurrection Bay serves as the
gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and is framed by mountains that enhance Seward as a
destination and strategic location for maritime, recreation, tourism, and commerce activities.
The City of Seward and the adjacent neighborhoods in Bear Creek and Lowell Point make up
the greater Seward area, with essential services, employment opportunities, and community
amenities including grocery, pharmacy, healthcare, educational and institutional facilities
located within city limits. Seward is home to the world-class Alaska Sea Life Center, the
Alaska Vocational Technical Center, the University of Alaska’s Institute of Marine Science,
and the Alutiiq Pride Shellfish Hatchery. Seward is an in-demand destination for recreation,
employment, and those seeking a high-quality of life in a tight-knit ocean side community.
POPULATION
According to the 2020 Census, Seward had a population of 2,717 and had experienced a 1.4%
growth from 2019. Seward’s population has experienced minimally significant population
change for the past three decades, with total year-round populations fluctuating between
approximately 2,700 and 2,850. The population outside of city limits is slightly less than
that of the city proper per the 2020 Census, for an approximate total of 5,000 people in the
greater Seward area (Bear Creek, 2,129 and Lowell Point 79). It is important to note that the
population of the greater Seward area are largely employed within city limits and come into
the city for services and daily amenities including getting groceries, gas, mail, etc.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day Seward has a significant population influx. There
are roughly 1,500-2,000 seasonal employees that come to work in Seward for the summer
supporting the tourism and fishing industries. With the added cruise ship and tourism traffic,
Seward averages about 10,000 visitors a day with the peak being about 30,000 visitors on
the 4th of July for Seward’s popular holiday celebration.
The term for the Needs Assessment ranges from current conditions to 20+ years in the future
The 20 year duration was selected to align with the projected usable life of the proposed
facility. However, most government buildings are used long past their expected lifespan.
GROWTH PROFILE
Based on AK Department of Labor and Workforce Development data, population growth for
Seward and the Kenai Peninsula Borough is projected to be low-to-negative through 2045.
However other data indicates that Seward’s population is constrained by its housing shortage,
not general lack of interest or employment opportunities. There are active and continuing
efforts to increase housing supply within City limits underway so the assumption is for low
but not negative growth rate.
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Community & Growth Profile
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
The graphics below cover the projected growth rate for Fire Department and Police
Department staffing.
Fire Department Staff Projections
Current Actual Current Need Future (20 Years)
Position Total Largest Shift Total Largest Shift Total Largest Shift
Chief 1 1 1 1 1 1
Deputy Chief 1 1 1 1 1 1
Fire Inspector 1 1 1 1 1 1
Admin 1 1 1 1 2 2
Admin Volunteer 1 1 1 1 1 1
EMS Chief 0 0 0 0 1 1
Training Officer 0 0 1 1 1 1
Emergency Manager 0 0 0 0 1 1
Volunteer 18-20 -40 -20 -
Full Time FF/EMT 1 1 3 1 9 3
Full Time FF/Medic ----6 2
Building Official 1 1 1 1 1 1
Police Department Staff Projections
Current Actual Current Need Future (20 Years)
Position Total Largest Shift Total Largest Shift Total Largest Shift
Chief 1 1 1 1 1 1
Deputy Chief 1 1 1 1 1 1
Sergeant 1 1 2 2 2 2
Patrol Officers 4 4 8 8 10+10+
Dispatch Super 1 1 1 1 2 2
Dispatchers 5 5 5 5 8-12 8-12
Jail Supervisors 1 1 1 1 1 1
Jailers 2 2 5 5 5 5
Assistant to Chief 1 1 1 1 1 1
DMV Clerk 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2 2
Evidence Tech / Records 0 0 0 0 1 1
IT 0 0 1 1 1 1
Custodian 0 0 0 0 1 1
Animal Control Super 1 1 1 1 1 1
Animal Control Officer 1 1 1 1 2 2
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Existing Conditions: Fire Dept
The Seward Fire Department is a cornerstone of its community. It is located at the heart of
downtown Seward and not only provides emergency response services to the community
and public education, but it is also a critical piece of creating the Seward community culture
by participating in numerous events throughout the year including the 4th of July Mount
Marathon Race, Halloween Carnival, parades and an Angel Tree program. Their role in the
community means there is a lot of pedestrian foot traffic and station tours, especially in the
tourist season during the summer. The volunteers desire space to host more community
events, such as CPR classes, pancake breakfasts, spaghetti dinners, ect.
The department is primarily volunteer operated through 401c, but has recently hired its first
full time firefighter. In the future, the department is looking to hire a handfull of additional
firefighters to provide consistent service to its community. The volunteer aspect of the
department will likely continue into the future utilizing a combination of carrier and volunteer
firefighters to provide service. Since volunteerism is an essential part of how the Seward
Fire Department provides its services, retention and training of volunteers is the driving
force behind the new facility planning. Retention of volunteers is increasingly difficult due
to financial pressures in the current economy and modern lifestyles, which underlines the
importance of design for volunteer retention in a new facility. Space, locations, and weather
affect the ability to train current and new volunteer firefighters.
Call volume for the department has been steady at about 350 per year. The rate of these calls
changes throughout the seasons, however, the summer tourist season drastically increases
the call volume.
Emergency services provided by Seward Fire Department include:
• Fire Suppression and prevention
• Inspections and community risk reduction
• Marine Fire Fighting and Rescue
• Mountain Rescue
• Basic Hazmat Operations
• Building Department is housed in and operated by the Fire Department
• Emergency Medical Service is anticipated to be a future service to be provided
• Basic water rescue
• Fire marshal plan review
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
The new facility planning should not only look to the needs identified in the subsequent
section, but look ahead to future needs of Seward emergency services. Those future needs
are primarily identified as:
• Transitioning from a volunteer to a combination volunteer / carrier operated department
• Implementing Emergency Medical Services
• Acting as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
The primary goal for the replacement of the existing Fire Department facility is to improve
operational deficiencies, increase the ability to provide effective emergency services to the
Seward community and provide flexibility for the future. The Fire Department provides many
more services to its community than other facilities that share the same name. They go
above and beyond by providing building department services, events for its community and
the need to train and retain volunteers that need to be taken into consideration in the scope
of the new facility as well.
The Seward Fire Department has done an admirable job of maintaining its existing facility
which is far beyond its useful life cycle. There is only so much they can do when the facility
itself lacks the space and infrastructure to meet modern emergency response standards
for operations, health and wellness as well as serving its public-facing services within the
building. Emergency response standards have drastically evolved over the years to provide
better service and a safer long term environment for those providing the service. The existing
1963 facility is unable to accommodate this modern practice.
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
APPARATUS BAY
SHOP
DORM
DORM
KITCHEN
TRAINING ROOM
BUILDING OFFICIAL /
FIRE INSPECTOR OFFICECHIEF / DEPUTY CHIEF
OFFICE
ADMIN / DAY DESK
MAIN ENTRY
fig 1
fig 2
fig 3
fig 4
Lorem ipsum
fig 5
fig 6
fig 7
fig 8
fig 10
fig 11
fig 12
fig 13
Lorem ipsum
fig 15
STORAGE - PLANS
FITNESS
STORAGE - EVENTS STORAGE - BUNKER GEAR / EMS
MECHANICAL STORAGE
fig 9
fig 15
Existing Fire Department: Basement Plan
Existing Fire Department: First Floor Plan
STORAGE - PLANS
FITNESS
fig 9 Photo Reference Location
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 1
GENERAL
• The facility is currently located within a tsunami
inundation zone.
• There is known to be asbestos building materials within
the existing facility.
• In general, almost every space does not have the
space that it requires for proper and safe storage of
materials (see figure 15).
• Security is highly deficient in the existing facility. There
is almost no separation of public and private zones
• Most systems within the building have degraded or do
not provide the appropriate infrastructure for current
needs including:
• HVAC system is far beyond its useful life
• IDF and IT infrastructure does not have dedicated
space within the building and is mounted on the
kitchen wall (see figure 1)
• Plumbing, valve seized, leaks, corrosion
• Electrical
• No sprinkler or modern alarm system
PUBLIC
• The public entrance to the existing station is not ADA
accessible. This is especially problematic since Building
Department services for the City of Seward are located
in this facility, which need frequent public interaction
(see figure 2).
• There is no space for someone needing to fill out
paperwork for the building department to do so.
• There is no lobby space within the existing facility
which means that there is no control over the public
accessing private office space upon entry, and if the
admin personnel needs to step away for a moment,
the public can access the apparatus bay directly. A
new facility should have a welcoming lobby, but also
provide an access point between the lobby and private
administrative functions (see figure 3).
• The location of the current training room is such that
visitors need to walk through the apparatus bay from
the front door to access it. An apparatus bay should be
secure from the public to prevent interference with the
ability to respond to emergencies and prevent injuries
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Fig. 6
Fig. 5
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
• Current training room is undersized for its average
use and desired capacity. It also does not have
appropriate storage to create an effective, flexible
space where tables and chairs can be stored away for
multiple functions (see figure 4).
ADMINISTRATION
• There is little or no acoustic separation between
existing offices and the apparatus bay causing a
disruptive working environment.
• No secure file storage in existing facility.
• There is no space for a building official to meet with
a member of the public.
• All offices are sized for one occupant, but are being
shared by two occupants (see figure 5), so there is no
privacy between occupants.
• No separation between vehicle exhaust and office
spaces
LIVING
• Bunk rooms do not have sufficient acoustic
separation to meet current codes for sleeping rooms.
• Bunk rooms are not designed to be gender inclusive
by providing individual spaces for sleeping and
restrooms (see figure 6).
• The number of bunks does not support future
growth.
• The current facility lacks a day room, which is
standard practice to allow for proper decompression
and metal wellbeing in the firefighting profession.
• Kitchen is far undersized for the amount of
volunteers that support Seward emergency
services (see figure 7&8).
• Low ceiling height in fitness room limits the type of
equipment that can be utilized (see figure 9).
DUTY CREW REPORT
• There is no space within the existing facility for the
crew to fill out paperwork and do individual training.
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Fig. 11
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
APPARATUS
• Does not have proper clearance around apparatus
to meet NFPA guidelines making performing routine
tasks, such as checking off apparatus difficult (see
figure 10). This makes it unsafe when backing in
apparatus.
• Apparatus bay has insufficient drainage and no oil
separator, where snow, ice, and rainoff apparatus
floods the offices.
• Floors do not have proper slip resistance.
• There is no dedicated decon room in the existing
facility, which is a major concern from a health
and safety standpoint and does not meet NFPA
regulations. The carcinogen-containing water
discharge from the extractor goes right into the
trough drains in the existing bay (see figure 11)
• Without a dedicated decon room, SCBA washing
occurs within the same sink as general shop washing.
NFPA requires dedicated washing for SCBA gear for
health and safety purposes (see figure 12).
• There is no fire resistive assemblies separating stored
vehicles and sleeping areas.
• Apparatus bay does not have sufficient ventilation
and is not negatively pressurized which is a long term
health risk for occupants.
• Hose storage is insufficient for current needs.
• There is not a dedicated bunker gear storage room
in the facility which means that bunker gear is being
stored in the apparatus by which is against NFPA
regulations since it is sensitive to exhaust and UV
rays. This voids the warranties on the gear and
increase operational costs Additionally, storage in the
bay does not allow sufficient space to access the gear
affecting response times (see figure 13).
• The shop with the compressor room does not have
sufficient ventilation and causes the compressor to
overheat.
• There is no infrastructure for vehicle washing in the
existing apparatus bay, which means that it must be
performed on the public street creating a hazardous
situation that has already nearly lead to an incident of
a firefighter being struck.
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Existing Conditions: Fire Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Fig. 12
Fig. 13
Fig. 14
• There is limited ability to maintain and repair
apparatus.
• Rollup doors are much slower than their modern
counterparts, slowing response times.
• The apparatus bay is not large enough to house all
of the apparatus owned by Seward Fire Department,
further impeding the ability to improve the current
ISO rating.
TRAINING
• There are currently no training facilities on site, they
are located across the bay and are inaccessible during
the winter time which impedes the department’s
ability to keep up volunteer training.
• Training tower across they bay is only 2 stories
inhibiting the ability to improve the current ISO rating.
GROUNDS
• The apron length outside of the apparatus bay is
much too short and impactsthe ability to safely enter
the public right of way.
