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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03162020 City Council Work Session Packet - Resurrection River Mitigation City of Seward Council Seward-Bear Creek Flood Service Area Board Joint Work Session March 16, 2020 Resurrection River Mitigation Measures Packet contents: o Resurrection River Maintenance Plan 2006 pg. 1 o KPB Ordinance 1998-55 P9. 20 o City of Seward Ordinance 1998-10 pg. 22 o Leirer Email re: Private Land Parcels on Resurrection River pg. 26 o Private Parcels Maps pg. 27 o Crawford/ Riverside Subdivision Parcel List pg. 29 o Seward Airport Agency Scoping Letter 1/24/17 pg. 30 o City of Seward Letter re: Seward Airport Scoping 2/23/177 Pg. 33 o SBCFSA Letter re: Seward Airport Scoping 2/15/17 Pg. 35 o Resurrection River Excavation Memo 7/6/16 pg. 37 o w � Discussion: Project Planning • Resurrection River Maintenance Plan • Water Resources Engineered Study& Design • US Army Corps of Engineers " +{ Continuing Authorities Programs Y . Permitting • City and/or KPB Floodplain Development • Alaska State Fish & Game Habitat • Alaska State Department of Natural Resources - - • US Fish &Wildlife Service Eagle Nest& Migratory Bird • US Army Corps of Engineers Project Costs& Funding /r r Floodplain Parcel Acquisitions Kenai Peninsula Borough 144 N. Binkley Street Soldotna, Alaska 99669 Resurrection River Debris Maintenance Plan (A requirement under DR-1072-AK) P . Kenai Peninsula Borough Office of Emergency Management (907) 262-4910 www.borough.kenai.ak.us/emergency 1 September, 2006 Resurrection River Debris Removal Maintenance Plan PURPOSE The purpose of this Plan is to fulfill the tasks set forth by the Resurrection River Task Force and KPB Ordinance 2003-30, which established the SBCFSA, and to meet the requirements of DR-1072-AK. Debris removal maintenance is central to this Plan. The terms "debris removal' and "bed-load extraction" are interchangeable in the context of this Plan. This Plan will undergo cooperative annual review, with revision as needed. Review and revision will be a collaborative effort open to all agencies associated with the Plan, for input and evaluation of cause and effect of individual agency actions upon others related to the Plan. HISTORY 1995 In the aftermath of the 1995 fall flooding, the Kenai Peninsula Borough (KPB) initiated a 3-phase hazard mitigation planning process to assess Borough-wide risks and identify preventative measures to reduce those risks. •uuuuPhase o Covered areas along the Resurrection, Kenai, and Kasilof River systems subject to repetitive flooding. •uuuuPhase II o Encompassed the remaining flood-prone areas of the Borough. •uuuuPhase III o Expanded flood mitigation planning to a Borough-wide Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan to provide comprehensive approach to reduce loss of life, property, and community disruption when a disaster occurs. 2 With a patchwork of public and private land ownership within the KPB, there are many agencies and individuals with an investment in flood mitigation planning. Also, there are many layers of state, borough, city, and federal laws and regulations that govern the management of lakes, streams, rivers, and coastal areas. The complexity necessitated a broad management perspective for mitigation planning. 1996 On March 1 the KPB Mayor published the Phase I "Flood Mitigation Plan" that included a flood history and floodplain management description, a description of flood mitigation planning zones, and flood mitigation goals and approaches to accomplish them. 1997 A Japanese (Japp) Creek/Resurrection River Interagency Agreement and Task Force were formed that included the following signatories and their general responsibilities: •uuuuADES: (now DHS&EM) o Grant project selection •uuuuCity of Seward: o Japanese (Japp) Creek mitigation grant project •uuuuKenai Peninsula Borough: o Resurrection River mitigation grant project •LILILILIFEMA: o Endorsed and funded projects •uuuuAlaska DOT/PF: o Bridge replacement/enlargement in both projects, raise Seward Highway above flood plains, build cross drainage on Seward Highway project •uuuuUS Army Corps of Engineers: o Reconnaissance study for levee from Seward Highway upstream to east boundary of Forest Acres Subdivision •uuuuAlaska Railroad Corporation: o Enlarge railroad bridges to same size as Seward Highway bridges •uuuuNatural Resources Conservation Services: o Built segment of Japanese (Japp) Creek levee 3 •uuuuAlaska Department of Fish &Game: o Protect fish and wildlife in both project areas •uuuuUS Fish and Wildlife Service: o Protect fish and wildlife in the US •uuuuAlaska Dept. of Community and Regional Affairs: (now Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development) o Administer National Flood Insurance Program and flood plain management programs ADES (DHS&EM) selected the grant applications of the City of Seward for Japanese (Japp) Creek and of KPB for the Resurrection River. FEMA endorsed the selections, and all signatories recognized the importance of reducing flood damage in an environmentally sound manner and the benefits of coordinating the mitigation projects. All signatories agreed: •uuuuTo perform their responsibilities associated with these projects; •uuuuTo coordinate technical aspects of all separate projects to minimize floods and reduce damage due to flooding; •uuuuTo select a flow model to be used by all agencies when assessing alternative mitigation measures; •uuuuTo implement only alternative measures that contribute to achieving the goals of minimizing flooding and related damage; •uuuuTo share data and information with all other signatories; •uuuuTo coordinate administrative, logistical and financial matters of joint concern; •uuuuTo keep congressional and legislative staffs informed of all aspects of the program and seek further financial assistance as needed; •uuuuTo coordinate public relations; and •uuuuThe City of Seward and KPB agreed to regulate and manage development in these floodplains in a manner consistent with agreed objectives to reduce flooding and damage. Five groups were established under this Task Force agreement: •uuuuMulti-agency Coordination Group (MAC): o Ultimate responsibility for the Task Force o Provide direction and guidance to the Task Force Council o Initiate formal coordination with congressional and legislative members o Relay information to the Governor's Disaster Management Policy Cabinet and respective agencies 4 •uuuuTask Force Council: o Direct activities of the Task Force under general guidance from the MAC Group •uuuuCongress ion al and Legislative Community Relations Staff: o Initiate appropriate contact through the MAC Group o Responsible for Task Force community relations and public meetings •uuuuProject Managers: o Provide technical services to the Task Force •uuuuOperations Section: o Determine and implement solutions o Select flow model to use in evaluating alternative measures o Select measures for implementation o Turn projects over to agency responsible for actual work 1998 The DOT/PF Central Region released the "Preliminary Design for the Seward Highway Crossings of the Resurrection River."The purpose of the document was to evaluate the hydraulic conditions on the Seward Highway crossing of Resurrection River and make design recommendations for reducing the risk of major flooding from the river. It recognized the importance of a major coordination effort required between various jurisdictions in order to accomplish this task. It identified locations, history, economy, transportation climate, hydrology, the 1995 flood event, the Task Force, preliminary design recommendations and culture of the project area, and the importance of coordination. The Resurrection River/Japanese (Japp) Creek Flood Mitigation Task Force completed its initial work on May 8, 1998 with the release of its report"Task Force Report, Resurrection River/Japanese Creek Flood Hazard Mitigation Project."The report identified five projects including: •uuuuConstruction of levees (City of Seward & National Resources Conservation Service) •uuuulncrease bridge spans on railroad trestles (ARR) •uuuuRaise height of Seward Highway(DOT) •uuuuDebris and sediment removal (KPB) •uuuuProvide comprehensive flood mitigation plan to protect Seward against flood risks associated with the Resurrection River and Japanese Creek (KPB & Interagency Task Force) It is important to note that all five projects identified in this Plan are required for the plan to be effective. Without each component, flood risk remains high. 5 As of February 2003, bed-load extraction at the mouth of the Resurrection River and construction of the Japanese Creek levee extension have been completed by the City of Seward, with support from other agencies. 