HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes2021-014I
Sponsored by: Regis
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2021-014
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,
ALASKA, SUPPORTING THE CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT OF THE
ALASKA LONG TRAIL FROM SEWARD TO FAIRBANKS
WHEREAS, the Alaska Long Trail is an initiative sponsored by Alaska Trails that seeks
to establish a 500-mile trail from Seward to Fairbanks, with a potential expansion extending north
of Fairbanks for a total length of 2000 miles; and
WHEREAS, supporting the Alaska Long Trail is consistent with Seward Parks &
Recreation's mission to preserve, improve, and promote the city's natural resources, parkland, and
recreational opportunities for current and future generations; and
WHEREAS, the Seward 2030 Comprehensive Plan, Goal 3.6.1.1, is "Improve existing
and develop additional recreational infrastructure"; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Long Trail would expand recreation opportunities for the local
community, as well as for tourists; and
' WHEREAS, the Alaska Long Trail would impart major recreation and economic benefits
to Seward and Alaska by attracting highly sought-after independent travelers; and
WHEREAS, Seward, as a terminus city, stands to gain in particular in terms of job
creation, business opportunities, and tax revenue; and
WHEREAS, now is the time to invest in a sustainable future for Seward and Alaska by
supporting the development of a route that will stand alongside the other grand trails of the world.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SEWARD, ALASKA that:
Section 1. The Seward City Council hereby supports the development of the Alaska Long
Trail sponsored by Alaska Trails.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Seward, Alaska, this 25'
day of January, 2021.
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2021-014
Mayor
AYES: DeMoss, Baclaan, McClure, Casagranda, Seese, Osenga, terry
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST:
renda J. all i, MMC
City Clerk
(City
SEAL
m
ALASKA
1
COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT
Meeting Date: January 25, 2021
To: City Council
Through: Norm Regis, Acting City Manager
From: Tyler Florence, Director of Parks & Recreation
Agenda Item: Authorizing support for the development of the Alaska Long Trail
BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION:
The Alaska Long Trail is an initiative sponsored by Alaska Trails that seeks to establish a 500-
mile trail from Seward to Fairbanks, with a potential expansion extending north of Fairbanks for
a total length of 2000 miles. Long trails, such as the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail,
engage visitors in activities ranging from nature viewing and simple day hikes to multi -week, thru-
hiking expeditions.
Long trails are high -profile attractions that serve as major economic drivers for the region. The
terminus cities in particular, such as Seward, stand to benefit from increased business
opportunities, job generation, and tax revenue. Demand for nature walks and hiking is the fastest
growing activity for out-of-state Alaska visitors (air and cruise ;p and there is potential to increase
annual visitor spending upwards of $137 Million, This initiative will also help expand Iocal
sustainable industry, supporting both immediate and long-term AIaskan jobs and Alaskan -owned
businesses.
Many sections of the proposed trail already exist or are currently planned, and the proposed route
is almost entirely on public lands, dramatically reducing complexity and cost. There is widespread
support from landowners, state, federal and nonprofit entities for these types of trail projects.
Recommend we invest in a sustainable, healthy, and happy future for Seward and Alaska by
supporting the development of this trail initiative.
INTENT:
Authorize support for the development of the AIaska Long Trail.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................,,,,,,,, ...............................
CONSISTENCY CHECKLIST: Yes No NIA
............................. ..............
Comprehensive Plan (2030, approved by Council May 30, 2017):
3.6.1.1 Improve existing and develop additional recreational X
infrastructure.
Strategic Plan (Approved by Council Resolution 99-043):
Provide diverse, year-round, indoor and outdoor recreation X
L_Ifacilities..(,:3�........................................................................._-„_.....................................................................................................,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,......................................................................
Other (list):
FISCAL NOTE:
There are no costs associated with this support resolution.
Approved by Finance Department:
ATTORNEY REVIEW: Yes No _. ___ Not Applicable
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Resolution 2021 a , to support the development of the Alaska Long
Trail sponsored by Alaska Trails.