• There is no indication system to alert pedestrians and
drivers of emergency vehicles exiting the apparatus
bay.
• No space to check off apparatus, wash apparatus, or
perform routine maintenence.
• No hydrant to train on or fill apparatus.
Fig. 15
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Exist. Conditions: Building Dept
The City of Seward Building Department is responsible for regulating and overseeing new
construction within the City limits. The Department is charged with ensuring that all new
construction is completed in compliance with the City’s adopted building codes and safety
standards. The Department provides the following services.
• Plan Review: The Department reviews architectural and engineering plans for proposed
construction projects to ensure they meet the adopted safety and Code standards.
• Issuing Building Permits: Review and processing of applications for new construction.
• Building Inspections: Building inspectors from the Department conduct inspections at
various stages of construction to verify that work is being done in accordance with the
reviewing plans and adopted building codes.
• Addressing Code Violations: When buildings are not constructed or maintined in
compliance with Code, the Department can issues notices of violation and work with
property owners to bring the structures into compliance.
• Technical Consultation: The Depart will work with property owners, designers, and
developers during the early stages of a project to ensure the project is designed and
developed in a manner consistent with the adopted Codes and standards.
• Disaster Response and Recovery; In the case of a natural disaster or emergency, the
Department is involved in assessing building safety, issuing permits for repairs, and
assisting with recovery efforts.
• Managing Building Project Records: The Department keeps copies of projects that have
been submitted and permitted for construction in the City as a historical record of work
completed.
The City of Seward Building Department is located within the existing Fire Station and staffed
by members of the Fire Department. The Fire Marshall is Chief Crites and the Building/Fire
Inspector is Firefighter Adam Sayler.
The existing facilities for the Building
Department consist of an office and shared
storage in the basement. The office houses
the Building Official and Fire Inspector and is
directly off of the Apparatus Bay. The office
itself is moderately sized but is lacking in
general storage, refer to Fig 16.
There is no direct access from the reception
area to the office; to access the office, the
general public will have to walk thru either the
apparatus bay or the Fire Chief’s and Deputy
Chief’s Offices.
Fig. 16
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Existing Conditions: Building Department
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
The basement storage space is accessed
by leaving the Fire Department proper and
descending to the basement. The room is located
off of the physical fitness area. The room itself
is moderately sized but is sharing space with
general Fire Department storage which reduces
capacity for storing drawings, see Fig. 17.
There is very limited space to engage with
the public and review projects that does not
conflict with the daily activities within the Fire
Department.
While a relatively small department with the City, the Building Department plays a vital role
in safeguarding public safety, ensuring the integrity of structures, and promoting orderly and
responsible development within the City. The new facility should support the mission of the
Department with spaces that are tailored to specific Building Department functions.
Fig. 17
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Space Needs Assessment
The following spreadsheets summarize the Design Team’s findings for the space needs of the
City of Seward Public Safety Departments; Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Building
Department, and Department of Motor Vehicles.
The summary sheet includes existing square footages for each department, the current need,
and the future need based on growth projections over 20 years. City of Seward: Public Safety Needs Assessment
Space Program Listing
DEPARTMENT GROUP EXISTING SF CURRENT NEED
SF
FUTURE NEED
SF
Public 639 3,428 3,428
Administration 936 2,706 3,246
Living 2138 3,700 4,680
Duty Crew Report 0 200 200
Apparatus 3274 10,540 10,540
Fire Dept. Subtotal 6,987 20,574 22,094
Grossing Factor @ 35%-7,201 7,733
FIRE DEPT TOTAL BUILDING AREA (SF)6,987 27,775 29,827
Public Access Zone 940 3,500 3,500
Police Administration Zone 565 1,740 1,740
Department of Motor Vehicles 472 625 635
Patrol 235 1,510 1,660
Evidence 200 935 935
Police Operation Support Services 80 3,500 3,500
Detention 1,185 3,750 3,750
Police Dept. Subtotal 3,677 15,560 15,720
Grossing Factor @ 35%-5,446 5,502
POLICE DEPT TOTAL BUILDING AREA (SF)3,677 21,006 21,222
DEPARTMENT GROUP EXISTING SF
CURRENT NEED
SF
FUTURE NEED
SF
FIRE DEPARTMENT Site Development 3,750 25,500 25,500
POLICE DEPARTMENT Site Development 800 22,300 24,100
TOTAL SITE AREA (SF)4,550 47,800 49,600
POLICE DEPARTMENT
SPACE PLANNING SUMMARY - SITE
SPACE PLANNING SUMMARY - BUILDING
FIRE DEPARTMENT
R&M Consultants / KPB Architects ./ Integrus Architecture October 12-13, 2023 Pag
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Space Needs Matrix
Refer to space plans for preliminary layouts and
additional information.
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
City of Seward: Public Safety Needs Assessment
Space Program Listing
Qty Total SF Qty SF/ Room Total SF Qty Total SF
PUBLIC
F.01 Lobby 1 1,200 1,200 1 1,200
F.02 Restrooms 1 150 2 70 140 2 140
F.03 Training Room 1 480 1 1,600 1,600 1 1,600 If this space is shared, police may need their own 8 person
conference room
F.04 Storage - Table and Chair 1 9 1 140 140 1 140
F.05 Storage - EOC 1 100 100 1 100
F.06 AV Closet 1 50 50 1 50
F.07 Coffee Bar 1 18 18 1 18
F.08 Vestibule 1 80 80 1 80
F.09 Storage - Public Education & CPR 1 100 100 1 100
SUBTOTAL 639 3,428 3,428
ADMINISTRATION
F.10 Reception 1 253 1 450 450 1 450
F.11 Workroom 1 550 550 1 550 If offices are on the second floor, an additional copy area will
need to be provided.
F.12 Office - Chief 1 190 1 300 300 1 300
F.13 Office - Deputy Chief 1 200 200 1 200
F.14 Office - EMS Chief 0 180 0 1 180
F.15 Office - Training Officer 0 160 0 1 160
F.16 Office - Emergency Manager 0 200 0 1 200
F.17 Office - Admin 1 180 180 1 180
F.18 Office - Fire Marshall 1 200 200 1 200
F.19 Shoe Rack 1 18 18 1 18
F.20 Coffee Bar 1 18 18 1 18
F.21 Storage 1 100 100 1 100 Public education materials and radios might want to split this if
facility is 2 stories
F.22 Shower 1 100 100 1 100
F.23 Storage - Antiques 1 93 0 0 0 0 0 The items in this existing storage room will be incorporated
into the lobby of the new building
B.1 Office - Building Official 1 205 1 180 180 1 180 Desk, (2) chairs, file storage, book case
B.2 Plans Long-term Storage 1 195 1 250 250 1 250
B.3 Conference Room 1 160 160 1 160 6-8 person
Administration Subtotal 936 2,706 3,246
LIVING
F.30 Dorms 1 276 2 170 340 6 1,020 Future planning for (3) FF, (2) EMT, (1)
F.31 Showers 1 38 1 100 100 4 400
F.32 Laundry 1 75 1 120 120 1 120
F.33 Great Room 1 255 1 1,600 1,600 1 1,600
F.34 Pantry 1 160 160 1 160
F.36 Fitness 1 1,304 1 1,200 1,200 1 1,200
F.37 Storage 1 80 80 1 80
F.38 Storage - Event 1 190 1 100 100 1 100 Wants to have direct access to both parking lot and apparatus
bay. This should include a nook for an ice machine in the
hallway.
Living Subtotal 2,138 3,700 4,680
Existing Space Current Need Future Need
Room DesignationNumber
FIRE DEPARTMENT SPACE PLANNING
Operational Requirements
R&M Consultants / KPB Architects ./ Integrus Architecture October 12-13, 2023 Page 2
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Space Needs Matrix
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Refer to space plans for preliminary layouts and
additional information.
City of Seward: Public Safety Needs AssessmentSpace Program Listing
Qty Total SF Qty SF/ Room Total SF Qty Total SF
Existing Space Current Need Future Need
Room DesignationNumber
FIRE DEPARTMENT SPACE PLANNING
Operational Requirements
DUTY CREW REPORT
F.40 Workstations 0 - 1 200 200 1 200 (2) Workstations with radio station.
Duty Crew Subtotal - 200 200
APPARATUS
F.50 Apparatus Bay 1 2,690 1 6,600 6,600 1 6,600
T-35 Ladder
E-2&E-4 Eingine
R-1 Rescue
R-2 Rescue
S-2 Squad
Ambulance
F.51 Vehicle Maintenance Bay 0 - 1 1,400 1,400 1 1,400 20x70
F.52 Training Mezzanine 0 - 1 1,100 One of the current highest needs for the department; does not
count against floor area since it is a mezzanine
F.53 Hose Storage 0 - 1 140 140 1 140 Alcove shoud include room for (3) A frame ladders, radios &
log book
F.54 Turnout 0 - 1 480 480 1 480
F.55 Decon 0 - 1 300 300 1 300
F.56 Shop 1 307 1 500 500 1 500
F.57 Shop Compressor 1 51 1 80 80 1 80
F.58 SCBA 0 - 1 200 200 1 200 (6) Bank bottle and fill station (4) bank oxygen bottle and fill
station. Needs to be close to Rescue 2 and Ladder Truck
F.59 Storage - EMS 1 42 1 240 240 1 240
F.60 Storage - Exterior 0 - 1 120 120 1 120 Should be accessable from the exterior of the building. Will
store gas powered maintence equipment and landscaping
tools
F.61 Storage 1 184 1 200 200 1 200 Bunker gear storage, cleaning supplies, janitorial ect.
F.62 Vestibule 0 - 1 80 80 1 80
F.63 Restroom 0 - 2 100 200 2 200
Apparatus Subtotal 3,274 10,540 10,540
TRAINING Should be connected to the main building, but unconditioned
space.
F.70 Training Tower 1 1 (150 sf footprint) Current training tower is only 2 stories, new
tower should be 3 stories to improve ISO rating. Current
Tower is across the bay and inacceable during winter.
Depending on site location, stair tower could be used to allow
for vertical evacuation from the facility roof.
F.71 Search & Rescue Room 1 1 (480 sf footprint) Current search and rescue rooms are across
the bay and inaccessable during winter.
Training Subtotal 0 0
GROUNDS
F.80 Apron 0 - 1 7,500 7,500 1 7,500 60' long infront of the apparatus bay
F.81 Patio 1 1,500 1,500 1 1,500 Square footage is flexible, should be shielded from public view
and covered.
F.82 Generator 1 200 1 500 500 1 500
R&M Consultants / KPB Architects ./ Integrus Architecture October 12-13, 2023 Page 3
City of Seward: Public Safety Needs Assessment
Space Program Listing
Qty Total SF Qty SF/ Room Total SF Qty Total SF
Existing Space Current Need Future Need
Room DesignationNumber
FIRE DEPARTMENT SPACE PLANNING
Operational Requirements
F.83 Generator Fuel Station 1 50 1 500 500 1 500
F.84 Parking 1 3,500 1 15,000 15,000 1 15,000 At a site with available street parking: 25 total. At a remote
site with on-site parking only: 50 total stalls. Secure perimeter
not required for staff parking
F.85 Covered Parking 0 - 1 500 500 1 500 For hazmat trailer specifically, can be a shed roof attached to
side of building, or stand alone structure
F.86 Plow Storage 0 -
F.87 Snow Storage Plan for 1/4 of parking area
Grounds Subtotal 3,750 25,500 25,500
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis
CURRENT FACILITY SITES
All departments being considered in this
Public Safety Building Needs Assessment
and Site Selection Study are currently
located on a 1.85-acre campus comprised
of two sites: City Hall, and the Fire Station
Complex. This campus is in the heart of
Downtown Seward and the public safety
facilities are approaching or beyond
their anticipated design life and are not
sufficiently meeting the needs of the
community as noted in Needs Assessment
portion of this report.
FIRE AND POLICE SERVICE AREA
Seward Fire Department and Police
Department service all areas within city
limits. When backup is needed by State
Troopers or other first responders outside
of city limits, such as in Bear Creek or
Lowell Point, Seward Departments may
respond. See Needs Assessment for more
information.
CRITERIA FOR SITE SELECTION
Site evaluation is an essential step when exploring renovation of an existing facility,
acquisition of an adaptive re-use facility, or new construction for public facilities.