1999 The KPB completed mitigation tasks under its purview and transferred remaining FEMA/OEM grant funds to the City of Seward to complete projects within the City. The City of Seward completed mitigation tasks under its purview. The original grant criteria included the following conditions to be completed before final disbursement of funds: •uuuuThe KPB and City of Seward were required to adopt ordinances cP committing both jurisdictions to funding and performing ongoing maintenance to the area to ensure that the Resurrection River's hydraulic capacity is maintained to post-project configuration. Funding of this project precludes any future FEMA funding for sediment and debris removal in the project area. cP •uuuuThe Alaska Railroad was required to improve and expand bridges on a specific schedule as planned by DOT/PF. Implementation of the grant by the Sub grantee was required to be in accordance with these conditions: •uuuuThe KPB and Seward were required to establish a program to annually assess hydraulic capacity and cross section of the project and implement debris and sediment removal operations, when necessary. •uuuuCoordinate with the US Army Corps of Engineers. •uuuuComplete and submit a Coastal Zone Management Act Review questionnaire. •uuuuApply for and obtain required Title 16 review and permit from Alaska Department of Fish & Game and to comply with all conditions imposed as a result of the review. •uuuuApply for and obtain a Floodplain Permit from the KPB and comply with conditions of the permit to the satisfaction of the KPB. •uuuuThe National Marine Fisheries Service and Alaska Fish &Game restrict in-water work to between May 15th and July 15th. •uuuuConsult with US Fish &Wildlife Service regarding impacts to roosting eagles, and comply with seasonal, distance and other restrictions imposed. •uuuuStream bank/riparian vegetation prohibited from being disturbed unless first authorized by National Marine Fisheries Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Alaska Fish &Game. 6 2001 The KPB and the USGS entered into a joint funding agreement to install and maintain a Stream-gaging Network to monitor water levels, surges and flooding across the Kenai Peninsula Borough. The system has been online since then. 2003 The KPB Clerk certified a petition, subsequently passed by voters, to establish the Seward-Bear Creek Flood Service Area to provide mitigation, response, and recovery services for the area that includes the Resurrection River. The KPB Assembly adopted Ordinance 2003-30 establishing the flood service area with a seven-member board made up of four seats from within the City of Seward and three seats outside the City. The seats were initially appointed, and in October 2004 all seats were on the regular election ballot. The board is responsible for developing, implementing, and updating a development plan for providing flood protection services and for determining the level of such service to be provided. Kenai Peninsula Borough Code Chapter 16.50 "Seward-Bear Creek Flood Service Area" defines boundaries, mill levy ability, and general functions of the Board. 2004 The KPB completed and adopted a Borough-wide All Hazard Mitigation Plan. All cities completed Annexes to the Plan and were adopted locally. These all hazard plans identify flood hazards, address vulnerability assessments and impacts, describe the National Flood Insurance Program, and describe mitigation measures. These can be viewed in their entirety on the KPB Office of Emergency Management (OEM) website at www.borough.kenai.ak.us/emergency. 2005 In July, the Seward-Bear Creek Flood Service Area Board (SBCFSA) completed drafting the "SBCFSA Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan" and forwarded it to the KPB for review. The plan identifies areas of concern and short-term, mid-term and long-term methods to address the concerns. It also identified issues to be resolved to allow mitigation efforts to continue effectively, including: •uuuuMany watersheds have no State determination of navigability. o This is necessary to determine oversight and agency involvement in mitigation projects o Possible funding sources o Methods of mitigation that may be used •uuuu Flood plain mapping is essential and lacking in general o Funding is needed to complete mapping to enable effective mitigation o State and Federal agencies with a vested interest in the area's flood problem may already have the ability to provide this component and should be asked to assist in this need •uuuuExtraction permitting and coordination with DNR is essential o Some existing extraction permits remain idle o State regulations require a sales contract for extraction o This criteria needs to be eliminated or exempted when directly related to hazard mitigation 2006 The KPB "Resurrection River Debris Maintenance Plan" is drafted in cooperation with the City of Seward and other affected agencies for submittal to State DHS&EM and FEMA Region X as required under DR- 1072-AK. Plan will be available for review at www.borough.kenai.ak.us following adoption by KPB and City of Seward. 8 Resurrection River Debris Removal Maintenance Plan The purpose of this plan is to fulfill the tasks set forth by the Resurrection River Task Force and KPB Ordinance 2003-30, which established the SBCFSA and to meet the requirements of DR-1072-AK. Debris removal maintenance is central to this plan. The terms debris removal and bed-load extraction are interchangeable in the context of this plan. Debris removal will be done to the limit of the debris and gravel removal that was performed as part of the original FEMA grant. This Plan will undergo cooperative annual review, with revision as needed. Review and revision will be a collaborative effort open to all agencies associated with the Plan, for input and evaluation of cause and effect of individual agency actions upon others related to the Plan. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION & FLOOD TYPES In 2005, the SBCFSA developed a Mitigation Plan identifying flood hazards and mitigation and maintenance concerns. It is the intention of the service area Board, in cooperation with the KPB, the City of Seward (City), and the various regulating and permitting agencies, to create a program of mitigation and maintenance activities that best manages the area's flood problems. The methodology used for the development of the Plan consisted of the following tasks: Flood Hazard Identification Public Involvement Flood Area Inventory Coordination with Other Agencies and Organizations Mitigation Recommendations Implementation 9 The magnitude of flooding in the area has been historically significant. In 1986, 1989, 1995, and 2002 the area experienced major rainstorms that left behind substantial damage. In fact, the damage was severe enough to be declared local, state or federal disasters. The area is susceptible to several types of flooding, and their effects are often compounded during flood events. The types of flooding include: Heavy precipitation Urban runoff Airport flooding Rapid snowmelt Rising groundwater Riverine ice jams Flash floods Fluctuating lake levels Alluvial fan flooding Glacial lake outbursts Coastal storm surge run-up Surge-release flooding from landslides and debris flows Failure of dikes, levees, or other diversion structures Tsunami This plan is specific to a debris removal program for the original project area of the Resurrection River between the bridges at the Seward Highway and the outflow of the river, as required under DR-1072-AK, and as depicted on the attached map of the original project area. 10 �k R ojecl Aim■ (BPK*�IhekB] KPB MAINTENANCE PLAN COMPONENTS General steps that are components of this ongoing Maintenance Plan include: An annual review of the original project area will be conducted in April to determine the need for periodic bed-load removal. Reviews will be logged for documentation. This will remain a coordinated effort between KPB and the City of Seward. Both will keep SBCFSA informed. Use of the area floodplain map is an intrinsic part of this plan. The KPB will work cooperatively with the State of Alaska (DCCED) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to seek funding to update the floodplain map of the area. The SBCFSA, City, and the Kenai River Center (KRC) will be involved in this process to make planning and mitigation most effective. Agencies with a vested interest in the floodplain will cooperate and combine efforts where possible to provide the mapping component (USGS, State of Alaska, DNR, Army Corps of Engineers, Chugach National Forest, NR(Zp etc.). 11 If funding is not expected to be immediately available, agencies will assist as much as possible until funding is available. KPB will search for and secure funds, and issue permits for an annual maintenance schedule and contracts to remove debris as needed. KPB will coordinate debris removal funding with the annual evaluation of the need for periodic bed-load removal. KPB will coordinate applications for grants and technical partnerships to complete comprehensive hydrologic studies to evaluate channel morphology, stability, and bed-load transport. To include Corps of Engineers, FEMA, NRCS, DOT/PF, ARR, KPB, SBCFSA, Chugach National Forest, ADF&G and USF&W. All agencies will work cooperatively to ensure flood mitigation/maintenance efforts are not being duplicated and permit issues are cooperatively addressed in a timely manner. KPB has requested DNR to abate the sales contract and fee/malty component of extraction permits as they relate to government sponsored mitigation/maintenance efforts. When requested by the City, KPB will work to facilitate: Regulatory permitting required for changes to the project area watercourse, including City Floodplain Development permits. Other actions the City and KPB deem necessary. FLOODPLAIN MAPPING All major waterways in t"rea, including the project area, need a hydrology study to determine the most appropriate methods of debris removal including bed-load extraction, floodplain conservation, and maintenance. Updated floodplain maps are essential to provide the most accurate data for permitting and regulatory enforcement. DAMAGE/DEBRIS CAUSES &ONGOING MAINTENANCE Resurrection River is highly impacted by retreating glaciers, which are providing more melt and escalated stream flow, causing an amplified amount of glacial silt, gravel, and other debris being transported. 12 1. Bed-load build-up. a. KPB and City of Seward as applicable, will annually monitor and evaluate the necessity of bed-load removal within the original project area in cooperation with DOT/PF and other affected agencies. b. KPB and City of Seward will continue to perform debris removal maintenance within the original project area as necessary for their respective jurisdictions. 2. During times of hiwater, Resurrection River has caused significant flood damage to the Airport. a. Preventative maintenance and restoration of the Airport are the responsibility of DOT/PF. b. KPB will coordinate with DOT, DNR, City of Seward and appropriate permitting agencies to create a direct channel in the original project area by bed-load removal from the mainstream channel to maintain water conveyance away from the Airport. 3. KPB will coordinate with appropriate agencies to obtain funding and permitting to establish an annual maintenance schedule and contracts to remove debris within the original project area. a. Jurisdictions to share and coordinate such plans include DOT/PF, ARR, KPB, City of Seward, SBCFSA, Chugach National Forest, National Park Service, ADF&G, USF&W, & Corps of Engineers. ACTIONS ALREADY TAKEN The SBCFSA and City of Seward Planning and Zoning Commission include agenda slots for mutual presentation related to flood mitigation planning and permitting. LAND USE MANAGEMENT FLOODPLAIN AREAS 1. The KPB participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS) Program; 2. Completed development of a Borough-wide All Hazard Mitigation Plan, including a section specifically for Flood Hazard Mitigation; cP 3. City of Seward has completed and adopted an All-Hazard Mitigation Plan, including a section specifically for Flood Hazard Mitigation; 4. Continuing flood education and outreach through workshops and community meetings; 13 5. Providing a local source of information on proper floodplain building techniques; and 6. Review and revision of the KPB Floodplain Management Ordinance to improve the clarity, implementation, and enforceability of the floodplain code to include amending platting regulations to exclude streambeds from vegetated bank to vegetated bank from parcels. MAINTENANCE PLAN ACTION ITEMS OBJECTIVE 1.0: (Completed) ACTION 1.1: Develop Inventory of Problem Areas. Assemble a detailed inventory of problem areas, flood structures, and infrastructure within and adjacent to the project area. LEAD: SBCFSA/KPB OEM, City of Seward SUPPORT: KPB Public Works, KPB Road Service Area (RSA), DHS&EM, DOT&PF, and DNR TIMELINE: 1 —3 years to coincide with floodplain mapping PRIORITY: Medium OBJECTIVE 2.0: (Completed) ACTION 2.1: Develop Inventory of Potential Retrofit/Rehab Measures Assemble a detailed inventory of potential measures and activities for long-term maintenance to include channel diversion, etc. LEAD: SBCFSA/KPB OEM, City of Seward SUPPORT: KPB Public Works, KPB Road Service Area (RSA), DHS&EM, DOT&PF, DNR, AKRR, Army Corps of Engineers, ADF&G, USGS, USF&W TIMELINE: 3—5 years PRIORITY: Medium OBJECTIVE 3.0: (Mostly Completed) Seek grants/technical partnerships to complete map and hydrology studies and compile information. ACTION 3.1: Determine Funding Needs ACTION 3.2: Scope of Work ACTION 3.3: Identify Involved Agencies Having Funds and Services 14 An overall scope of work would help determine funding needs. Identifying agencies with vested interests would identify funding and in-kind services (hydrologists, mapping information and systems, historical data, etc). A database could then be developed to identify project priorities for infrastructure protection, community growth, development restriction needs, etc. LEAD: SBCFSA/KPB OEM, City of Seward SUPPORT: KPB Public Works, KPB Road Service Area (RSA), DHS&EM, DOT&PF, DNR, KPB OEM, Chugach National Forest, USGS, Army Corps of Engineers TIMELINE: 1 —3 years PRIORITY: High OBJECTIVE 4.0: (Completed) Use information gathered in the comprehensive studies to enhance maintenance strategies. ACTION 4.1: Consolidate Information ACTION 4.2: Distribute to Involved Agencies for Planning and Funding Such information is scattered, archived and difficult to retrieve. A catalog of information with regular revisions will keep responsibilities and issues in the forefront for planning and budgeting. LEAD: SBCFSA/KPB OEM, KRC SUPPORT: KPB Public Works, KPB Road Service Area (RSA), DHS&EM, DOT&PF, DNR, KPB OEM, Chugach National Forest, USGS, Army Corps of Engineers, City of Seward TIMELINE: 1 —3 years PRIORITY: Medium OBJECTIVE 5.0: (Action Needed) Periodic Review and Update of Information. ACTION 5.1: Conduct Annual Review of Plan ACTION 5.2: Incorporate Information from Additional Studies ACTION 5.3: Incorporate Information from Additional Mapping. All agencies have an interest in current information. Annual review and revision is essential to validation of the Plan. LEAD: SBCFSA/KPB OEM, City of Seward 15 SUPPORT: All agencies involved in the Task Force as noted under History, 1997, in this document TIMELINE: Annually PRIORITY: High OBJECTIVE 6.0: (Mostly Completed) Update Hazard Mapping (Digital Elevation Mapping). ACTION 6.1 Seek Funding to complete (DEM) for all KPB floodplains and coastal bluffs -Seward area is the priority. Acquiring digital elevation data is a valuable first step to understanding surface water hydrology, hazard assessment, and emergency response planning and actions. Verify existing, and install additional, vertical elevation benchmarks in developing floodplains to facilitate accurate base flood elevation. Map actual flood boundaries after major flood events. LEAD: KRC, KPB, City of Seward SUPPORT: SBCFSA, all agencies involved in the Task Force with permitting authority as noted in History, 1997, in this document TIMELINE: 1 —2 years with annual revisions PRIORITY: High OBJECTIVE 7.0: (Completed&Ongoing) Prioritize and implement cost effective strategies for controlling flood damage. ACTION 7.1 Seek Grants and Partnerships to Complete Comprehensive Hydrologic Studies ACTION 7.2 Identify Repetitive Flood Problems; Evaluate Channel Morphology And Stability, Bed Load Transport And Location And Effectiveness Of Existing Flood Control Structures. Priorities for funding and planning can be established with this information for infrastructure, habitat and wildlife protection. LEAD: KRC, KPB, City of Seward SUPPORT: SBCFSA, all agencies involved in the Task Force with permitting authority TIMELINE: 1 —2 years with annual revisions PRIORITY: High 16 OBJECTIVE 8.0: (Action Needed) ACTION 8.1 Recommend KPB Administration Institute a Revolving Flood Maintenance Fund Fund could assist with Borough maintained road and capital projects, with those in the Resurrection drainage as the priority. With Seward and the State following suit, a consistent funding mechanism could be put in place. LEAD: KPB OEM outside City limits City of Seward inside City limits DOT/PF for State highway, ROW&Airport SUPPORT: All agencies involved in the Task Force with permitting authority as noted in History 1997 in this document TIMELINE: 1 —3 years PRIORITY: High OBJECTIVE 9.0: (Completed&Ongoing) Coordinate scheduling of projects during low water ACTION 9.1 Use Sediment Control Techniques To Stabilize Fill Or Disturbed Areas ACTION 9.2: Schedule In-Water Work To Periods Least Likely To Impact Salmon Migration, Spawning, Incubation and Rearing. LEAD: KPB OEM outside City limits City of Seward inside City limits DOT/PF for State highway, ROW&Airport SUPPORT: Chugach National Forest, USF&W, ADF&G, Army Corps of Engineers, KPB RSA, AKRR, property owners/developers TIMELINE: 1 —3 years PRIORITY: High OBJECTIVE 10.0: (Action needed) Maintain Water Level At or Below Original Project Levels. ACTION 10.1 Conduct Ongoing Maintenance such as Emergency Debris Removal or Stream Re-Channelization. 17 Carefully evaluate for long-term consequences including: increased maintenance costs, shifting problem from one place to another, and adverse hydrological or environmental impacts. LEAD: KPB OEM outside City limits City of Seward inside City limits DOT/PF for State highway, ROW&Airport SUPPORT: Chugach National Forest, USF&W, AKF&G, Army Corps of Engineers, KPB RSA, AKRR TIMELINE: 1 —3 years PRIORITY: High ACRONYMS ADFG - Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game ARR- Alaska Railroad CITY- City of Seward CRS - Community Rating System DCA- Alaska Division of Community Advocacy DCCED - Alaska Dept. Commerce, Community and Economic Development DEM - Digital Elevation Mapping DHS&EM Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (Formerly ADES -Alaska Division of Emergency Services) DNR - Department Of Natural Resources DOT/PF- Alaska Dept. of Transportation and Public Facilities FEMA- Federal Emergency Management Agency 18 FMA- Flood Mitigation Assistance GIS - Geographic Information Services KPB - Kenai Peninsula Borough KRC - Kenai River Center MACG Multi-agency Coordination Group NFIP - National Flood Insurance Program NRCS - National Resources Conservation Service OEM - Office of Emergency Management RSA- Road Service Area SBCFSA- Seward-Bear Creek Flood Service Area SOA- State Of Alaska USFW- United States Fish and Wildlife USGS - United States Geological Survey ATTACHMENTS 1. KPB& City of Seward Resolutions of adoption of the Plan 2. Reference Material 3. SBCFSA Flood Mitigation Plan (www.sewardbearcreekfloodsericearea.orq) 4. All Hazard Mitigation Plans (www.borough.kenai.ak.us/emergency) 5. North Forest Acres Levee document (www.citvofseward.com) - Planning Department 6. KPB Ordinance 98-55 (financial commitment as required under Plan) 