Opportunities for a single shared facility or combination of multiple facilities on separate or
shared sites are being considered and will be dependent on available compatible sites and
programming recommendations. Locational considerations are crucial to ensure facilities
are properly located for effectiveness and their ability to response to emergency situations.
Multiple resources on facility planning and site selection studies were reviewed to inform
this effort, including Police Facilities Planning Guidelines by the International Association of
Chiefs of Police, to ensure best practices are being applied.
Some locational considerations will be more significant to some departments than others;
for example, ease of accessibility for the public will be very important for the Building
Department and Department of Motor Vehicles who are customer-facing services, but
less significant for Dispatch. Therefore, each site will be evaluated using the locational
considerations for each department or programmed department pairings as defined in the
Needs Assessment. Sites are being evaluated for their ability to comply with or support the
following considerations and meet minimum requirements where noted.
Figure 1. City of Seward Boundary Map
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
LOT SIZE AND CONFIGURATION
SIZE
The site should be appropriately sized to accommodate the square footage of anticipated
building(s), associated parking, turnaround spaces, storage, and other accessory structures.
Lot size should be based on future need to ensure sufficient space for expansion if the new
facility(s) are not fully built out at time of construction.
CONFIGURATION / SHAPE
The shape of a parcel can limit site design options, especially for fire stations where parking
and maneuvering of large vehicles occurs daily. Triangle or highly irregularly shaped parcels
are not recommended due to inefficiency and limitations, unless they are larger than the
recommended site size and comply with other locational criteria of particularly high value.
Fire station apparatus bays typically require long street frontages on either side, so unless
there is a pull-through option for street access on either side, sites without right-of-way on
the longer sides of the parcel should be avoided.
VEHICULAR & PEDESTRIAN ACCESS
The site must have enough space for department vehicles to maneuver safely and reliably,
including ingress and egress to the site, within the site, and in and out of the apparatus bays
as needed. While site design and circulation layout are not yet known, vehicular maneuvering
space, employee parking, and vehicle storage needs have been taken into considering in the
Site Size calculation shown under Lot Size & Configuration.
Opportunities for appropriate driveway/access points that accommodate emergency response
vehicles’ turning radius, have sufficient sight distance and separation from other driveways
or intersections, and manageable travel speeds of vehicles on access roads should be taken
into consideration. Access roads to a public safety building should be of sufficient width to
allow for vehicles to pull over/yield to responding emergency vehicles (fire truck) and be well
Draft Site Selection Report Page 5 of 41
Some locational considerations will be more significant to some departments than others; for example, ease of
accessibility for the public will be very important for the Building Department and Department of Motor Vehicles
who are customer-facing services, but less significant for Dispatch. Therefore, each site will be evaluated using the
locational considerations for each department or programmed department pairings as defined in the Needs
Assessment. Sites are being evaluated for their ability to comply with or support the following considerations and
meet minimum requirements where noted.
LOT SIZE AND CONFIGURATION
SIZE
The site should be appropriately sized to accommodate the square footage of anticipated building(s), associated
parking, turnaround spaces, storage, and other accessory structures. Lot size should be based on future need to
ensure sufficient space for expansion if the new facility(s) are not fully built out at time of construction.
Table 1. Site Size Estimations
Future Need
Building Size (sq. ft.)
Future Grounds
Need (sq. ft.) Site Size (sq. ft.)
Fire Station 29,827* 25,500 Approx. 100,000 (2.2-2.4 acres)
Police Station 21,087^ 24,100 Approx. 85,000
(1.8-2.1 acres)
Combined Building 47,874~ 37,200 Approx. 125,000 (2.7-3.1 acres)
Combined Campus (separate
buildings, same site)
50,914 37,200 Approx. 130,000 (2.8-3.2 acres)
CONFIGURATION / SHAPE
The shape of a parcel can limit site design options, especially for fire stations where parking and maneuvering of
large vehicles occurs daily. Triangle or highly irregularly shaped parcels are not recommended due to inefficiency
and limitations, unless they are larger than the recommended site size and comply with other locational criteria of
particularly high value. Fire station apparatus bays typically require long street frontages on either side, so unless
27
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
maintained. The Fire Department responds to calls from their station; therefore, the station
should be located where there is relatively quick access to major throughfares, with minimal
navigation through intersections requiring stops or make numerous turns to access primary
roadways. Two points of vehicular access are recommended in case an emergency or traffic
blocks one entrance.
Many departments interact with members of the public daily, including the Fire, DMV, and
Building Services and therefore need to be in an accessible, easy to find, and visible location.
The Fire Department also serves as a community gathering place, so ensuring accessibility
and visibility for the public-facing spaces of is of higher significance for locating their
facility. Space for sufficient parking for visitors/customers is needed and the site should be
connected by nonmotorized infrastructure (sidewalks, pathways, trails) where possible.
TOPOGRAPHY & PHYSICAL CONSTRAINTS
The site must be suitable for long term stability of built infrastructure with as minimal risk
to damage from natural and human hazards as possible. This includes selection of a site that
is ideally outside of floodplains, wetlands, away or buffered from waterbodies, has, or can
have stormwater control, and is outside of the tsunami inundation zone. Tsunami inundation
information is being sourced from the 2022 Report of Investigation 2022-3 Updated Tsunami
Inundation Maps for Seward and Norther Resurrection Bay, Alaska, published by the State
of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys,
which includes multiple inundation scenarios which are taken into consideration in this
assessment (the fewer scenarios a site may be inundated under, the higher the scoring for
this criteria). Seismic, soil, and gravity loading, and overall topographic conditions should
also be considered. Sites that are on stable soils with relatively flat terrain are typically
recommended as they limit the potential cost and impact of leveling the site to accommodate
the public safety facility.
SECURITY
Proximity to other buildings and hazardous material storage or transfer sites should be
considered. This is rooted in concerns for security; the potential for toxic spills, fires,
explosions, or ill intended actions to impede the operation, safety, or security of the public
safety facility is heightened if located close to buildings on higher ground with views into the
facility, near concealed rights of way, or immediately adjacent to raised structures, major
transportation facilities, or those handling hazardous materials.
At least two means of ingress or egress for police and first response vehicles is recommended
in the event one access point is blocked. Secured fenced parking and impounded vehicle
bays and seized vehicle garage are also needed on site for the Police Department, and those
facilities should be intentionally location with security concerns in mind.
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Figure 2. Tsunami Inundation in Upper Resurrection Bay for all mega-thrust scenarios
DNR, Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 2022
Draft Site Selection Report Page 5 of 31
Figure 2. Tsunami Inundation in Upper Resurrection Bay for all megathrust-only scenarios, DNR , Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 2022
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
PROXIMITY TO CONCENTRATION OF CALLS
Distance traveled from the origin facility to the location of the situation requiring response
directly correlates to response times. The fire station should be as centrally located to
the area it serves and the major call-response areas as practical. Police efficiency does
not require the same central locational criteria as fire since generally officers are in their
vehicles on patrol when dispatched.
The image to the right shows the approximate location and frequency of call responses
from the Fire Department from 2019-
2021. Frequencies are represented by
color and size of dots on the map, high
frequency is represented by larger
red dots while lower frequency calls
are represented by small blue dots.
Calls are spread across the city’s core
and is reflective of where residential,
commercial and employment areas are
concentrated.
While the Seward Marine Industrial
Center (SMIC) does not currently have
a concentration of emergency calls or
dense population, proximity of a new
public safety building to SMIC should
be taken into consideration as there
is potential for more residential and
commercial development on this side
of the Bay. Proximity to the port and
airport should also be considered as
need for first responders at these
locations, which are the transportation
hubs for residents and tourists, will
grow as more aircraft or vessels use
the facilities.
ACCESS TO UTILITIES
Existing utility infrastructure should be present at or near the site. This includes general
connections or the ability to easily establish connections to all needed utilities, and the
ability to integrate redundant systems. Public safety facilities (fire, police, dispatch, and
EMS) should be operational during and after an emergency event, regardless of the cause;
redundant systems may include electric power, potable water, telecom/communications, and
air-handling systems.
Figure 3. Emergency Response Calls Recieved 2019-2021
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
ADJACENT LAND USES & ZONING
The context of the adjacent neighborhood is an important consideration for operations,
community acceptance, and permitting. Neighborhood trip generators should be examined
and avoiding adjacent land uses that have predictable high volume travel times (such as
schools) is recommended as they could block or delay response vehicles or access to public
safety building site due to extended queuing.
Potential negative impacts to adjacent land uses, particularly residential areas, should
also be taken into consideration. This may include increased levels of noise, lighting, odor,
creation of visual barriers, or other potentially negative impacts that may not be able to
be sufficiently mitigated without limiting the operation of the facility. The recommended
site should be compatible with the adjacent land uses and therefore likely supported by the
community.
There may be programing and accessibility advantages for co-locating or locating public-
facing public safety department facilities in closer proximity to other government or
community facilities. The training room of the existing fire station regularly serves as
meeting or gathering space for staff at the neighboring City Hall, the Police Department, and
public forums; the ability to easily walk between regularly used gathering spaces could be an
advantage. Current zoning should allow/permit the facility or should be compatible with the
land use plan and therefore would be reasonable to be rezoned to support the facility.
SUMMARY OF CONSIDERATIONS
Staff of the Fire Department and Police Departments provided ratings of significance for
each criterion to inform the process and guide decision making when determining a final
recommendation. Sites were first considered using an unweighted assessment; each criterion
was given the same amount of significance. Then the sites that scored well using the
unweighted assessment were discussed and considered against the significance indicators
provided by public safety staff.
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Draft Site Selection Report Page 10 of 41
Table 2. Summary of Site Selection Considerations & Department Staff Ratings of Significance
Site Selection Consideration
Significance to Department (1 low – 5 high)
Fire/EMS Police Building DMV
Lot Size 3 2 1 2
Lot Configuration 3 4 1 3
Vehicular Access
On-site circulation and large vehicle maneuvering 5 2 2 4
Access roads have appropriate speeds and is near major
throughfares (Seward Hwy, 3rd Ave, Nash Rd.) 4 3 3 3
Access roads are in a state of good repair and have
desirable widths for vehicles to pull over for response
vehicles to pass
5 3 2 3
Two driveways or points of ingress/egress 3 5 2 2
Easy Public Access (visible, convenient) 5 4 5 4
Pedestrian Access (connected to existing nonmotorized
infrastructure) 3 3 3 3
Topography & Physical Constraints
Outside of Floodplain, free of wetlands and waterbodies 4 5 4 2
Outside of tsunami inundation zone 4 5 3 2
On stable and development-supporting soil 4 5 3 5
Relatively flat topography 4 3 2 2
Security
Separated from hazardous material storage or transport
facilities (port, railroad, Hwy if applicable) 4 4 3 2
Lack of inward or invasive viewshed from neighboring
property 3 1 3 1
Secure-area compatibility (space, views, access) 3 5 2 2
Proximity to Concentration of Calls (centrally located) 3 2 1 1
Access to Utilities
Existing access to or ability to connect 4 5 4 5
Redundant system supporting 3 5 2 3
Adjacent Land Use & Zoning
Allowed/Permitted in Zoning District 2 3 2 3
Proximity to major trip generators (traffic jams) 2 3 2 3
Proximity to other community or civic facilities 3 1 3 1
Compatible with adjacent land uses 2 1 2 1
Ability to mitigate potentially negative impacts 2 3 2 3
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Site Analysis
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITES FOR CONSIDERATION
Seven sites were assessed for their feasibility of hosting a future public safety building(s).
The following sections provide an overview of the existing conditions of each site, including
size, current and planning land use, zoning, development standards, and environmental
information as available. Existing conditions summaries are based on publicly available data
and did not include any surveying activities, soil sampling, or other ground investigations as
part of this Needs Assessment & Site Selection Study.
Draft Site Selection Report
Figure 4. Sites Under Consideration for Public Safety Building(s)
A
B
C
D
E F
G
H
A
Sites Considered:
A. Current City Hall & Fire Station
Complex
B. Fort Raymond Facility
Remainder
C. Forest Acres Campground
D. State of Alaska DOT Facility
(former facility site)
E. Carol Griswold Property 1
F. Carol Griswold Property 2
G. Dieckgraeff Highway Property
H. UAF Rae Building Property B
C
D
E F
G
H
Figure 4. Sites Under Consideration for Public Safety Building(s)
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITE A. CURRENT CITY HALL & FIRE
STATION COMPLEX
Multiple parcels are being considered
as a single option for redevelopment to
provide improved public safety facilities
as well as continue to house City Hall, and
the departments within it, in its existing
building. Most parcels being considered as
part of the complex are either currently
owned or are intended to be owned by the
City of Seward. Two lots would need to be
purchased, one from the Seward Volunteer
Fire Department and the other from GCI.