7. City of Seward Ordinance 98-10 (financial commitment as required under Plan) 8. Agency letters of endorsement of Plan 9. Seward Airport Master Plan SIGNATURE PAGE KPB Mayor KPB Assembly President City of Seward Mayor City of Seward City Manager SBCFSA Board President 19 Introduced by: F Mayor Date: 09/15/98 Hearing: 10/13/98 Action: Enacted Vote: 8 Yes,0 No, 1 KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH ORDINANCE 98-55 AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING AND APPROPRIATING$731,658 FROM THE HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM TO THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH'S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FUND AND APPROPRIATING$20,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND BALANCE TO THE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OPERATING BUDGET TO PROVIDE FOR LOCAL CONTRIBUTION TO HAZARD MITIGATION MEASURES WHEREAS,the Kenai Peninsula Borough is threatened by all forms of natural hazards including floods, earthquakes, fires, and volcanic eruptions; and WHEREAS,the Kenai Peninsula Borough has received six different federal or state disaster declarations over the past twelve years; and WHEREAS,the Kenai Peninsula Borough has responded to seven different events in the past year ranging from floods to wildfires to cannery fires; and WHEREAS,the Resurrection River Task Force was established in May 1997 to determine the proper course of action for federal and state Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding; and WHEREAS, the Resurrection River Task Force has representation from numerous state, federal, and local agencies including the Kenai Peninsula Borough and the City of Seward; and WHEREAS, the Resurrection River Task Force has completed the "Flood Hazard Mitigation Project" report and recommends a comprehensive plan that incorporates Resurrection River streambed maintenance, bridge expansion, and Japanese Creek levee expansion; and WHEREAS, continued Resurrection River maintenance is critical to the public resources in and around Seward, Alaska including the airport, harbor and the Seward Highway; and WHEREAS, a $20,000 appropriation by the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly would demonstrate to the federal and state government a local commitment to funding; and 20 WHEREAS,the Resurrection River Task Force report has the support of local, state and federal agencies; and WHEREAS, hazard mitigation has proven to be cost effective across the nation and in the State of Alaska; NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH: SECTION 1. That the Kenai Peninsula Borough hereby accepts a grant of$731,658, including $548,744 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and $182,914 from the State of Alaska Division of Emergency Services, and appropriates it to the Kenai Peninsula Borough's Environmental Protection Fund, account 262-112070-49999-99HMG, for Resurrection River Hazard Mitigation Projects. SECTION 2. That the Kenai Peninsula Borough appropriates $20,000 from the general fund balance to the Office of Emergency Management operating budget, account 100-112050-43011- 99262, to address mitigation issues throughout the borough, including maintenance of the Resurrection River area, to its post-project configuration, annually, or on an as-needed basis. SECTION 3. That the Mayor is authorized to execute all documents necessary to effectuate this ordinance deemed to be in the best interest of the Borough. SECTION 4. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon enactment. ENACTED BY THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH THIS 13TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 1998. Jack Brown, Assembly President ATTEST: Linda S. Murphy, Borough Clerk 21 Sponsored by:Janke Introduction Date: September 10, 1998 Public Hearing Date: September 28, 1998 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE NO. 98-10 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALAS"RECOGNIZING A LOCAL COMMITMENT TO THE ONGOING MAINTENANCE OF A FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECT IN THE RESURRECTION RIVER WHEREAS, the City of Seward is threatened by many forms of natural disaster and hazards including floods, earthquakes, fires, and tsunamis; and WHEREAS, the City of Seward received two federal and state natural disaster declarations within nine years for flood events associated with the Resurrection River and Japanese Creek; and WHEREAS, during each of these two events the City of Seward was completely shut off, with no road, air, or railroad traffic able to leave or enter the City; and WHEREAS, each of these two flood events caused a tremendous amount of damage to public and private facilities; and WHEREAS, the Resurrection River Flood Mitigation Task Force was established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in May 1997 to bring all applicable federal, state, and local agencies together to develop a comprehensive flood mitigation plan for portions of the Resurrection River and Japanese Creek along with a prioritized list of projects to be completed; and WHEREAS, FEMA used this innovative model to determine the proper course of action for federal and state Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding; and WHEREAS, the comprehensive plan developed by the Resurrection River Flood Mitigation Task Force includes five major components listed in priority order: debris and sediment removal in the Resurrection River Delta; expansion of the highway and railroad center bridges; completion of the Japanese Creek levee; and the North Forest Acres road/levee; and WHEREAS, completion of the components contained in the task force comprehensive plan along with continued maintenance are critical to protect public resources in and around Seward,Alaska,including the airport,the Seward Highway,the Alaska Railroad, two 22 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE NO. 98-10 military camps, a residential subdivision, the City's industrial yard, and the City's small boat harbor; and WHEREAS, flood mitigation has proven to be cost effective across the nation and in the State of Alaska,particularly when a comprehensive solution is developed; and WHEREAS, the first priority project is debris and sediment removal in the Resurrection River Delta because it represents the greatest flood mitigation measure from a hydrological perspective; and WHEREAS, debris and sediment removal in the Resurrection River can be done in a controlled and environmentally sensitive manner in conjunction with all appropriate local, state, and federal regulations as compared to removal during a flood fight; and WHEREAS, though debris and sediment removal in the Resurrection River Delta is not a structural improvement, it is designed to be a large-scale, long-term project; and WHEREAS, the federal and state Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding is capable of completely funding the debris and sediment removal project in the Resurrection River Delta and FEMA has been requested to fund this top priority project; and WHEREAS, following the large-scale debris and sediment removal project in the Resurrection River Delta by FEMA it is essential that the channel be maintained to the post- project configuration on an annual or as needed basis; understanding that debris moved in future flood events is outside the scope of this project; and WHEREAS, the City of Seward and the Kenai Peninsula Borough recognize that use of Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding by FEMA for debris and sediment removal is unique and places the burden on the local agencies to maintain the project; and WHEREAS, the projected annual cost for maintenance of the debris and sediment removal project, as determined by the task force, is $30,000; and WHEREAS, the City of Seward and the Kenai Peninsula Borough will perform maintenance in the river delta as needed, within projected maintenance costs, at times to be determined by the State of Alaska Hydrologist, the Borough Emergency Manage- ment Coordinator, and the City Engineer, and as permitted by all appropriate state and federal regulatory agencies, and contingent on funds being appropriated by the City Council; and 23 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE NO, 2�40 WHEREAS, the Kenai Peninsula Borough is acting as the lead local agency for project adminis- tration on behalf of the City of Seward; and WHEREAS, the Kenai Peninsula Borough is seeking to create a $20,000 fund to demonstrate to the federal and state governments local commitment to maintenance and the need for future funding; and WHEREAS, the City of Seward will introduce a Flood Mitigation and Maintenance Fund in the next budget cycle to address the remaining $10,000 that demonstrates to the federal and state governments local commitment to maintenance and the need for future funding; NOW,THEREFORE,THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA HEREBY ORDAINS that: Section 1. This is a non-code ordinance. Section 2. The City of Seward recognizes the one-time large-scale nature of the debris and sediment removal project in the Resurrection River Delta and commits to the ongoing maintenance of the Resurrection River Delta. Section 3. The City of Seward will work through the Kenai Peninsula Borough Emergency Management Office as the lead local agency coordinating the efforts to install and maintain a comprehensive flood mitigation solution to the Resurrection River and Japanese Creek. Section 4. Subject to available resources, the City of Seward will financially, adminis- tratively, or politically support the Kenai Peninsula Borough in ensuring that the Resurrection River channel will be maintained to the post-project configuration of the debris and sediment removal project performed by FEMA with the federal and state Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding. Section 5. The City of Seward will ensure the performance of this commitment on an annual or as needed basis,within projected maintenance costs,the need to be determined by the State of Alaska Hydrologist, the Borough Emergency Management Coordinator, and the City Engineer, and as permitted by all appropriate state and federal regulatory agencies. Section 6. The City of Seward will introduce a Flood Mitigation Fund during the FY2000 budget cycle, with funding subject to City Council approval, that 24 CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA ORDINANCE NO. 9 -10 helps ensure adequate funding for flood mitigation and annual, or as needed, maintenance for flood mitigation projects. Section 7. That this ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days following its enactment. ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, this 28th day of September, 1998. THE CITY OF SEWARD,ALASKA well R. Satin,Mayor AYES: Blatchford, Callahan, Clark, Gage, King, Orr, Satin NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None ATTEST: v Patrick Reilly City Clerk (C;", �s� a ,......, -4 '•, 25 From: scleirerCcboci.net To: Brenda Ballou Cc: Presley.Stephanie;Airport Com Bruce Jaffa;AirPort Com Carol Griswold; Bob Linville Subject: Private land parcels on Resurrection River/Salmon Creek Flood plain Date: Saturday,February 22,2020 11:25:36 AM Attachments: KPB Resolution 2020-011.pdf Parcel No 145-022-24 Parcel Map.pdf Brenda, can you forward this E-mail to all council, City Manager, and the planning Department. To all concerned: The two attachments enclosed outline a purchase by the KPB from landowners, Bolstridge and Rott, et el , Pin No 145-022-24. (plat map attached)This parcel is 20.82 acres and just north and bordering a subdivision (which contains about 26 smaller lots, each about half an acre or less in size).The Bolstridge parcel and the 26 subdivision lots are located between the two rivers, Salmon Creek and Resurrection River, East of the Airport, and are of little value for development as it is located in the flood plain and have no access. Much of the land East of the Airport is Government owned with the exception of the 26 subdivision lots and a few larger parcels nearer Nash Road.The City of Seward currently owns about 6 parcels which are currently tangent with the main channel of Resurrection River. All the private land between the two rivers should become public land, to enable future flood control and management by such entities as the Corps of Engineers, with City, State, and Borough involvement. Currently under private ownership, this land would be another stumbling block to river and flood plain management.The City of Seward should now take an active role in seek public ownership of this private land. Having public ownership would facilitate future flood plain planning and management. With the Boroughs purchase, now is the time to proceed. In its Airport planning, DOT'S major objection in not repairing the Long Airport runway, was the fear and liability of causing flooding into this private land to the East between the two rivers.The Airport plans and construction, and the control of the Resurrection River are two distinct and separate issues and cannot be co-mingled. Each issue has a myriad of separate and complex dynamics with differing Government Agencies in the mix. Each project has to be separate from the other. Of 32 lots, in the subdivision, less the 6 that the City owns, leaves 26 lots left to acquire. Of these 26 lots, are 5 small lots owned by Bolstridge, Rott, et el that might be acquired, since the owners are transferring the 20.82 acres.There only remain 21 lots for the City to acquire. Leirer Enterprises LLC owns a parcel of land in the river on the beach/tide flats area, south of the Old radio station building (145-02-403). We are ready to immediately transfer this parcel to the City of Seward.This could start the process toward the City of Seward acquisition goal in the Two Rivers area. We need instruction form the City on how to proceed. The method of acquisition, used by the KPB seems to be structured as a sale of property. My recommendation would be a simple "Quit Claim Deed"which may be simpler and quicker for both the land owner and the City. Needing title search and insurance would add a cost and the question of who would bare the acquisition costs. Many of the 26 lots are now held by descendants of original owners where costs and transfer could be a barrier. Steven C. Leirer Leirer Enterprises LLC 26 Kenai Peninsula Borough GIS Division PARCEL REPORT 3/3/2020 9:31 PARCEL ID: 14502403 Total Acreage: 28.00 Mw d w A � k A A R .` AR[3 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: T 1S R 1W SEC 2 SEWARD MERIDIAN SW S1/2 OF LOT 2 PER WD 14 @ 17 ALL PHYSICAL ADDRESSES ON THIS PARCEL: 1600 AIRPORT RD LAND VALUE: $7,000 ASSESSED VALUE: $7,000 IMPROVEMENT VALUE: $0 TAXABLE VALUE: $7,000 OWNER: LEIRER ENTERPRISES LLC PO BOX 524 SEWARD, AK 99664 The data displayed herein is neither a legally recorded map nor survey and should only be used for general reference purposes. Kenai Peninsula Borough assumes no liability as to the accuracy of any data displayed herein. Original source documents should be consulted tq accuracy verification. Crawford/ Riverside Subdivisions ' A a O R O o C"144 North Hinkley Street,seldotna,Alaska 99669 L y 1 ® Legend © SBCFSA Boundary City Limits Parcels — BASE FLOOD ELEVATION Floodway Special Flood Hazard Areas jN,i ® A AE i IIII AH AO — Highways — Major Roads r � � ■ 'ti.._.._ _.._ Roads WAR- ,.` .. — Town Medium Volume — Town Low/Seasonal;Other i n ` Proposed U Notes Resurrection River Floodplain Parcels 0.5 0 0.25 0.5 Miles This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for reference only.Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, Coordinate System:NAD_1983_StatePlane_Alaska 4_FIPS_5004_Feet current,or otherwise reliable.Do not use for navigation. DATE PRINTED: 3/3/2020 28 Crawford/Riverside Subdivisions Acre Assessed Taxable Parcel ID Own Type Use Type Situs Address Owner age Value Value Taxable Value 14509101 Municipal Vacant 1600 DINAH ST SEWARD CITY OF 0.46 700 0 CRAWFORD SUB 14509105 Municipal Vacant 1608 DINAH ST SEWARD CITY OF 0.11 300 0 CRAWFORD SUB 14509201 Municipal Vacant 1906 SHARON AVE SEWARD CITY OF 2.02 5200 0 14509202 Municipal Vacant 1905 COTTONWOOD LN SEWARD CITY OF 1.741 4700 0 14509304 Municipal Vacant 1900 COTTONWOOD LN SEWARD CITY OF 0.25 1500 0 CRAWFORD SUBTRACT A 14509402 Private Vacant 1906 DAVID AVE BLATCHFORD BRIAN 0.25 500 500 RIVERSIDE SUB 14509106 Private Vacant 1610 DINAH ST BOBICH MATT&LINDA 0.11 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14508405 Private Vacant 1619 B ST BOLSTRIDGE BASIL S 0.23 500 500 CRAWFORD SUB 14508407 Private IVacant 1605 B ST BOLSTRIDGE BASIL S 0.12 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14508406 Private Vacant 1611 B ST BOYCE TOMMY W&BONNIE L 0.461 700 700 CRAWFORD SUB 14509104 Private Vacant 1618 DINAH ST BOYCE TOMMY W&BONNIE L 0.11 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14509403 Private Vacant 1900 DAVID AVE CUFFE VIRGINIA 0.63 900 900 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508101 Private Vacant 2011 BOUNDARY AVE FAY MARY P&NAMTVEDT TERI 3.45 2400 2400 14508502 Private Vacant 12002 BOUNDARY AVE HOOGLAND ROBIN 1.66 1500 1500 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508402 Private Vacant 1603 B ST JORDAN MARIE 0.11 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14509401 Private Vacant 1910 DAVID AVE KESSELRING PETE SR&HARVEY 0.89 1000 1000 RIVERSIDE SUB 14509303 Private Vacant 1901 DAVID AVE MACSWAIN STEVEN CRAIG 0.44 2200 2200 RIVERSIDE SUB 14509301 Private Vacant 1909 DAVID AVE MORRISON JODI E 0.89 1000 1000 RIVERSIDE SUB 14509306 Private Vacant 1910 COTTONWOOD LN MORRISON JODI E 0.51 800 800 CRAWFORD SUB TRACT A 14509302 Private Vacant 11905 DAVID AVE MURRAY DORTHY JUNE 0.44 700 700 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508203 Private Vacant 2010 SHARON AVE ROTT JAMES L&SUSAN I 0.57 800 800 CRAWFORD SUB 14508303 Private Vacant 1618 B ST ROTT JAMES L&SUSAN I 0.57 800 800 CRAWFORD SUB 14508401 Private Vacant 2004 SHARON AVE ROTT JAMES L&SUSAN I 0.11 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14508603 Private Vacant 2000 DAVID AVE SCHMIDT RONNIE L 1 1200 1200 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508404 Private Vacant 1613 B ST STEELE FRANK&MABEL E 0.11 300 300 CRAWFORD SUB 14509103 Private Vacant 11614 DINAH ST STEELE FRANK&MABEL E 0.341 600 600 CRAWFORD SUB 14508501 Private Vacant 2008 BOUNDARY AVE THORNE CELESTE A LIVING TRU 0.83 1000 1000 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508601 Private Vacant 2008 DAVID AVE THORNE CELESTE A LIVING TRU 2.01 1700 1700 RIVERSIDE SUB 14508302 Private Vacant 1600 B ST ITODD JOHN A J r 0.57 8001 800 CRAWFORD SUB 14509305 1 Private Vacant 1906 COTTONWOOD LN ITRASK ACE F 0.25 5001 500 CRAWFORD SUB TRACT A 14508202 1 Private Vacant 2007 BOUNDARY AVE IWILLIAMSONJOHNTHOMASP 0.57 8001 800 CRAWFORD SUB 26 Private parcels 19 Owners 17.231 22,200.00 29 ti OF r�� Department of Transportation g*�`�����1�✓s� THE STATE and Public Facilities 1ALASKA DESIGN & ENGINEERING SERVICES - PRELIMINARY DESIGN & ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERN0R BILL WALKER PO