While the City Hall building would remain
as is, looking at the parcels jointly allows
for maximum flexibility when it comes
to potential space layouts and building
orientations, as opposed to being bound
by existing lot lines and easements which
could be changed as needed in the future.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE
REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Central business district (CBD).
Provides for an area of convenient,
attractive, concentrated commercial
development primarily intended for retail,
financial, entertainment and professional
services occurring within enclosed structures. Regulations applying to this zone are designed
to encourage a compact group of businesses of the type which are mutually beneficial and
located close enough together to encourage walk-in trade.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
• Maximum building height- 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size – 3,000-9,000 square feet
• Setbacks – Front 0; Side 0; Street Side 0; Rear 0
• Maximum lot coverage – 100%
Site Analysis: Site A
SITE A. CURRENT CITY HALL & FIRE STATION COMPLEX
Multipl
redevelwell as within iconside
or are i
would nFire De
buildingallows fspace labound b
changed
Parcel No: 14912008; 14912007; 14912006; 14912005; 14912004; 14912019; 14912001; 14912013; 14912012; ROW
Address: 328, 322, 316, 310, 30300*Fourth Ave; 323,317, 319, 305*, Fifth A404, 410 Adams St.*
Size: (acres) 1.68 acres Existing Access: Fourth Avenue; AdamFifth Ave;
Zoning: Central Business District Land Use Plan Map: Central Business Dist
Municipal Lands Plan Recommendations: Recommendations are to retain land ownership, replat as an expanded City Hall - Public Safety Building Cam Water: Fourth Avenue, Fifth Avenue Sewer: Unnamed ROW (alleFlood Zone: No Tsunami Inundation: Yes Wetlands:
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Central business district (CBD). Provides for an area of convenient, attractive, cintended for retail, financial, entertainment and professional services occurring within en
34
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site A
Draft Site Selection Report Page 13 of 41
Parcel
No:
14912008;
14912007;
14912006;
14912005;
14912004; 14912019;
14912001; 14912013;
14912012; ROW
Address: 328, 322, 316, 310, 308,
306, 300*Fourth Ave;
323, 313, 317, 319, 305*,
Fifth Ave.
404, 410 Adams St.*
Ownership: City of Seward,
Seward
Volunteer Fire
Department,
GCI,
Size:
(acres)
1.68 acres Existing
Access:
Fourth Avenue; Adams
St; Fifth Ave;
Current
Land Use:
Fire Dept; City
Hall; DMV; Police;
commercial;
vacant/vehicle
parking.
Zoning: Central Business
District
Land Use Plan Map: Central Business District
Municipal Lands Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to retain land ownership, replat to vacate internal lot lines, and
continue to develop as an expanded City Hall - Public Safety Building Campus.
Water: Fourth Avenue, Fifth
Avenue
Sewer: Unnamed ROW (alley) Electricity: Unnamed ROW
Flood
Zone:
No Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Central business district (CBD). Provides for an area of convenient, attractive, concentrated commercial
development primarily intended for retail, financial, entertainment and professional services occurring within
enclosed structures. Regulations applying to this zone are designed to encourage a compact group of businesses
of the type which are mutually beneficial and located close enough together to encourage walk-in trade.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height- 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size – 3,000-9,000 square feet
Setbacks – Front 0; Side 0; Street Side 0; Rear 0
Maximum lot coverage – 100%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Office Residential Office Residential Commercial, residential, church Draft Site Selection Report Page 14 of 41
Zoning: Central Business
District
Land Use Plan Map: Central Business District
Municipal Lands Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to retain land ownership, replat to vacate internal lot lines, and
continue to develop as an expanded City Hall - Public Safety Building Campus.
Water: Fourth Avenue, Fifth
Avenue
Sewer: Unnamed ROW (alley) Electricity: Unnamed ROW
Flood
Zone:
No Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Central business district (CBD). Provides for an area of convenient, attractive, concentrated commercial
development primarily intended for retail, financial, entertainment and professional services occurring within
enclosed structures. Regulations applying to this zone are designed to encourage a compact group of businesses
of the type which are mutually beneficial and located close enough together to encourage walk-in trade.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height- 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size – 3,000-9,000 square feet
Setbacks – Front 0; Side 0; Street Side 0; Rear 0
Maximum lot coverage – 100%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Office Residential Office Residential Commercial, residential, church
South: Central Business District Central Business District,
Park
Commercial, municipal
East: CBD/Multi-family
residential
Central Business District Commercial, residential, vacant
West: Central Business District Central Business District Commercial, church
35
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITE B: FORT RAYMOND FACILITY REMAINDER
The ‘Remainder of the Fort Raymond Facility’ refers to a portion of 14502627 (as shown in
the image above). The city is currently undergoing architectural and site design for a new
Public Works Facility on the southern portion of this lot and will be applying for a subdivision
to separate the area dedicated for the Public Works Facility. As part of that subdivision,
Dimond Boulevard, from approximately the electrical utility easement (which includes the
alley way between Dimond Boulevard and the Utility Substation to the west visible in the
aerial image), south to the Seward Hwy will be vacated. The new Public Works Facility effort
has been in coordination with DOT&PF who have expressed approval for direct driveway
access from the proposed new Public Works parcel to the Seward Highway, but no public
ROW will connect the Seward Hwy to Dimond Boulevard. If this site is selected for a public
safety building, secondary access through the new Public Works site to access the Seward
Highway should be requested.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Auto commercial district (AC). Intended to provide areas to accommodate highway-
oriented commercial activities such as offices, certain institutional uses, and limited personal
services and retail uses requiring substantial outdoor activity, traffic, and parking, and which
also serve the offices and nearby residential areas, and which do not materially detract from
nearby residential areas.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district.
Site Analysis: Site B
SITE B. FORT RAYMOND FACILITY REMAINDER
The ‘Remainder of the Fort Raymond Facility’ refers to a portion of 14502627 (as shown in the image above). The
city is currently undergoing architectural and site design for a new Public Works Facility on the southern portion of
this lot and will be applying for a subdivision to separate the area dedicated for the Public Works Facility. As part
of that subdivision, Dimond Boulevard, from approximately the electrical utility easement (which includes the alley
way between Dimond Boulevard and the Utility Substation to the west visible in the aerial image), south to the
Seward Hwy will be vacated. The new Public Works Facility effort has been in coordination with DOT&PF who
have expressed approval for direct driveway access from the proposed new Public Works parcel to the Seward
Highway, but no public ROW will connect the Seward Hwy to Dimond Boulevard. If this site is selected for a public
safety building, secondary access through the new Public Works site to access the Seward Highway should be
requested.
Parcel No: 14502627 Address: 2101, 2105, 2109 Dimond
Boulevard
Ownership: City of Seward
Size:
(acres)
2.87 Existing
Access:
Dimond Boulevard, Sea
Lion Ave.
Current
Land Use:
Vacant
Zoning: Auto Commercial Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to retain land ownership, replat parcel for the new Public Works
facility and ROW easement, and lease or sell the remainder of the parcel with a sound
development plan. (Note: plan ID’s parcel number as 14502607 -KPB doesn’t recognize
this number)
Water: Sealion Ave, Dimond Sewer: Dimond Blvd. Electricity: Dimond Blvd. &
36
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site B
Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: 6,000-9,000square feet
• Setbacks: Front 10 ft.; Side 5 ft.; Street Side 10 ft. Rear 10 ft
• Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Draft Site Selection Report Page 15 of 41
The ‘Remainder of the Fort Raymond Facility’ refers to a portion of 14502627 (as shown in the image above). The
city is currently undergoing architectural and site design for a new Public Works Facility on the southern portion of
this lot and will be applying for a subdivision to separate the area dedicated for the Public Works Facility. As part
of that subdivision, Dimond Boulevard, from approximately the electrical utility easement (which includes the alley
way between Dimond Boulevard and the Utility Substation to the west visible in the aerial image), south to the
Seward Hwy will be vacated. The new Public Works Facility effort has been in coordination with DOT&PF who
have expressed approval for direct driveway access from the proposed new Public Works parcel to the Seward
Highway, but no public ROW will connect the Seward Hwy to Dimond Boulevard. If this site is selected for a public
safety building, secondary access through the new Public Works site to access the Seward Highway should be
requested.
Parcel No: 14502627 Address: 2101, 2105, 2109 Dimond
Boulevard
Ownership: City of Seward
Size:
(acres)
2.87 Existing
Access:
Dimond Boulevard, Sea
Lion Ave.
Current
Land Use:
Vacant
Zoning: Auto Commercial Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to retain land ownership, replat parcel for the new Public Works
facility and ROW easement, and lease or sell the remainder of the parcel with a sound
development plan. (Note: plan ID’s parcel number as 14502607 -KPB doesn’t recognize
this number)
Water: Sealion Ave, Dimond
Blvd.
Sewer: Dimond Blvd. Electricity: Dimond Blvd. &
Sealion Ave.
Flood
Zone:
Not FEMA mapped but a
portion of site flooded in
1995
Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Auto commercial district (AC). Intended to provide areas to accommodate highway-oriented commercial
activities such as offices, certain institutional uses, and limited personal services and retail uses requiring
substantial outdoor activity, traffic, and parking, and which also serve the offices and nearby residential areas, and
which do not materially detract from nearby residential areas.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: 6,000-9,000square feet
Setbacks: Front 10 ft.; Side 5 ft.; Street Side 10 ft. Rear 10 ft
Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Institutional/Multifamily
residential
Institutional/Multi-family
residential
Seward Military Resort (recreational facility),
multifamily housing, and Seward Elementary
School
Flood
Zone:
Not FEMA mapped but a
portion of site flooded in
1995
Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Auto commercial district (AC). Intended to provide areas to accommodate highway-oriented commercial
activities such as offices, certain institutional uses, and limited personal services and retail uses requiring
substantial outdoor activity, traffic, and parking, and which also serve the offices and nearby residential areas, and
which do not materially detract from nearby residential areas.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: 6,000-9,000square feet
Setbacks: Front 10 ft.; Side 5 ft.; Street Side 10 ft. Rear 10 ft
Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Institutional/Multifamily
residential
Institutional/Multi-family
residential
Seward Military Resort (recreational facility),
multifamily housing, and Seward Elementary
School
South: Institutional/Auto
Commercial/Industrial
Institutional/Auto
Commercial
Vacant but is being planned for the new City
Public Works Facility
East: Institutional/Auto
Commercial/Industrial
Institutional/Auto
Commercial
Vacant, city may sell or lease to commercial
tour company
West: Institutional Institutional Electrical substation
37
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITE C: FOREST ACRES CAMPGROUND
Site C is approximately 8 acres and is known as the “campground” parcel as it currently
hosts the seasonal municipal-owned Forest Acres campground. The bike park adjacent to
the south is a separate parcel through recent subdivision, as recommended in the Municipal
Lands Plan, and has been recorded with the Kenai Peninsula Borough (though their public GIS
data has not yet been updated with the new property line). It is within the AE FEMA mapped
flood zone and has experienced flooding in the past. City water and sewer are not adjacent to
the site and would have to be extended if the site is developed, which is an action the city is
supportive of.
Site Analysis: Site C
SITE C. FOREST ACRES CAMPGROUND
Site C is approximately 8 acres and is known as the “campground” parcel as it currently hosts the seasonal
municipal-owned Forest Acres campground. The bike park adjacent to the south is a separate parcel through
recent subdivision, as recommended in the Municipal Lands Plan, and has been recorded with the Kenai Peninsula
Borough (though their public GIS data has not yet been updated with the new property line). It is within the AE
FEMA mapped flood zone and has experienced flooding in the past. City water and sewer are not adjacent to the
site and would have to be extended if the site is developed, which is an action the city is supportive of.
Parcel No: 14502602 Address: 911 Hemlock Ave Ownership: City of Seward
Size:
(acres)
8.23 Existing
Access:
Seward Hwy, Hemlock
Ave.
Current
Land Use:
Campground &
bike park
Zoning: Institutional Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
38
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site C
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative,
government and health care uses, including public land reserve for future public
development. The development standards are intended to set a high standard to assure that
the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: none
• Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
• Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Draft Site Selection Report Page 17 of 41
Site C is approximately 8 acres and is known as the “campground” parcel as it currently hosts the seasonal
municipal-owned Forest Acres campground. The bike park adjacent to the south is a separate parcel through
recent subdivision, as recommended in the Municipal Lands Plan, and has been recorded with the Kenai Peninsula
Borough (though their public GIS data has not yet been updated with the new property line). It is within the AE
FEMA mapped flood zone and has experienced flooding in the past. City water and sewer are not adjacent to the
site and would have to be extended if the site is developed, which is an action the city is supportive of.
Parcel No: 14502602 Address: 911 Hemlock Ave Ownership: City of Seward
Size:
(acres)
8.23 Existing
Access:
Seward Hwy, Hemlock
Ave.
Current
Land Use:
Campground &
bike park
Zoning: Institutional Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to continue use as a campground and bike park. Subdivide
campground from bike park and rezone bike park to Park. Lease or sell campground
portion with a sound development plan.
Water: Dimond Blvd. (not
adjacent to site)
Sewer: Dimond Blvd. (not
adjacent to site)
Electricity: Seward Hwy &
Hemlock Ave.
Flood
Zone:
AE; Flooded 1986 & 1995 Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative, government and health care
uses, including public land reserve for future public development. The development standards are intended to
set a high standard to assure that the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: none
Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Adjacent Lands:
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are to continue use as a campground and bike park. Subdivide
campground from bike park and rezone bike park to Park. Lease or sell campground
portion with a sound development plan.
Water: Dimond Blvd. (not
adjacent to site)
Sewer: Dimond Blvd. (not
adjacent to site)
Electricity: Seward Hwy &
Hemlock Ave.
Flood
Zone:
AE; Flooded 1986 & 1995 Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative, government and health care
uses, including public land reserve for future public development. The development standards are intended to
set a high standard to assure that the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: none
Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Institutional, Multi-family
Residential
Institutional, Single Family
Residential
Vacant/Residential
South: Institutional Institutional Bicycle Pump Park
East: Industrial Industrial Airport, Rail line and supporting
storage
West: Park, Multi-family
Residential, Institutional
Park, Multi-family Residential Vacant/Residential
39
- 46 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site D
SITE D: STATE OF ALASKA DOT FACILITY (FORMER FACILITY)
The site is owned by the State of Alaska. It may become available to the city under municipal
entitlement. The site hosts a DOT&PF maintenance shop and storage yard. In 2013, DOT&PF
built a new shop and maintenance facility, but this old facility remains in use. The City and
State have a MOU in place acknowledging this land use should move out of the core town
area. The site is adjacent to mapped flood zone and it is within the tsunami inundation zone.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative, government
and health care uses, including public land reserve for future public development. The
development standards are intended to set a high standard to assure that the activities
provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: none
• Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
• Maximum lot coverage: 50%
SITE D. STATE OF ALASKA DOT FACILITY (FORMER FACILITY)
The site is owned by the State of Alaska. It may become available to the city under municipal entitlement. The site
hosts a DOT&PF maintenance shop and storage yard. In 2013, DOT&PF built a new shop and maintenance
facility, but this old facility remains in use. The City and State have a MOU in place acknowledging this land use
should move out of the core town area. The site is adjacent to mapped flood zone and it is within the tsunami
inundation zone.
Parcel No: 14732006 Address: 408 & 412 B Street Ownership: DOT&PF
Size: 2.02 Existing
Access:
B Street Current
Land Use:
Maintenance
shop and storage
yard
Zoning: Institutional Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are if the State Shop completely moves out of town, to pursue
acquiring the properties under the municipal entitlement, and rezone to Urban
Residential (UR).
Water: B Street, C Street, center
of parcel
Sewer: East property line,
West, unnamed ROW;
Ballaine Blvd.
Electricity: B Street
Flood
Zone:
No Note- eastern
boundary is adjacent to
AE zone
Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1% (with a small
hill of
approximately
11%)
40
- 47 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site D
Draft Site Selection Report Page 19 of 41
The site is owned by the State of Alaska. It may become available to the city under municipal entitlement. The site
hosts a DOT&PF maintenance shop and storage yard. In 2013, DOT&PF built a new shop and maintenance
facility, but this old facility remains in use. The City and State have a MOU in place acknowledging this land use
should move out of the core town area. The site is adjacent to mapped flood zone and it is within the tsunami
inundation zone.
Parcel No: 14732006 Address: 408 & 412 B Street Ownership: DOT&PF
Size: 2.02 Existing
Access:
B Street Current
Land Use:
Maintenance
shop and storage
yard
Zoning: Institutional Land Use Plan Map: Institutional
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
Recommendations are if the State Shop completely moves out of town, to pursue
acquiring the properties under the municipal entitlement, and rezone to Urban
Residential (UR).
Water: B Street, C Street, center
of parcel
Sewer: East property line,
West, unnamed ROW;
Ballaine Blvd.
Electricity: B Street
Flood
Zone:
No Note- eastern
boundary is adjacent to
AE zone
Tsunami
Inundation:
Yes Wetlands: No Slope: < 1% (with a small
hill of
approximately
11%)
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative, government and health care
uses, including public land reserve for future public development. The development standards are intended to
set a high standard to assure that the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by right in this zoning
district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: none
Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
Maximum lot coverage: 50%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Park Park Park
South: Auto Commercial Auto Commercial, Urban
Residential
Residential, Vacant
East: Park Park City Campground and Park
West: Auto Commercial Auto Commercial Commercial, church
41
- 48 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITE E: CAROL GRISWOLD PROPERTY 1
This privately owned parcel would have to purchased. It has developed street access on
three sides and multiple access points to water and sewer. It is located near schools and
the emergency shelter. It is not in a tsunami inundation zone or mapped flood hazard
area. This site does not score well for public access and visibility, which is important to Fire
and Building Services. This location does rate well for invasive viewshed and secure area,
which is important to Police. The site exceeds the minimum lot size for all the options under
consideration. Potentially, the site could be subdivided, with a portion retained for public
safety, reducing or off-setting purchase costs.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Single-family residential district (R1). Intended to provide for stable and quiet low
to medium density (one to five dwelling units per acre) detached, single-family residential
development, free from other uses except those which are both compatible and convenient to
residents of such a district.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are allowed
conditionally in this zoning district.
• Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: 3,000 to 9,000square feet
• Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 5 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 10
• Maximum lot coverage: 35%
Site Analysis: Site E
SITE E. CAROL GRISWOLD PROPERTY 1
This privately owned parcel would have to purchased. It has developed street access on three sides and multiple
access points to water and sewer. It is located near schools and the emergency shelter. It is not in a tsunami
inundation zone or mapped flood hazard area. This site does not score well for public access and visibility, which
is important to Fire and Building Services. This location does rate well for invasive viewshed and secure area,
which is important to Police. The site exceeds the minimum lot size for all the options under consideration.
Potentially, the site could be subdivided, with a portion retained for public safety, reducing or off-setting purchase
costs.
Parcel No: 14502136 Address: 2305 Oak Street Ownership: Carol Griswold
Size:
(acres)
10.7 Existing
Access:
Oak Street, Hemlock Ave.,
Crabapple Street
Current
Land Use:
Vacant
Zoning: Single Family-
Residential
Land Use Plan Map: Rural Residential
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
N/A
42
- 49 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site E
Draft Site Selection Report Page 21 of 41
This privately owned parcel would have to purchased. It has developed street access on three sides and multiple
access points to water and sewer. It is located near schools and the emergency shelter. It is not in a tsunami
inundation zone or mapped flood hazard area. This site does not score well for public access and visibility, which
is important to Fire and Building Services. This location does rate well for invasive viewshed and secure area,
which is important to Police. The site exceeds the minimum lot size for all the options under consideration.
Potentially, the site could be subdivided, with a portion retained for public safety, reducing or off-setting purchase
costs.
Parcel No: 14502136 Address: 2305 Oak Street Ownership: Carol Griswold
Size:
(acres)
10.7 Existing
Access:
Oak Street, Hemlock Ave.,
Crabapple Street
Current
Land Use:
Vacant
Zoning: Single Family-
Residential
Land Use Plan Map: Rural Residential
Municipal Lands
Plan
Recommendations:
N/A
Water: Oak Street, Hemlock
Ave., Crabapple Street
Sewer: Oak Street, Hemlock
Ave., Crabapple Street
Electricity: Oak Street,
Hemlock Ave.,
Crabapple Street
Flood
Zone:
No Tsunami
Inundation:
No Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Single-family residential district (R1). Intended to provide for stable and quiet low to medium density
(one to five dwelling units per acre) detached, single-family residential development, free from other uses
except those which are both compatible and convenient to residents of such a district.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are allowed conditionally in this zoning
district.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: 3,000 to 9,000square feet
Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 5 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 10
Maximum lot coverage: 35%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Rural Residential Rural Residential Residential
South: Institutional Institutional Institutional (school) and medical
rehabilitation services
East: Institutional Rural Residential Vacant
West: Rural Residential, Single-
family Residential
Rural Residential, Single-family
Residential
Residential, Vacant, water utility)
Draft Site Selection Report Page 22 of 41
Water: Oak Street, Hemlock
Ave., Crabapple Street
Sewer: Oak Street, Hemlock
Ave., Crabapple Street
Electricity: Oak Street,
Hemlock Ave.,
Crabapple Street
Flood
Zone:
No Tsunami
Inundation:
No Wetlands: No Slope: < 1%
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Single-family residential district (R1). Intended to provide for stable and quiet low to medium density
(one to five dwelling units per acre) detached, single-family residential development, free from other uses
except those which are both compatible and convenient to residents of such a district.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are allowed conditionally in this zoning
district.
Development Standards:
Maximum building height: 34 feet
Minimum buildable lot size: 3,000 to 9,000square feet
Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 5 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 10
Maximum lot coverage: 35%
Adjacent Lands:
Zoning: Land Use Map: Current Land Use:
North: Rural Residential Rural Residential Residential
South: Institutional Institutional Institutional (school) and medical
rehabilitation services
East: Institutional Rural Residential Vacant
West: Rural Residential, Single-
family Residential
Rural Residential, Single-family
Residential
Residential, Vacant, water utility)
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site F
SITE F: CAROL GRISWOLD PROPERTY 2
This privately owned parcel would have to purchased. It has street access on Hemlock. It is
located near schools and the emergency shelter. Utilities are available in adjacent rights-of-
way. The site provides more than sufficient space, with room for expansion or co-location
of other compatible uses in the future. Alternatively, the site could be subdivided, with a
portion for emergency services, reducing or mitigating purchase cost. It is not in a tsunami
inundation zone or mapped flood hazard area. This site does not score well for public access
and visibility, which is important to Fire and Building Services. This location does rate well for
invasive viewshed and secure area, which is important to Police.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Single-family residential district (R1). Intended to provide for stable and quiet low
to medium density (one to five dwelling units per acre) detached, single-family residential
development, free from other uses except those which are both compatible and convenient to
residents of such a district.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site F
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are allowed
conditionally in this zoning district.
• Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: 3,000 to 9,000 square feet
• Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 5 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 10
• Maximum lot coverage: 35%
45
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site G
SITE G. DIECKGRAEFF HIGHWAY PROPERTY
Two parcels are being considered as one site, both privately owned and would have to be
purchased. It is a small and highly visible site. This site does not meet the minimum lot size
requirements for any of the options under consideration. Additionally, it does not score for
any of the security considerations. Because of the lot’s small size, it does not score well for
on-site circulation or large vehicle maneuvering.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Auto commercial district (AC). Intended to provide areas to accommodate highway-
oriented commercial activities such as offices, certain institutional uses, and limited personal
services and retail uses requiring substantial outdoor activity, traffic, and parking, and which
also serve the offices and nearby residential areas, and which do not materially detract from
nearby residential areas.
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district.
• Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: 6,000-9,000square feet
• Setbacks: Front 10 ft.; Side 5 ft.; Street Side 10 ft. Rear 10 ft
• Maximum lot coverage: 50%
46
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site G
47
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site H
SITE H. UAF RAE BUILDING PROPERTY
The University of Alaska property is located at the southeastern edge of the downtown grid
and city limits. There are existing buildings, parking areas and access easements on site.
To be used for a public safety facility, it would have to be purchased from the University of
Alaska. The site is not in a mapped flood hazard zone but has experienced flooding in the
past and it is within the tsunami inundation zone.