Box 196900 -1LAS Anchorage, Alaska 99519-6900 Main: 907.269.0542 Toll Free: 800.770.5263 TDD: 907.269.0473 January 24,2017 Project: Seward Airport Improvements Project No.: TBD/Z548570000 Re: Request for scoping comments The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF),in cooperation with the Federal Aviation Administration(FAA),is soliciting comments and information on a proposed project which seeks to upgrade airport facilities as well as protect the airport from further damage caused by recurrent flooding. The proposed project is located within Section(s)34-35,TIN,RIW and Sections 2-3,TIS.,R1W,on USGS Quad Map Seward A-7, Seward Meridian; Latitude 60.13070N, Longitude -149.4188°W,in Seward,Alaska(Figure 1). Purpose and Need The Seward Airport is located within the floodplain of the Resurrection River;portions of the airport are within the defined Floodway. The main runway(R/W 13/31)is located adjacent to the river and as a result,has been overtopped 18 times in the last 5 years (2011-2016),resulting in damage to all the airport facilities. Erosion from the river and regular flood damage require a continued maintenance effort to keep the airport usable,especially R/W 13/31. The purpose of the Seward Airport Improvements Project is to provide a reliable working airport that satisfies current FAA design standards for an Aircraft Design Group(ADG)II facility and that also conforms to the state's requirements for a Community Class Airport. These improvements should meet the near term aviation demands as well as plan for future demand. Specifically the airport needs to: • Maintain a minimum R/W length of 3,300 feet,to accommodate current and near term aircraft including medevac operations. • Meet the R/W width and taxiway(T/W)dimensional standards of ADG II. • Construct flood protection to prevent erosion damage from the 100-year flood. • Provide a minimum of 95%wind coverage for the ADG II aircraft;cross-winds. • Construct a R/W with sufficient bearing capacity to allow for occasional operations by larger aircraft such as Beech 1900,Dash 8, and small charter type Business jets. • Provide reliable airport lighting for night operations. • Mitigate approach obstructions and incompatible RPZ uses to the extent practicable. Accommodate the need for aircraft owners to change out from floats to wheels • Ensure the airport has sufficient service roads. Alternatives under Evaluation Airport Construction Two build alternatives are under consideration. Both Alternative 1.1 and Alternative 2.2 satisfy the purpose and need outlined above. 30 "Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure." Seward Airport Improvements Agency Scoping Letter January 24,2017 Alternative 1.1 would include the following (see Figure 2): • Reconstruct and raise R/W 13/31 above the 100-year flood level(up to 4 feet). • Install riprap to protect the embankment.Adjust elevations of R/W 16/34 and T/Ws B and C to match the new R/W 13/31 elevation. • Eliminate or reconfigure T/Ws A,D, and E to comply with new FAA guidance. Alternative 2.2 would include the following (see Figure 3): • Close R/W 13/31 and discontinue maintenance. • Reconstruct and raise R/W 16/34 above the 100-year flood level (less than 1 foot). This includes shifting the R/W east to provide the required R/W and T/W separation. • Install riprap to protect the embankment from flooding. • Relocate T/W B and adjust T/W F to match new R/W elevation. • Eliminate or reconfigure T/Ws A, C,D and E to comply with the new FAA guidance. Both Alternatives would include the following: • Repave other airport surfaces as needed. • Install new airfield lighting and an electrical enclosure building. • Relocate,repair or replace navigational aids, and markings. • Construct service roads. • Install security fencing. • Property Acquisitions. • Construct an access road and ramp to accommodate float plane floats to wheel change-outs Material Site No material sites are included for evaluation as part of this project. There are commercial material sources available near the project area. Existing Site Conditions or Facilities The State of Alaska owns and operates the Seward Airport,which includes a paved main R/W(R/W 13/31), a paved secondary R/W(R/W 16/34),multiple T/Ws,and two aprons. R/W 13/31 is 4,533ft x75ft and R/W 16/34 is 2,289ft x 75ft. The Seward Airport primarily serves the City of Seward and residents in the area between Seward and Moose Pass. Local residents use the airport for travel to Anchorage and Prince William Sound. Tour operators also use the airport as a base for sightseeing tours of Kenai Fjords National Park via airplane and helicopter. There is no scheduled commercial service. The number of operations at the airport is much higher in the summer than in the winter. Although Seward is connected to other communities by rail,road and the marine highway,the airport provides essential access during medical emergency or disaster situations when other access (single rail line and single highway)may be vulnerable. Most of the Seward Airport is located within the floodplain of the Resurrection River Delta. A significant portion of R/W 13/31 lies within the floodway. The frequency with which R/W 13/31 has been overtopped by the Resurrection River has increased significantly in recent years.These instances were limited initially to the fall,but they are now occurring in the summer as well(June to November). Recent changes in channel morphology have rendered the existing riprap along the eastern side of the R/W inadequate. Without raising this R/W and installing additional erosion protection,overtopping of the R/W will continue and DOT&PF will keep pouring maintenance funds into the airport. Recent testing of the main R/W embankment shows an insufficient bearing capacity to support large aircraft. Frequent flooding is thought to have contributed to a weakened embankment under the pavement. As a result,use of the R/W has been restricted to small aircraft with a weight of 12,500 lbs or less. 3 31 Seward Airport Improvements Agency Scoping Letter January 24,2017 Preliminary Environmental Research The cw%irorinieiflal impacts of the two alternatives are not cledl iv established at this time so an Environmental Assessment (EA) «ill he prepared. An EA was completed in 201"S for 1 , ;its outlined in the Seward Airporl Master PI.-In. A F i1)(1il)''ot'Cyr, Si�zill icLint Impacts was issued nn.full, 1 2{lil.: t11 .1-1 N,trious factors have dela`cd long Ierm ilnprovcttlents to the Se%\,,ird Airport. Due to the lapse (A'time. In r:_ i1,'Lti in tlic flar,rliIILr frequ�:ncv. CIS well as rt:visions to environniental regulations and proposcol actions. DOl&PF in cocirr,iii.i ion Nvith the FAA,plaTI t() pr4parc a ]le\� 1( CuSed E'A tliai will cov,: r changes to the proposed Airpori nnproverlicros alld �UlTellt environancntal Conditions Ill 5eWL11-d. DOT&TY,conducted preliminary roscarcli using the most current avall.i'i)le data to identik- environmental re,,,ources within the proposed project vicinity (att.lcliccll, l c) ciisure that all factors are considered III r1CN eloprnwF tllc. proposed prOjcca. pleaseprovide your written comments. recommendations, and the additional reclucsteC lritormatlo6l tO our[ri'tice 110 later than February 24, 1-017. If you have any questions on the environmental effects, please contact Mark Boydston, Environmental Impact Analyst, at (907) 249-0524, or via email al mark-bovdstuncci:.al ltil:t. rn'- Questions concerning the engineering aspects of the pro}}osed project c:m he directed to 13arliara Beaton, P.L. Proleci 1l iaa^cr, at (907) 269-0617 or via email at barhara.helitoniu alaska.(,oN, Sincerely, Brian Elliott Regional Environmental Manager AtLichw iits: figure 1 Location and Vicinity Map Fi mare 2 AIteriIative 1-1 11loi) View 1~i«urc 3 AItcni'ativc 1.? flan Viow I=figure 4 hxistinw Conditions A00 year l lood :vlap 1=iLure 5 AIternatixe 1.1 - 100 year Flood NIap F i ure 6 AIteniatIN e 2.2 - 100 year Flood Map 1=1,ul-r 7 AIwniat i%c 1.1 -2016 updated wetlands and imagery FW,rire X Altcrnative 2 21 - 2016 updated wetlands and imagery l'relinmiary 1--ilvirolimental Research 4 I rhara Beaton. l'rc,i ct NI u1-trier, DOT,`IT :L 'I, tic;, 1),.'sici'- I L"�hC_. (irc.'v. l-ri\ Y. lii l,"lt.l.� 111-41 1-;Iili ".T- I .\.:\ MI.i4'i,l {> . . l67i ,lr+." nip.;; afro 3 32 • Main Office(907)224-4050 • Police(907)224-3338 CITY OF SFWARD • Harbor(907)224-3138 P.O. BOX 167 • Fire(907)224-3445 • City Clerk(907)224-4046 SFWARD, AIASKA 99664-0167 • Engineering(907)224-4049 • Utilities(907)224-4050 • Fax(907)224-4038 February 22, 2017 DOT&PF Design&Engineering Services Preliminary Design&Environmental. P.O. Box 196900 Anchorage,Alaska 99519-6900 Dear Brian Elliott Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed Seward Airport Improvement project. The City of Seward desires to see the same result as DOT&PF: a reliable working airport meeting ADG- 11 and Alaska Community Class airport design standards, and that will accommodate future demand and growth. We offer the following, based on your agency scoping letter of January 24,2017. As you've noted, recent changes in stream morphology have resulted in more frequent overtopping of R/W 13/31. It has also shifted the main watercourse of Resurrection River to the west, at first obliquely against and then aligned with the runway. It is fair to say that, rather than "...the main runway is located adjacent to the river..." that the river has relocated itself adjacent to the runway. We have discussed this in the DOT sponsored community meetings held over the last couple of years to address this issue, and were informed that in-river work, or channelization, is prohibited. Doing such work in the river is not impossible, or even impractical. Routine in-river work mining gravel,protecting riverbanks and adjacent properties, and performing flood mitigation and prevention tasks are routinely permitted and completed, both by government agencies and private parties in and adjacent to the Resurrection River. Redirecting the river as an element of protecting the runway should not be taken off the table. As is common with rapid transfer high-deposition streams in the area watershed, watercourses migrate within the floodplain boundaries, and at some point this river will be somewhere other than where it is now. Formulating a protection strategy (Alt 1.1 or 2.2) on an assumption that the floodway watercourse will remain in one place like a well-defined Kenai River or similar will likely impede the river from migrating further west, but will be of no use if the river migrates to the east. From a floodplain manager's perspective rerouting the river or placing obstructions that shape and limit the river's own natural relocation are channelization activities that require engineering and permitting. Neither is impossible, nor is one prohibited and the other allowed outright. The current flow path continues to deposit material at the head of Resurrection Bay, causing siltation at the Alaska Railroad dock that requires ongoing maintenance and expense. It may be that the Railroad prefers a one-time larger investment (with others)towards relocating the river flow to the channel further east, where the predominant flow was located until fairly recently. This would allow natural siltation to continue,but without repeatedly impacting shipping operations. The possible need to acquire private properties in order to implement either alternative was mentioned. Without specific parcels being identified in the scoping letter,we can't be sure which properties would be impacted, but it is likely the numerous smaller parcels to the east of RIW 13131. These properties,though 33 subdivided and platted, can never be practically developed. There is no legal access, and gaining same would be a large multi-agency effort. There are no utilities (required by City Code prior to issuing building pennits), and no easements across the various private and public lands that would be crossed to connect utilities. These facts are reflected in the assessor's tax values;most of the smaller lots are valued at less than $1,000. Several owners have deeded their properties to the City in order to avoid paying taxes on undevelopable property. This gives the City, and the Seward Bear Creek Flood Service Area, a conservation and flood mitigation set-aside that's very valuable in providing needed"sponge" areas, with vegetation as stabilization. If acquisition of some or all of these parcels is necessary to implement the project work,the City will facilitate in any way we can,including acquisition and assisting with a LOMR. We view the restoration of the predominant flow of Resurrection River to its historic channel matrix to the east, which includes sufficient width for inevitable meandering, as critical to the lasting success of either alternative. We prefer Alternative 1.1 as the less intensive in terms of wetlands impacts(-5 acres v. 13.5 for Alternative 2.2), likelihood of less ongoing maintenance, mitigation of continuing impacts to shipping at the Alaska Railroad dock, and most likely to meet the common goals of a working and reliable airport that meets applicable design criteria and plans for future demand and growth. The scoping letter mentions that Seward is served by rail, road, and the marine highway; the Alaska Marine Highway System suspended operation in and from Seward in the every early 2000's. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this important project. We look forward to participating in the continuing discussion. Sincerely, -City of Seward,Alaska Ron Long, Assistant City Manager Donna Glenz, City Planner(for Ron Long) Email:rlon ,cityofseward.net Phone: 907 224-2020 34 Kenai Peninsula Borough Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area a 302 Railway Ave,Suite 123,P.O.Box 1554 Seward,Alaska 99664 (907)224-3340(Fax) 224-5197 w� www.kpb.us/service-areas/sbcfsa February 15,2017 State of Alaska Department of Transportation&t Public Facilities Preliminary Design and Environmental Section P.O. Box 196900 Anchorage,Alaska 99519-6900 Re: Request for scoping comments Project: Seward Airport Improvements Project No.:TBD/Z5485700000 At the February 13, 2017 regular meeting of the Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area,the board reviewed the Agency Scoping Letter,Preliminary Environmental Research including Figures 1 through 8, and voted unanimously to provide the following comments regarding the Seward Airport Improvement project. The SBCFSA board is in support of the needed improvements at the Seward airport and advise the State to take the necessary action to protect this important investment from future flood damages.As stated in the agency scoping letter,the service area has experienced major flooding at least six times and multiple high water events over the last 30 years.Flood waters from Resurrection River have overtopped the runways and airport property many times,with increasing frequency in recent years. Resurrection River transports huge volumes of sediment each year,migrating channels with each high water event. Following one major event, the main channel was directed south, straight into the long runway,instead of flowing down the east bank channels.The SBCFSA board would highly recommend this project include rerouting the channel back to the east bank to minimize erosion of the runway and future flood damages. Regardless of which alternative is selected,elevating the runways and installing additional erosion protection will be a short-term solution, and will not address the cause of runway erosion. The expense of the proposed improvements may have been avoided by regular mitigation in Resurrection River. To maximize the use of tax-payer dollars, the board recommends this project include a long-term flood mitigation plan for annual sediment removal and channel maintenance. Materials removed from the rerouted channel could be used to reinforce embankments directing flood waters away from the airport. Without 35 mitigation of sediment and regular channel maintenance,the improved infrastructure at the airport will continue to be threatened,costing additional tax-payer dollars. The SBCFSA board is supportive of the improvements to the airport and could work with the State to protect this investment from future flood damages. Please feel free to contact our administrative office for additional information or assistance. Respectfully, Bill Williamson,Chairman Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area Board 36 HYDRAULIC MAPPING AND MODELING Kenneth F. Karle, P.E. 1091 West Chena Hills Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709 July 6, 2016 Memorandum To: Royce Conlon, P.E., PDC Inc. Engineers From: Kenneth Karle, P.E., Hydraulic Mapping and Modeling Subject: River Behavior Considerations for Channel Excavation There appears to be continued interest from the public and others in investigating the use of channel diversion through excavation as a potential method to solve the flooding problems at the Seward Airport. This memo provides a brief explanation of the geomorphology of braided rivers and the hydraulic forces involved in bedload transport and deposition, and should provide additional justification, if needed, for the decision to select an alternative that does not include large-scale excavation of a new channel segment in the Resurrection River alluvial fan delta. Braided River Geomorphology-The upper 8 miles of the Resurrection River takes the form of a meandering channel confined within a narrow meandering canyon. The channel transforms into a braided river as multiple glacially-fed tributaries provide water and sediment input, and ultimately transforms into an alluvial fan delta for approximately three miles before flowing into Resurrection Bay. Salmon Creek and Japanese Creek also provide water and sediment input to the alluvial fan delta. The alluvial fan delta is braided in nature, and consists of interconnected distributary channels formed in coarse depositional materials. River conditions that are universally attributed to braided rivers include high bank sediment supply upstream, high bank erodibility, little to no vegetation, moderately steep gradients, and flashy runoff conditions which vary from low to high flows frequently (Leopold et al, 1964, and others). Braided rivers are generally found in steep valleys relative to other types of rivers. A common explanation for braiding states that a river needs to dissipate energy as it moves downstream. Otherwise, velocity would continue to increase, which leads to downcutting and channel erosion. However, since many rivers cannot downcut because they discharge into a water body with fixed elevation, other actions are needed to dissipate energy. By braiding, a river increases its overall length, decreases its slope, and increases the amount of energy dissipated in longer channels and in bends. Equilibrium is maintained between energy gained and energy lost. The fan delta becomes a depositional zone to maintain its grade. 