TITLE 15, PLANNING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS:
Zoning: Institutional district (INS). Public and private educational, administrative, government
and health care uses, including public land reserve for future public development. The
development standards are intended to set a high standard to assure that the activities
provide visual amenity to the surrounding area.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Site H
Emergency Services, whether public or volunteer (fire, ambulance, rescue) are permitted by
right in this zoning district. Correctional or prison facilities are allowed conditionally.
• Development Standards:
• Maximum building height: 34 feet
• Minimum buildable lot size: none
• Setback: Front 20 ft; Side 10 ft; Steet Side 10 ft; Rear 15
• Maximum lot coverage: 50%
49
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Site Evaluations
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
SITE EVALUATIONS
Sites were evaluated for their ability to adhere to each site selection consideration and given
a score from Red to Green as described in the legend below. Some sites were given half
scores (Yellow/Orange or Orange/Red) where criteria were more nuanced.
Four building scenarios were assessed; (1) Fire Station with Building Services, (2) Police
Station with Dispatch and DMV, (3) Combined building for all public safety departments
and associated services, and (4) a Campus with multiple buildings for all public safety
departments and associated services.
Table 3. Site Evaluation Scoring Legend
SITE EVALUATIONS
Sites were evaluated for their ability to adhere to each site selection consideration and given a score from Red to Green as described in the
legend below. Some sites were given half scores (Yellow/Orange or Orange/Red) where criteria were more nuanced. Four building scenarios
were assessed; (1) Fire Station with Building Services, (2) Police Station with Dispatch and DMV, (3) Combined building for all public safety departments and associated services, and (4) a Campus with multiple buildings for all public safety departments and associated services.
Table 3. Site Evaluation Scoring Legend
Table 4. Fire Station Site Assessments
Fire Station (with Building Services)
Site Selection Consideration Site A B C D E F G H Lot Size 2.2 acres or more R G G R G G R G
Lot Configuration
Rectangular, square, or otherwise not irregular in shape Y G Y Y G G Y Y
ROW on long side OR pull thru option G G G G Y G G G Y G Y Vehicular Access On-site circulation and large vehicle maneuvering Y G G Y G G Y O G Y
Access roads speeds and proximity to major throughfares (Seward Hwy, 3rd Ave, Nash Rd.) Y G G Y O O G O
Access roads conditions and sufficient design/widths for response vehicle maneuvering G G G G R R G G
Two driveways or points of ingress/egress G Y G Y O Y Y G G Easy Public Access (visible, convenient) G Y G G O O G Y Pedestrian Access (connected to existing nonmotorized infrastructure) G Y O G R R G G
Topography & Physical Constraints Outside of Floodplain, free of wetlands and waterbodies Y Y O R G Y G G G Y O
Outside of tsunami inundation zone O O R R G G R R On stable and development-supporting soil Y G Y O Y O G G Y Y Relatively flat topography Y G G G G G G G Y Security Separated from hazardous material storage or transport facilities G Y G Y Y G G Y O Y O
Lack of inward or invasive viewshed from neighboring property O Y G Y O G G O Y
Secure-area compatibility (space, views, access) O Y O G R G G O Y
Red Orange Yellow Green
Does not meet the criteria or adhere to recommended consideration(s)
Mostly does not meet the criteria or adhere to recommended consideration(s) without significant design or other efforts
Somewhat to mostly meets the criteria or adheres to recommended consideration(s) with some design or other efforts
Meets the criteria and adheres to recommended consideration(s)
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Site Evaluations
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Table 4. Fire Station Site Assessments
Draft Site Selection Report Page 21 of 31
Fire Station (with Building Services)
Site Selection Consideration Site A B C D E F G H Lot Size 2.2 acres or more R G G R G G R G
Lot Configuration
Rectangular, square, or otherwise not irregular in shape Y G Y Y G G Y Y
ROW on long side OR pull thru option G G G G Y G G G Y G Y Vehicular Access On-site circulation and large vehicle maneuvering Y G G Y G G Y O G Y
Access roads speeds and proximity to major throughfares (Seward Hwy, 3rd Ave, Nash Rd.) Y G G Y O O G O
Access roads conditions and sufficient design/widths for response vehicle maneuvering G G G G R R G G
Two driveways or points of ingress/egress G Y G Y O Y Y G G Easy Public Access (visible, convenient) G Y G G O O G Y Pedestrian Access (connected to existing nonmotorized infrastructure) G Y O G R R G G
Topography & Physical Constraints Outside of Floodplain, free of wetlands and waterbodies Y Y O R G Y G G G Y O
Outside of tsunami inundation zone O O R R G G R R On stable and development-supporting soil Y G Y O Y O G G Y Y Relatively flat topography Y G G G G G G G Y Security Separated from hazardous material storage or transport facilities G Y G Y Y G G Y O Y O
Lack of inward or invasive viewshed from neighboring property O Y G Y O G G O Y
Secure-area compatibility (space, views, access) O Y O G R G G O Y
Proximity to Concentration of Calls (centrally located) Y G Y Y Y Y G Y O
Access to Utilities (Existing access to or ability to connect) Water G G Y G G G G G
Red Orange Yellow Green
Does not meet the criteria or adhere to recommended consideration(s)
Mostly does not meet the criteria or adhere to recommended consideration(s) without significant design or other efforts
Somewhat to mostly meets the criteria or adheres to recommended consideration(s) with some design or other efforts
Meets the criteria and adheres to recommended consideration(s)
Fire Station (with Building Services)
Site Selection Consideration Site A B C D E F G H Sewer G G Y G G G G G Electricity G G G G G G G G Adjacent Land Use & Zoning Allowed/Permitted in Zoning District G G G G G G G G Proximity to major trip generators (traffic jams) Y O R O G Y G Y G Y G Y O Y O
Proximity to other community or civic facilities G G O Y G G O G Compatible with adjacent land uses G Y Y G G O O G Y Ability to mitigate potentially negative impacts O O Y Y Y Y Y Y Consistent with adopted plans G G G G G G G G City Ownership G Y G G R R R R R
Table 5. Police Station Site Assessments
Police Station (with Dispatch & DMV)
Site Selection Consideration
Site A B C D E F G H Lot Size 1.8 acres or more G G G G G G R G Lot Configuration Rectangular, square, or otherwise not irregular in shape Y G Y Y G G Y Y
ROW on long side OR pull thru option G G G G Y G G G Y G Y Vehicular Access
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Site Evaluations
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Draft Site Selection Report Page 22 of 31
Electricity G G G G G G G G Adjacent Land Use & Zoning Allowed/Permitted in Zoning District G G G G G G G G Proximity to major trip generators (traffic jams) Y O R O G Y G Y G Y G Y O Y O
Proximity to other community or civic facilities G G O Y G G O G Compatible with adjacent land uses G Y Y G G O O G Y Ability to mitigate potentially negative impacts O O Y Y Y Y Y Y Consistent with adopted plans G G G G G G G G City Ownership G Y G G R R R R R
Table 5. Police Station Site Assessments
Police Station (with Dispatch & DMV)
Site Selection Consideration
Site A B C D E F G H Lot Size 1.8 acres or more G G G G G G R G Lot Configuration Rectangular, square, or otherwise not irregular in shape Y G Y Y G G Y Y
ROW on long side OR pull thru option G G G G Y G G G Y G Y Vehicular Access On-site circulation and large vehicle maneuvering Y G G Y G G Y O G Y
Access roads speeds and proximity to major throughfares (Seward Hwy, 3rd Ave, Nash Rd.)) G Y G G Y O O G O
Access roads conditions and sufficient design/widths for response vehicle maneuvering G G G G Y Y G G
Two driveways or points of ingress/egress G G G Y O Y Y G G Easy Public Access (visible, convenient) G G G G O O G Y Pedestrian Access (connected to existing nonmotorized infrastructure) G G 0 G O O G Y
Topography & Physical Constraints Outside of Floodplain, free of wetlands and waterbodies G Y O R G Y G G G Y O
Outside of tsunami inundation zone O O R R G G R R On stable and development-supporting soil Y G Y O Y O G G Y Y Relatively flat topography Y G G G G G G G Y Security Separated from hazardous material storage or transport facilities G Y G Y Y G G Y O Y O
Lack of inward or invasive viewshed from neighboring property O Y G Y O G G O Y
Secure-area compatibility (space, views, access) O Y O G R G G O Y
Proximity to Concentration of Calls (centrally located) Y G Y Y Y Y G Y O
Access to Utilities (Existing access to or ability to connect) Water G G Y G G G G G Sewer G G Y G G G G G Electricity G G G G G G G G Adjacent Land Use & Zoning
Police Station (with Dispatch & DMV)
Site Selection Consideration
Site A B C D E F G H Allowed/Permitted in Zoning District G G G G G G G G Proximity to major trip generators (traffic jams) Y O R O G Y G Y G Y G Y O Y O
Proximity to other community or civic facilities G G O Y G G O G
Compatible with adjacent land uses G Y Y G G Y O Y O G Y Ability to mitigate potentially negative impacts O O Y Y Y Y Y Y
Consistent with adopted plans G G G G G G G G City Ownership G Y G G R R R R R
Table 5. Police Station Site Assessments
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Site Evaluations
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Draft Site Selection Report Page 24 of 31
Table 6. Combined Building Site Assessment
Combined Building (Fire & Police Station) and Campus (Separate Fire Station & Police Station)
Site Selection Consideration
Site
A B C D E F G H
Lot Size Combined Building 2.7 acres + R G G R G G R G Campus 2.8 acres + R R G R G G R G Lot Configuration Rectangular, square, or otherwise not irregular in shape Y G Y Y G G Y Y
ROW on long side OR pull thru option G G G G Y G G G Y G Y Vehicular Access On-site circulation and large vehicle maneuvering Y G G Y G G Y O G Y
Access roads speeds and proximity to major throughfares (Seward Hwy, 3rd Ave, Nash Rd.) Y G G Y O O G O
Access roads conditions and sufficient design/widths for response vehicle maneuvering G G G G R R G G
Two driveways or points of ingress/egress G Y G Y O Y Y G G Easy Public Access (visible, convenient) G Y G G O O G Y Pedestrian Access (connected to existing nonmotorized infrastructure) G Y O G R R G G
Topography & Physical Constraints Outside of Floodplain, free of wetlands and waterbodies G Y O R G Y G G G Y O
Outside of tsunami inundation zone
O O R R G G R R
On stable and development-supporting soil
Y G Y O Y O G G Y Y
Relatively flat topography Y G G G G G G G Y
Security Separated from hazardous material storage or transport facilities G Y G Y Y G G Y O Y O
Lack of inward or invasive viewshed from neighboring property O Y O Y O G G O Y
Secure-area compatibility (space, views, access) O Y O G R G G O Y
Proximity to Concentration of Calls (centrally located) Y G Y Y Y Y G Y O
Access to Utilities (Existing access to or ability to connect) Water G G Y G G G G G Sewer G G Y G G G G G Electricity G G G G G G G G Adjacent Land Use & Zoning Allowed/Permitted in Zoning District G G G G G G G G Proximity to major trip generators (traffic jams) Y O R O G Y G Y G Y G Y O Y O
Proximity to other community or civic facilities G G O Y G G O G
Compatible with adjacent land uses G Y Y G G Y O Y O G Y
Combined Building (Fire & Police Station) and Campus (Separate Fire Station & Police Station)
Site Selection Consideration
Site
A B C D E F G H
Ability to mitigate potentially negative impacts O O Y Y Y Y Y Y
Consistent with adopted plans G G G G G G G G City Ownership G Y G G R R R R R
Table 6. Combined Building Site Assessment
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
CITY OWNED SITES
City Ownership of a parcel will be required to construct a new public safety facility. Current
ownership status may be a top consideration for decision makers, as sales of private
property to the city are not guaranteed or for a price the city is agreeable to. Developing a
city owned parcel is the more conservative and may be the most cost-effective option under
consideration. Site B. Fort Raymond Facility Remainder and Site C. Forest Acres Campground
scored well for all public safety building scenarios, while Site A. Current Fire Station Complex
scored mildly overall. Site A does not meet minimum lot size requirements for a combined
building, campus, or fire station and faces additional phasing and construction challenges as
it is a developed site currently hosting the fire station.