1 37 Though commonly referred to as a floodplain, the wide braided gravelly and unvegetated area where the channels, both active and abandoned, and gravel bars are located are not technically floodplains, but rather part of the active fan delta. Sediment Deposition-The shear stress at the bed To is the force of moving water against the channel bed. Referred to as the tractive force, it determines the power of flow to dislodge and transport sediment particles. The equation for shear stress for steady gradually varied flow is: To = yRS Where To=bed shear stress y = specific weight of water R=hydraulic radius S =friction slope As the slope S decreases, the shear stress decreases, along with the power to dislodge and transport sediment. Sediment in transport will settle out with a shallower slope. For the 8500 foot reach upstream of the Seward Highway Bridge, the Resurrection River has an average slope of 0.005 feet/feet. The bed slope is relatively consistent; see Figure 1. In natural river systems, slopes are steepest near the headwaters and gradually flatten out near the mouth. This holds true for the Resurrection River as well. Downstream of the Seward Highway/ARRC bridges, the slope flattens out considerably. Resurrection Bay provides a fixed elevation water body (aside from tidal range). Unable to downcut, the river braids, decreases its slope, deposits sediment, and dissipates energy. The fan delta becomes a depositional zone to maintain its grade. Resurrection River Slope 80- Legend Q10 70 Ground 60- _......._._. _. 50 Naska Seward. _ Railroad Highway s Bridge� BTIdge m 40 _ a 0.002 ftIft-- 0.0039 NR ul 30 0.050 ft!ft 20- 10-I& 0 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 18000 Main Channel Distance(M Figure 1. Resurrection River channel slopes. 2 38 Though there are several processes that are responsible for braiding, it is important to note the time frame in which these processes can occur. Researchers have noted that"Individual channels and bars in such rivers can evolve, migrate, and switch position within days or hours of competent flow, so that the overall pattern is bewilderingly variable and complex." (Ferguson et al, 1992). Others have noted that though some processes require high water stages, some do not, and braiding can occur at constant discharges. Resurrection River Bedload Rates and Sediment Deposition-I have been unable to locate estimates of annual bedload rates for the Resurrection River; however, the general consensus is that the bedload rates are high. Multiple reports provide descriptions of high bedload rates, active channel migration, and severe sediment deposition. The Alaska Railroad estimates that the 1995 Resurrection River flood event dumped 60,000 cubic yards of sediment in the ARR docking harbor just off the east end of the river(T. Brooks, personal communication). The Corps of Engineers notes that Seward drainages carry glacial debris that is deposited in the streams and added to the alluvial fans at outlets (COE, 2008). A report by a multi-agency task force formed to pursue a comprehensive solution to flooding in Seward noted that: "..streams tributary to Resurrection River drain steep glaciated subbasins and deposit large quantities of coarse bed materials in alluvial fans at their mouths. These deposited materials are subsequently picked up and moved downstream through the Resurrection River valley, particularly during flood flows. Transport of these materials constantly modifies the major stream channels. The river migrates back and forth through many distributaries located in a flood plain ranging up to 1 mile in width."(Task Force, 1998). A report by the Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area notes that streams in the Resurrection Bay watershed carry huge amounts of gravel and debris which: "guarantees that they will naturally meander over alluvial fans or through braided channels and definitely refuse to stay in one place." (SBCFSA, 2009). A series of aerial photographs of the Seward Airport area, stretching from 1950 through 2014, documents the channel migration of the Resurrection River to the southwest across the alluvial fan delta. See Appendix 1 of this memo. Excavation of active fan deltas has been conducted frequently in Alaska, primarily to utilize the gravel. For example, a long-term gravel excavation program on the Toklat River in Denali National Park and Preserve is unique within the national park system; its success is due to the high bedload and quick replenishment rates that refill the excavated channels within a few years or less (Karle, 2010). MHW completed a study of river processes along another wide braided river system in Southcentral Alaska for the NRCS in order to assess various options to control bank erosion. The 2004 study, 'Matanuska River Erosion Assessment Design Study Report'(USDA, 2004) focuses on a study area that encompassed the river floodplain from the Old Glenn Highway Bridge downstream approximately 6 miles to the Bodenburg Butte area. The NRCS report included an extensive study of gravel removal as a bank erosion protection alternative. Channel 3 39 excavations would be designed to reduce velocities and stresses on banks during high and moderate flow events (USDA, 2004). The study utilized computer modeling to estimate the effect of channel excavations on flow pattern, hydraulic characteristics, and sediment transport. Excavated trenches were created within the river model and analyzed. The modeled trenches were 10 feet deep, 500 feet wide, and 2500, 3300, and 6500 feet long. The study authors acknowledged that such excavation requires construction practices of a large-scale mining operation. To be effective during moderate floods (2- to 10-year flood), the initial modeling involved the removal of approximately 2.2 million cubic yards of material. The authors noted that additional planning and modeling was needed to adjust the trenches to maximize effectiveness. The following paragraph from the NRCS report describes a major disadvantage to this alternative. Italics have been added for emphasis. "From a geomorphologic perspective, the behavior of the excavated channels is of concern on the Matanuska River, since natural river instability may impact the effectiveness of the trenches to re-direct flows and reduce water levels. Since braided channels characteristically exhibit irregular and unpredictable morphologic development, there can be no guarantee that the proposed excavations will remain stable for a significant time period (i.e. multiple freshet seasons) to reduce flood levels and redirect flows, as intended. In addition, there is a risk that bank erosion could continue due to flow in the smaller subchannels even if the trenched channels are constructed. If an appreciable amount of the flow remains outside of the excavated channel, bank erosion may continue. In addition, flows through the initially straight excavations will likely erode their banks and eventually result in irregular excavated channel patterns with flow paths deviating from the constructed alignment."NRCS, 2004; p. 3-2. Summary-Based on the general description of channel excavation for bank erosion control in the NRCS report, and the extensive experience of the authors with gravel excavation on braided rivers, I concur with ADOT&PF's recommendation that channel excavation is not a viable engineering solution to ameliorate or control flooding of the Seward Airport. There is no guarantee that an excavated channel would remain stable, or redirect flows, as intended, for the following reasons: • Upstream of the Seward Highway Bridge, the Resurrection River, Salmon Creek and Japanese Creek all provide high inputs of sediment to the Resurrection River drainage. • The slope of the alluvial fan delta downstream of the Seward Highway Bridge is less than the slope of the river upstream, creating a depositional environment. • High sediment transport in the Resurrection River, even during low to moderate flows, could alter or fill an excavated channel on the alluvial fan delta within days. • Remaining flow outside of the excavated channel may still cause sediment deposition, bank erosion, and flooding of the runway. 4 40 References Ferguson, R. I., P. E. Ashmore, P.J. Ashworth, C. Paola, C., and K.L. Prestegaard. 1992. Measurements in a braided river chute and lobe 1. flow pattern, sediment transport, and channel change. Water Resources Research 28(7): 1877-1886. Karle, K.F. 2010. Toklat River excavation, monitoring, and analysis, Denali National Park and Preserve. Natural Resources Technical Report NPS/DENA/NRTR-2010/381. USDOI, National Park Service, Fort Collins, CO. Leopold, L.B., M.G. Wolman, and J.P. Miller. 1964. Fluvial processes in geomorphology. Dover Publications, Inc. New York NY. Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area (SBCFSA). 2009. Learning to live with water: a history of flooding in Seward, Alaska 1903-2009. Task Force. 1998. Task force report Resurrection River/Japanese Creek flood hazard mitigation project, Seward, Alaska. May 8, 1998. US Army Corps of Engineers (USCOE). 2008. Erosion Information Paper-Seward, Alaska. Alaska Baseline Erosion Assessment, Alaska District. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2004. Matanuska River Erosion Assessment: MWH, Design Study Report Final, v. 1 and 2, variously paged. 5 41 Appendix !-«eurr£#n2 River Channel Locations, 1950 to 2014 The approximate location o the Resurrection River channel in19506saeinbu, and overlain on the following aerial images: 1950, 1973, 1976 1985 (infrared imagcry-cannel shaded in yellow), 1997 2011, and 2014. / \/ � 6 42 �I a ` .w I� V t } 1973 photo r as k u 4 ti 1970 photo a n, tp n � 1�J85 photo„k Al ly iy 1997 photo �r,>,il`;f, ,�- 2011 photo aS A �g-. i y. r dr Yy{A 4 2014 photo