SITE A – CURRENT CITY HALL & FIRE STATION COMPLEX
Site A is a mid-scoring site. This site meets the minimum lot size for only the Police/
Dispatch/DMV option and does not meet the minimum lot size for other options under
consideration. However, minimum lot sizes are an initial recommendation and creative site
and building design can be applied to smaller parcels in such a way to make a smaller lot in
the right location practicable. In this case, Site A could use a pull-through bay from street
to street to reduce the overall square footage needed on the site for vehicle maneuvering,
but the existing topography may pose a significant challenge. While not in a flood hazard
area, it may be inundated by a tsunami under certain scenarios. This location does not rate
well for invasive viewshed and secure area and entry points due to its highly visible and
accessible location in the developed downtown grid, which is important to Police. However,
its high visibility and accessible location means it scores well for ease of public access, which
is a significant consideration for the Fire Department, and is supported by adjacent public
facilities.
Site A is uniquely constrained by the presence of City Hall which is not being considered for
reconstruction or relocation as part of this study. Construction sequencing and disruption
to city departments is a factor that should be taken into consideration, along with the
anticipated need to purchase two parcels not currently owned by the city to adequately fit a
new police station or fire station on site. If selected for a new police station or fire station, the
relocation of the existing fire operations (temporary or permanent) would have to be done
prior to any construction activity at this site.
SITE B – FORT RAYMOND FACILITY REMAINDER
Site B is the highest scoring of the city owned properties. It is not within a mapped flood
hazard area but has flooded in the past and may be inundated by a tsunami under certain
scenarios. It meets the minimum lot size requirements for all scenarios except the combined
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
campus option and is located near other civic and public facilities. However, the proximity to
the schools is a concern due to the high volume of traffic that is present beyond peak time of
school drop-off and pick-up and the number of children in the area on foot and bicycle on Sea
Lion Ave, which may impact the Fire Department’s ability to respond to an emergency quickly.
Secondary access from this site is currently limited; to gain secondary access, an agreement
to use the proposed new public works building driveway onto the Seward Hwy would be
needed as well as use of the access control gate on the public works property. Navigation of a
gate could be prohibitive to response times as well.
SITE C – FOREST ACRES CAMPGROUND
Site C scores similarly to Site B. It exceeds the minimum lot size requirements for all
the scenarios, provides quick access to the Seward Hwy, has separation from major trip
generators, and is centrally located to areas of high call responses. The large lot size and
compatible adjacent land uses would support the Fire Department’s desire to bring their
training tower to their station site and have sufficient space to do maintenance and testing
of their equipment. Site C is in a mapped flood hazard area, has experienced flooding in the
past, and is in the tsunami inundation zone for most scenarios. Additionally, water and sewer
services are not immediately adjacent to the site and would have to be extended prior to
development. Soil stabilization and utility extension are feasible but will add to the overall
cost of the development. A driveway permit for direct access onto the Seward Hwy may be
recommended with site design to obtain a secondary access in addition to primary access
from Hemlock Ave.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
PRIVATELY OWNED SITES
Of the sites under private ownership, the vacant, large parcels of Sits E & F, the Griswold
Properties, were the top scoring sites and were the highest scoring sites overall. Site D. State
of Alaska DOT facility and Site H. UAF Rae Building Property were the lowest scoring sites
overall.
SITE D – STATE OF ALASKA DOT FACILITY
Site D is within the tsunami inundation zone under most scenarios and received more red
scores than any other site evaluated. It is a confined site, not meeting recommended lot size
minimums for a combined or campus public safety facility and does not support a secure area
for a police station. It is somewhat separated from major thoroughfares, requiring response
vehicles to navigate more intersections with stop signs to access the Seward Hwy or 3rd Ave,
which is a significant concern for the Fire Department. Adjacent lands include residential and
recreational uses which, being in a highly popular area of downtown, does not lend itself well
to hosting a fire station training facility.
SITES E & F – CAROL GRISWOLD PROPERTIES
The two properties owned by Carol Griswold have identical scores. They are contiguous,
undeveloped properties. These lots have the highest cumulative scores overall. Both lots well
exceed the minimum lot size for all the scenarios under consideration, providing opportunity
for future expansion. To mitigate purchase costs, a subdivision and sale, or a purchase of
the desired lot after subdivision, could be considered. Sites E and F do not score well for
pedestrian access or easy public access and visibility, which has been identified as important
to Fire, as the sites are accessed through residential streets with indirect access to the
Seward Hwy. They are located near schools and the emergency shelter, but do not have
direct existing access to them. If pursued, secondary access to Sea Lion through the Kenai
Peninsula Borough school property is recommended. Both sites score well for security and
invasive views, both of which have been identified as important to Police. There is substantial
space to provide vegetative and other buffering on site from adjacent residential properties
to reasonably mitigate noise or light pollution.
Despite its positive features, Sites E and F will not work for the Fire Department for three
main reasons; the condition and design of the roadways are not to a standard suitable for
regular emergency vehicle use, the distance from and number of intersections to the Seward
Hwy is prohibitive, and the lack of secondary access. It is unreasonable to make a locational
recommendation contingent on significant roadway improvements, therefore the Griswold
properties are not recommended for a stand-alone fire station, campus or combined public
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
safety building. However, for a standalone police station, the Griswold properties meet all
their most significant criteria, including being out of the tsunami inundation zone under all
scenarios, making it an ideal location for dispatch and an Emergency Operations Center.
SITE G – DIECKGRAEFF HIGHWAY PROPERTY
Site G scores moderately overall but is prohibitively constrained by its size and orientation
to the Seward Highway and the grocery store, a major trip generator. It does not meet the
minimum lot size requirements for any of the facility scenarios under consideration and due
to its size and layout, does not score well for on-site circulation or large vehicle maneuvering.
Additionally, it does not score well for any of the security considerations due to its highly
visible location which is of high important to the Police Department.
SITE H – UAF RAE BUILDING PROPERTY
Site H is located within the tsunami inundation zone under most scenarios and is not in a
strategic location for call response as it is located at the southernmost end of city limits. It is
a developed site that would require demolition and reconstruction with careful consideration
to the proximity to potential hazards and ability to create a secure area. Adjacent land uses
may not be compatible, especially for the Fire Department training tower, and the ability
to mitigate potentially negative impacts may be difficult. Site H is near some high trip
generators, including the hatchery, Sea Life Center, and only access road to Lowell Point
which may present traffic and circulation constraints on the site at certain times of the year
and day.
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
SUMMARY
Table 7 below shows the combined results using unweighted scores. Those scores were
considered, and sites were further analyzed with the high significance considerations for each
department (ex. Fire Department’s need for adequate road width and quality) to determine
the following most viable sites by Department:
Fire Department with Building Services:
1. Site C: Forest Acres Campground
2. Site B: Fort Raymond Facility Remainder
Police Department with Dispatch & Department of Motor Vehicles:
1. Sites E or F: Carol Griswold Properties
2. Site B: Fort Raymond Facility Remainder
3. Site C: Forest Acres Campground
Combined Building for all Departments:
1. Site C: Forest Acres Campground
2. Site B: Fort Raymond Facility Remainder
Campus with multiple buildings for all Departments
3. Site C: Forest Acres Campground
A B C D E F G H
Fire
G 13 16 15.5 11.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 11.5
Y 8.5 7 7 9.5 3.5 3.5 4.5 10.5
O 4.5* 3.5* 2.5 2 3 3 5 3
R 1 .5 2* 4* 3 3 3* 2*
Police
G 15.5 19 15.5 12.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 10.5
Y 7 4 7 9.5 5 5 4.5 11.5
O 4.5* 3* 2.5 2 3.5 3.5 5 3
R 0 .5 2* 3* 1 1 3* 2*
Combined Building or Campus [where scores differed, (Campus)]
G 14 16 (15) 15 11.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 11.5
Y 7.5 6.5 7.5 9.5 4 4 4.5 10.5
O 4.5 4 2.5 2 2.5 2.5 5 3
R 1 .5 (1) 2* 4* 3 3 3* 2 *Tsunami inundation zone
PRELIMINARY SITE TEST FITS
To develop a better understanding of each site’s unique size, shape, and other potential constraints, the project team and city staff held a day-
long workshop performing preliminary test fits of facility scenarios on each site. Using the recommended square footage estimates for each
programed space determined in the Needs Assessment, pieces of foam core were scaled to represent each programmed element of the needed police and fire stations, including site features such as parking and the fire training tower. The programmatic pieces were arranged on to-scale
Table 7. Score Summary of Site Assessments (unweighted)
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City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
PRELIMINARY SITE TEST FITS
To develop a better understanding of each site’s unique size, shape, and other potential
constraints, the project team and city staff held a day-long workshop performing preliminary
test fits of facility scenarios on each site. Using the recommended square footage estimates
for each programed space determined in the Needs Assessment, pieces of foam core were
scaled to represent each programmed element of the needed police and fire stations,
including site features such as parking and the fire training tower. The programmatic pieces
were arranged on to-scale plots of each site under consideration to verify draft conclusions
made from the site analysis and begin conceptual building and site layouts.
The preliminary test fits were especially informative for conceptual site and building design of
combined facilities and the campus approach, where multiple buildings would be located on
the same site.
While Site B: Fort Raymond Facility Remainder scored higher using the evaluation matrix than
Site C: Forest Acres Campground, the preliminary test fits showed a strong preference for
Site C. Site C offers the most flexibility for development, including ease of ingress and egress
for both emergency response vehicles and the visiting public, while site B presented more
space and circulation constraints than anticipated during initial site evaluation. Conceptual
building and site layouts for Site C are shown in Figures 1 and 2.
Site F: Griswold Property 2 is the top scoring site for a police station and did undergo
preliminary test fits, however since the property is undeveloped with no known constraints,
site development would have significant flexibility and therefore was not carried forward for
more detailed layouts or cost estimation.
A B C D E F G H
Fire
G 13 16 15.5 11.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 11.5
Y 8.5 7 7 9.5 3.5 3.5 4.5 10.5
O 4.5* 3.5* 2.5 2 3 3 5 3
R 1 .5 2* 4* 3 3 3* 2*
Police
G 15.5 19 15.5 12.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 10.5
Y 7 4 7 9.5 5 5 4.5 11.5
O 4.5* 3* 2.5 2 3.5 3.5 5 3
R 0 .5 2* 3* 1 1 3* 2*
Combined Building or Campus [where scores differed, (Campus)]
G 14 16 (15) 15 11.5 17.5 17.5 14.5 11.5
Y 7.5 6.5 7.5 9.5 4 4 4.5 10.5
O 4.5 4 2.5 2 2.5 2.5 5 3
R 1 .5 (1) 2* 4* 3 3 3* 2 *Tsunami inundation zone
PRELIMINARY SITE TEST FITS
To develop a better understanding of each site’s unique size, shape, and other potential constraints, the project team and city staff held a day-long workshop performing preliminary test fits of facility scenarios on each site. Using the recommended square footage estimates for each programed space determined in the Needs Assessment, pieces of foam core were scaled to represent each programmed element of the needed police and fire stations, including site features such as parking and the fire training tower. The programmatic pieces were arranged on to-scale plots of each site under consideration to verify draft conclusions made from the site analysis and begin conceptual building and site layouts.
Figure 5. Seward Fire and Police Department Staff participating in Preliminary Site Test Fits Figure 5. Seward Fire and Police Department Staff participating in Preliminary Site Test Fits
59
- 66 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
Figure 1 - Site C Preliminary Test Fit, Campus
2nd Floor Concept Plan
MAIN SITE ACCESS
SECONDARY
SITE ACCESS
FD APPARATUS
ENTRANCE
SITE
CIRCULATIONPOLICE DEPARTMENTSECURED FENCE PARKING
(6,000 SF)
POLICE DEPARTMENTIMPOUNDED VEHICLE PARKING
(3,000 SF)PD SEIZED VEHICLE GARAGE
(1,200 SF)
OPS SUPPORT
(4,725 SF)
MEETING ROOM
(2,700 SF)
PUBLIC
(2,025 SF)
DETENTION
(3,865 SF)
DMV
(600 SF)
AUTOSALLYPORT
(600 SF)
ADMIN
(2,350 SF)
PATROL/EVIDENCE
(3,000 SF)
POLICE DEPARTMENT PARKING / DMV TEST GROUNDS
(10,000 SF)DMV PARKING
(2,400 SF)
GENERATOR
(500 SF)
FUEL STATION
(500 SF)
ITERATION 1
GROUND LEVEL
MAIN SITE ACCESS
SECONDARY
SITE ACCESS
FD APPARATUS
ENTRANCE
SITE
CIRCULATION
POLICE DEPARTMENTSECURED FENCE PARKING
(6,000 SF)
POLICE DEPARTMENTIMPOUNDED VEHICLE PARKING
(3,000 SF)
PD SEIZED VEHICLE GARAGE
(1,200 SF)
OPS
S
U
P
P
O
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T
(4,7
2
5
S
F
)
P
U
B
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(
2
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F
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DETE
N
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N
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6
5
S
F
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DMV(60
0
S
F
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AUT
O
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Y
POR
T(60
0
S
F
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ADMI
N(2,3
5
0
S
F
)
PATR
O
L
/
EVID
E
N
C
E
(3,0
0
0
S
F
)
DMV
P
A
R
K
I
N
G
(2,
4
0
0
S
F
)
POLI
C
E
D
E
P
A
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T
M
E
N
T
P
A
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I
N
G
/
DMV
T
E
S
T
G
R
O
U
N
D
S
(10
,
0
0
0
S
F
)
GENERATOR
(500 SF)
FUEL STATION
(500 SF)
ITERATION 2
GROUND LEVEL
FD A
EN
ON
DMV
P
A
R
K
I
N
G
(2,
4
0
0
S
F
)
POLI
C
E
D
E
P
DMV
T
E
S
(10,
0
Figure 2 - Site C Preliminary Test Fit, Combined Building
60
- 67 -
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
Needs Assessment & Site Selection Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Site Analysis: Conclusions
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the initial site evaluations, collaborative review with Seward Fire Department,
Seward Police Department and the Assistant City Manager, and preliminary site test fits, the
following sites are recommended for new public safety facilities:
1. Site C. Forest Acres Campground for a standalone Fire Station, Campus of standalone Police
and Fire Stations, and a Combined Police and Fire Facility.
2. Site F. Carol Griswold Property 2 for a standalone Police Station with Emergency
Operations Center
Site C is owned by the city, offers the most flexibility, and would meet the needs of the
public safety facilities under all development scenarios. Site C is in a highly visible and
accessible location, supporting quick response times and public use, and offers space to
house supporting fire training facilities on location. It will require some site stabilization,
utility expansion and will be in the tsunami inundation zone under some scenarios, which is
unfortunately consistent with much of the land within city limits.
Site F. Carol Griswold Property 2 is recommended for a standalone police station with the
emergency operations center, as it is outside of the tsunami inundation zone under all
scenarios. It is not recommended for a fire station due to its separation from the Seward
Highway and the condition of the neighborhood access roads.
Site B. Fort Raymond Remainder is still a viable consideration, but limitations for large
vehicular maneuvering and circulation, the size of the property, and lack of separation from
Sea Lion Ave and its traffic constraints make Site B a significantly less desirable location than
Site C.
When considering two separate developments, a police station on Site F and a fire station on
Site C, or a campus or combined facility approach on Site C, negotiations with the property
owner of Site F, funding availability, as well as importance of having a facility outside of the
tsunami inundation zone should be taken into consideration. Regardless of the selected
scenario, design and construction for a more hazard-resistant facility is recommended.
61
Appendix A
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
DRAFT Needs Assessment Report
December 22, 2023 R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Cost Estimate
Conceptual Site Development Estimate: R&M
Seward Public Safety Facility : Fire Dept ROM: HMS Inc.
Seward Public Safety Facility : Fire Dept ROM: HMS Inc.
62
Conceptual Site Development
Cost Estimation
City of Seward Public Safety Building Needs Assessment &
Site Selection Study
Prepared For:
City of Seward
410 Adams Street
Seward, AK 99664
Prepared By:
R&M Consultants, Inc.
9101 Vanguard Dr.
Anchorage, AK 99507
Date:
December 2023
63
1
Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 2
Concept Design ............................................................................................................................................. 2
Construction Costs Narrative ........................................................................................................................ 3
Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
Exhibits
Exhibit A: Concept Design – Option #1
Exhibit B: Concept Design – Option #2
Exhibit C: Concept Design – Option #3
Exhibit D: Engineer’s Cost Estimate – Option #1
Exhibit E: Engineer’s Cost Estimate – Option #2
Exhibit F: Engineer’s Cost Estimate – Option #3
64
2
Introduction
The City of Seward has contracted with R&M Consultants, Inc. to conduct a needs assessment and site
selection study for new public safety facilities, which includes preliminary cost estimations for
development. A parcel owned by the city on Hemlock Ave has been identified as a preferred site for a
new fire station and/or police station. The site is approximate 8 acres and currently hosts a seasonal
municipal‐owned Forest Acres Campground. Access is currently from Hemlock Ave but is adjacent to
east of the Seward Hwy and west of Dimond Blvd It is zoned and planned for institutional land uses,
does not have any wetlands present, and is partly within the AE FEMA mapped flood zone. City water
and sewar are not adjacent to the would have to be extended if developed, which is an action the city is
supportive of.
Information used in the site selection study contains site‐specific summaries developed from public
sources. No ground survey or geotechnical engineering was performed to support this current project,
but recent data from a geotechnical report and survey of the Forest Acres Campground site on Hemlock
Ave was reviewed. Additional soils data and surveyed ground topography may be required prior to
development.
Concept Design
Exhibit A:
Exhibit A shows option #1 which is a layout showing the public safety buildings as two separate facilities.
The police station would be built on the west side and the fire station on the east side with the main
access to the site from Hemlock Ave. The fire department would have access to Seward Highway for
emergency responses allowing for quicker response times. This concept allows for the city to develop
the facilities at different times if necessary, spreading out potential costs for development. The overall
flow of option #1 would give both the fire department and police station access to all facilities on site
such as the impound, parking, maintenance bays and rear entrances of the fire truck garages. This
option does include more pavement as well as utilities due to being separated but has the benefit of
better access flow throughout the site.
Spring
Fen
Spring
Fen
65
3
Exhibit B:
Exhibit B shows option #2 which is a combined facilities layout. This layout has both facilities attached to
each other using up less space of the tract and requiring less pavement & utilities than option #1. The
main access would still be from Hemlock Ave with a second access from Seward Highway. The police
station section would be on the west side and the fire station would stay on the east with access to
Seward Highway. This option gives a similar flow through the site as option #1 but with a lower cost of
site development and potentially cheaper building costs.
Exhibit C:
Exhibit C shows option #3 which is also a combined facilities layout but with the fire station and police
station flipped. This layout has 2 access points from Hemlock as well as the fire stations emergency
access. It has less pavement and utilities required but does have less of a flow throughout the site. It still
provides access to all facilities on site but is not as convenient as the other options. Having the fire
station access Hemlock in an emergency may be a safer option than entering straight onto a major road.
This option is slightly cheaper than option #2 as it has less pavement and less excavation necessary.
Construction Costs Narrative
Most of the development costs will be for road construction and utility installation, detailed below. See
Exhibit D, E, & F: Engineer’s Cost Estimate.
Road Section
These estimates were created using the minimum structural section recommended of 24 inches gravel,
2 inches base course and 2 inches of asphalt pavement. The road throughout the site will be 2 each 12‐
foot‐wide paved lanes. Various areas of pavement will vary such as the parking lots and pavement
behind the fire station apparatus. Excavation and fill have been calculated based of similar soils found
on neighboring projects requiring 4’ of soil removal with 24” of classified fill and 24” of gravel for
stability. Possible vibro‐compaction may be necessary for soils under and within 25’ of proposed
buildings. Clearing and grubbing will be for the entire 8‐acre site. Topsoil and seeding are proposed for
green areas between roads. Unit prices are from Aashtoware DOT&PF projects. A 30% contingency is
being used on the final price of the project.
Utilities
The estimates assume water & sewer extensions and a piped storm drain system will be required.
Electrical and telephone already exist along this parcel and is estimated at a $20,000 lump sum to
connect and install from the existing lines. Water main extension costs assumes installation with
trenches and are based upon costs of $250 per lineal foot. Sewer main extensions costs assumes
installation with trenches of $250 per lineal foot. A storm drain system is proposed for the site at a lump
sum of $50,000. A 30% contingency is being used on the final price of the project.
Construction Management
Minimal SWPPP, survey and traffic maintenance costs with no mobilization costs are assumed.
66
4
Summary
Overall costs are estimated to be between $2,385,000 ‐ $2,875,000 depending on option chosen. Each
option has potential benefits and cons for the city. The layouts exhibited would provide excellent flows
for operation of safety personnel for the City of Seward in a great location already owned by the city.
The estimated costs of construction are based on current pricing models and do not reflect future costs
that may rise with inflation. If the project is delayed by several years, the estimate of construction costs
will likely need to be adjusted.
This feasibility study is based on publicly available information. No ground survey has been performed.
Unforeseen drainage issues or soil conditions may exist that cannot be evaluated during a brief study of
this type. Conditions that may be imposed by the Borough also cannot be predicted, although a
thorough review of the local code and discussions with planning staff seem to indicate that the project is
viable.
67
5
Exhibit A:
Concept Design – Option #1
68
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Exhibit B:
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Exhibit C:
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72
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1 OF 173
Appendix B
R&M Consultants / KPB Architects / Integrus Architecture
Adjacency Diagrams
City of Seward :: Public Safety Building
DRAFT Needs Assessment Report
December 22, 2023
74
DUTY
CREW
REPORT
TRAINING
TOWER
APPARATUS BAY
VEHICLE
MAINTENANCE BAY
PATIO
TRAINING ROOM
ADMINISTRATIONPUBLIC
BUILDING
DEPARTMENT
APPARATUS
SUPPORT
OVERALL
PU
B
L
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I
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SE
C
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S
I
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E
MAIN
ENTRY
LIVING
Appendix B
Adjacency Diagrams
75
APPARATUS BAY
(F.50)
VEHICLE
MAINTENANCE BAY
(F.51)
TURNOUT
(F.54)DECON
(F.55)
SHOP
(F.56)
SCBA
(F.58)
STORAGE
EMS
(F.59)
STORAGE
EXTERIOR
(F.60)
VESTIBULE
(F.62)
SHOWERS
(F.63)
COVERED
PARKING
(F.58)
LIVING
APPARATUS
Appendix B
Adjacency Diagrams
76
GREAT ROOM
(F.33)
STORAGE
(F.37)
STORAGE
EVENT
(F.38)
LAUNDRY
(F.32)
FITNESS
(F.36)
PATIO
(F.81)
APPARATUS BAY
VESTIBULE
(F.62)
LIVING
CIRCULATION
CI
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STAFF
ENTRY
SHOWER
(F.31)
SHOWER
(F.31)
DORM
(F.30)
DORM
(F.30)
DORM
(F.30)DORM
(F.30)
DORM
(F.30)DORM
(F.30)
SHOWER
(F.31)
SHOWER
(F.31)
Appendix B
Adjacency Diagrams
77
LOBBY
(F.01)
RECEPTION
(F.10)
WORKROOM
(F.11)
OFFICE
CHIEF
(F.12)
OFFICE
DEPUTY
CHIEF
(F.13)
OFFICE
VOLUNTEER
(F.17)
OFFICE
FIRE
MARSHALL
(F.18)
STORAGE
(F.21)
SHOWER
(F.22)
OFFICE
BUILDING
OFFICIAL
(B.1)
PLANS
LONG-TERM
STORAGE
(B.2)
CONFERENCE
ROOM
(B.3)
OFFICE
EMS CHIEF
(F.14)
OFFICE
EMERGENCY
MANAGER
(F.16)
OFFICE
TRAINING
OFFICER
(F.15)
COFFEE
BAR
F.20
ADMINISTRATION
CI
R
C
U
L
A
T
I
O
N
CIRCULATION
PUBLIC SIDE
SECURE SIDE
Appendix B
Adjacency Diagrams
78
RESTROOMS
(F.02)
TRAINING ROOM
(F.03)
STORAGE
TABLE AND
CHAIR
(F.04)
STORAGE
EOC
(F.05)
AV
CLOSET
(F.06)
VESTIBULE
(F.08)
STORAGE
EDUCATION
& CPR
(F.09)
LOBBY
(F.01)
RECEPTION
(F.10)
PUBLIC
PUBLIC SIDE
SECURE SIDE
MAIN
ENTRY
Appendix B
Adjacency Diagrams
79